Call us 01803 843887
Contact Us
Meadowside Lodges
Beverley Holidays
Goodrington Road
Paignton
Devon TQ4 7LH
T: 01803 843887
E: info@luxury-lodges.co.uk
Luxury Rental Lodges on the English Riviera - Torbay, South Devon
Local area & attractions
There are dozens of quality attractions and activities to enjoy in the area, from prehistoric caves and historic castles, through walking trails, steam railways and award-winning vineyards to nature reserves and adventure parks.
Click here to view our local what's on guide.
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Babbacombe Model Village
Take time out from the hustle and bustle of every day life and feel on top of the world as you see it recreated in miniature. Thousands of miniature buildings, people and vehicles capture the essence of England's past, present and future. It's not just the humour, nor the animation - it has a life of its own. Come and see for yourself!
Website: www.babbacombemodelvillage.co.uk
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Beaches
With more than 20 beaches dotted along the English Riviera's 22 Miles of unspoilt coastline, you're sure to find a beach to suit! Whether it's to satisfy rock pooling youngsters, curious geologists or hopeless romantics.
The English Riviera boasts the best sand in the UK for building sandcastles, according to scientists, so come on down and get building!
Best of all, several of the English Riviera's Beaches hold the European Blue Flag award for quality, the ultimate accolade for recognising the best beaches with the highest environmental standards. You'll also find many more with that hold the Quality Coast Award or are Marine Conservation Society recommended.
Website: www.englishriviera.co.uk
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Becky Falls Woodland Park
No visit to Devon would be complete without a day at Dartmoor’s famous Becky Falls, where there really is something for everyone to enjoy. Set within a spectacular ancient valley, the Falls have been attracting visitors for over 100 years and today offers a fantastic, value-packed day out for all age groups, both young and old alike, to enjoy the very best that Dartmoor has to offer. And as the leaves change colour, there's really nowhere better to experience the beauty of the season.
See for yourself why Becky Falls was voted Devon’s Top Beauty Spot and was chosen as one of the World Wildlife Fund’s Incredible Family Days Out, and be amazed by the variety of things to see and do. For families there’s lots of children’s entertainment during weekends and school and bank holidays. Visit the Indoor Theatre for shows, animal attractions and children’s activities and, every day, children can enjoy the popular Nature Trail Competition, with a small prize for every child.
And remember, once you’ve paid your entrance fee, all of the shows and activities are included - so there’s nothing else to pay. Becky Falls - for a perfect Dartmoor Day.Website: www.beckyfalls.com
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Brixham
The quaint town of Brixham is built around its magnificent harbour, which is home to one of the largest fishing fleets in the UK. Sample the local catch from one of the many restaurants or from the stalls lining the harbour, before exploring the winding streets. Vibrant fishermen's cottages gaze out across the port and the fishing trawlers below.
If you enjoy sea fishing then you can hire out a boat for the day and the children will have a great time fishing for crab in the harbour. Among other delights in Brixham, be sure to visit it's open air seawater swimming pool. The town has some excellent shops selling unique local art, gifts and souvenirs.
Brixham is a great place for gentle strolling. Walk along the Harbour, watching the fishing boats, along to the Marina where you will find all the trappings of luxury boating, with a ships chandler, pubs, restaurant and open air café as well as the yachts themselves. At the far end of the marina, bordering on Breakwater beach, you'll find Brixham RNLI Lifeboat Station. With good promenades everywhere, disability access is excellent.
Brixham is a prime base for walkers, with many walks taking in surrounding woodland and pebble beaches. The natural beauty of Berry Head Country Park and of St Mary's Bay is close to hand. A nature haven set on top of a 200ft high headland, with wonderful views across the bay to Torquay. Untouched by modern development. The last attempt at building here was Fortification in Napoleonic times. The remains of which can be seen today, and the guardhouse is now a busy café.
Brixham pays due homage to it's maritime and fishing history, both in the recreation of Sir Francis Drake's Golden Hind, a popular tourist attraction and focal point of the town. The nearby statue of William of Orange is another hint to the rich and diverse history the town boasts. The Hymn, "Abide With Me" was written in Brixham, and there are endless tales of smugglers and pirates to be unearthed by the inquisitive.
It's the perfect spot for those who want to get away from it all and take things easy in charming, picturesque surroundings.
Brixham is undergoing a programme of sympathetic regeneration, and there is limited parking so it is recommend that you use the Park and Ride located in Churston, which operates from Good Friday until the ends of October.
Website: www.englishriviera.co.uk
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Buckfast Abbey
Experience the tranquility of a living monastery with a thousand years of history.
The present community of monks returned in 1882 and rebuilt Buckfast Abbey on it's medieval foundations, finishing the church in 1938. Today it is home to a community of Benedictine monks who lead a life of prayer, work and study.
The Abbey is famous for its stained glass, bee keeping and of course its Tonic Wine! The award winning giftshop sells a variety of gifts, as well as wines, biscuits and preserves produced in the west country. The Monastic Produce shop, housed in and 18th century mill sells and extraordinary collection of gifts made by monks and nuns from across Europe.
Website: www.buckfast.org.uk
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Bygones
Take a nostalgic journey through time into the Victorian Era at Bygones.
Spread over three floors and complete with a full size Victorian street with shops, plenty of period rooms to explore, a Model Railway and a Military History exhibition, there is something for everyone both young and old.
Just make sure you leave time for tea and home-made cakes in the Station tea rooms!
Website: www.bygones.co.uk
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Canonteign Falls
Visit England's Highest Waterfall. This breathtaking combination of Waterfalls and cascades, located in the beautiful Teigh Valley in the Dartmoor National Park.
With play areas, trampolines and mini assault course, fern garden, picnic areas, cafe with terrace overlooking the lake, courtyards and snack bar.
The Devon Wildlife Trust has been working closely with Canonteign. Be at home with nature, and see the new interpretation boards and beetle and spider sculptures made out of old gas canisters.
Website: www.canonteignfalls.co.uk
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Cayman Golf
A cleverly designed, short 18 hole golf course, built in 9 acres of picturesque Devon countryside on the outskirts of Brixham.
Come and enjoy the experience of a new concept of the traditional game of pitch 'n' putt golf. Fun for all the family and golfers alike.
Use unique 'Cayman' golf balls which rewards the player for accuracy rather than distance. Ideal for both families and golfers. Pay and play for healthy outdoor fun!!Website: www.caymangolf.co.uk
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Cockington
No visit to the South West is complete without a trip to Cockington.
Known the world over, the famous thatched village nestles deep within a hidden valley right in the heart of Torbay. The village is well served with Tea Rooms, Gift Shops, the fine Lutyens designed Public House and a 14th Century Forge.
Take a leisurely stroll or a horse drawn carriage to Cockington Country Park. Passing the unusual Cricket Pitch and on towards the Court House, you will find the early Norman Church.
Cockington Court is the creative home to some of the best craftsmen and women in Devon. Each Studio offers a warm welcome and a chance to meet the makers, and watch the artists at work.
Website: www.cockingtoncourt.info
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Coleton Fishacre House and Garden
A strikingly stylish 1920's National Trust house in a luxuriant garden.
A cultured oasis in a stream-fed valley on the beautiful South Devon coast. An Arts & Crafts-style house design by the famous operatic D'Oyly Carte family offers a joyful, musical atmosphere, with gorgeous interiors influenced by the Art Deco movement.
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk
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Compton Castle
A dramatic fortified manor house, steeped in Devon history.
This rare, restored survivior of medieval England dates back to the 14th Century, and is home to the Gilbert family. Discover it's fascinating history as you visit the Great hall, kitchen and guard rooms, and take in the towers, buttresses and battlements.
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk
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Crealy
Devon's great adventure park, created for children of all ages.
20 magical adventures, bursting with fun. With a log flume, roller coaster, indoor adventure zone, go karts, a treetop playground, victorian carousel, animals and lots, lots more!
Website: www.crealy.co.uk
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Dartmoor Otters and Buckfast Butterflies
See three different species of otter, watch them being feed, then swim from the underwater viewing centre.
See beautiful exotic butterflies free flying in the tropical house. The butterfly farm boosted landscaped gardens, with ponds, waterfalls and bridges, exotic plants and foliage to make the perfect environment for butterflies from around the world to live and breed.
Why not take the South Devon Steam Railway from Totnes to Buckfastleigh, then enjoy a vintage bus ride to Buckfast Abbey and aroung the town of Buckfastleigh.
Website: www.ottersandbutterflies.co.uk
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Dartmouth
Visit the beautiful historic waterside town of Dartmouth. Known as the 'Jewel of the South Hams', Dartmouth is a must-see for anyone visiting this part of Devon.
The town has a reputation for good food, with many gourmet restaurants, cafés and bars. Ancient narrow streets house boutique shops, art galleries & delicatessens. A cobbled market place features colourful stalls and Farmers markets supplying local produce. Markets are held on Tuesdays and Fridays.
Take the steam train ride from Paignton for a treat, enjoy visits to the Britannia Royal Naval College and National Trust Gardens. Walk the South West Coast Path or laze on our clean beaches. The river front gives good views and you can book river trips to Totnes and beyond. Dartmouth castle, at the entrance to the river is a popular walk, about one mile from the town centre. The 600 years old castle was built to guard the entrance to the estuary and the River Dart, and indeed Dartmouth itself. Move over to the opposite bank and you can see the ruins of it's sister defence castle, Kingswear Castle.
Come in August to experience the Dartmouth Royal Regatta, well known for its impressive firework display at the end of the week. The natural deep water harbour here has been the driving force behind the town's history as a port and military centre, and provides a spectacular backdrop for the water-based extravaganza of rowing, yacht racing, and much more. Dartmouth also holds an annual music festival, attracting musician from all over the world.
If you feel like exploring further, why not visit Blackpool Sands. Set in a sheltered bay surrounded by evergreens and pines is one of South Devon's most beautiful natural treasures. An award-winning privately managed family beach with turquoise blue sea giving it an almost Mediterranean feel. Further still, you'll find Slapton sands, take a moment to visit the Sherman tank, a memorial to the serviceman tragically killed during a WW2 D-day training exercise. The towns of Salcombe and Kingsbridge are also worth a visit.
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Dartmouth Steam Railway & River Boat Company
Dartmouth Steam Railway and Riverboat Company is the new name for Paignton and Dartmouth Steam Railway and Riverlink.
unique in offering combined steam railway, river and sea adventures for days out in Devon. Our ‘Round Robin’ trip which takes you by train, by boat and bus is our most popular excursion and is not to be missed.
Dartmouth Steam Railway steam trains travel seven miles along the most spectacular South Devon coast down into the Dart Valley, a designated area of outstanding beauty; with stations at Goodrington Sands, Churston and the beautiful village of Kingswear which sits proudly opposite the pretty Port of Dartmouth.
Two New Excursions for 2010 – ‘The Sea Train Adventurer’ which departs from Torquay, Haldon Pier. Sail to Dartmouth and return by steam train and bus.
The ‘Salcombe Voyage’ sail along the coast from Dartmouth to the lovely ‘Port Of Salcombe’ on selected dates through the Summer.
Dartmouth Riverboats operating on the stunning River Dart offer daily scheduled services to the historic town of Totnes and regular services to the picturesque villages of Dittisham and Stoke Gabriel. Harbour Cruises operate daily from Dartmouth.
Website: www.dartmouthrailriver.co.uk
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Dinosaur World
Don't miss out on Torquay's new exciting prehistoric attraction, Dinosaur World!! See the dinosaurs brought to life in spine- tingling details. Family fun for all.
Website: www.torquaysdinosaurworld.co.uk
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Greenway
Visit Greenway, Agatha Christie's private holiday home by the River Dart.
Agatha Christie lived at Greenway, near Brixham, for 38 years. She bought Greenway House in 1938 and although she never wrote any of her books there, it became a summer home and a retreat for her until her death in 1976. She described Greenway as "the loveliest place in the world."
This National Trust property has recently reopened after a £5.4million renovation project. Visitors will have the opportunity to view the many personal collections and mementoes of our best-loved mystery writer and her family.
Greenway operates a traffic management system to reduce car impact on the local village. All visitors wishing to park their car at Greenway MUST book a car parking space. Whenever possible please travel by 'green ways' to Greenway. Ferries available from Dartmouth, Brixham and Torquay. All unbooked cars are turned away at Greenway, due to the limited space in the car park, and local traffic restrictions.
Click here to book a car park space
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk
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Hi-Flyer
The English Riviera is even better from up in the air. So take a trip in the Hi-Flyer tethered balloon at Torquay's Seafront - it's a truly unforgettable experience.
The 15 minute flight rises to 400 feet, offering a bird's eye view of the breathtaking Devon coast and countryside. On a clear day you can see for miles. Don't forget your camera!
The Hi-Flyer is suitable for everyone, including children, and it can carry standard lightweight wheelchairs.
Website: www.thehiflyer.com
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Kents Cavern
Step into the Stone Age. Kents Cavern is a prehistoric cave and award winning visitor attraction.
The site was used by Britain’s earliest ancient humans thousands of years ago and today the cave is the only underground visitor centre in the UNESCO Global Geopark, a protected national monument and an internationally renowned prehistoric show cave.
Take a guided tour through half an million years of human history. Hear about the Neanderthals who called the caves home tens of thousands of years ago, and the terrifying ice age beast who shared their world.
Website: www.kents-cavern.co.uk
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Living Coasts
Take a journey around the coasts of the world where amazing plants and animals live life on the edge. At Living Coasts, you'll see birds and mammals in specially designed naturalistic habitats. With outdoor and indoor exhibits, there's plenty to see and do whatever the weather.
Visit Penguin Beach and see the penguins roaming free, say hello to Gringo, Oscar and Grace the fur seals and discover Seahorses and other creatures of the sea!
Visitors to Living Coasts can expect to see some strange new sights, including empty bottles, crockery and old boots! This curious selection of items has been assembled to help dress the tanks of the coastal zoo’s latest arrivals – octopuses!Website: www.livingcoasts.org.uk
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Miniature Pony Centre
Enjoy a day out on Dartmoor and include a visit to the original Dartmoor Miniature Pony Centre.
See meet and touch over 150 animals, including the famous miniature Shetland Ponies and Mediterranean Miniature Donkeys.
With lots of hands-on activities and displays throughout the day, including a daily Birds of Prey display. Supervised pony rides are also available for children between 2 and 9.
Website: www.miniatureponycentre.com
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Occombe Farm
Enjoy the real taste of Devon, with award-winning locally-produced food and drink. Sample seasonal dishes in the cafe, or visit the farm shop with its traditional butchery, deli and organic bakery.
Walk around the working organic farm and discover wildlife on the pushchair friendly nature trail running through a site of special scientific interest. Watch birds from the bird hide, lambs and pigs in the fields and calves in the farm yard.
Occombe Farm hosts various events throughout the year including the Occombe Beer and Music Festivals, workshops and masterclasses.
Occombe Farm is free to visit.
Website: www.occombe.org.uk
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Paignton
Families love Paignton. Its long sandy beaches, colourful atmosphere, paddler-friendly waters and first class attractions are the essential ingredients for a magical family holiday.
The lively seafront of Paignton, and that of nearby Goodrington, offer a host of attractions from the water slides of Quaywest to brilliant Pirate themed crazy golf on Paignton Green. During the summer months life revolves around the seafront which comes alive to the sound of laughter and holiday fun with festivals and regatta. One of the South West's few piers can be found off Paignton Sands. Built in 1879, the pier contains the arcade amusements, gift shops and café. Visitors can enjoy a nostalgic walk out across the water, with the waves, visible through the decking, sweeping across the sands. There are magnificent views of Torbay from the end of the pier and a chance to watch the surfers, boats and occasional dolphin. Paignton Harbour provides endless hours of entertainment, with pleasure boats ferrying visitors around Torbay and on to Torquay, Brixham and Dartmouth. Why not go on a mackerel fishing excursion, or you can even hire a boat and explore Paignton from the sea.
Away from the seafront, there is another side to this distinctive seaside town, which can be found in the elegance of Oldway Mansion, once home of Isaac Singer of Singer sewing machine fame, the 500 year old Kirkham House, and the architecture of Palace Avenue. The children will love spending a day at the award winning Paignton Zoo. Home to thousands of amazing animals and plants, Visit the desert, cross the savannah, explore the forest and trek through the tropics all in one day seeing tigers, elephants, rhinos, orangutans and more. Paignton is also home to the Paignton and Dartmouth Steam Railway. Experience the magic of the steam age on a spectacular journey along the coast, then through wooded slopes to the River Dart.
There is a variety of evening entertainment and excellent food and drink outlets. Then take an evening stroll along the seafront, under the soft light of the beach front illuminations, a perfect way to wrap up your day.
Website: www.englishriviera.co.uk
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Paignton Pier
A great all weather attraction for all the Family located on Paignton Seafront.
With Jackpot bingo, amusements, trampolines, stalls, mega slide, ten pin bowling, a cafe, kid's slides and rides, takeaways, beach shops ice cream dodgems and more!
Website: www.paigntonpier.co.uk
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Paignton Zoo
Paignton Zoo is home to thousands of amazing animals and plants. Visit the desert, cross the savannah, explore the forest and trek through the tropics.
Wherever you start, you'll have a full day, packed with entertaining keeper's talks, feathered bird show, face painting all feeding times!
See giraffes, lions, tigers, gorillas, rhinos and much much more!
Use your senses to discover the wild world: look around, listen out - you’ll even need your sense of smell! It’s a great day out for everyone.
Website: www.paigntonzoo.org.uk
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Pennywell Farm
Come and experience the hands on magic of this multi award winning activity farm.
Cuddle animals, visit the famous Pennywell miniature pigs, enjoy a ride on a pony or donkey, hand feed some deer then bounce around on a giant trampoline! With Go Karts, a Tractor Village, Miniature Railway, Willow Maze a much more!
With activities, shows and displays happening every 30 minutes throughout the day, there's lots to see and do for all the family
Website: www.pennywellfarm.co.uk
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Pirate Bay Adventure Golf
Avast me hearties! There be a new place on the coast, one of skull duggery & wretched piracy! It be call Pirate Bay!
Experience the adventure of Pirate Bay, , a landscaped 18 hole golf course situated on Paignton Seafront. It's great fun for all the family! Dodge cannon balls and evade thieving pirates as you navigate the lush carpeted greens. Sink your ball, but don't sink your ship!
Website: www.piratesbaygolf.co.uk
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Powderham Castle
An enchanting day out awaits you at this magnificent 600 year old Castle set in a wonderful location on the edge of the Exe estuary.
The historic family home of the Earl of Devon is open to the public, offering a spectacular glimpse at it's fine interiors. See the majestic castle rooms with a tour guide and hear fasinating stories of the castle and Courtenay family. See the recently restored Victorian kitchen and visualise what it would be like living 'below stairs'. Then, Explore the grounds, and the deer park.
Website: www.powderham.co.uk
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Prickly Ball Farm Hedgehog Hospital
A great family day out! Meet hedgehogs from around the world and visit the hospital to see how they care for and rehabilitate injured hedgehogs, bringing them back to health before releasing them back into the wild.
For an hands on experience visit Pets corner where, their furry animals will capture your hearts as you cuddle them in your arms. From nosey mice and cuddly rabbits to silky chinchillas and adventurous ferrets your sure to receive a warm welcome!
Groom ponies, feed lambs and walk goats in the Big Barn. And watch out for the cheeky chipmunks and Degus!
Website: www.pricklyballfarm.com
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Quad World
Devon's premier Quad Centre. providing all-terrain off-road fun for all the family.
A selection of Quad bikes are available, suitable for children 6 and upwards. Full tuition and protective clothing provided.
Website: www.quadworld.co.uk
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Rainbow Fun House
Come rain or shine, you'll always have fun time an the Rainbow fun house.
13,000 square feet of action packed adventure. With slides, flumes, race track and games room. Parents can join in, but if you can't keep up with the kids, relax in the licensed cafe where you can enjoy a meal or just a coffee.
Website: www.rainbowfunhouse.co.uk
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South Devon Railway
Steam back in time. Have a great out and experience the best of unspoilt Devon from the South Devon Railway Steam Train as it hugs the beautiful River Dart all the way from Buckfastleigh to Totnes.
With Museums and workshops, historic trains, stations and artefacts, the only surviving engine of Brunel's 'broad gauge', expressway model and a gift shop, as well as riverside walks, a maze and children's play area.
Joint tickets are also available for the Totnes Rare Breeds Farm, Dartmoor Otters and Buckfast Butterflies.
Website: www.southdevonrailway.org
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The English Riviera Geopark
Scratch beneath the surface of the English Riviera Geopark and you'll discover tales of tropical seas and scorching deserts; hippopotami, mammoth and earliest man.
To bring these stories to life, a series of eight gateway sites have been designated, perfect for exploring different aspects of our stunning natural enviroment.
Berry Head National Nature Reserve Where nature meets geology with specacular conseqences
Torre Abbey Eight Centuries of architecture and heritage
Torquay Museum From Geology to Archeology - bringing the bay's history to life
Kents Cavern Ice Age home to britains earliest humans
The Goodrington Seashore Centre Equipped with sea water tanks displaying marine wildlife
Geopark Cruises with Greenway Ferries View stunning geology from the best vantage point - the sea!
Occombe Farm Organic farm with nature trail, education centre, award winning cafe and farm shop together with an in house bakery
Cockington Court and Country Park Bringing local traditions and creativity together
Website: www.englishrivierageopark.org.uk
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The Golden Hind
Step back in time to 1577 as you board this full sized replica of Sir Francis Drakes famous ship, situated in the picturesque fishing port of Brixham. Gain a unique insight into life at sea during the Tudor times.
The Golden Hind undertook one of the most historic and exciting voyages of all time as it circumnavigated the globe between 1577 and 1580, making vital discoveries before returning home with amazing treasure!
Every Thursday throughout the summer is 'Pirate Thursday' in Brixham. Join 'Jonty Depp' a fantastic Captain Jack Sparrow lookalike and his motley crew for a fabulous day of fun and piratical antics!
Website: www.goldenhind.co.uk
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The National Marine Aquarium - Plymouth
Visit the UK's largest aquarium and be amazed at the fascinating underwater world. Get up close and personal with sand tiger sharks, watch a dive show, relax and unwind in front of the coral sea, then see whats crash landed in the Atlantic Ocean.
The National Marine Aquarium is the charity dedicated to raising awareness of the oceans, the challenges they face and the ways in which we can all help ensure they have a sustainable future.
Located in Plymouth, the National Marine Aquarium is the result of many years of hard work and fund-raising to establish a leading aquarium in the UK.Website: www.national-aquarium.co.uk
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Torquay
Torquay has been a favourite holiday resort for generations, superbly situated at the heart of the English Riviera. The gentle climate, stunning views, delightful parks and gardens make Torquay a place where all the family can relax and be entertained. Explore lively harbour and palm tree-lined promenade framing its international marina. Torquay is a hub of lively activity with restaurants, cafés, nightclubs and bars, providing a truly Mediterranean feel.
The waterfront is the focus of life in the town. The Living Coasts marine attraction adds to the variety to Beacon Quay, and the illuminated bridge is a great backdrop to a relaxing evening drink. Yet within minutes of the town centre there are beautiful beaches easily accessible by foot, road or sea.
From a background of pirates, smugglers and honest fishermen, the town developed into a fashionable haven for visitors in the 19th century. Torquay established an outstanding reputation and was named "Queen of the Riviera" by the Victorians. The Queen of Crime, Agatha Christie was born in Torquay and the town has several landmarks which are associated with her. The Agatha Christie Mile takes in 10 landmarks - all dotted around the Torquay harbour and seafront area. Perhaps in more recent years, Torquay has become world renowned due a rather eccentric hotel proprietor, Basil Fawlty. John Cleese was inspired to create 'Fawlty Towers' after the Monty Python team stayed in Torquay.
Torquay hosts a number of spectacular attractions, including the Hi-flyer balloon, giving you a bird's eye view of the Torbay coastline. The marina and is a great place to enjoy water sports, sailing, jet-skiing and windsurfing. Soak up some history and culture at Torre Abbey, then bask in the the sun on the beautiful Torre Abbey Sands. Walk along the coastal path, or up high street, indulging in a spot of retail therapy in the interesting variety of shops. Nearby is the Riviera Centre, a great place to spend the day if it rains, with an indoor beach with a flume ride and wave machine. Torquay also has a cinema, bowling alley and indoor play area.
Further afield you'll find Kent's Cavern, Torquay's Historic Archaeological site. Both humans and animals used the cave, around half a million years ago. Today you can take a tour of discovery of this fascinating Ancient Monument. In Babbacombe you'll ago find a wonderful miniature world at the Model Village, step back in time as you enter Bygones, a Victorian street or scale the heights of the Babbacombe Cliff Railway.
A rich variety of evening entertainment is provided throughout the Bay, all year round. There is an abundance of pavement cafés, pubs, restaurants and night-life, to suit every taste.Find out more about:
Website: www.englishriviera.co.uk
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Torquay Museum
Visit the Agatha's Christie gallery, dedicated to Torquay's most famous daughter, the undesputed Queen of Crime. Discover the history of Devon, from tropical coral sea to arid desert then ice-bound landscape, Torbay as changed radically over the past 400 million years.
Website: www.torquaymuseum.org
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Torre Abbey
Torre Abbey was once the wealthiest Abbey of it kind in England. Today it is one of the most complete and important examples in the country and the oldest building in Torquay. The brothers who live here over 800 years ago when Torquay was a fishing hamlet, where known as the White Canons and followed a strict regime of silence and prayer. Later the Abbey was home to the Cary family who lived there until the 1920's.
Torre Abbey has recently undergone a massive two year restoration, some stunning finds have been unearthed and the most ancient and hallowed parts of the Abbey are now open for visitors to explore!
The Abbey has one of the finest Art collections in Devon, with painting as intriguing sculptures, and the Exhibition galleries feature a lively calendar throughout the year.
Website: www.torre-abbey.org.uk
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Totnes
Lying on the banks of the River Dart, Totnes presents an intriguing mixture of history and new age trends. This ancient river port town has a vibrant, bohemian atmosphere to the superb high street, lined with organic food shops, choice vegetarian and vegan cafés and restaurants and some Devon arts and crafts specialist shops you'll spend hours in! Street entertainers, markets and a New Age culture merge happily with its steamer quay, Elizabethan architecture, Norman castle and range of listed buildings. Totnes even has it's own currency -the 'Totnes pound'!
Totnes has a long history, and is reputed to have been at the centre of the founding of Britain. According to medieval legend, it was here that Brutus, the Trojan Prince disembarked from his ship upon the Brutus stone in 1170 BC. You'll find this ancient granite piece of British heritage on Fore Street.
A visit to the town is best started from the river side, at the bottom of the town. Here you will find the old steamer quay, in what was once the thriving river port. The quay is now the centre for the local river cruisers - who daily carry visitors on pleasure trips from Totnes to Dartmouth. From the quay, Fore Street rises up into the centre of the town, passing underneath the East Gate Arch - a splendid Tudor structure. Follow the high street up to the marketplace where throughout the year Fridays and Saturdays are market days. On Tuesdays during the summer, you can experience the delights of our Elizabethan market.
Visit the historic Totnes Castle, built just after the Norman conquest, offering sweeping views over the town. Also in Totnes is the interesting Elizabethan Museum, an Elizabethan building itself. Nearby Berry Pomeroy is home to the unusual remain of Berry Pomeroy Castle, now a romantic ruin, it is reputed to be one of the most haunted in the British Isles.
If you feel like stretching your legs, why not follow the path along the river to Dartington. Here you'll find the Cider Press Centre, an interesting collection of 15 shops, eating places and workshops set in a village atmosphere. Dartington is also home to Dartington Crystal. Here you can go on a factory tour, watch live demonstrations of studio glass making, and even create your own unique souvenir glass hand cast!
Website: www.visitsouthdevon.co.uk
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Totnes Rare Breeds Farm
What began as a collection of farmyard rare breeds has gradually extended and is now an Award Winning Small Visitor Attraction! You won’t find smaller pygmy goats, or more inquisitive kune kune pigs. Alongside these, you can also get close to the endangered wildlife of the English countryside, making this much more than just a petting farm. Touch a hedgehog’s prickly spines and learn how they use them, or admire the gripping pads on a red squirrel’s foot.
Totnes Rare Breeds Farm is a non-profit-making organisation, which relies on the work of volunteers and the great support of its customers. It aims to preserve endangered species of farm animals and the diversity of British wildlife.
It is also a fantastic day out! A family owned attraction, Totnes Rare Breeds is small enough to provide a friendly and personal service, but with enough to keep its visitors occupied and happy all day.
Tucked away behind Totnes in the rolling Devon countryside, once you find the Rare Breeds Farm you won’t want to leave.Website: www.totnesrarebreeds.co.uk
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Trago Mills
The Newton Abbot Retail Park offers a massive range of goods at Trago's renowned discount prices.
Set in 100 acres of rolling South Devon countryside this fabulous leisure park offers not just great value shopping, but hours of fun for all the family! With of rides for the children, a scenic steam railway, an interactive family nature park, and a great choice of food outlets a day just won't seem long enough!
Website: www.trago.co.uk
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Woodlands Family Theme Park
The big family day out in glorious Devon with brilliant attractions for all ages. Experience 90 action packed acres with 16 family rides, 10 powerful playzones, 300 animals and 100,000 sq ft of indoor fun. Expect amazing adventures exploring forts, assault courses and enchanting play palaces.
Enjoy dazzling drizzly days in the UK’s biggest indoor venture centre including three exhilarating rides. The Woodlands experience promises the widest variety of attractions and all weather family fun.Website: www.woodlandspark.com
