Delights of the English Riviera

Stretching over 22 miles of Devon coastline, the English Riviera is one of the UK’s top holiday destinations, offering seaside resorts, rocky coves, charming villages, and warm weather. We’ll travel by steam train to explore the maritime town of Dartmouth and enjoy a scenic cruise along the Jurassic Coast from the picturesque town of Exmouth.

By Coach

Included Excursions

Day 1

Dinner

Local departure by coach, then on to Paignton for four nights.

Day 2

Breakfast & Dinner

Dartmouth Steam Railway and Dartmouth

After breakfast, we’ll embark on a trip aboard the Dartmouth Steam Railway. Enjoy stunning views of the Devonshire coast as we journey to the historic town of Dartmouth. A short ferry ride from the train station takes us to the harbour front, where you’ll have free time to explore. Why not visit the Dartmouth Museum to discover the town’s rich maritime history? Stroll through the charming cobbled streets and indulge in a Devon cream tea at one of the many tea rooms.

In the afternoon, we’ll return to Paignton by steam train, soaking in more scenic views along the way.

Day 3

Breakfast & Dinner

Day of Leisure, or Torbay Tour

Enjoy a relaxing day in Paignton, a vibrant seaside town known for its mild climate and long sandy beaches.

Alternatively, join our optional excursion to explore more of the English Riviera’s main resorts on our Torbay tour. Torbay, a 22-mile stretch of stunning coastline, is home to rocky coves, warm weather, and charming seaside towns. We’ll first visit Torquay, renowned for its palm-lined promenade and marina, before heading to Babbacombe, where the clifftop promenade offers breathtaking views—on a clear day, you can see as far as Portland Bill in Dorset.

You’ll have free time to enjoy the sights, or you can take a ride on the historic Babbacombe Cliff Railway, which has been transporting visitors to Oddicombe Beach since 1926.

Our final stop is the picturesque fishing town of Brixham, where you can visit the bustling harbour and perhaps catch sight of the fresh seafood being brought into the market.

We’ll return to the hotel for dinner.

Optional Torbay Tour (additional charges may apply)

Day 4

Breakfast & Dinner

Exmouth and Jurassic Coast Cruise

Today, we visit Exmouth, one of Devon’s oldest and most picturesque seaside towns. Known for its two miles of sandy beach, the town is set against the stunning cliffs of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the charming independent shops and enjoy dining at the town’s wonderful restaurants.

Next, we board the Stuart Line Cruise for a relaxing journey along England’s only natural UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Jurassic Coast. As we sail through time, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of this 185-million-year-old geological wonder.

Day 5

Breakfast

Return home.

Accommodation Options

The Esplanade Hotel, Paignton

The Esplanade Hotel by Compass Hospitality in Paignton offers comfortable accommodation with free Wi-Fi, an on-site restaurant, and a bar. Guests can enjoy a 24-hour front desk, a shared lounge, and convenient amenities, including luggage storage and in-room facilities like an electric kettle and hairdryer.

Marine Hotel, Paignton

Located in Paignton, just 400 metres from Paignton Beach, Marine Hotel offers comfortable accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a terrace, and a restaurant. The hotel features a bar and is conveniently close to popular attractions, including Goodrington Sands Beach (less than 1 km) and Preston Sands Beach (a 12-minute walk). Guests can enjoy evening entertainment and access to a 24-hour front desk. Each room is equipped with a kettle, a wardrobe, and a flat-screen TV. The private bathrooms include a shower and a hairdryer. Guests can choose from an à la carte, continental, or Full English/Irish breakfast to start their day.