Things To Do In Torquay: The Ultimate Outdoor Adventurer’S Guide

ByEric James Updated on

Thinking Torquay is just about palm trees, sandy beaches, and seaside promenades? While the English Riviera has its charms, it’s also the perfect launchpad for some of the UK’s most rewarding outdoor adventures.

For the hiker, kayaker, and self-sufficient explorer, this coastal town offers a surprising blend of dramatic coastline, hidden coves, and easy access to wild landscapes. But it’s easy to get stuck in the tourist crowds, missing the real wild heart of South Devon.

Imagine kayaking into a secluded bay for a private picnic, hiking a section of the legendary South West Coast Path with breathtaking views, or learning to forage for your own coastal supper. This isn’t just a trip; it’s a chance to build real skills and connect with nature on a deeper level.

This guide will show you exactly how. Keep reading to discover the best outdoor things to do in Torquay and turn your coastal visit into a genuine OutwardLab adventure.

Hit the Trail: Hiking and Walking Adventures Around Torquay

The coastline around Torquay is a hiker’s paradise, dominated by the magnificent South West Coast Path. This isn’t just a walk; it’s an experience that offers rugged cliffs, sheltered woodlands, and stunning sea views. This things to do in torquay guide will help you get started.

Tackle the South West Coast Path: Torquay to Brixham

One of the most rewarding sections accessible from town is the route from Torquay to the charming fishing port of Brixham. It’s a challenging but manageable day hike of around 8-9 miles.

The trail takes you past Thatcher Point, Hope’s Nose, and Berry Head Nature Reserve, a haven for seabirds like guillemots. The terrain is varied, with steep ascents and descents, so be prepared.

  • Gear Up: Wear sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with good ankle support, like the Salomon X Ultra 4. Pack a reliable waterproof jacket (a Rab Downpour Eco is a great choice) as the coastal weather can change in an instant.
  • Navigate Like a Pro: While the path is well-marked with the acorn symbol, always carry a map and compass or a fully charged phone with an app like OS Maps or AllTrails. Cell service can be spotty in the coves.
  • Best Practices: Stick to the marked path to prevent erosion. Pack out everything you pack in, following Leave No Trace principles. This is one of the most important things to do in torquay best practices for preserving the trail for others.

Explore Cockington Country Park

For a gentler day, head to Cockington Country Park. With 450 acres of parkland, woodlands, and ornamental gardens, it offers a network of easy-to-follow trails perfect for a family walk or a trail run. It’s a great way to stretch your legs without committing to a full coastal trek.

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Explore by Water: Kayaking, Coasteering, and Wild Swimming

Seeing the coastline from the water offers a completely different perspective. The limestone cliffs and sheltered coves are ideal for exploration by kayak, paddleboard, or for the truly adventurous, coasteering.

Sea Kayaking and Paddleboarding

Paddling out from Meadfoot Beach or Oddicombe Beach allows you to explore unique rock formations and discover coves inaccessible on foot. London Bridge Arch, a natural limestone arch near the Imperial Hotel, is a popular destination.

If you’re new to paddling, consider a guided tour. Local outfitters like Sea Kayak Torbay provide all the gear and expert instruction you need. Learning how to things to do in torquay safely on the water is crucial.

  • Safety First: Always wear a properly fitted PFD (Personal Flotation Device). Check the tide times and weather forecast before you head out. Let someone on shore know your route and expected return time.
  • Common Problems: A common problem for new paddlers is getting caught out by changing winds or tides. Always paddle against the wind or current on your way out, so the journey back is easier.

Coasteering and Wild Swimming

For a serious adrenaline rush, coasteering combines climbing, scrambling, and cliff jumping under the supervision of a qualified guide. It’s an incredible way to experience the raw power of the coast.

Wild swimming is also popular here, but safety is paramount. Anstey’s Cove is a beautiful, sheltered spot, but always swim with a partner and use a brightly coloured tow float like the Swim Secure Tow Float to make yourself visible to boats.

Sustainable Foraging and Bushcraft on the English Riviera

The Devon coastline is rich with edible wild plants, offering a fantastic opportunity to connect with your environment and practice self-sufficiency skills. This is one of the most rewarding eco-friendly things to do in torquay.

A Beginner’s Guide to Coastal Foraging

The shoreline provides a surprising bounty if you know what to look for. Focus on a few easy-to-identify species to start.

  • Rock Samphire: Found clinging to cliffs and sea walls, it has a strong, aromatic, slightly salty flavour. It’s fantastic pickled or lightly steamed.
  • Sea Beet (Sea Spinach): The ancestor of chard and beetroot, its glossy green leaves can be found on shorelines and estuaries. Use it just like spinach.
  • Mussels: Can be found clinging to rocks at low tide. However, only harvest mussels from clean water and be aware of seasonal restrictions and biotoxin warnings. Always cook them thoroughly.

Foraging Best Practices

This is not just a skill; it’s a responsibility. A proper things to do in torquay care guide for the environment is essential for foragers.

  1. 100% Positive Identification: Get a reliable guidebook like The Forager’s Calendar by John Wright. If you are not 100% certain what it is, do not eat it. Many poisonous plants grow alongside edible ones.
  2. Forage Sustainably: Only take a small amount from any one plant or area (a good rule is no more than 1/3). This ensures the plant population remains healthy for wildlife and future foragers.
  3. Know the Law: Understand the rules of the land you are on. Foraging is generally permitted for personal use, but you must not uproot any plant without the landowner’s permission.
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Basecamp Essentials: The Best Campsites and Vanlife Spots

Whether you’re in a tent, campervan, or RV, having a solid basecamp is key to a great trip. Torquay and its surroundings offer several excellent options for the outdoor traveler.

Recommended Campsites

Look for sites that offer a good balance of amenities and a connection to nature. Treacle Valley campsite is a popular choice, known for its peaceful setting and good facilities. For those wanting to be closer to the coast path, consider sites near Brixham or Paignton.

Tips for Vanlife and RV Travelers

Torquay has several car parks that accommodate larger vehicles, but overnight parking rules can be strict, especially in the summer. Use apps like Park4Night to find user-recommended spots, but always double-check local signage and restrictions to avoid fines. One of the most important things to do in torquay tips is to be a respectful visitor: leave no trace, keep noise to a minimum, and support local businesses.

When the Weather Turns: Essential Rainy-Day Things to Do in Torquay

Even the most dedicated adventurer needs a plan for a classic British downpour. Acknowledging and preparing for this is crucial and helps avoid one of the most common problems with things to do in torquay — letting bad weather ruin your plans.

Kents Cavern Prehistoric Caves

This is the perfect rainy-day activity for an OutwardLab enthusiast. Kents Cavern is one of Europe’s most important Stone Age sites, a place where ancient humans sheltered from the elements and hunted mammoths. It’s a powerful lesson in prehistoric survival and a fascinating glimpse into our ancestors’ lives.

Indoor Climbing

Keep your skills sharp and get a great workout at a local climbing centre. It’s a fantastic way to stay active when the trails are too muddy or the sea is too rough. Places like The Quay Climbing Centre in nearby Exeter are worth the short drive.

Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Adventures in Torquay

What is the best time of year to visit Torquay for hiking?

The best times are spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). You’ll enjoy pleasant weather, fewer crowds on the trails, and see the coastline in its seasonal beauty, from spring wildflowers to autumn colours.

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Do I need a guide for kayaking in Torquay?

If you are an experienced sea kayaker comfortable with UK coastal conditions, you can rent gear and go solo. For beginners, a guided tour is highly recommended. A guide will ensure your safety, teach you basic skills, and show you the best spots.

Is it safe to forage for food around Torquay?

It is safe only if you are 100% confident in your plant identification skills. The coast has both delicious edibles and deadly poisonous plants. Start with a guided foraging walk or a reputable course. Never eat anything you cannot positively identify.

Are there any good wild camping spots near Torquay?

Wild camping is not legally permitted in most of England, including the areas directly around Torquay and on the coast path. To stay on the right side of the law and respect the environment, it’s best to use official campsites. For a true wild camping experience, head to designated areas in nearby Dartmoor National Park, but be sure to follow their specific rules and guidelines.

Your trip to Torquay can be so much more than a simple seaside holiday. By exploring the trails, paddling the coves, and learning about the landscape, you transform a vacation into an adventure. You build confidence, learn new skills, and create memories that last far longer than a suntan.

So pack your boots, check the tides, and get ready to discover the wild side of the English Riviera. Stay safe, explore responsibly, and enjoy the journey.

Eric James
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