Torquay can be explored through a range of cultural themes, from a historic abbey and art collections to places associated with Agatha Christie. The coast and boat trips can also help shape your stay. Alongside looking back at history, you can make practical choices: would you like to explore exhibitions, take a self-guided walking route, or set aside time by the water?
History and Art at Torre Abbey
Torre Abbey dates back to 1196 and is designated an Ancient Scheduled Monument. Its historic rooms house more than 600 works of art, dating from the 18th century to the present day. A long history is thus set alongside a collection spanning several centuries. The Potent Plants Garden has its own thematic focus: it celebrates Agatha Christie's achievements throughout the year. History, art and connections to Christie come together here as different aspects of the same place.
Agatha Christie: Walking Route and Festival
The “Agatha Christie Mile… and More” is a self-guided walking route highlighting 14 places associated with Agatha Christie's time in Torquay. Its format offers one way to discover these connections along a walk. The International Agatha Christie Festival is another option: Torquay hosts it every September. If the festival is a key factor in planning your trip, check the specific programme dates before you travel. The walking route and festival have different focuses—one on places, the other on an annual cultural event.
Museums and Historical Periods
Torquay Museum presents 400 million years of Torbay's history. This regional timespan differs from a focus on individual works of art or the history of Torre Abbey. Kents Cavern also offers a distinctive perspective on the area's heritage: the cave is designated both a Scheduled Ancient Monument and a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Bygones adds to the range with interactive exhibitions and more than 2,000 original artefacts from times gone by. The attractions therefore differ not only in location but also in their approach to history: through a broad regional narrative, protected status or exhibits.
Crafts and Stage Shows
At Cockington Court, visitors can discover artists and craftspeople at work in their studios. Those interested in creative work will find a different experience here than in a collection of finished artworks. The Princess Theatre offers a year-round programme of West End musicals, live music, comedy, ballet, opera and family entertainment. If a particular performance matters to your trip, plan around the relevant programme. Torquay offers a choice of both insights into crafts and different forms of stage entertainment.
Coast, Ferries and Boat Trips
The 22-mile coastline around the bay that Torquay is part of forms part of the South West Coast Path. Conditions and access can vary, so take this into account when planning a coastal walk. Regular passenger ferries connect Torquay with Paignton, Brixham and Dartmouth. Operating hours and timetables may vary, so it is worth checking the latest timetable before you travel. Fishing and wildlife safari boat trips are also available from Torquay. Operators and timetables may change. If a particular trip is part of your plans, check what is currently available. These options offer different ways to spend time by the coast and on the water without requiring the same itinerary.
Discover more destinations: Beer, Yelverton, West Buckland, Teignmouth, Bottreaux Mill, Bratton Fleming, Whitchurch, Bideford.
For the wider travel overview: Devon.
