Torquay from Paignton
Torquay is one of the three towns of Torbay, alongside Paignton and Brixham. Its harbour makes a useful starting point for exploring the coast, while Babbacombe, Cockington and the town's museums offer different ways to spend time away from the waterfront. Choose a few stops and check their individual schedules before setting out.
Bus route 12 connects Torquay, Paignton and Brixham. Route 22 serves destinations including Babbacombe Model Village and Paignton Zoo. Consult the current timetable for your travel date, and see our transport guide for more on planning the journey.
Torquay is also a starting point for activities on the water. A regional wine tasting offers another option in town, with six wines included. It is a separate experience from a museum visit or a coastal trip, so compare meeting details before putting activities together.
Our take: wine tasting
For a tasting in Torquay, this experience includes six wines.
Hand-picked tours, booked through Viator. Prices are indicative starting prices in British pounds (as of October 2026). Tap a tour for live availability and the current price in your currency.
Experiences in Torquay
Consider a Torquay wine tasting alongside your plans for the coast and town.
Babbacombe and the Cliff Railway
Babbacombe gives a day in Torquay a different coastal setting. The Cliff Railway connects the cliff area and the shore, while the Model Village is another attraction to consider. Check each venue's hours separately, especially when the railway is undergoing maintenance.
The Cliff Railway is closed for maintenance on 2 November 2026 and from 30 November 2026 until an expected reopening in early February 2027. Its published 2026 fares are for a single journey, and payment is by card. If you plan a return ride, check both the operating day and the fare for each direction before you travel.
The Model Village has its own admission and timetable. Route 22 serves it, making a bus journey an option when you prefer not to drive. As with any attraction, check the latest entry arrangements for your date and allow time for the connection back to Paignton.
Torquay Museum and Torre Abbey
For exhibitions and a museum visit, compare Torquay Museum with Torre Abbey. Torquay Museum offers repeat visits to its regular exhibitions for a year with admission; special events can be excluded. Check the museum's opening for your chosen day before travelling, particularly around the Christmas closure.
The museum lists ramp access and a lift or stairlift to galleries, an accessible toilet and one accessible parking space that must be reserved by phone. If a particular gallery or route is essential to your visit, contact the venue in advance. Accessibility at another historic building may be different.
Torre Abbey is another option for a cultural stop and is approximately five minutes on foot from Torquay station. Check the venue's opening and admission conditions before combining it with a train or bus journey. Allow enough time for the exhibition you want to see rather than treating the two venues as one ticket.
Cockington and walks from the harbour
For a walk inland, the council describes a route from Torquay Harbour to Cockington of two miles, taking approximately 45 minutes. It begins along the seafront towards Paignton and continues through Cockington Lane and Water Meadows. Consider your own pace and the return journey when planning it.
If you prefer company or a story-led outing, browse the walking tours. Their meeting places and themes differ, so check the individual description. For literary connections and Greenway, use the separate Agatha Christie guide.
Kents Cavern and the coast
Kents Cavern offers a cave visit in Wellswood. Choose between the operator's self-guided Cave Entry and a separately priced guided tour, and bring suitable shoes and warm clothing. Steps and narrow sections make it important to check access if anyone in your party has limited mobility.
On another day, explore the boat trips from Torquay. Conditions on the water and departure arrangements matter, so leave flexibility and check the activity details. Pairing one principal outing with a walk or museum makes for a manageable itinerary without relying on tight connections.
Frequently asked questions
How can I get from Paignton to Torquay?
Bus route 12 connects the towns. Check the current timetable and the stop that works for your plans.
Is the Babbacombe Cliff Railway open in winter?
Maintenance begins on 30 November 2026, with reopening expected in early February 2027. It also closes for maintenance on 2 November 2026.
Can I visit Torquay Museum and Torre Abbey on the same day?
You can plan them together if their opening times suit you. Check each venue separately and leave time to travel between them.