Summer in Torbay: the best things to do on the English Riviera

From golden sandy beaches and breathtaking coastal views to world-class events and fascinating cultural attractions, there's no shortage of things to see and do in Torbay this summer.

Made up of the charming seaside towns of Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham, Torbay is affectionately known as the English Riviera. With its palm-lined promenades, beautiful bays, and unique UNESCO Global Geopark status, it's one of the South West's most popular destinations for visitors of all ages.

Whether you're an art lover, thrill seeker, foodie, or outdoor adventurer, we've rounded up some of the very best events and experiences taking place across Torbay.

For art lovers: Art on your Doorstep at Torre Abbey

Torre Abbey is set to become one of the UK's most exciting outdoor galleries as part of The National Gallery: Art on Your Doorstep.

As one of the first locations selected for this prestigious national touring programme, Torbay will host a free open-air exhibition from 6 March to 5 September 2026. Visitors will be able to enjoy life-sized reproductions of some of the National Gallery's most iconic masterpieces displayed along the stunning seafront route between Torre Abbey and Torquay Harbour.

Combining world-famous art with spectacular coastal scenery, it's a unique way to experience culture on the English Riviera.

For thrill-seekers: Cowes-Torquay-Cowes Powerboat Race

If high-speed action is more your thing, don't miss the legendary GoGPS Cowes-Torquay-Cowes Powerboat Race on Sunday 30 August.

Widely regarded as one of the most famous powerboat races in the world, the event forms part of the three-day GoGPS Cowes International Powerboat Festival and attracts competitors from across the globe.

First established in 1961, the race is celebrating its 65th anniversary and continues to be one of the sporting highlights of the South West calendar. Expect plenty of excitement as powerful boats race across Torbay's waters during the Bank Holiday weekend.

For sailing fans: Torbay Royal Regatta

One of the most colourful events on the English Riviera returns from 21 to 24 August 2026.

The Torbay Royal Regatta attracts sailors from around the UK and beyond, bringing the bay to life with four days of competitive racing and spectacular views. The event welcomes IRC yachts, cruisers, sports boats and several National Championship fleets, creating an impressive display on the water.

With hundreds of competitors expected to take part, visitors can enjoy a fantastic atmosphere both onshore and out at sea.

For food lovers: England's Seafood FEAST

Seafood lovers should mark their calendars for England's Seafood FEAST, taking place from 21 September to 4 October 2026.

This popular two-week celebration showcases the very best seafood landed along England's Seafood Coast, with restaurants, cafés and eateries across Torquay, Paignton and Brixham highlighting locally sourced dishes and fresh seasonal catches.

It's the perfect opportunity to discover why the English Riviera has earned such a strong reputation for exceptional seafood.

For outdoor adventurers: Stand-up paddleboarding in Torbay

With more than 22 miles of stunning coastline and some of the best weather in the UK, Torbay is an ideal destination for getting out on the water.

The bay's sheltered waters and mild microclimate create excellent conditions for stand-up paddleboarding, whether you're trying it for the first time or looking to build on your experience.

For a memorable coastal adventure, follow Paddle UK's recommended route from Meadfoot Beach to Torre Abbey Sands and enjoy a unique perspective of the English Riviera's spectacular coastline.

For literary enthusiasts: The International Agatha Christie Festival

Torquay's most famous resident continues to captivate readers around the world, and every year the town celebrates her remarkable legacy with the International Agatha Christie Festival.

Taking place over ten days, the festival brings together authors, experts, performers and Christie enthusiasts for a packed programme of talks, events and entertainment.

Whether you're a lifelong fan of Poirot and Miss Marple or discovering Agatha Christie for the first time, it's one of the most distinctive cultural events in the South West.

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