Walking The Torbay Coastline

One of the recent walks added to the Devon-Walks.co.uk website is a one way hike along the Torbay Coastline, here is a more detailed description of what to expect should you decide to do the walk for yourself. Walking along the Torbay coast is a pleasure as it is south facing meaning you get to make the most of any sunshine. It also means you are sheltered from the prevailing westerly winds by Dartmoor, which you can see brooding in the distance. The excellent local climate is the reason that the area has been dubbed the ‘English Riviera’.

This walk follows the coast path through several quaint villages before making it’s way into Torquay. There are several great attractions to visit by the path and plenty of places to stop for refreshments. Initially the path feels quite remote and rural in nature whilst the approach into Torquay feels more developed but gives you the chance to see some of Torquay fine Georgian and Victorian houses. Overlooking award winning beaches, the views are never less than stunning.

From Maidencombe find the coast path at the end of a steep lane and turn right to head towards Torquay. The path winds it’s way around the top of several small coves which are reputed to have been used as landing beaches for Smugglers contraband before it was squirreled away in the cellars of local houses. The path then passes close to Babbacombe Model village which is a popular visitor attraction and if you have time it is worth visiting. Many of the models have special effects, such as lighting or imitation smoke.

Leaving Babbacombe you pass around Hope’s Nose. In Victorian times this was a popular bathing spot and the beach was filled with Bathing machines taking the ladies into the water to preserve their modesty. From here you head to Anstey Cove which features a Cave & Tunnel system open to visitors. This area was once home to woolly mammoths and sabre-tooth tigers and their remains have been found inside the caves.

From here you head onto Meadfoot beach and then join Rock End Walk to descend into Torquay. This area was very popular in Victorian times and there are many fine houses to view along this route. Of particular note is Hesketh Crescent, a magnificent row of houses that is as pleasurable a view as the view out to sea behind you. From here you drop down into Torquay Marina, the heart of the old fishing village. It is now a very plesent area to spend some time and there are several good cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a good meal as a reward for your efforts!

By: Simon Abbot

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For more information on this walk including a map please visit the Maidencombe to Torquay walkhere. This walk was brought to you by Devon-Walks.co.uk the home of walking in Devon