Devon’s famous Riviera Line train route

If you’ve never ridden the Riviera Line train between Exeter and Torbay, you’ve been missing out on a treat. Board at Exeter St Davids.

Local hint: sit on the left for maximum view impact.

Then relax back to take in some of Devon’s best waterside views as your train sweeps down the Exe Estuary then out into the blue of Lyme Bay.

Don’t worry, you’ll be in that gorgeous water before you know it.

Watch out for wading birds as you glide past Cockwood, hold your breath through the Dawlish tunnels, marvel at the length of  Teignmouth Beach, then turn inland to prepare to alight for your very own seaside adventure.

Arriving in Torquay by train

You might have to change at Newton Abbot for the Torquay and Paignton branch line but don’t worry, this will be your first chance to get a sniff of that soft Devon air. Just a quick trundle down the line and you’ll be able to get off at Torquay. If this is your first trip, you’re in for a surprise.

Torquay train station is only five minutes walk from Torre Abbey Beach.

So close in fact that you’ll find it almost impossible to keep your socks and shoes on as the train pulls in to the station. Forget the big suitcases for this journey, you’ll be much better off with a smallish rucksack that has a travel towel tucked into the top.

Because you’re not going to be able to resist dipping your toes in the sea.

Outdoor fun by train in Torquay

And toe-dipping isn’t the only outdoor fun you can have as soon as you get off the train in Torquay. We’ve got holiday travel by train sorted down here in Torbay. You won’t need to get into a car, or even hop on a bus (although we do have plenty).

Although you might be tempted by a boat ride across the Bay.

Below are my ten top ideas for holiday fun from Torquay train station.

Warning: At least one of these includes chips

1. Hop straight onto a paddle board hired from the WeSup beach kiosk
2. Arrive at high tide to submerge yourself in a stimulating outdoor swim
3. Turn right at the seafront to explore beautiful Cockington Village
4. Hop aboard the Western Lady Ferry to visit Brixham’s sea-filled lido
5. Follow the South West Coastal Path to the beach cafe at Meadfoot
6. Discover the Potent Plants collection in the ruins at Torre Abbey Gardens
7. Take your Pier Point fish and chips for a walk along Princess Pier
8. Arrive at low tide for a bit of sea grass snorkelling
9. View the beach from height along the cliffs at Rock Walk
10. Take a stroll around Torquay’s fascinating inner harbour

Accommodation in Torquay

Of course, when your adventure by train is so close to the train station, it’s easy enough to arrive in the morning then head off again as the sun starts to set.

We guarantee you’ll be smiling all the way home.

However, if you want to swim, wander, smile and munch for a while longer, you’ll be needing some accommodation. The nearest overnight stay to Torquay Station is the Grand Hotel, which is even closer than the beach.

Hint: Bargain stays are sometimes available.

Sadly we don’t have a Youth Hostel here but a short walk will get you to any number of small hotels and guest houses. If you fancy something a bit more routine, just one stop back along the track to Torre Station will get you to a Travelodge.

We even have our very own award winning Best B&B in the World.

Unless you know someone with a garden, camping isn’t really going to happen within walking distance of Torquay Train Station but get on a number 31 bus from Cary Parade (near the harbour) to Barton and you’ll find it a short and pleasant walk down the lane to the peaceful Treacle Valley Farm.

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