Torquay
Kents Cavern Prehistoric Caves
Torbay’s Jurassic Coast has been designated a Unesco Global Geopark. This means it is a landscape of international geological significance. Kents Cavern is Torquay’s very own prehistoric stone age cave, Kents Cavern.
Described as one of the best in Europe, Kents Cavern was once the home of prehistoric man, hyenas and cave bears. It is open every day of the year except Christmas Day.Tours s run frequently throughout the day and last about 1 hour.
Situated 1.5 miles away from Vane Tower the caves are within walking distance. There is a car park (which charges) or free street parking nearby. Use TQ1 2JF for your sat nav or follow the brown signs. For information click on the link below:
Torquay Museum
You could spend hours in this small yet perfectly formed museum. Among other unsual exhibits, it boasts Devon’s only Egyptian mummy, a Narwhal horn and a Japanese Man Kite. Local author Agatha Christie has her own exhibition.
Famous Torquay explorers also get a gallery devoted to their incredible journeys everywhere from Antarctica to Brazil. This museum is suitable for all ages and has its own tea room.
Situated on the Babbacombe Road, Torquay Museum is 4 mins by car or around 11 minutes on foot. For more information click on the link below:
Torre Abbey
Torre Abbey was founded in 1196 as a monastery and is said to have three ghosts. Nowadays it is an historic building and art gallery which is well worth a visit.
In the grounds is the Spanish Barn. During the Armarda, the barn was a prison to 397 Spanish crew who were captured by Sir Francis Drake.
As well as regular exhibitions, Torre Abbey has lovely and fascinating gardens. These include glasshouses, a Medieval Garden and a Potent Plants Garden. Click on the button below to discover more.
Cockington Court Craft Centre
Set in the heart of Cockington village, this historic manor house has more than 20 craft studios. These include a glass blowing studio, chocolate making shop and a working blacksmith.
The centre is set in a beautiful country park and has tea rooms, gardens, an art gallery and a children’s play area. Ancient Cockington Church has some fascinating objects. Among these is a pulpit salvaged from a Spanish galleon wrecked during the Spanish Armada. Make sure you take change for the public car parks if you intend to drive.
Paignton
Paignton Zoo
A great little zoo with more than 2000 animals, it is open every day except for Christmas Day. Totnes Road, Paignton TQ4 7EU.
Splashdown Quaywest Waterpark
Open from April to September, Splashdown has the highest fastest flume in the UK with a 65ft near vertical drop. You can hire wetsuits so don’t worry about getting cold. See the link below for more details.
Splashdown gets very busy so arrive early. Nearby Goodrington Sands is a beautiful sandy beach. Its shallow water is ideal for children. Goodrington Sands, Tanners Road, Paignton TQ4 6LN
Exeter
This lovely city is just half an hour away by car or train and has several attractions that are good for a rainy day
These include: