The beautiful seaside towns known as ‘English Riviera’ for striking similarity to south of France
Fancy a slice of the French Riviera without leaving British shores?
Well, you’re in luck as we’ve got our very own version of the glamorous holiday hotspot right here. Tucked away on the Devon coast is the ‘English Riviera’, made up of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham.
The French Riviera may be known for its celebrity visitors, but there’s no need to hop on a plane for a taste of the good life. A trip down to coastal Paignton will more than satisfy your longing for art de vivre.
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Summer holidays still feel quite far away, so it’s easy to long for somewhere warmer, more picturesque and generally more uplifting. But who says we need to go overseas?
Our seaside towns are even said to rival the breathtaking views of the south of France, reports MyLondon.
And Paignton, Torquay and Brixham have so much to offer. Naturally, being located on the Devon coast means you’re never far from the sea. While the weather might not be beach-ready just yet, these shores aren’t just for sunbathing.
There are plenty of beaches to discover in and around Paignton. Topping TripAdvisor’s list is Goodrington Sands, a vast stretch of golden coastline.
This Seaside Award-winning beach offers safe swimming conditions and a host of activities for the whole family.
Tucked between Paignton and Brixham is the stunning Broadsands Beach. A family favourite, Broadsands provides the perfect spot for sandcastle building or a gentle paddle in its peaceful waters.
If you’re up for a bit of of a kickabout, there’s a vast parkland just a stone’s throw from the sandy beach.
You can also step back in time with a visit to Compton Castle, a medieval fortified manor that has been home to the Gilbert family for nearly 600 years, including Sir Humphrey Gilbert, famously known as Sir Walter Raleigh’s half-brother.
Nature lovers are in for a treat the area is part of the South West Coast Path, leading directly to Roundham Head. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the headland with its breathtaking red cliffs on a wheelchair-accessible path, offering panoramic views over Tor Bay towards Torquay and, on clear days, all the way to Lyme Bay and Portland.
When in Paignton, you simply can’t miss out on classic seaside treats. Mariners Fish and Chips in Paignton has earned itself a stellar reputation, even bagging the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award in 2022.
Regulars can’t stop talking about it being the top place in town for “fast, friendly service, large portions and beautifully cooked” food. Their menu is a treasure trove of seafood options, from traditional cod to scrumptious scampi.
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