Babbacombe

If you’re looking for a laid-back, tranquil holiday without the hassle of fighting through the crowds to get to the beach, Babbacombe is a great alternative to its more brash and garish neighbour, Torquay. Affectionately known as the ‘Jewel in the crown of the English Riviera’, the beach resort of Babbacombe includes a great range of things to do and see in a quiet, laid back setting. Despite being right next to the vibrant Torquay, you’ll find that Babbacombe is amazingly secluded, and with picturesque views and warm weather all year round it’s the ideal location to enjoy the best of South Devon.

If you're visiting Babbacombe and need somewhere to say, Abberley House offers relaxed and friendly accommodation, close to all the main attractions in Torbay.

History

Babbacombe has a rich heritage as a romantic and hidden away resort. By the end of the 19^th Century it had established itself as a classy Victorian holiday destination. The construction of the historic funicular Babbacombe cliff railway in 1926 enabled hundreds of thousands of visitors a novel and much easier way to get to the picturesque Oddicombe beach.

Things to do

If you’ve got kids, the cliff railway is a great alternative to lugging all your beach gear down a steep set of steps. Babbacombe is also noted for its model village, which covers an incredible 4 acres populated with tiny people, 400 models and over 1000 feet of model railway track. It’s a delightful day out for kids of all ages. The small pier at Babbacombe beach and its genteel seafront are simply delightful. If you fancy watching a star-studded show visit the Babbacombe Theatre, which has the longest running summer season in the UK and crowd-pleasing productions throughout the year.

Food and drink

Getting something great to eat in Babbacombe is easy. You have a wide choice of pubs and restaurants to try in the town, all serving excellent local food and drink and the best of South Devon cuisine. The Cary Arms pub is a real treat, with an excellent range of dishes and a lovely view over Babbacombe beach.

Something a little different

But if you want something really good to eat, and especially after a day on the water or out and about on the English Riviera, then Hanbury’s Fish and Chips – much loved and much tasted by visitors – serves up fresh, locally caught fish, chunky home-made chips and fine views across the bay.