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The South West England town of Torquay couldn't be any more of a classic British seaside destination. It sits along a strip of coastline that's affectionately called the English Riviera, due to its long stretches of sandy beach, untypically mild climate and palm trees. You'll find all the trappings of a vintage seaside resort, like a wooden pier jutting out into the sea, miniature steam train attraction and old ice cream parlours. Times have changed, though, and the town has upped its foodie game, with some smart new waterfront restaurants. You can expect much more than just pub grub and battered fish from the chippie. Throw in a spot of fishing, some Agatha Christie history and some adrenaline-inducing water sports, and you've got the makings of a fine weekend break.
Devon has always been renowned for its B&Bs and the English Riviera is no exception. If you're lucky enough to have nabbed a room in one of the Torquay bed and breakfasts, you're in for a treat. These homes away from home might come in all shapes and sizes, but you can be assured of a warm West Country welcome when you check in. Some are housed within the Victorian brick-built terraces near the centre of the town, while others are found in the historic waterfront properties offering enviable views over the ocean. If you're looking for a little rural bolthole, there are plenty of farmhouses and cottages in the surrounding Devonshire countryside that should be just the ticket. Either way, you'll always benefit from the insider knowledge of the local owners and small, personal touches you just wouldn't find in one of the larger hotels. If you search on the Expedia site, you can filter the results and scroll through the photos and descriptions to find the perfect match every time.
Once you've checked into your room, you'll find all the facilities that you'd expect to find in a hotel, like free WiFi, a kettle and large comfortable beds. These days, they'll almost always have an ensuite bathroom and if you pick right, there's a long list of other features, like private gardens or free parking. In the morning, there'll always be a home-cooked breakfast waiting for you when you wake up, though if that's not your thing, most also offer healthier options, like yogurts and fruit. When you've finished at your seaside retreat, consider booking a few nights in the South West's biggest city, Bristol.
You'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to things to do near your bed and breakfast in Torquay. During the summer, most families make a beeline for the nearby beaches and spend their days building sandcastles, splashing around in the refreshing English Channel or working on their tan. If that's not your thing, fear not, there's plenty of opportunity for watery family fun. Water sports around these parts include diving, wake-boarding and sea kayaking. Alternatively, hop on one of the dolphin-watching trips to catch a glimpse of those creatures leaping out of the water, or a fishing trip, to reel in everything you need for a BBQ lunch back on the beach.
Away from the coast, you'll find some fascinating history to explore, like the Coleton Fishacre, a National Trust property, or Greenway House, once the home of Agatha Christie. You could head even further back in time at Kents Cavern, a prehistoric cave where you can discover how early man lived. At the end of the day, dive into one of the cosy pubs or trendy eateries for a bite to eat and a well-earned sundowner.