Delights of the English Riviera

Local departure by coach or Home Connect service, then on to Paignton for four nights.

After breakfast today, we enjoy a trip on the Dartmouth Steam Railway. Soak in the views of the Devonshire coast as you travel to historical Dartmouth. A short ferry ride from the train station brings you into the harbour front which is filled with historical buildings. You will have free time to explore. Why not visit the Dartmouth museum to learn about the history of town and its links to British maritime history. Wander the cobbled streets and treat yourself to a Devon cream tea in one of the many tea rooms. We return back to Paignton in the afternoon by steam train to enjoy the scenery.

Enjoy a day to relax in Paignton. This colourful, traditional seaside town is known for its mild climate and long sandy beaches.

Alternatively, join our optional excursion to explore more of the English Riviera's main resorts on our Torbay tour. Torbay lies at the heart of the English Riviera – a 22-mile stretch of outstanding coastline consisting of rocky coves, warm weather and seaside resorts.

We first stop in Torquay, famous for its palm-lined promenade and marina, followed by a stop at Babbacombe. Beautiful Babbacombe Downs has the highest clifftop promenade in England and, on a clear day, you can see right across to Portland Bill in Dorset. You will have free time to soak up the views, or you can even choose to take a ride on the Babbacombe Cliff Railway. Built in 1926, the railway has shuttled hundreds of thousands of holidaymakers to and from Oddicombe Beach in over 90 years of service. Our final stop of the day is at the pretty fishing town of Brixham. Head for the harbour as you may see the catch of the day being brought into Brixham famous seafood market! We return to the hotel for dinner.

Today we visit Exmouth, one of the oldest and most scenic seaside towns in Devon. Known for its two miles of sandy beach, the town is framed by the majestic cliffs of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can visit the fabulous independent shops and dine at wonderful restaurants.

We then board the Stuart Line Cruise. Sit back and relax as we see England’s only natural UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Jurassic Coast, from the water. We sail through time, taking in the most incredible views of this 185-million-year-old geological portrait.

After breakfast, we begin our return journey home.