Stunning Location

Known as the English Riviera, students have been flocking to Torbay to fall in love with its sandy beaches, tranquil waters, and mild climate for generations. Twenty-two miles of stunning coastline provide ideal opportunities for water sports such as sailing, windsurfing and paddleboarding. One of our most popular water activities is kayaking, with regular guided tours to explore the hidden coves and beaches along the coast. Torquay's waters are home to a wide range of marine life, including seals and dolphins, regularly spotted by our students from the ferry on their way across the Bay to the bustling fishing village of Brixham.

For those who prefer to stay on land, there are numerous hiking trails and parks to explore, such as the South West Coast Path and idyllic Cockington Country Park. Beyond the coastline, clients visit Dartmoor National Park every weekend, a vast expanse of rugged, windswept moorland, dotted with granite outcroppings and ancient archaeological sites. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including wild ponies, deer, and birds of prey.

Torquay’s rich history spans thousands of years. The area was first inhabited during the Stone Age, with evidence of human activity at Kent's Cavern, a system of caves that were used as a shelter and a source of food and home to some of the oldest human remains. In the Middle Ages, Torquay was home to Torre Abbey, a monastery founded in 1196 that played a key role in the development of the town and is now a museum and art gallery.

The area is also celebrated for its association with the world’s best-selling writer, Agatha Christie, who spent much of her life in the town. Several of her novels are set in Torquay, including 'The ABC Murders' and ‘Peril at End House’. Summer is the perfect time for our clients to explore the town’s various Agatha Christie-related attractions including her former home at Greenway.

Foodies will appreciate Torquay's vibrant culinary scene, with a range of restaurants and cafes serving up fresh seafood, local produce, and international cuisine. Some of the town's most popular eateries include the Michelin-starred The Elephant, which specialises in modern British cuisine, and the seaside café, Angel's Tearoom, offering a range of homemade cakes, sandwiches and tea served with scones, clotted cream, and jam.