Quick Overview:
Torquay has rightfully earned the moniker of the English Riviera and that makes it the perfect choice for a
stag do. The area is renowned for its healthful climate and friendly locals and draws hundreds of thousands of tourists each year. Whether basking on the beaches or rocking the night away at a late-night dance club, a stag party in
Torquay can’t be beat.
Getting Around:
The more-than-ample public transportation can get any
stag do in
Torquay around hassle-free. Private taxis and mini buses are easy options as are the more spartan buses that ferry riders for a cheaper rate.
Must See/Must Do:
• Kents Cavern - A spectacular natural cave on the coast of south Devon. Accessible by a short walk from the beach and the South West Coast Path. Public transportation will get your Stag mates there.
• Paignton & Dartmouth Steam Railway - Take the stag party for an afternoon on the rails. Excellent views bring the landscape alive as the train moves between Paignton and Kingswear with stops at Godrington and Churston.
• Go to the Beach - There are about a dozen beaches in and around Torquay. Soak up the rays and the scenery - including the female bikini kind - for an afternoon before going out on the town. Some of the beaches like Meadfoot Beach and Torre Abbey Sands have easy access and ample facilities and will therefore draw larger crowds. For sparser populations, go to places like Watcombe Beach where the access is of a moderate/and sometimes steep nature.
• Totnes Castle - A classic Norman motte and bailey castle, Totnes Castle was erected in the wake of the conquest of the Saxon town. Sweeping views across town rooftops to the River Dart will leave any stag party in awe.
History:
Torquay was initially dependent on fishing and agriculture. The region’s settlement dates to pre-history. Romans are known to have visited Torquay during the occupation of British Isles but they did not settle in the area. In the 19th century the town began to make a name as a fashionable seaside resort. Agatha Christie is Torquay’s most famous native. During World War II, Torquay was considered safer than south east England and played host to evacuees from London. In 1948, Torquay was the site of the water sports events in the Summer Olympics.
Nightlife:
Torquay has it all after dark - world class restaurants, continental-style bars, live music, fetes, fairs, nightclubs, periodic fireworks displays and carnivals. There is a cosmopolitan atmosphere at Torquay’s harbourside. This is the hub for night-time activity where pavement cafes, wine and cocktail bars, traditional bars and pubs and nightclubs are many – perfect for a
stag do in Torquay.
Eating:
Torquay’s coastline helps tremendously in defining Torquay’s cuisine. Seafood abounds and great restaurants are awaiting the eager tourist population. Traditional pub grub and British fare is available along with French, Italian, Indian, Chinese and of course those specializing in fish and seafood. Torquay has the most restaurants but nearby Paignton and Brixham are also popular for their variety of local and continental cuisine.