Discover Paignton | A Visitor's Introduction to Paignton

Why is Paignton Worth a Visit?

Paignton is worth visiting for its beautiful beaches, classic seaside atmosphere, and variety of attractions that cater to all ages. The town’s long, sandy coastline, combined with its lively pier and colourful beach huts, offers everything you’d expect from a British seaside destination. Paignton is also home to popular family attractions like Paignton Zoo and the Dartmouth Steam Railway, making it a perfect holiday spot for families. With its scenic coastal walks, picturesque harbour, and easy access to the rest of the English Riviera, Paignton promises a relaxing yet fun-filled getaway.

Paignton Highlights: Things to See and Do in Paignton

1. Paignton Beach and Pier

Paignton’s long, sandy beach is one of the town’s main attractions, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or building sandcastles. The calm, shallow waters make it ideal for families with young children, and there are plenty of seaside cafés and ice cream parlours along the promenade. Paignton Pier, a classic Victorian structure, offers traditional arcade games, amusement rides, and food stalls, creating a nostalgic, fun-filled atmosphere. The pier is a great place for a leisurely stroll, with views of Tor Bay and the colourful beach huts that line the seafront.

2. Paignton Zoo

One of the UK’s best zoos, Paignton Zoo is a fantastic day out for families and animal lovers. The zoo is home to over 2,500 animals, including lions, giraffes, gorillas, and rhinos, and focuses on conservation and education. Spread across 80 acres, the zoo is designed to replicate natural habitats, giving visitors the chance to see animals from around the world in a beautiful setting. Highlights include the tropical forest, savannah exhibit, and the crocodile swamp. Paignton Zoo also offers daily animal talks and feeding sessions, making it a fun and educational experience for all ages.

3. Goodrington Sands

Just a short walk from Paignton Beach, Goodrington Sands is another beautiful beach with golden sand and calm waters. The beach is divided into two sections, with North Sands being dog-friendly all year round. The shallow waters are perfect for paddleboarding and swimming, and the beach also offers pedal boat rentals. Goodrington Sands is also home to Splashdown Quaywest, the UK’s largest outdoor water park, featuring water slides and rides for kids and adults alike. The adjacent Young's Park is great for picnics and features a boating lake, a children’s play area, and lovely garden walks.

4. Dartmouth Steam Railway

For a scenic journey through the Devon countryside, hop aboard the Dartmouth Steam Railway, which runs from Paignton to Kingswear. The route takes you along the stunning coastline, offering breathtaking views of the English Riviera, past secluded beaches and cliffs, before crossing the River Dart. From Kingswear, you can take a ferry across to Dartmouth, a picturesque town with a charming harbour, historic buildings, and plenty of independent shops and restaurants. The steam railway is a nostalgic experience and a perfect way to explore the natural beauty of South Devon.

5. Roundham Head

For stunning panoramic views of the coastline, head to Roundham Head, a peaceful clifftop area between Paignton Harbour and Goodrington Sands. From here, you can enjoy sweeping views of Tor Bay and the South Devon coast, making it a popular spot for photography and leisurely walks. The area is part of the South West Coast Path, and there are several walking trails that lead along the cliffs, offering access to hidden coves and quieter beaches. It’s also a great place to watch the sunset over the bay.

6. Paignton Harbour

Paignton Harbour is a quaint, picturesque spot where fishing boats and pleasure craft bob in the water, creating a peaceful contrast to the bustling seafront. The harbour is lined with colourful cottages and a few small cafés and restaurants, making it a lovely spot for a quiet afternoon or an evening meal with a view. You can also book boat trips and fishing charters from the harbour, including wildlife cruises that offer the chance to see seals, dolphins, and seabirds along the Devon coast.

7. Cockington Village

Just a short drive from Paignton, Cockington Village is a charming, thatched-roof village that feels like stepping back in time. The village is surrounded by beautiful gardens and woodlands, and its narrow lanes are lined with traditional cottages and craft shops. Cockington Court, a 17th-century manor house, is now a craft centre where you can watch local artisans at work, making everything from glassware to pottery. The village also has a tearoom where you can enjoy a classic cream tea. The nearby Cockington Country Park offers lovely walking trails and picnic spots.

8. Broadsands Beach

Broadsands Beach is a quieter, more secluded beach located between Paignton and Brixham. This sandy beach, backed by lush green fields and sheltered cliffs, is ideal for families and those looking for a peaceful spot to relax. It’s a great place for swimming, paddling, or simply enjoying a picnic on the sand. The beach also has a promenade and beach huts for hire, adding to its traditional seaside charm. Broadsands is connected to the South West Coast Path, so it’s a perfect starting point for a coastal walk.

9. Splashdown Quaywest

If you’re visiting Paignton with kids, Splashdown Quaywest water park is a must. Located right next to Goodrington Sands, this outdoor water park offers a range of exciting water slides, flumes, and pools for children and adults alike. The park features both adrenaline-pumping rides and more relaxed options, such as gentle slides for younger children. There’s also a sunbathing area, so parents can relax while the kids play. It’s the perfect way to cool off on a sunny day and enjoy some family fun by the sea.

10. Palace Theatre

For a touch of culture in Paignton, visit the Palace Theatre, a charming and intimate venue that hosts a variety of performances, including plays, concerts, and comedy shows. The theatre has a rich history and offers a packed programme of entertainment throughout the year, featuring everything from local productions to touring performances. It’s a great place to spend an evening, especially after a day of exploring the beaches and attractions around Paignton.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There:

Paignton is easily accessible by road, rail, and coach. If you’re travelling by car, Paignton is located just off the A380, which connects to the M5 motorway, making it easy to reach from Exeter, Bristol, and beyond. Paignton Railway Station offers direct services to Exeter St Davids, Bristol, and London Paddington, with regular trains provided by Great Western Railway. National Express coaches also serve Paignton, with connections to major UK cities.

Getting Around:

Paignton’s town centre and seafront are compact and easily walkable, so most visitors can get around on foot. For exploring further afield, local buses operated by Stagecoach provide services to nearby towns like Torquay, Brixham, and Totnes. The Dartmouth Steam Railway is another scenic way to explore the coast. If you plan to visit more remote areas, such as Cockington or the South Hams, renting a car offers more flexibility.

Parking:

There are several public car parks in Paignton, including Victoria Car Park, Queens Road Car Park, and Cliff Road Car Park, all conveniently located near the seafront and main attractions. Parking can get busy during the summer months, so it’s a good idea to arrive early, especially if you’re visiting the beach. Some beaches, like Goodrington Sands and Broadsands, also have dedicated car parks.

Dining:

Paignton has a variety of dining options, with seafood being a highlight thanks to the town’s coastal location. TJ’s Restaurant, located by the harbour, is known for its fresh, locally caught seafood and beautiful views of the water. For classic fish and chips, head to Scoffs in the town centre. The Spinning Wheel Inn offers traditional pub fare with live music and a fun atmosphere. If you’re after a sweet treat, stop by Grand Central for ice cream or Café Verde for cakes and coffee. Don’t miss the chance to try a traditional Devon cream tea at one of Paignton’s tearooms.

Shopping:

Paignton’s town centre offers a mix of high street shops, independent boutiques, and souvenir stores. Torbay Road is the main shopping street, where you’ll find everything from beachwear and gifts to local crafts. For a more unique shopping experience, head to nearby Totnes, known for its artisan shops, markets, and eco-friendly boutiques. The Paignton Harbour area also has several small shops selling maritime-themed gifts and local art.

When to Visit:

The best time to visit Paignton is during the warmer months between May and September, when the weather is ideal for beach activities and outdoor attractions. Summer (June to August) is the busiest season, with lively events, festivals, and the best chance for sunny beach days. However, spring (April-May) and early autumn (September) are also great times to visit, offering pleasant weather with fewer crowds. Winter in Paignton is quieter, but it’s still a lovely destination for coastal walks and cosy pub visits, with some attractions remaining open year-round.

Local Events:

Paignton hosts several events and festivals throughout the year, adding to its lively atmosphere. The Paignton Regatta, held in August, is a highlight of the summer, featuring boat races, live music, and fireworks. The Torbay Airshow, held in nearby Torquay in June, offers spectacular aerial displays that can be viewed from Paignton Beach. Paignton Festival (also known as Torbay Carnival Week) is another popular summer event, featuring family-friendly activities, parades, and live entertainment. In December, the town hosts Christmas markets and festive events, bringing seasonal cheer to the seafront.

Exploring Beyond Paignton:

Paignton’s location makes it a great base for exploring the rest of the English Riviera and beyond. A short drive or bus ride takes you to Torquay, a lively resort town with attractions like Kents Cavern and the Living Coasts Zoo & Aquarium. The nearby fishing town of Brixham is famous for its colourful harbour, seafood restaurants, and the Golden Hind Museum Ship. Further afield, you can explore the wild beauty of Dartmoor National Park, with its rugged landscapes, ancient tors, and miles of hiking trails.