10 Things to do in English Riviera That You Shouldn't Miss

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Kents Cavern, a UNESCO site, is Britain's Oldest known prehistoric home. You are led by a guide through a labyrinth of undergound natural passages used by humankind for thousands of years. Neanderthals and the very first Britons occupied the caves. Here Victorian explorers combined geological time and fossil remains to reveal the antiquity of humanity. Open daily for guided tours. See natural caverns, amazing formations, remains of mammoth, woolly rhino, sabre-toothed cats. These is an Ice Age woodland trail quest, shop and restaurant with views over the Ilsham Valley. Located in Torquay, birth place of Agatha Christie, the caves are part of the English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark, 1.5kms from Torquay Harbour, close to the South West Coast Path. The caves inspired writers like Agatha Christie, Beatrix Potter and more recently folk-horror writer Adam Nevill. Perfect on any day all year. Pre-booking online essential to visit this UNESCO geological and cultural heritage site.

Paignton Zoo Environmental Park is a conservation and education charity located in South Devon. With around 2,500 animals across 80 acres, we have more species than anyone else in the South West. These include: lions, tigers, giraffes, crocodiles, rhinos, lemurs, flamingos, meerkats, orang-utans, Komodo dragon... the list is endless! We also have indoor and outdoor play areas, the Jungle Express train, a seasonal bird show and numerous food and drink outlets. With something for guests of any age to enjoy, you'll need all day to experience what we have to offer! Paignton Zoo is a member of the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) and the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA).

Cockington Country Park surrounds the picture postcard Cockington Village which lies just off the seafront near Torquay. The Country Park is free to walk around and features beautiful formal gardens, lakes and woodlands which can be enjoyed via a network of paths. Cockington Court and Cafe are nearby, along with a collection of craft studios where you can browse the creations of local artists and crafts people. The Cockington Country Park is cared for by local charity the Torbay Coast & Countryside Trust, who's volunteers operate a Visitor Centre in the village. Car parking is chargeable, although Trust members can park for free in the Trust's car park. Visit our website for more details. The park is open from dawn until dusk.

Babbacombe Model Village is Torquay's most popular and visited attraction. Representing British life and culture over the last five decades all in miniature. Animated scenes, along with touches of very English humour bring it all to life. Taking you on a fun, informative and nostalgic trip through the 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s to present day, it has appeal for all ages. Famous for its lovely setting in 4 acres of award-winning gardens that are a delight to experience all year round. See website for opening times

Bygones is three floors of pure nostalgia for ALL AGES! Whether it be History, Railwayana or Militaria, you will reminisce! Wander back in time, visit our authentic life-size Victorian Street, see the Blacksmith hard at work, smell the treats of the Sweetshop, listen to the hustle and bustle of Victorian life. Imagine yourself in the nursery, kitchen, parlour or even the dentist! As you meander up to the top floor, hop on the 27-ton steam engine en route! Arrive in the 20th Century, take a break in our Station Café for a range of cakes and refreshments. Marvel over our completely refurbished model railway themed around English villages in WWI and WWII. Consider your ancestors in a WWI trench or taking cover in a WWII Anderson Shelter. Don’t miss the 1950’s and 60’s shopping arcade filled with post-war packaging and household items.

This stunning headland, with its iconic lighthouse and Napoleonic Fort, is surrounded by water on three sides and offers exceptional views across Torbay and beyond. You can enjoy some superb coastal walks, spot wildlife on land and at sea, or simply relax in the award-winning Guardhouse Café. Our Visitor Centre will tell you all about the Reserve, its history, wildlife and the work of Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust. Do check for opening times during off peak season. This is a must-visit day out and is either a pleasant walk from up from Brixham or short drive to the visitor car park. Dogs are very welcome throughout the site; leads are required in certain areas. Disability access is good with tarmac or laid paths into both the North and South Forts.

The Golden Hind in Brixham Harbour, is one of only two full sized replicas in the world of 16th century explorer and privateer Sir Francis Drake's famous ship. The Ship has been a feature of picturesque Brixham harbour for over fifty years, entertaining and educating thousands of visitors during this time - as well as being featured on many tv programmes and films. The Ship is open come rain or shine and is an all weather attraction with many indoor displays as well as wide open decks and on-board activities.