Torquay: Britain's Seaside on a Shoestring

Summer holidays can often be a strain on the purse strings, especially for young couples or those travelling with the whole family in tow. If your budget won’t stretch to a foreign break then why not explore some of the brilliant destinations that this country has to offer.

By taking a break in a seaside resort in Britain you will save on the price of travelling by plane or ferry and if you look further afield than a hotel for accommodation, you will discover coastal B&Bs that are not just cheaper, but which also have the benefit of being much more cosy and homely.

If you’re not sure where to go on holiday in the UK, you can’t go wrong with Torquay. As part of the English Riviera it boasts stunning coastal views and brilliant, family friendly beaches. There is also plenty to do for a range of ages and the bed and breakfasts in Torquay are brilliant, many with sea views and with a range of prices, that will suit any budget. 

So here's some inspiration for cheap and cheerful activities to fill up your days on your summer holiday in Torquay!

1. Picnic on the Beach 

Cost: A few pounds should cover it

Torquay has some stunning beaches and many are just a short walk from the centre of the town. Rather than forking out and eating lunch in cafes every day, a picnic is a brilliant cheap alternative and is a great excuse to spend all day lounging on the picturesque sandy beaches.

Corbyn Head and Torre Abbey Sands are both central, meaning less distance to carry the picnic basket, but if you fancy venturing further afield, Oddicome Beach is a more secluded spot for those wishing to explore. 

2. Torquay’s Dinosaur World

Cost: £4.95 per person

Anyone staying in a bed and breakfast in Torquay with young children should visit Torquay’s Dinosaur World, which provides a brilliant and educational day out for inquisitive kids. Dinosaur World includes exhibits with life sized dinosaurs, fascinating fossils and even exhibits that you are able to touch.

At just £4.95 per person, it is around half the price of some of the bigger attractions in the town, making it a great choice for families who are looking to save some cash. 

3. Cockington Court

Cost: Free

A great day out for visitors who love stately houses, craft centres and country parks, entry into Cockington Court is completely free. The stunning court is nestled within 460 acres of country park and is home to a number of craftsmen, whom visitors can watch whilst at work.

The church of St George and St Mary are located on the grounds, as are ornamental lakes, woodlands and formal gardens, all of which are perfect for a day’s exploring and entry into which are totally free!

4. Agatha Christie Mile 

Cost: Free

For anyone who hasn’t read an Agatha Christie novel, your stay in a bed and breakfast in Torquay is a great time to start! Christie was born in Torquay in 1890 and spent much of her life in the area, where she gained the ideas for many of her famous characters and settings.

All visitors, from those just getting into the books or someone has been a lifetime fan, will delight in the Agatha Christie Mile - a walking tour of locations associated with the famous author. Stating from the Agatha Christie Gallery to Torquay Museum and taking in The Agatha Christie Memorial Room in Torre Abbey, you'll also visit the bronze bust that was unveiled in 1990 to commemorate the centenary of Christie’s birth.

Image: Thanks to Edwin.11, Sids1 and Stonestreet's Coaches on Flickr.com