We love to holiday in Paignton, because it’s a fantastic seaside town with award-winning beaches on the English Riviera. There are brilliant camping and caravan holiday parks – what more could you want from a GREAT British break?
Here are some of our favourite things in Paignton – tell us what you would add. If you’re feeling inspired, you can even book a £15pp holiday to Devon.
Paignton Zoo is home to a staggering three thousand animals across five different habitats including desert, the tropics and savannah. Our favourite attractions include the Crocodile Swamp and Monkey Heights. For the kids, there is a miniature train ride, wobbly jungle bridge in Lemur Wood, indoor and outdoor play areas and animal keeper talks.
Occombe Farm is a working farm that aims to show people the importance of food production to their health and the environment: backing this up is an award-winning cafe serving delicious all-day breakfasts, cream teas and roasts. There is a nature trail going through a site of scientific interest and a fruit and veg garden that will inspire you to start growing your own.
Paignton Pier was voted one of Devon’s top attractions and is brilliant for families whatever the weather. The pier first opened in 1879 and has seen many changes; it’s now packed with arcades, bouncy play areas and lots of tasty food outlets.
Junior Brown’s UV Crazy Golf range and Balladium is a nine-hole golf course that’s played in the dark with holes that glow under UV lights – a unique twist on the traditional crazy golf concept. The Balladium is a high-energy air-cannon game where teams try to hit targets while being blasted by their opponents.
The Isaac Merritt is a Wetherspoons pub with cosy alcoves, affordable food and, most importantly, regular beer festivals with lots of West Country ales. The pub is named after Isaac Merritt Singer, who first mass produced the sewing machine and lived at nearby Oldway Manor.
The Himal Tandoori gets rave reviews, serving great tasting Indian and Nepalese food. Recommended for its atmosphere, service and a chef who is passionate about cooking and producing quality food.
TJ’s Bistro serves tapas food that is great for sharing with friends and family. The staff are superb, meals are excellent and there are great sea views. The restaurant is brightly decorated, cosy, warm and comfortable.
Where to stay:
Waterside holiday park is set on a wooded hillside with beautiful views of Devon. The park has a heated pool and kids’ club and presents a wide range of evening shows. There is even a half-board option for people who want to include a cooked breakfast or an evening meal.
Landscove Holiday Park, set close to the charming harbour town of Brixham, is a great family choice with indoor and outdoor swimming pools, an adventure playground and kids clubs
Devon Valley holiday park sits on the banks of the River Teign – the Boathouse pub and restaurant has a superb riverside conservatory with lovely views. Relax by the indoor pool or join in the challenge of the family sports programme..
Holidayed in Paignton? Leave a comment to add your recommendations to our list.