Paignton Travel Guide

A comprehensive guide to Paignton in Devon, UK, including top places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food scene, where to stay, local culture, safety tips, and transportation options.


Introduction to Paignton

Located in the heart of the English Riviera, Paignton is a charming seaside town in Devon, UK. With its long sandy beaches, historical landmarks, and picturesque countryside, Paignton is a popular holiday destination for families and couples looking for a relaxing and fun-filled break.

This guide will give you everything you need to know about Paignton, from the best places to visit to the top hiking and biking routes for outdoor enthusiasts. We’ll also cover the food and drink scene, local culture and customs, safety tips, and transportation options.

List of Places to Visit in Paignton

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Paignton Zoo: Home to over 2,500 animals from around the globe, Paignton Zoo is a must-visit for families and animal lovers.
  • Oldway Mansion: This stunning 19th-century mansion and gardens is modelled after the Palace of Versailles and is a popular spot for a peaceful walk or picnic.
  • Kents Cavern: A prehistoric cave system that has been open to the public since the 19th century, Kents Cavern offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient history of the area.
  • Paignton and Dartmouth Steam Railway: Take a trip on one of the last remaining steam trains in the country and enjoy the stunning coastal views.

Natural Attractions of Paignton: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • South West Coast Path: With over 300 miles of coastal paths, the South West Coast Path offers some of the most stunning views of the South West coastline.
  • Goodrington Sands: This beautiful sandy beach is perfect for swimming, surfing, or simply relaxing by the sea.
  • Roundham Head: A popular spot for a stroll, Roundham Head boasts stunning views across Tor Bay and is teeming with wildlife and rare plants.
  • Dartmoor National Park: Just a short drive away, Dartmoor offers miles of rugged countryside to explore, including moorland, forests, and rivers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Paignton

  • The Dart Valley Trail: This 16-mile circular route takes you through the picturesque village of Galmpton, along the banks of the River Dart, and through the stunning Devonshire countryside.
  • The South West Coast Path: Stretching 630 miles from Minehead in Somerset to Poole Harbour in Dorset, the South West Coast Path offers some of the most breathtaking coastal views in the country.
  • The John Musgrave Heritage Trail: This 5-mile circular route takes you through some of the most stunning countryside in South Devon, including the picturesque village of Cockington and Cockington Country Park.

Best Things to Do in Paignton: Activities and Tours

  • Boat Trips: Take a boat trip along the coast of Torbay and enjoy the stunning scenery from the water.
  • Fishing: The waters around Paignton are teeming with fish, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts.
  • Water Sports: Whether you are a beginner or an experienced water sports enthusiast, Paignton has something for everyone, from windsurfing and kayaking to paddleboarding and jet skiing.

Week-Long Itinerary for Paignton

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Paignton’s beaches and harbour
Day 2 Visit Paignton Zoo
Day 3 Take a trip on the Paignton and Dartmouth Steam Railway
Day 4 Explore Kents Cavern
Day 5 Hike the Dart Valley Trail
Day 6 Relax on Goodrington Sands
Day 7 Take a boat trip along the coast of Torbay

Food and Drink Scene of Paignton

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fish and Chips: No trip to the British seaside is complete without a piping hot serving of fish and chips.
  • Brixham Crab: Brixham, just a short drive from Paignton, is famous for its fresh seafood, particularly the succulent crab meat.
  • Cream Tea: A quintessentially English treat, cream tea consists of scones, clotted cream, and jam, served with a pot of tea.

Local Beverages

  • Bays Brewery: Local brewers Bays Brewery produce a range of award-winning beers, including the popular Devon Dumpling and Gold.
  • Sharpham Vineyard: Situated in the stunning Dart Valley, Sharpham Vineyard produces a range of high-quality wines and cheeses.

Where to Stay in Paignton: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Palace Hotel: A luxury hotel set in a stunning Victorian mansion, The Palace Hotel boasts sea views and a private outdoor pool.
  • Seale Arms Guest House: A welcoming guesthouse in the heart of Paignton, Seale Arms offers comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast.
  • Paignton Court Hotel: A budget-friendly option just a short walk from the beach, Paignton Court Hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms and a friendly welcome.

What to Buy in Paignton: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Brixham Crab: Freshly caught Brixham crab is a real delicacy and makes a wonderful gift.
  • Local Artwork: The South West is home to a thriving arts and crafts scene, with many talented artists and designers selling their wares in local boutiques and galleries.
  • Bays Brewery Beers: Bring home a taste of Paignton with a selection of locally brewed beers from Bays Brewery.

Local Culture and Customs of Paignton

Paignton is a friendly and welcoming town, where locals take pride in their rich cultural heritage. Visitors are encouraged to respect the local customs and traditions and to behave responsibly while enjoying their stay in the town.

Best Time to Visit Paignton

The best time to visit Paignton is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the town is buzzing with activity. However, Paignton is a popular destination year-round, with plenty to see and do throughout the year.

Do’s and Don’ts of Paignton

Do:

  • Explore the local countryside: Paignton is surrounded by stunning countryside, so make sure to get out and explore the many hiking and biking trails in the area.
  • Take a boat trip: The best way to see the stunning coastline of Torbay is from the water, so take a boat trip and enjoy the views.
  • Try the local seafood: The South West is famous for its fresh seafood, and Paignton is no exception. Make sure to try the Brixham crab or a delicious fish and chips.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Paignton is a beautiful town, so make sure to dispose of your rubbish responsibly.
  • Ignore safety guidelines on water activities: If you are participating in water sports or boating, make sure to follow all safety guidelines and wear a life jacket.
  • Disturb local wildlife: The countryside around Paignton is home to a wealth of wildlife, so make sure to respect their natural habitat and not disturb them.

Safety and Health

Safety in Paignton

Overall, Paignton is a safe town, with a low crime rate. Visitors are advised to take the usual precautions, such as locking doors and windows, and not leaving valuables unattended.

Health in Paignton

There are several medical facilities in Paignton, including a hospital and several medical clinics. Visitors are advised to take out travel insurance before their trip to cover any medical emergencies.

Getting to Paignton: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Paignton

  • Exeter International Airport: 24 miles away.
  • Bristol International Airport: 95 miles away.
  • London Heathrow Airport: 173 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Paignton

  • Paignton Bus Station: Located in the town centre, Paignton Bus Station offers regular services to many destinations in the South West.

Other Options

  • Train: Paignton has its own train station, with regular services to London and other major cities in the UK.
  • Car: Paignton is easily accessible by car, with good motorway links to major cities in the UK.

How to Get Around in Paignton

Paignton is a small town and is easily walkable. Alternatively, there are regular bus services to many destinations in the local area.

Where to Go Next from Paignton: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Brixham: A picturesque fishing town just a short drive from Paignton, Brixham is famous for its fresh seafood and quaint harbour.
  • Totnes: A charming market town just a short drive from Paignton, Totnes is known for its independent shops and cafes and is popular with artists and writers.
  • Dartmouth: A beautiful riverside town, Dartmouth is packed with history and stunning architecture and is home to several excellent restaurants and cafes.

Conclusion

Paignton is a charming and historic seaside town in the heart of the beautiful South West countryside. Whether you are a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, Paignton has something to offer everyone. So why not come and explore this wonderful town for yourself?

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