Things we love to do in Babbacombe

Babbacombe has great beaches and wonderful coastal paths, making the area one of the best places to enjoy a walk with man’s best friend. These stunning walks and bay views combined with the fantastic attractions and independent and quirky shops, make it one of the best locations in South Devon.

With all that Babbacombe has to offer, we’ve managed to narrow down our top reasons for loving life here:

Culture and heritage

Babbacombe has a rich heritage as a romantic and hidden away resort. By the end of the 19^th century, it had established itself as a classy Victorian holiday destination, with Queen Victoria writing “It's a beautiful spot... red cliffs and rocks with wooded hills like Italy and reminding one of a ballet or play where nymphs appear — such rocks and grottoes, with the deepest sea on which there was no ripple.”

Over 150 years later, it still feels the same as you stand and look across the beautiful bay. 

Stunning coastlines

Affectionately known as the ‘Jewel in the crown of the English Riviera’, Babbacombe has many sheltered beaches and coastlines. There are breath-taking views across Lyme Bay, and, on a clear day, it is possible to see as far as Golden Cap in Dorset. Further along the coast you'll find Babbacombe Beach, where you can often spot dolphins and seals playing offshore. Both Anstey’s Cove and Redgate Beach nearby are locations popular with divers, with the former said to be the favourite beach of author Agatha Christie.

Babbacombe Downs – recognised by the Green Flag Award scheme – has the highest cliff top promenade in England, and on a clear day you can see across to Portland Bill in Dorset. It's the perfect place to relax and gaze out to sea, and there are plenty of eateries for when you get a little peckish.

Delicious cream teas and shopping opportunities

Take a relaxing stroll along pretty St Marychurch Precinct, a mecca for local, independent shops ranging from handmade sweets to antiques. You’re sure to find something just that little bit different for yourself or to give to someone special. It’s also close to major visitor attractions such as Bygones and Babbacombe Model Village.

After a busy day in Babbacombe’s bustling shops, take a moment to refuel in one of the excellent cafes and coffee shops. For a nostalgic treat, head to Angels Tea Rooms to sip loose-leaf tea served in pots with fine china cups and saucers. If you’ve worked up an appetite, enjoy a homemade scone with local jam or one of their lovely lunches.

Jurassic Park and a cliffside train

A trip on the historic Babbacombe Cliff Railway is a must. First opened in 1926, the railway carries around 120,000 people up and down the cliffs each year – it’s a great way to get down to Oddicombe Beach below.

Love dinosaurs and archaeology? Then take a trip to Torquay's Dinosaur World. A fun, interactive, indoor exhibition that brings the world of dinosaurs to life, you can experience amazing life-size and scaled dinosaurs, learn about their lives, discover incredible fossils and become a dinosaur expert. It really is a mini Jurassic Park, minus the hungry dinosaurs!

Pubs, Fish and Chips and even Tapas!

You’ll find plenty of places in Babbacombe serving up honest pub grub crafted from fresh, local ingredients. The award-winning Babbacombe Inn, located on Babbacombe Downs offers stunning views alongside pub favourites and Sunday roasts using produce whilst Hanbury’s Fish and Chips is a must for traditional fish and chip, and it washes down nicely with their own-recipe ale and lager.  

Alongside traditional seaside and pub food, there are also some unexpected gems among Babbacombe’s streets. If you fancy more Mediterranean fare, check out Three Degrees West, accessed by the cliff railway. Enjoy a locally made ice cream, savour an indulgent homemade cake, or enjoy tempting tapas and freshly prepared dishes. Whatever your preference, Babbacombe has something to satisfy your tastebuds.

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With all that Babbacombe has to offer, we wouldn’t blame you for wanting to make the move here. Why not come and check out the Cavendish collection at Babbacombe and find out more about what life could be like in the beautiful bay? Contact us on 01803 424 039 or [email protected] to book a viewing.