The English Riviera

DAY 1

Meet your coach at your chosen pick-up point and sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey towards the beautiful English Riviera with comfort stops on route. Arriving later in the afternoon, check in to the TLH Toorak Hotel in Torquay and get ready for a seaside escape filled with coastal charm, sea air, and maybe a cheeky ice cream or two along the way.

DAY 2

After breakfast, we’ll make our way to the historic city of Exeter where we’ll enjoy a guided tour of its stunning cathedral—an incredible example of Gothic architecture packed with nearly 1,000 years of history, stories, and hidden details. Following your visit, enjoy free time to explore Exeter at your own pace. Browse the shops, discover the fascinating Underground Passages, visit the Royal Albert Memorial Museum, or head down to the picturesque Quayside for waterside cafés, pubs, and riverside strolls. However you spend your afternoon, Exeter has plenty to explore.

DAY 3

Today is a free day to relax and enjoy the delights of the seaside resort of Torquay. The town has many attractions, cafes and shops to explore. Torre Abbey and Gardens is just steps from the hotel and well worth a visit. The resort is also famous for its connection with Agatha Christie and a famous mile-walking trail guides you to some of the places associated with the famous crime author.

DAY 4

This morning we journey to Buckfast Abbey, home to a community of Roman Catholic Benedictine Monks who live their lives of prayer, work and study according to the ancient rule of St Benedict. We take in the peaceful atmosphere exploring the beautiful church and tranquil gardens. Learn about Benedictine way of life in the immersive Monastic Way Exhibition.

This afternoon we head to Buckfastleigh Station to enjoy a ride on the South Devon Railway. Originally a Great Western Railway branch line, the line hugs the Dart estuary on the journey to Totnes. On arrival, you can stretch your legs before the train returns to Buckfastleigh. The station has museum exhibits, workshops, gift shop and a book shop to explore as well as the award-winning Refreshment Rooms for snacks, cakes, and Devon cream teas. After our trip, we return to the coach to make our way back to the hotel.

DAY 5

After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to the English Riviera as we depart the hotel and begin our journey home, taking with us plenty of seaside memories, coastal views, and maybe a little extra sand in our shoes.

B=Breakfast, D=Dinner