The blissful oceanside bubble of Babbacombe resides within the UNESCO English Riviera Global Geopark in South Devon. Adored for its stunning beaches encircled with verdant foliage, sea-view coast paths, and plethora of eateries and attractions, it beckons for salt-kissed stays of storybook allure.
To uncover the village that won the heart of Queen Victoria and captivates all generations with its otherworldly aesthetics, read our curated guide to Babbacombe.
Beaches
From the enchanting shingle bay at the foot of the village to the countless coastal utopias nearby, a cornucopia of coves and beaches promise shoreside escapism in Babbacombe.
Babbacombe Beach
Nestled at the foot of greenery-swathed cliffs next to Babbacombe Downs, Babbacombe Beach is home to a curving shingle arc that beckons for coastal forays. A picture of paradise, this sheltered beach is lapped by crystalline waters that turn almost translucent on tranquil days. Wander along the seafront prom, bask in the views and take a spot on the sunwashed shore. For those curious about life beneath the waves, this beach is often frequented by divers, while when the winds are favourable, sailors command the seas.
Oddicombe Beach
Less than half a mile along the coast from Babbacombe, Oddicombe Beach near Torquay is one of the most beautiful beaches in South Devon. Blanketed by a russet-hued shingle shore and met by glittering water, it imbues soul-soothing serenity. Head down to the beach and make the most of the beautiful setting for days of sun soaking and sea bathing, as well as the onsite café and beach shop for refreshment. To arrive in style, take a ride on the Babbacombe Cliff Railway, thrilling beachgoers since 1926.
Anstey’s Cove
For those seeking a charming spot to embrace shoreside living, turn your attention to Anstey’s Cove. A pretty, petite cove just a mile from Babbacombe, it is cradled between steep flora-cloaked cliffs. Cast your gaze between the woodland backdrop and sweeping sea vistas. Should you feel like exploring, you can hire kayaks and paddleboards from Anstey’s Cove Café, and there is a self-service paddleboard inflation station too. For tranquil hours, you can also hire a deck chair and reward yourself with treats from the café.
Maidencombe Beach
To the north of Babbacombe, the dog-friendly Maidencombe Beach is framed by red sandstone cliffs and promises peace and panoramas. Especially suited to those looking for somewhere a little more secluded, it is reached by a leisurely countryside drive, followed by a walk downhill along a coastal path and steps. Flee the everyday and pack a hamper, ready for relaxation soundtracked by lapping waves. To make moments even sweeter are facilities and one of the best hidden cafés in Devon, Café Rio.
Paignton Sands
Paignton Sands in South Devon is a family-friendly haven home to a large sandy beach and a gently sloping shore. Lifeguarded in summer, it makes for an idyllic location to swim and savour the atmosphere. For a unique twist, hire pedalos and cruise along the shore, recline on the sand to immerse in a page-turning read, or stroll along the iconic pier with gelato in hand. In winter, adorn layers and walk along the prom, before taking a seat in one of the inviting cafés for a warming cup of something delicious.
Places to Eat and Drink
From bars and bistros to pubs and cafés, an assortment of places to eat and drink in Babbacombe tempt with finely curated menus. Here are some of the best restaurants with moreish offerings.
The Cary Arms
Overlooking Babbacombe Beach, The Cary Arms enjoys a stunning aspect over the glimmering sea. One of the best places to eat in South Devon, it serves expertly prepared gastro food in tandem with the seasons. With locality and quality at the forefront, the kitchen creates daily specials that pay homage to Devon’s country and coast. Complemented by the freshest seasonal produce, Devon beef, Lyme Bay lobster and line-caught fish are regulars on the lunch and dinner menus.
Hanbury’s Famous Fish & Chips
For divine alfresco moments intertwined with simplicity and nostalgia, there’s nothing quite like fish and chips by the seaside. For those seeking moreish salt and vinegar-infused flavours, head over to Hanbury’s Famous Fish & Chips in Babbacombe. Lovingly providing award-winning fish and chips for four decades, it is beloved by locals and visitors alike. Peruse the sustainably-caught offerings on the menu and take your paper-wrapped parcel onto the front for a quintessential Babbacombe experience.
Café ODE, Shaldon
Just five miles from Babbacombe, Café ODE enjoys a beautiful position above Ness Cove in Shaldon. With stunning views towards the River Teign, Lyme Bay and across the South Devon coastline, it lends itself perfectly to leisurely lunches and romantic dinner dates. Browse the menu to uncover award-winning dishes crafted with local produce. With provenance and sustainability at the fore, ODE has twice been bestowed with the Sustainable Restaurant of the Year award.
The Elephant, Torquay
One of the best Michelin Star restaurants in Devon, The Elephant is a renowned seaside restaurant in the English Riviera. Set above the sheltered waters of Torquay’s harbour, this Michelin Star establishment has been welcoming diners since 2006 and enjoys one of the prettiest spots in the town. Today, its finely honed menu proffers expertly prepared courses of local and sustainable plates with Devonshire-grown and reared fare. Secure a reservation in advance to avoid missing out and anticipate the finest flavours.
Old Walls Vineyard, Bishopsteignton
Old Walls Vineyard is one of the best places to eat and drink near Babbacombe. Occupying the site of a two-thousand-year-old Roman vineyard, this sun-kissed venue is one of the oldest and best-known vineyards in Devon. To savour a relaxed repast, head over to Old Walls’ dog-friendly Regent Bistro and take a seat in the restaurant or on the suntrap terrace. For the full experience, you can also take part in guided tours and tasting sessions which treat visitors to walks through the vineyard, an exploration of house wines, and a Ploughman’s lunch.
Attractions
With its stunning location in the UNESCO accredited English Riviera Global Geopark, the seaside town of Babbacombe makes for a year-round sanctuary. Seek exploration and luxuriation alike with its array of attractions for the most magical escape.
Babbacombe Model Village
An idyllic family-friendly attraction, Babbacombe Model Village invites you to step inside a wonderful world of miniature proportions. A vast, scaled model of a quintessentially British village across the decades, it covers four acres and features something to see at every turn. Look out for hidden humour and adorable details as you uncover the award-winning gardens and enjoy the timeless charm of this characterful model village.
Babbacombe Downs
For some of the most heavenly vistas, stroll along the clifftops of Babbacombe Downs. Home to the country’s highest seafront promenade, Babbacombe Downs rises to three hundred feet above sea level and affords stunning panoramas. Walk to the top and admire the views, gazing as far as Dorset’s Portland Bill on a clear day. Lined with sea-view benches and eateries offering refreshments, this year-round attraction is always a dream destination.
Babbacombe Theatre
Built on the hundred-year-old site of a beloved bandstand, Babbacombe Theatre has been drawing audiences for decades. Officially opened in 1939, it has set the stage for magnificent performances ever since and promises an assortment of acclaimed variety shows. Peruse the ever-updated programme and choose from live magic shows and comedy performances to musical masquerades and more. Secure tickets in advance to avoid missing out.
Babbacombe Cliff Railway
One of the most famous attractions in the South West and one of the oldest of its kind, the dog-friendly Babbacombe Cliff Railway is a must-see attraction. First opened in 1926, it has offered visitors a unique experience in Devon and unforgettable journey up the cliffs of the English Riviera for a century. Step aboard and let the scenery take your breath away as you are transported to and from Oddicombe Beach in style. Upon arrival at the beach, you can find a delightful beach café overlooking the water’s edge, along with seasonal equipment hire.
Berry Head Nature Reserve
For the lovers of nature, there are fewer places more idyllic to explore than Berry Head Nature Reserve. Famed as one of the gateways to the English Riviera, this internationally-recognised headland is renowned for its rich heritage and diverse flora and fauna. Perfect for peaceful strolls with picturesque panoramas, it is hugged on three sides by the sea and entwined with coastal trails. Look out to sea for sightings of seals, dolphins and whales, and on land, see famous heritage sites such as restored Napoleonic fortifications. For moreish moments, visit the headland’s Guardhouse Café for breakfast, lunch, and Devonshire cream teas.
Kents Cavern
To step through the passages of time, turn your attention to the enchanting Kents Cavern. An intriguing prehistoric cave, this fascinating dwelling was once the home of ancient humans and is decorated with eye-catching stalagmite and stalactite formations. Visit this award-winning attraction to turn back the hands of time and learn all about the history of the area. As well as the caves, you can also follow the site’s beautiful woodland trails which showcase some of the Stone Age animals who roamed this ancient realm millennia ago.
Things to Do
Whether you are seeking days of seaside adventures or blissful escapism, there is a wealth of things to do in Babbacombe.
Walk
Inviting both a relaxed and fast-paced way to uncover untouched landscapes, walking is an endlessly peaceful pastime. Should you be seeking scenic trails to weave into your Babbacombe staycation, you are simply spoilt for choice. For the best ocean aspect, the South West Coast Path promises year-round inspiration, running the entire length of South Devon’s coastline and beyond. Berry Head Nature Reserve is particularly enchanting for its sweeping ocean views. Meanwhile, nearby Walls Hill challenges with a steep hike rewarded by spectacular panoramas across Lyme Bar and Babbacombe’s coastal tapestry.
Kayak
For heavenly pursuits rich with vitamin sea, moments of bliss can be found atop the waters of Babbacombe. For one of the best ways to explore on calm days, take a kayak to the shore and paddle out for the chance to explore the coastline. Particularly sought-after for those looking to build their experience, guided tours are especially alluring. Offering expert-led sessions, Sea Kayak Torbay leads meticulously curated ocean forays, exploring the formations, caves and coves of the bay.
Dive
The English Riviera is recognised far and wide for its exquisite beauty. As well as its awe-inspiring aesthetics above the ocean, a whole world of wonder awaits under the waves too. One of the most beloved dive sites in the UK, the sheltered Babbacombe is well-known for its incredible diving conditions, temperate waters and often-clear visibility which reveal all manner of stunning marine life throughout the year. To dive with the experts, team up with Teign Diving Centre in Teignmouth for a range of accredited open water courses and dive experiences and fall in love with Babbacombe’s ocean magic.
Swim
As perfect for serene summer dips and invigorating cold water swims, the tranquil waters of the dog-friendly Babbacombe invite for exhilarating beach bathing. Check the tides and conditions and head to the water’s edge on calm days to immerse in the soothing saltwater. Lifeguards are present in summer, and you can make the most of the beachside café for refreshing drinks and delicious treats to savour on the shore.
Cycle
Whether you are bringing your own bike to a Boutique Retreat or hiring one nearby, a number of cycle trails beckon for exploration near Babbacombe. For those seeking a dynamic road cycle, you can trace the eleven-mile route between Babbacombe and Brixham to cruise past local landmarks and spectacular sea vistas as far as the Jurassic Coast. For the pursuers of mountain biking adventures, you can make the most of a dedicated mountain bike park with off-road trails at Scadson Freeride Park near Babbacombe. With trails for bikers of all abilities woven across thirteen acres of woodland, there is something for everyone.
Feeling inspired for a blissful break? Uncover our luxury cottages in Babbacombe.
