If you’ve taken a stroll along the Torquay seafront this week, you might have noticed something a little more. Starting on 6th March 2026, Torquay has officially become an open-air extension of London’s Trafalgar Square. As part of the National Gallery’s bicentenary celebrations, the “Art on Your Doorstep” exhibition has arrived, turning our familiar coastal paths into a world-class gallery.
What is Art on Your Doorstep?
In collaboration with Torre Abbey, the National Gallery has brought life-sized, high-fidelity reproductions of some of the world’s most famous paintings directly to our community.
The trail stretches from the historic grounds of Torre Abbey all the way to Torquay Harbour. Each piece is printed in incredible detail — right down to the texture of the brushstrokes — and placed in a frame that matches the original scale. It’s designed to be stumbled upon during your morning coffee run or sought out on a deliberate Sunday wander.
Why the “National Landscape” Connection?
While the exhibition features global icons, its placement in Torquay is deeply rooted in our local identity as part of the South Devon National Landscape. By placing these masterpieces against the sweeping backdrop of the Bay, the trail invites us to view our own environment through a fresh lens, harmonizing world-class heritage with the natural beauty that has inspired artists for centuries. This unique “Art Meets Nature” approach removes the barriers of a traditional gallery — there’s no need for a train ticket to London or a formal reservation. Instead, it offers a seamless blend of culture and coastline, making high art accessible to everyone for free, set right against the most stunning scenery in the Southwest.
What to Look Out For
The trail is curated by the team at Torre Abbey, who have carefully selected locations that complement the artworks. Keep an eye out for:
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Iconic Portraits: Tucked into garden alcoves where the light hits just right.
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Dramatic Landscapes: Positioned to create a dialogue with our own coastal views.
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Live Events: Throughout the spring and summer, look out for pop-up performances by groups like Doorstep Arts, who will be bringing the paintings to life through short scenes and audio recordings.
Whether you’re an art historian or just someone who appreciates a good view, this exhibition is a “once-in-a-generation” chance to see the masters under the Devon sun. FIND OUT MORE