Sunrise over Torbay

Where to go on holiday in October? We think there’s no better place than the English Riviera, on Devon’s beautiful south coast. We’re not talking sun drenched overseas destinations here, think short break in the UK during the ‘season of mists and mellow fruitfulness’. Imagine long walks, cosy sweaters, hot chocolate and crunchy leaves underfoot. The English Riviera is perceived as a summer destination, but once the children go back to school and the visitor numbers die down you can enjoy its many charms at an unhurried pace. For anyone looking for a short break, the autumn brings a host of great things to see and do.

English Riviera Wheel

English Rivera Big Wheel

The best way to see Torquay and the stunning Tor Bay is from the English Riviera Wheel. Take in  the breathtaking 360 degree views on the 12 minute ride.  Taller than Nelsons Column at the dizzy height of nearly 60 metres, the Wheel is situated in Princess Gardens, Torquay, and is open until 30th October. Open every day from 10am. The wheel closes at 8pm during term-time and 10pm during school holidays.

Babbacombe Downs

Oddicombe Beach

Beautiful Babbacombe Downs has the highest cliff top promenade in England, and on a clear day you can see right across to Portland Bill in Dorset. Many people visit Torquay without seeing this lovely area, but it is a real gem and the views are truly spectacular.

If you’ve got a good head for heights, Babbacombe Cliff Railway, a funicular railway operating since 1926 , is a relaxed and easy way to get down the cliff to Oddicombe Beach below. Further along the coast you’ll find Babbacombe Beach, where you can often spot dolphins and seals playing offshore, especially during the quieter autumn months.

Cockington Country Park and Village

Cockington thatched cottages

Managed by Torbay  Coast & Countryside Trust, the award winning Cockington country park is a paradise for walkers, gardeners, nature lovers and families. With wild woodland, landscaped gardens, a craft centre, play area and tea rooms, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Autumn is one of the best times to enjoy the quaint village of Cockington and the surrounding park and woodland, when the trees are starting to turn and the ground is scattered with fallen chestnuts. The traditional Cockington Apple Fair is on the 15th October and the Halloween Festival is on the 23rd and both events will show Cockington and its parks and gardens off to their best.

Food Festivals

Local food festivals

Local farmers’ markets and food festivals make the most of the season’s bounty and there are several events to ‘feast on’ in the area during October.

Oktoberfest – 13th – 14th October sees a celebration of Bavarian culture come to Exeter Castle with beers, food and music, all with a Germanic twist. A short 30 minute drive away from Torquay or a 20 minute train ride, the historic city of Exeter is worth a visit anyway, but if you love your bratwurst and Holstein then Oktoberfest is the festival for you!

Dartmouth Food Festival  – Running from the 20th -22nd October, this festival is a first class feast of entertainment to delight foodies of all ages. Featuring workshops, seminars, tastings, competitions, demonstrations and over 120 hand-picked exhibitors and all in the picturesque coastal town of Dartmouth, only a 30 minute drive away form Torquay.

Cockington Park in the autumn

So don’t dismiss the English Riviera as a summer holiday destination only. The mild climate usually ensures higher temperatures than most so getting out and about is still a pleasure and there’s certainly plenty to see and enjoy this autumn.

You can enjoy it all from the base of TLH Leisure Resort, Torquay. This October sees some great special offers, starting at only  £102pp, dinner, bed & breakfast, for a 2 night weekend. Take a look at all our offers this autumn at www.tlh.co.uk/special-offers

• About
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Vicky Hinchliffe

Senior Marketing Executive at TLH Leisure Resort

I love gardening, wildlife and the great outdoors. I also have a passion for running and have completed 3 half marathons to date - with more planned. I try to live by the motto, 'be pretty on rest days' so when I'm not training I like nothing more than some pampering, high heels and lip gloss!
I've worked at TLH for longer than I care to dwell on but have seen so many changes it's been like working for 3 or 4 different companies! I am now in Marketing and am involved in spreading the word about how great TLH is!

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