Day 1: You will be picked up from home by our door-to-door service and taken to the coach for the journey southwest to Devon, arriving at our hotel late afternoon for 7 nights dinner, bed & breakfast.
Day 2: A day at leisure to explore and use the hotel’s facilities. Be sure to stroll around its bustling picturesque harbour, or why not take a boat trip to enjoy the view from a different perspective? (fare not included). Torquay’s many landscaped gardens and scenic walks are the perfect way to spend your time here.
Day 3: Today’s excursion takes to the historic maritime city of Plymouth. The city has a great naval history, stretching back from the time of Sir Francis Drake and the Spanish Armada to today’s ultra-modern navy dockyards. Explore the Hoe, see the famous Mayflower Steps, take a trip up Smeaton’s Tower, and don’t forget to pay a visit to the Barbican, a bustling array of specialist shops, restaurants, cafes and world-class attractions, all set against the backdrop of the picturesque harbour. (attractions today subject to individual choice and payment)
Day 4: Our first port of call today is Paignton where we board the Paignton and Dartmouth Railway for a steam train ride to Kingswear. The railway runs for seven miles in Great Western tradition along the spectacular Torbay coast. The scenery is superb, with seascapes right across Lyme Bay to Portland Bill on clear days.
From Kingswear, we board the ferry as foot passengers to Dartmouth, where upon arrival, you will have free time to explore this delightful maritime town with its narrow streets, overhanging medieval buildings and old quays, as well as taking in its breath-taking views across the Dart estuary.
We then enjoy a circular hour-long cruise along the river and estuary. The cruise takes you to the mouth of the river passing Kingswear & Dartmouth Castles, Dittisham village, Britannia Royal Naval College and Greenway House – home to the late Dame Agatha Christie. We then retrace our steps, taking the ferry back to Kingswear and making the return train journey from Kingswear to Paignton.
Day 5: Today we travel to Exeter. A small city that packs a big punch, Exeter is one of the most vibrant, attractive and historically interesting cities in England. Pre-dating the arrival of the Romans in AD 50, Exeter’s history is rich and long, and this is reflected in its fascinating visitor attractions, including its unique underground passages, magnificent Cathedral, imposing Roman wall and beautiful Quayside. Exeter is also home to the award-winning Royal Albert Memorial Museum where visitors can explore the city’s 2,000-year history under one roof! Exeter has a real sense of individuality, its varied cultural scene is embraced by proud locals, and the diverse mix of eateries means it is renowned as one of the foodie capitals of the South West. Head to the West Quarter or the cobbled Gandy Street to discover a great mix of independent shops and boutiques, cafes and bars.
After lunch we head to Exmouth, Devon’s oldest seaside resort and one of great naval and historic importance. As one of the most picturesque coastal towns on the south coast, expect to see beautiful beaches, dramatic cliffs and traditional seaside delights.
Day 6: After breakfast, we travel to historic Brixham. Life here has always centred around the harbour, where heritage trawlers jostle for space with day boats heading out to sea for the day’s catch, bringing it home daily to Brixham’s famous Fish Market. Here you can wander the maze of narrow streets or visit one of the many cafes around the harbour and watch the world go by
We then make the short journey to Paignton, a colourful, traditional seaside resort popular for its mild climate and lively seafront. The bustling pier, genteel buildings and streets and sense of class and style have made this an English Riviera favourite for generations of visitors.
Day 7: Day at leisure to explore and relax. With its iconic palm trees, busy harbour, international marina, sandy beach and wonderful array of continental style cafes, restaurants and cocktail bars there is plenty to see and do.
Day 8: After breakfast, we depart Torquay for our return journey back to Norfolk making suitable stops en route. Upon arrival our door to door service will be waiting to take you home.
Holiday Information:
7 Nights Dinner, Bed & Breakfast (Dinner will be table service)
Price: £1176pp
Single Supplement: £Nil (Limited Availability)
Tour Reference: AWE5218
Deposit Required: £50pp
Balance Due: 8 weeks prior to departure