Torquay

Study English in Torquay, a delightful coastal resort in gorgeous Devon.

Torquay has been a popular seaside resort on the “English Riviera” since the 19th century. It’s known for its many sandy beaches and extremely clean water. The micro-climate here makes it hot enough for sunbathing and swimming, and even allows palm trees to grow.

You might have heard of Torquay if you are a fan of the classic 1970s British TV comedy, Fawlty Towers. In the series, Basil and Sybil Fawlty run a hotel in Torquay where they deal with a bizarre array of comic situations and demanding guests. It was inspired by the real-life experience of the Monty Python team in Torquay.

Torquay’s timeless and wide appeal draws people of all ages to learn English by the beautiful seaside in a laid-back resort in one of England’s most beautiful regions. And although it is relaxed, there are plenty of things happening in Torquay, including a bustling nightlife and restaurant scene.

Discover Torquay as you improve your English

There are at least nine different sandy beaches in the nearby area, with wonderful names like Meadfoot Beach, Babbacombe Beach, Oddicombe Beach and Maidencombe Beach. The water quality is very high and the beach facilities are excellent so there are unlimited opportunities for sunbathing, water sports, boat trips and beach walks in all seasons.

Admire the yachts in Torquay’s marina and explore the town’s many connections with the writer Agatha Christie on the Agatha Christie Mile. Check out the fascinating Living Coasts attraction, an excellent aquarium featuring octopuses, seals and penguins. Nearby Woodlands Family Theme Park offers rollercoasters, fairground rides and more.

Torquay is located within the UNESCO World Heritage English Riviera Geopark, which includes important archaeological sites such as the Stone Age remnants and the oldest fragments of human bone in Europe at Kents Cavern.

For shopping, take a walk along Fleet Walk and Union Street, where you’ll find a wide range of shops, from large chain stores to quirky independent boutiques.

The culinary scene in Torquay is excellent – many restaurants feature locally sourced seafood and meat in their dishes for a deliciously fresh flavour. There is ethnic food from all over the world, from Thai to Moroccan to Spanish to French to Indian. There are also many pubs, bars and clubs along the harbour.

If you love walking or hiking, there are a number of beautiful trails in the area, like the six-mile stretch of coast between pretty Teignmouth and the nature reserve at Dawlish Warren - a journey alongside red sandstone cliffs, bizarre rock formations and remote coves. You could also ride the route instead, as there is a train station that travels between Dawlish Warren and Teignmouth. Nearby Dartmoor National Park offers wonderful hiking and biking opportunities in beautiful countryside. Another enjoyable day trip takes you to Exeter, Devon’s university and cathedral city.

With so much to do in and around Torquay, it’s an enticing place to study English in England.