Living and Working in Torquay

Torquay is a popular seaside town on the south Devon coast and is a part of the unitary authority area of Torbay. The three towns of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham are collectively known as Torbay and the area is often referred to as the English Riviera due to its beautiful beaches and mild climate.

The nearest airport is in Exeter which is less than thirty miles away. There are two train stations in Torquay and you can get a direct train into London which takes approximately three hours. If travelling by car, Torquay is well connected to the rest of the UK with the M5 being the usual route to access Torquay along with a number of local and A roads.

Torquay was fairly small and quiet until the mid 1800’s when the railway made it possible for people to travel and Torquay became very popular indeed. Its popularity has not diminished and is still a preferred choice for many who seek a Mediterranean style holiday complete with palm trees, international marina, Victorian architecture, busy harbour, sandy beaches and stunning sea views.

The economy once relied upon a simple life which consisted mainly of fishing and agriculture but now with several million visitors each year travelling to the English Riviera, the tourism and hospitality sectors are especially strong and there are many prestigious and award winning businesses here to cater for demand. The area has seen multi million pound investments which have strengthened the economy even further.  Torquay’s own economy is a tapestry of industries that reflect its heritage, culture and natural beauty. Torquay focuses on tourism, creative, health and education which creates a diverse job market, attracting many people to seek opportunities on the wonderful English Riviera.

The collective of Torbay is also thriving in industry sectors which include advanced manufacturing, creative, electronics and photonics, marine and maritime, education, fisheries and seafood and medical and healthcare sectors.

Education is of a high standard in Torquay with many highly rated schools. Although Torquay does not have a university, the University of Exeter has multiple campuses not too far away from the town and a little further afield is Plymouth University. Whilst not a university, South Devon College offers a variety of further and higher education courses.

This quintessential town’s features are a part of UNESCO’s unique Global Geopark. The beautiful coastline and outstanding natural beauty offers an unforgettable experience for everyone. Torquay is well known globally for its sailing and there are regular national and international races. There are numerous award winning beaches nearby which include Oddicombe beach which has held the blue flag award for over thirty years and is fairly close to Babbacombe beach, both offering the perfect day out. Choose to explore Torre Abbey Sands with its fantastic stretch of red sand or Anstey’s Cove which is a picturesque hidden gem nestled between Torquay and Babbacombe.

After a day of sun, sea, sand, rock pooling and crabbing, you can have some old fashioned fun at the Amusement Arcade. Then perhaps travel back in time by visiting Kent’s Cavern which is classed as Europe’s top Stone Age caves where you can get up close to real dinosaur fossils or visit the Real Crime Museum ( incidentally, the famous crime writer, Agatha Christie was born in Torquay! ). For some combined art, heritage and culture, you can pay a visit to Torquay Museum, Torre Abbey Museum and Gardens or take a stroll along the Royal Terrace Gardens, known for the spectacular views of the sea.

When it comes to retail therapy,Torquay has all the shops that you need with a wide variety of supermarkets, high street stores and a number of independent shops to browse.

After all of that, it's time to relax and indulge at one of the many hundreds of cafes, pubs, bars and restaurants - many of which serve traditional and local food and drink.

Throughout the year, Torquay hosts a range of festivals and events that celebrate its culture and community spirit that has lasted through generations.

Travel slightly further afield and you can discover the wonder of Dartmoor national Park, Cornwall and many other places of outstanding natural beauty.

Torquay has something for everyone. The history and culture interwoven with distinctive coastal charm is certain to leave a lasting impression.