Why October is a Great Time to Visit Torquay

Quieter coastlines, fresh sea air, good food and a more relaxed side of the English Riviera

There's something rather lovely about the coast in October.

The summer crowds have gone, the air feels a little fresher and there's still plenty of time to get outside and enjoy the beautiful South Devon coastline.

Here at The Cleveland, we think October is one of those months that doesn't always get the attention it deserves. Torquay is often thought of as a summer destination, but the English Riviera has plenty to offer once the main holiday season is over.

If you're looking for a couple of nights away, a chance to get some fresh air, good food and a change of scenery, October could be just the time to visit.

Enjoy the coast without the summer crowds

One of the nicest things about visiting Torquay in October is simply having a little more space.

The promenade is still there, the sea is still there and the views haven't gone anywhere – but the pace can feel very different from the height of summer.

The South West Coast Path runs through the English Riviera, with walks taking in Torquay, Paignton and Brixham. There are plenty of opportunities to enjoy a short stroll or make a day of it, depending on how energetic you're feeling.

And you don't have to be a serious walker to enjoy the coast.

A wander along Torquay seafront, a walk towards Meadfoot Beach or an afternoon exploring the Rock Walk can be just as enjoyable as tackling a longer section of the coast path.

Sometimes it's simply about getting outside, breathing in the sea air and seeing where the afternoon takes you.

Get out and explore

If you fancy something a little more adventurous, there are some beautiful walks around the Bay.

One of our favourites is the walk from Torquay towards Meadfoot Beach, following the South West Coast Path and taking in views across the bay. The English Riviera also highlights routes around Babbacombe and the coast towards Brixham and Berry Head.

And then there's Berry Head.

The walk from Brixham to Berry Head takes you through the nature reserve, past the historic Napoleonic fortifications and out towards some spectacular views across the English Riviera. It's a lovely place to spend a few hours, particularly when you can finish with a coffee or something to eat at the Guardhouse Café.

You can make these walks as ambitious or as relaxed as you like. That's one of the great things about South Devon – the coast path can be enjoyed in short sections rather than feeling as though you have to tackle the whole thing.

Just remember that autumn weather can change quickly, so sensible footwear and a waterproof jacket are always worth packing.

There's more to Torquay than the beach

Of course, an October break doesn't have to revolve around walking.

If the weather isn't playing ball, there are plenty of things to see and do around Torquay and the wider English Riviera. Torquay Harbour, the town centre, Babbacombe, Cockington and the area's attractions all offer different ways to spend a day.

And that's another reason we like this time of year.

You're not necessarily trying to fit everything into one sunny day. You can take your time, stop for lunch, find a cosy café, explore somewhere you've never been before or simply come back to your room and put your feet up.

A weekend in Torquay can be as busy or as relaxed as you want it to be.

And then there's the food...

After a day out exploring, there's something rather nice about coming back to The Cleveland and knowing you don't have to head out again to find somewhere for dinner.

Our Stay & Dine offering means you can enjoy an evening meal here with us on Monday to Saturday, followed by a comfortable night's sleep and breakfast the following morning.

And, as with our breakfasts, we're interested in the ingredients.

We buy our fish from the local fishmongers just around the corner, our steaks from our local butcher, and we use handmade Westcountry pies alongside other good-quality local ingredients.

We're not trying to be a restaurant. We're simply putting good food on the table for our guests and making it easy to enjoy an evening in without having to go anywhere else.

There's something quite satisfying about coming back from a day on the coast, having a drink, sitting down to dinner and then heading upstairs to bed.

October is a good time for a little escape

We think that's probably the best way to describe an autumn break in Torquay.

It's not necessarily about packing every day with activities or hoping for perfect beach weather.

It's about having a couple of days away.

A walk by the sea. A coffee somewhere nice. Perhaps a little exploring. A good breakfast in the morning. Dinner waiting for you in the evening.

And, of course, you don't have to do very much at all.

Devon's tourism team also highlights autumn as a particularly good time for walking, with fewer people on the trails and a different feel to the coast compared with the summer months.

Why stay at The Cleveland?

We're tucked away on a quiet, tree-lined road, but we're close enough to Torquay's seafront, restaurants, bars and attractions to leave the car behind for much of your stay.

We have six individually styled en-suite bedrooms, free on-site parking and the sort of little touches we've always believed make a difference – comfortable beds, good showers, quality drinks trays and, of course, our homemade fudge waiting in your room.

Breakfast is a big part of what we do too. We've been recognised by the AA for the quality of our breakfasts and our use of good local produce, and we still genuinely enjoy getting up and cooking breakfast for our guests each morning.

It's that combination of a good night's sleep, a proper breakfast, a convenient location and a friendly welcome that we think makes The Cleveland a good base for exploring Torquay.

Thinking about an October break?

If you've been thinking about getting away for a couple of nights, October could be a lovely time to do it.

We're open for stays between 5th and 19th October, before we take a little break ourselves, with further availability at the end of the month.

And if you're a returning guest, we're currently offering a complimentary room upgrade when you book directly with us, subject to availability.

So pack your walking shoes, bring a waterproof just in case, and come and enjoy a quieter side of the English Riviera.

We'd love to see you.

Check October availability at The Cleveland

Frequently Asked Questions

Is October a good time to visit Torquay?

Yes. October can be a particularly enjoyable time to visit Torquay if you prefer a quieter atmosphere. The coast is still beautiful, coastal walks are readily accessible and there are plenty of attractions, restaurants and places to explore.

Can you walk the South West Coast Path from Torquay?

Yes. The South West Coast Path passes through Torquay and the wider English Riviera, with routes towards places including Meadfoot Beach, Babbacombe and Brixham. You can enjoy shorter sections rather than committing to a full-day hike.

What is there to do in Torquay if the weather isn't great?

There are plenty of options beyond the beach, including attractions, cafés, restaurants, shops and places of historic interest around Torquay and the wider English Riviera. A little rain doesn't have to stop you enjoying a short break.

Does The Cleveland serve evening meals?

Yes. Our Stay & Dine evening meals are available Monday to Saturday, making it easy to enjoy dinner here after a day exploring Torquay and the surrounding coast.

How far is The Cleveland from Torquay seafront?

The Cleveland is within easy walking distance of Torquay seafront, as well as many of the town's restaurants, bars and attractions. We also have free on-site parking if you'd prefer to explore further afield by car.

Is The Cleveland open in October?

Yes. We have availability during selected dates in October, including stays between 5th and 19th October, as well as some dates later in the month. Availability changes, so the best way to check is through our website.