Mystery, history, unbeatable views and delicious local produce await in the English Riviera, also known as Torbay, in south-west England. This idyllic corner can be explored by foot, ferry, steam train and bus, offering a car-free holiday that may be even better than driving.
Bus 125 runs every couple of hours from Paignton to Sandridge Barton winery, where visitors can enjoy a midday tour and tastings of Sharpham sparkling wine and local cheeses. The route passes through stunning countryside, with paths that might be missed by car, leading to Stoke Gabriel and the River Shack for seaside dining.
Accommodation at Lower Well Farmhouse, next to the winery, offers en-suite rooms and a farmhouse kitchen, with rates from £278 per night for a three-night minimum stay. From there, a three-mile walk leads to Agatha Christie's house at Greenway, where non-members can enjoy half-price admission after 2.30pm.
The Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat Company offers various routes, including a boat from Greenway to Dartmouth (£12), a ferry to Kingswear (£2.50), and a steam railway journey (£23.50) with glass-walled observation carriages (£3 extra) providing unbeatable views of the countryside.
