The English Riviera offers a wide selection of pubs, bars and beer gardens, perfect for relaxing after a day by the coast. From harbourside pubs to modern cocktail bars and outdoor spaces with sea views, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a casual drink, a meal with friends or a place to enjoy the evening, discover pubs and bars across the English Riviera.
Beer Gardens and Outdoor Spaces
Looking for a pub or bar with a view? Theres plenty to choose from across the English Riviera. The Boathouse in Paignton has one the best views -right on the water looking out across to Torquay, or Harbour Lights that looks out onto the quintessential harbour. In Torquay, The Drum Inn at Cockington has a beautiful countryside beer garden with plenty of rustic charm. Or try the Babbacombe Inn - enjoy the stunning landscape and family friendly terrace. In Brixham - head to the harbour and choose from any of the traditional pubs and bars along the waterfront for some of the best views across the harbour and the Bay.
The Best local Beer, Wine and Cider in the South West!
For the perfect pint head to Torbay where our local brewery, Bays Brewery provides a fantastic choice of award winning craft local ales including Devon Dumpling, Top Sale and Bays Gold, complemented by a very popular Devon Rock Craft Lager.
The full taste of Devon is also on offer accompanied by a choice of local wines, with Sharpham Vineyard near Totnes our local vineyard running tasting tours and vineyard walks operate from March to December. Hunts produce some great local handcrafted Devon cider and have gained a gold award from Food and Drink Devon for their delicious drinks.
Cocktail Bars and Nightlife on the English Riviera
The English Riviera comes alive at night - with many bars and restaurants open all evening to enjoy. If you love a cocktail, then we suggest Elton's Piano Bar and Twenty1 at Torquay harbour and Liberty at Brixham harbour. Many local bars have live music in the evenings too so they are a great place to head after dinner. If you want something a bit more energetic, There are several nightclubs around the bay to dance the night away in.
Traditional Pubs on the English Riviera
The Drum Inn in the heart of Cockington Village is an attractive thatched building and the ultimate traditional British watering hole. This is one for the whole family, offering plenty of affordable, hearty food deals and nutritious child-sized meals for the little ones.
The Blue Anchor is a traditional pub nestled right on the harbourside at Brixham.
At Babbacombe Beach you’ll find The Cary Arms, voted Best Dining Pub in the Taste of the West Awards and offering an amazing waterfront location. The recently refurbished award winning Green Ginger Pub and Bar in Torquay operated by Weatherspoon’s is one of Torquay’s favourite pubs.
Dog friendly Pubs and Bars
Many Torbay pubs and bars are dog friendly, so there’s no reason why your four-legged friend shouldn’t enjoy a few days away on the English Riviera too.