UNESCO Global Geopark

Did you know that the English Riviera, Devon has been accredited by UNESCO as a Global Geopark, just one of seven in the UK and 120 worldwide to celebrate our incredible geology, landscape and heritage?  It is incredible to think that ‘our’ rocks were formed millions of years ago at the bottom of a warm tropical sea and then scorched by the equatorial sun.  

Follow in the Footsteps of Stone Age Man

Across Torbay you can undertake a voyage of discovery by following in the footsteps of stone age man at internationally renowned sites including Kents Cavern prehistoric caves, home to humankind for over 500,000 years.

Kents Cavern is one of the most important Stone Age sites in Europe and one of Britain's best showcaves! On your visit you'll go back to a time when the cave was home to ancient humans, sheltering from extreme weather, making fires, shaping tools and hunting Ice Age animals. As you walk through the extensive labyrinth of caverns, you'll be surrounded by 400-million-year-old rocks and spectacular stalagmites and stalactites.

Open all year Kents Cavern is a very popular and all weather fascinating tourist attraction providing world class guided tours of the underground caverns. All tours around the cave are guided and begin in the Vestibule Chamber, as you enter the cave you'll feel the temperature at a constant 14c. Your tour guide will lead you through the Long Arcade to reveal how the caves were formed 2.5 million years ago and how stalagmite floors formed, sealing in the evidence of Ice Age occupations.

Explore Berry Head

You must also make time to experience Berry Head National Nature Reserve for its views, walks, wildlife.  This stunning headland, with its iconic lighthouse and Napoleonic Fort, is surrounded by water on three sides and offers exceptional views across Torbay and beyond. You can enjoy some superb coastal walks along the South West Coast Path, spot wildlife on land and sea or simply relax and the multi award-winning Guardhouse Café.

Discover the Global Geopark from the Sea

One of the best ways to experience the English Riviera Global Geopark is from the sea. Take a boat trip or cruise, or walk along the South West Coast Path, and see the majestic Devonian limestone headlands and the magnificent red Permian cliffs that have inspired so many including the world-famous crime writer Agatha Christie. 

Have a go at kayaking or coasteering with Reach Outdoors to get an even closer look or back on dry land you can uncover more at our local museums.  The Geoplay Park on Paignton’s seafront is a children’s play area with a difference. Themed around the amazing geological story of the English Riviera it provides free entertainment for the whole family.