The mild climate in the English Riviera, Devon means there are plenty of opportunities to get out and get active all through the year. You’ll find a wide range of sports events to watch or take part in on land and sea.
Sailing and speed
The English Riviera is port of call for a long list of national sailing and powerboat championships. With literally hundreds of boats from around the UK turning up to race in our waters, you can often catch some of the action when you look out across the Bay. The coastpath and seafront of Torquay and Brixham, as well as Berry Head, all offer a great vantage point to watch the races. Or get out on the water yourself to get even closer.
As well as hosting national championships, we’ve also got our own special sailing events. The whole of Torquay goes into celebratory mode during the Torbay Royal Regatta. Or if vintage sailing boats catch your eye, go along to the Brixham Heritage Sailing Regatta, which forms part of the town’s Brixfest celebrations over the May Bank Holiday weekend.
Four wheel action
It might not quite be Formula 1, but the Pedal Car Grand Prix, held every year at Torre Abbey Gardens, Torquay, is a lot of fun. As well as the daredevil racing, there’s a bouncy castle, bric-a-brac stalls, live entertainment, and refreshments at this July fixture.
Four-legged action
The racecourses at Newton Abbot and Exeter are only a short drive or train ride away. Considered one of the country’s leading summer jumps courses, there are 19 thrilling races a year at Newton Abbot if you fancy a flutter. Or drive to Exeter Racecourse high on Haldon Hill. You’ll find races throughout the year, including the popular New Year’s Day meet. The course is the highest in the country at 850ft above sea level. Races have been taking place here for over 350 years and National Hunt champions including Desert Orchid and Best Mate have both started their career at the course.
Torquay football
Torquay has its own football club, Torquay United. Fondly known as the Gulls, the club currently plays in the National League. Head up to Plainmoor, Torquay to watch them and enjoy a pie or more at the Gulls Nest.
Put on your running shoes
The Torbay Half Marathon covers a traffic free course from Paignton to Torquay and back. Watch the annual spectacle or take part – there are prizes for a range of age categories as well as best fancy dress.
Boxing Day Dip
Every year, brave souls take to the water at Corbyn Head Beach in Torquay for the Boxing Day Dip. Organised by No.200 Squadron (Torquay) Air Training Corps, it’s a decidedly different way to work off the excesses of the day before.
Whether you want to be a spectator or get involved, check out the sports events taking place across Torbay.
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