Devonshire-Torquay and Brixham

[Beswad]

Can anyone tell me what is like living in Torquay and Brixham are like?

Are these two places tourist destinations?

[henneth]

They are located on the "Devon Riviera", a sort of marketing name for the whole of Torbay, as the area became known in the 1960's. Brixham is the quieter of the two, with the louder resort of Paignton in between.

In answer to your second question about being tourist destinations. Well, yes they are, hence the hotel based sitcom 'Fawlty Towers' being set (but not filmed) in Torquay. Milder climates, hundreds of oversized Yucca plants masquerading as Palm Trees and an extensive coastline of cliffs and sandy beaches means visitors do, in fact, well.....visit.

[waimarie]

A most beautiful part of the country but, the roads in summer are a nightmare. If I had the money I would live around there from September to May and rent the place out for the summer season!!.

[pigface]

Depends on what you are looking for really. I was brought up in the area. It is very attractive but it has some downsides. As mentioned previously the roads get chock a block in the summer as the tourists fill the area. The house prices are relatively high whereas salaries are almost third world. The average age of the population is noticeably higher than elsewhere in the country as younger people cannot afford to live in the area. Beware long grey winters.

[dannydingbat]

The only loud about Paignton is the level crossing gates in town! The winters, although long and dark, are very much better than further north. After living in London, Surrey, Harrogate, and Newbury, I have to say Torbay has the most mild winters I have encountered. The only problem is getting to a civilised airport for a mid winter holiday. Most deartures for anywhere decent are from heathrow, 200 miles away. A small price to pay.

[Beswad]

I'm thinking of buying a cafe business in Torquay or Brixham, so just wondering if it's ideal to bring a family up there. Thank you all for your reply.

[dannydingbat]

Ideal for kids - the best air, countryside and food is all here in Devon. We still have grammar schools as well. Don't be put off by reports of traffic in Summer. Its only a few weeks and is not worse than anywhere else.