Top Beaches to Explore along the English Riviera

The English Riviera is the quintessential English holiday resort with all the trimmings and has been for at least two centuries. At one glance it can be brash and at another it can be utterly refined, but there is no doubt that it is sublimely British.

It has effortlessly evolved from its exclusive and eloquent Victorian origins into a beloved, modern, world famous resort that appeals to every walk of life. Officially it covers the shores around Torbay, a perfectly sheltered indentation on South Devon's most beautiful ambrosia coastline. It stretches 35 kilometres from Torquay in the North, to Brixham in the South, passing Paignton along the way. This Bay has always been famous for its mild climate and incredible sea views, many of which are designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Torquay was the first of the three 'Riviera' destinations to become fashionable in the Victorian era. It is often referred to as the Queen of the Riviera resorts, especially once it's seafront cleverly emulated the French equivalent with lines of exotic palm trees and subtropical gardens.

Torquay’s stylish waterfront and award-winning beaches are to this day its asset, especially the main ones; Torre Abbey Sands and Meadfoot making the area perfect for Torquay group holidays. The latter offers an idyllic little shingle beach under some awesome cliffs and a wooded hill. It has all the facilities, plus a great cafe and deckchair hire shop, so a fabulous place to bring a towel and nothing else. As its name depicts, Torre Abbey Sands is a little more of a classy affair, with its line of multi-coloured beach huts and rock pools for the kids to explore.

Torquay pet friendly holidays are popular however you should be aware that dogs are banned on Torre Abbey Sands during the summer months. Luckily Beacon Cove and Institute Beach offer dog owners a great alternative not far away. But Torquay offers visitors much more than just beaches... there are many sites and attractions off the beach that can't fail to impress both culturally and historically including the ancient caves of Kent's Cavern, the medieval Torre Abbey or the Living Coasts and Babbacombe model village and railway. Torquay caters well for five star holidays with the many luxury holiday homes to rent, many with hot tubs and sea views.

Paighton is the next stop with its fabulous views over the whole of Torbay. It has a totally different feel about it - a little more understated, perhaps due to its humble origins as a fishing port. There are three beaches here and they are quite different to those of Torquay as they are longer and sandier, making them ideal for all sorts of water sports, including wind surfing and sailing; ideal for large group holidays. The main beach is a great one for browsing with its lovely promenade and pier and the beach itself is layered with fine sand that is ideal for making sandcastles. The local beach is Oyster Cove, a sand and shingle shore with great rock pools so perfect for a spontaneous walk to the sea from the centre of town. This is one of the Paignton dog friendly beaches where pets are welcome all year round but the access is tricky due to the steepness of the steps. A little further south and next to the harbour lies Fairy Cove. This is a sand and shingle beach backed by cliffs where there are loads of rock pools to explore at low tide. Dogs are also allowed here, which makes it another great place for dog owners. If you're planning a Paignton luxury break with the family the best child friendly beach is Hollicombe beach. It is a little further away but is perfect for a chilled day by the sea, as it lies at the base of a cliff that creates a brilliant suntrap and there is loads of space for kids to run riot.

Off the beach there is loads to do as well. The famous Dartmouth Steam Train Railway and Riverboat Company offer a memorable way to experience these stunning shores, especially for the kids. Then there is the Geoplay Park, a huge complex divided into four age appropriate zones. Paignton Zoo is another popular attraction as it is home to one of the South West's biggest collection of animals. Then there are the castles of Compton, Berry Pomeroy and Totnes to explore.

Last stop is Brixham which lies at the south end of Torbay and is a favourite for those planning luxury holidays in South Devon. This is a colourful working fishing port with a quirky, arty culture and great food. It oozes charm, character and history, partly due to its Dutch heritage and William of Orange's Glorious Revolution. The centre is loaded with galleries and artists at work, most of who are lured by the incredible surrounding seascapes. The beaches aren't bad either. Elberry Cove is a particularly idyllic shingle beach with crystalline waters and tree-lined banks. There are even bath house ruins on the shore to add a touch of bucolic authenticity.

Dog owners heading to Brixham will be happy to hear that their pets are welcome here and at the delightful St Mary’s Bay, which is protected by cliffs, so be ready for a steep climb. Brixhams other two beaches do not allow dogs in the summer seasons but they are great family beaches, ideal for Brixham group holidays. Breakwater is a pint sized shingle stretch next to the harbour so conveniently near to the town's shops, cafes and restaurants. Then there is Broadsands, which is in a class of its own. This is a big, sandy beach with beach huts, a cafe, good facilities, a few great rock pools and very little else. It is perfect for those who have tired of the arcades and traditional seaside attractions. This is also a great point from which to enjoy the famous walks around the headland, Berry Head and beyond the Berry Head National Nature Reserve.

Of course Brixham does have some attractions. In fact families on luxury holidays in Brixham should head for the harbour to enjoy the Smuggler and Pirate Experience or the Dartmouth Cruise. Brixham also has the Heritage Museum, which offers a fascinating insight into the life and history of the English Riviera.