Why the English Riviera is the Perfect September Getaway
As summer starts to fade and the kids head back to school, September is the perfect time for a little escape to The 25 Boutique B&B in Torquay. If you’re looking for a weekend away or a short break that’s not too far from home but feels like a real treat, the English Riviera is calling your name. Our stretch of South Devon coast is home to the lovely towns of Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham and has everything you need for a relaxing and fun-filled getaway.
Here’s why you should pack your bags and head here this September.
1. Warm Weather, No Crowds
September on the English Riviera is like finding a secret season. The summer crowds have thinned out, so you won’t be fighting for a spot on the beach or queuing for your ice cream. But the weather? Still gorgeous. With temperatures hovering around the 15-20°C mark, it’s just right for beach walks, coastal hikes, or simply reading a book with a drink in hand. And because it’s Devon, you’re likely to get more sunshine here than most other places in the UK. I know it’s been a bit of a rubbish year for weather but the long range forecast for the weeks ahead is mainly sunny intervals and dry.
2. Naturally Inspiring Scenery
We can never get over our stunning views and Julian can’t resist taking more photos every time we head anywhere along our coastline. The English Riviera is part of a UNESCO Global Geopark, which is a fancy way of saying it’s full of natural beauty and unique history. Think rugged cliffs, hidden coves, exposed rock formations and beaches that are perfect for a quiet stroll or a sunset picnic. The South West Coast Path is a must-do, offering incredible views that will have you reaching for your camera at every turn. Why not catch the ferry over to Brixham and walk back? Search for my blog detailing that walk when we did it.
Whether you’re taking in the views from Babbacombe Downs and heading back to Torquay for a G&T in the sun, or enjoying a peaceful afternoon at Berry Head Nature Reserve in Brixham (and enjoying tea and cake at Alex and Lucy’s Guardhouse Café), you’ll be surrounded by beauty. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some dolphins or rare birds.
3. Local History in Abundance
The English Riviera isn’t just about pretty views; it’s got a rich history, too. For a start, you’ve got 800 years of history at Torre Abbey just a five minute walk from our front door! Torquay is famous as the birthplace of Agatha Christie, and if you’re a fan of the Queen of Crime, you can follow in her footsteps on the Agatha Christie Mile (pick up a leaflet in reception). There’s also Torquay Museum with its Agatha Christie Gallery, and you can visit her holiday home, Greenway, for a peek into her life.
Brixham is a charming little fishing town with loads of maritime history. Check out the Brixham Heritage Museum or hop on board the replica of Sir Francis Drake’s Golden Hind.
Torquay is a great base to explore a wider area with plenty of castles, National Trust and English Heritage properties, museums and walks you can go on to learn more about the area (check out the Unique Experiences page on our website).
4. Delicious Food
English Riviera is a real foodie delight. When you book, we’ll send you links to our recommended restaurant leaflets (we have two as we couldn’t fit them all in one!). September is a great time to indulge in some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste, straight from the boats in Brixham and towards the end of September it’s the start of England’s Seafood Feast held here in the Bay. There are plenty of great restaurants where you can enjoy our local seafood but we’ve also got a Michelin Star restaurant (The Elephant) and a great Greek, Chinese, Thai, Pan-Asian to name a few. Or, if you’re in the mood for something more laid-back, grab some fish and chips and eat them by the sea or visit a bistro or grab some tapas. Whatever you love, you’ll find it on the English Riviera. And don’t forget to treat yourself to a proper Devon cream tea - you’re on holiday, after all, and the calories don’t count when you’re on holiday – just remember – it’s lashings of clotted cream first, with a generous dollop of jam on top.
5. Award Winning Places to Stay
One of the best things about visiting in September is that you can get to stay at The 25. Of course we don’t take children so we’re a relaxing place to stay at all times of the year, but September means they’re back at school so there’s less queues for the ferry and you can relax properly whilst enjoying the Autumn sun with a drink and a bite to eat alfresco.
Our multi-award winning B&B is the ideal place to stay with free parking, luxurious rooms and amazing breakfasts. The best B&B deal is always by booking direct on our own website at www.the25.uk
6. Adventure on Tap
If you’re the adventurous type, the English Riviera won’t disappoint. The mild September weather is perfect for water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, or sailing. And if you’re into diving, the clear waters around Babbacombe are great for exploring underwater. Why not have a swim in the sea at our local beach at Torre Abbey Sands? If you’re new to stand up paddleboarding (SUP) you can hire equipment and have taster sessions at various places along the coast including our local beach just a 10-15 walk from The 25. If you’re more seasoned, or just like watching, the SUP Championships are being held here at the end of the month.
Prefer to stay on land? No worries. The countryside is ideal for cycling or hiking, and you’re not far from Dartmoor National Park if you fancy a day of exploring its wild landscapes.
7. Easy to Get To
One of the best things about the English Riviera is how easy it is to get here. Whether you’re driving (straight line off the M5), hopping on a train (Torre train station is at the end of our road just an 8 minute walk downhill to The 25), or even arriving by plane (30 mins from Exeter airport), it’s all straightforward. Once you’re here, you’ll find getting around is a breeze, thanks to the area’s good public transport links with ferries, buses and lots of things in walking distance.
Ready to Go?
So, if you’re looking for a perfect September getaway that’s full of stunning scenery, rich history, delicious food, and plenty of relaxation, the English Riviera is where it’s at. Pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to enjoy a few days of bliss on the South Devon coast. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
There are currently some great prices to be had on our rooms. Book a bargain at www.the25.uk
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