7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Torquay

Torquay, a picturesque seaside town on the English Riviera, is a haven for digital nomads seeking the perfect blend of work and leisure. With its mild climate, stunning coastline, and vibrant cultural scene, Torquay offers an idyllic setting for those who can work from anywhere. But even the most dedicated remote worker needs a break, and the surrounding area is rich with unique and exciting weekend getaways. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, here are seven destinations that promise to rejuvenate any digital nomad.

Exeter

Just a short journey from Torquay, Exeter is a city teeming with history, culture, and a lively atmosphere. The Exeter Cathedral is a must-see, with its stunning Gothic architecture, and the city's historic quayside offers a picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll or a boat trip. For those interested in history, the underground passages provide a unique glimpse into the city's medieval past. Exeter also boasts a vibrant food scene, with an array of restaurants and cafes to suit all tastes.

How to Get There: Exeter is easily accessible by train from Torquay, with a journey time of around 40 minutes. Regular services run throughout the day, making it a convenient day trip or weekend destination.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the Royal Albert Memorial Museum, which offers free entry and a chance to explore local history, art, and global cultures.

Where to Stay: The City Gate Hotel offers a cozy stay with the charm of a traditional inn, while the Mercure Exeter Southgate Hotel provides more modern amenities and a swimming pool.

Where to Eat: The Old Firehouse is renowned for its hearty portions and cozy ambiance, and it's said to have inspired J.K. Rowling's depiction of the Leaky Cauldron in the Harry Potter series.

Dartmoor National Park

For those seeking an escape into nature, Dartmoor National Park is an expansive moorland known for its rugged beauty and mysterious tors. Hiking, horseback riding, and cycling are popular activities here, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the great outdoors. Dartmoor is also steeped in folklore and history, with ancient stone circles and remnants of Bronze Age settlements scattered across the landscape.

How to Get There: The best way to explore Dartmoor is by car, as public transport options are limited. It's about a 45-minute drive from Torquay, depending on the area of the park you wish to visit.

Travel Tip: Look out for the Dartmoor ponies, a native breed that roams freely across the moors – they're an iconic sight and a photographer's delight.

Where to Stay: Bovey Castle offers luxury accommodation with stunning views of the park, while the Two Bridges Hotel provides a more rustic charm.

Where to Eat: The Rugglestone Inn is a favorite for its traditional pub fare and local ales, nestled in a picturesque setting near Widecombe-in-the-Moor.

Totnes

Totnes is a quirky market town that's a hub for artists, musicians, and eco-friendly living. The town is known for its bohemian vibe, with independent shops, organic cafes, and a weekly market selling everything from vintage clothes to local produce. Totnes Castle offers panoramic views of the town and the River Dart. For a unique experience, visit the Timehouse Muzeum, an immersive art installation that blends music, art, and history.

How to Get There: Totnes is a short train ride from Torquay, taking approximately 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can drive there in about the same amount of time.

Travel Tip: Check out the Totnes Elizabethan House Museum for a glimpse into the life of a merchant in the 16th century.

Where to Stay: The Royal Seven Stars Hotel is centrally located and offers comfortable rooms with a touch of luxury.

Where to Eat: The Curator Kitchen is a modern Italian osteria that sources ingredients locally and has a reputation for its innovative dishes.

Lyme Regis

Lyme Regis, part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, is a charming seaside town famous for its fossil hunting opportunities and picturesque Cobb harbour. Walk along the ancient sea walls, explore the fossil shops, or relax on the sandy beaches. The Lyme Regis Marine Aquarium offers a hands-on experience with local marine life, and the town's cultural scene includes galleries and theaters.

How to Get There: The journey to Lyme Regis from Torquay typically involves a combination of train and bus services and takes around 2 to 3 hours.

Travel Tip: Visit the Lyme Regis Museum to learn about the town's geological significance and its connection to famous fossil collector Mary Anning.

Where to Stay: The Alexandra Hotel & Restaurant boasts stunning sea views and a beautiful garden, while the Lyme Townhouse offers a more intimate boutique experience.

Where to Eat: Hix Oyster & Fish House provides not only fresh seafood but also panoramic views of the Jurassic Coast.

Clovelly

Clovelly is a unique, car-free village in North Devon, known for its cobbled streets and whitewashed cottages. This picturesque fishing village seems frozen in time, with donkeys and sledges being the main forms of transport. Visitors can explore the craft workshops, the Kingsley Museum, and enjoy the stunning views of the Bristol Channel. The Clovelly Court Gardens are also a must-see, with their well-kept Victorian kitchen gardens.

How to Get There: Reaching Clovelly from Torquay is best done by car, as it's about a two-hour drive. Public transport options are available but may involve multiple changes and longer travel times.

Travel Tip: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the steep, cobbled streets can be challenging to navigate.

Where to Stay: The Red Lion Hotel offers a comfortable stay right on the harbour, with rooms that have a nautical theme.

Where to Eat: The Cottage Tea Rooms is a delightful spot for a traditional Devon cream tea, complete with homemade scones and clotted cream.

Valley of Rocks

The Valley of Rocks is a dramatic and ancient dry valley on the North Devon coast near Lynton and Lynmouth. It's known for its wild goats and striking rock formations, which provide a spectacular backdrop for walkers and photographers. The South West Coast Path runs through the valley, offering some of the most breathtaking coastal views in the UK. For a unique experience, catch a play at the open-air Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway, which connects the twin towns and offers stunning views of the coastline.

How to Get There: The Valley of Rocks is best accessed by car from Torquay, taking around 2 hours. Public transport options are limited and may involve a combination of train and bus services.

Travel Tip: If you're visiting during the summer months, look out for outdoor performances at the Valley of Rocks open-air theatre.

Where to Stay: The Lynton Cottage Hotel provides spectacular sea views and a cozy atmosphere, while the Rock House Hotel offers easy access to the valley.

Where to Eat: The Pavilion Dining Room in Lynton serves delicious meals with locally sourced ingredients and offers views over the town and sea.

Glastonbury

Glastonbury is a town steeped in myth and legend, known for its connections to King Arthur and as a center for New Age culture. The Glastonbury Tor is a prominent hill topped with a tower, offering panoramic views of the Somerset Levels. The town is also home to the ruins of Glastonbury Abbey, said to be the burial place of King Arthur. The Chalice Well and Gardens provide a peaceful retreat, and the town's many esoteric shops are perfect for those interested in spirituality and mysticism.

How to Get There: Glastonbury is about a two-hour drive from Torquay. Alternatively, you can take a train to Castle Cary and then a bus to Glastonbury, which takes around 3 hours in total.

Travel Tip: Visit during one of the town's many festivals or events, such as the Glastonbury Goddess Conference or the Glastonbury Frost Fayre, for a truly unique experience.

Where to Stay: The George and Pilgrim Hotel is one of the oldest in the South West, dating back to the 1400s, and offers a historic stay in the heart of Glastonbury.

Where to Eat: The Hundred Monkeys Cafe is a local favorite, offering a menu of organic and locally sourced vegetarian and vegan dishes.