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Paignton
City hotel guide

Paignton

Paignton is a charming seaside town on the coast of Tor Bay in Devon, England, forming part of the Torbay borough alongside Torquay and Brixham. Known as the 'English Riviera,' this holiday destination blends its origins as a Celtic settlement and fishing village with modern resort amenities. First mentioned in 1086, Paignton developed significantly after the construction of a new harbour in 1847 and the arrival of the railway in 1859, which connected it to London and Torquay. Located approximately 25 miles northeast of Plymouth and 20 miles south of Exeter, Paignton offers a relaxed coastal atmosphere ideal for travelers seeking a break from urban intensity. The town has expanded by merging with neighboring villages like Goodrington and Preston, creating a cohesive community with diverse accommodation options. For frequent-flyer hotel guests, Paignton provides a serene base with easy access to the scenic Devon coastline, historic sites, and local maritime heritage. Its position within the Torbay area ensures a variety of dining and leisure activities, making it a versatile choice for both short layovers and extended stays.

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Getting there & around

EXT airport guide (official info · terminals · lounges) →

🚆 Paignton railway station🚆 Torquay railway station🚆 Torre railway station

Before choosing where to stay

Where to Base

Stay near the seafront or Paignton Pier for easy access to views, restaurants, and shops. The Goodrington area offers a quieter atmosphere for travelers preferring peace.

Getting Around

Paignton is linked by rail to London and Torquay. Local buses provide easy access to other parts of Torbay. It is about 40km from Plymouth, accessible by car or train.

Best Season

Summer is ideal for visiting Paignton with pleasant weather and beach activities. Spring and autumn offer fewer crowds, perfect for exploring history and nature quietly.

Nearby attractions

Paignton Zoo

Paignton Zoo

Park1.5 km

zoo in the UK

Goodrington Sands

Goodrington Sands

Nature1.2 km

beach in Devon, England, UK

Kirkham House

Kirkham House

Museum645 m

late medieval stone house in Devon, England, UK

Compton Castle

Compton Castle

Museum5.0 km

Grade I listed historic house museum in South Hams, Devon, England, UK

Torre Abbey

Torre Abbey

Worship3.7 km

house museum in Torquay, United Kingdom

Church of St Mary, Collaton St Mary

Church of St Mary, Collaton St Mary

Worship2.5 km

church in Torbay, UK

Living Coasts

Living Coasts

Park3.9 km

zoo in Devon, England

Broadsands Chambered Tomb

Broadsands Chambered Tomb

Monument3.2 km

neolithic passage tomb in Devon, England, UK

Elberry Cove

Elberry Cove

Nature3.7 km

cove and beach in Devon, England, UK

Princess Theatre

Princess Theatre

Culture4.0 km

theatre in Torquay, England

Dining

Elephant

Restaurant Michelin£££4.0 km

Simon Hulstone’s bright, laid-back restaurant looks out over Torquay Harbour. Low-backed wooden chairs sit at stone tables – backed by moody coloured walls – and elephant-themed decorations are dotted about the place. The hugely appealing dishes are led by Simon's selection of local, seasonal produce, including some grown and reared on their 96-acre farm. Accompaniments are designed to enhance each main ingredient, and the tasting menu best demonstrates the breadth of his skill.

Website

Roam

Restaurant££4.5 km

On Lower Well Farm, the home of Sandridge Barton wines, you’ll find this lovely converted barn serving a fresh taste of the seasons. The restaurant is in a sheltered spot tucked behind the shop and tasting room, with its own extensive terrace soundtracked by the gentle flow of a nearby stream. The daily, lunch-only menu makes the most of the local larder, from fish caught at Brixham to ceps picked on Dartmoor. There’s a wholesome element to the cooking, which ensures the true flavours of the ingredients shine through. Make sure you order a glass of their own wine.

Website

Attraction data from Wikidata (CC0) and open sources, ranked by notability and distance — for reference.

See all guide-listed restaurants in Paignton (Michelin / Black Pearl) →

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Most-covered hotels in Paignton

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