Torquay – What You Need to Know When Moving There

Nestled on the north side of Tor Bay in Devon, Torquay is a charming seaside town often called the English Riviera. With its sandy beaches, gentle climate, and friendly atmosphere, Torquay has long attracted residents seeking coastal living. The town offers a mix of historical landmarks (like Torre Abbey) and modern amenities. Torquay has a population of around 65,000 people, making it one of the key towns in the Torbay area. It enjoys a slower pace than major cities, with a strong sense of community. Locals often praise its low crime rate and family-friendly environment. Because tourism is a big part of the economy, the town comes alive in summer with festivals and events – meaning newcomers can enjoy lively weeks by the sea as well as peaceful off-season months.

Why Move to Torquay?

Many people consider relocating to Torquay for its lifestyle and location. The town’s coastal setting provides a range of outdoor activities: sailing in the bay, kayaking along the cliffs, or simply relaxing on the many picturesque beaches such as Abbey Sands, Meadfoot Beach, and Anstey Cove. Torquay is also close to green countryside, so day trips to Dartmoor National Park or coastal walks along the South West Coast Path are easy. Another big draw is the cultural scene. Torquay celebrates its heritage (the Agatha Christie Mile, a trail highlighting local author Agatha Christie’s life) and even inspired the setting of the famous sitcom Fawlty Towers. You’ll find a variety of pubs, cafés, and restaurants, as well as local theaters and galleries for a vibrant community life.

Those looking for moderate costs of living often find Torquay appealing. Compared to London or the Southeast, housing prices and daily expenses tend to be more affordable. Coastal properties with stunning views can be expensive, but many families are pleasantly surprised by how far their salary or pension goes here. Groceries and dining out are reasonably priced, and many residents say that Torquay’s cost of living is lower than in larger UK cities. It’s also a popular place for retirees and remote workers, who appreciate a relaxed pace of life with all essential services nearby.

Preparing to Move: Practical Tips

Moving to a new town takes some planning. In Torquay, it’s wise to research housing options and neighborhoods before deciding where to settle. Torquay’s geography is shaped by its bay and rolling hills, so each area has its own character (see the neighborhoods section below for details). Think about your priorities: proximity to the beach, good schools, local shops, or easy transport. Also, prepare for the weather. Even though Torquay is milder than much of England, UK weather can be unpredictable. Packing a sturdy umbrella and some warm layers for the off-season is smart.

Once you’ve chosen where to live, planning is key. Before the big day, prepare a moving checklist of tasks:

• Notify relevant parties: Inform your landlord or mortgage lender of your plans and update your postal address with banks, utility providers, and any subscription services.

• Hire removals and transport: Book a trusted removal company (such as Ed Kowalski Removals) or van rental ahead of time. Local firms can provide a full service or a simple “man and van” for smaller moves.

• Transfer utilities and services: Arrange the start or end of electricity, gas, water, internet, and TV license at your new home. Don’t forget to register for council tax with Torbay Council at your new address.

• Prepare travel and pets: Plan how you will travel on moving day. Book accommodation if needed, and make arrangements for any pets or large items (for example, a pet-friendly carrier or a trailer for a big couch).

• Pack essentials: Pack your belongings systematically, labeling boxes by room. Keep a “first-night” bag with essentials (toiletries, clothes, phone chargers, basic kitchenware) so you can settle in comfortably on day one.

If possible, try to visit Torquay before you move. Walking around your chosen neighborhood during a trial visit helps you get a feel for local shops, parking, and public transport. Check where the nearest supermarket, pharmacy, or doctor’s office will be. This way you can move in with confidence, knowing exactly what to expect.

Choosing a Removal Service

Hiring a professional moving company can make the relocation much smoother. Local movers know Torquay’s streets well. For example, Ed Kowalski Removals is a trusted Torquay-based firm that highlights its local expertise, flexible moving options, and competitive pricing. They offer services ranging from a simple man-and-van for small loads to full house removals. Such companies can pack your belongings carefully, protect fragile items, and even dismantle and reassemble furniture. Many local movers also provide insurance for your move and can arrange storage solutions if needed (for example, if your new home won’t be ready on moving day).

Housing and Cost of Living

Torquay offers a variety of housing styles, from seaside apartments to village cottages. If you’re buying a home, prices vary by area. Seaside properties with views (for example near Babbacombe or along Beacon Cove) tend to be at the higher end of the market. However, there are more affordable areas inland. Many families find Victorian homes on the hills of Wellswood or Warberry Road, and modern developments in St Marychurch or Chelston provide contemporary options. Overall, Torquay’s market is more budget-friendly than in large cities, but prices have been rising in recent years.

Renting is another popular option. You can find flat rentals or houses ranging from one-bedroom apartments (often from a few hundred pounds per month) to family homes. Student and short-term lettings are also available, as the town attracts many tourists and students. When renting, landlords will usually require a deposit (often five weeks’ rent in England) and references. It’s wise to view multiple properties in different neighborhoods to compare what’s on offer for your budget.

Daily living costs in Torquay are reasonable. Supermarket prices are similar to the UK average, and there are plenty of high-street and local shops for groceries and essentials. Eating out can be very affordable – fish and chips by the pier, inexpensive cafés, and mid-range restaurants cater to every budget. Council tax (the local tax for services) varies by band, but is generally lower than in metropolitan areas. Overall, newcomers often report that they can live comfortably in Torquay without the steep expenses of London or the Southeast.

Torquay Neighborhoods

Torquay is made up of distinct neighborhoods and suburbs, each with its own feel. When moving, learning about these areas helps you pick the right home. Below we describe some key districts:

Town Centre and Harbour

The heart of Torquay is the Town Centre, stretching along the waterfront of the harbour. This area is lively and convenient. You’ll find many shops, cafés, restaurants, and pubs within walking distance, as well as the main Torquay railway station near Torre Abbey Sands. Living here means you can often walk to the beach (Riviera Beach or Abbey Sands) and have easy access to buses and trains. Housing in the town centre tends to be apartment buildings or terraced homes, with a higher density of people. This makes it a great pick if you want everything nearby: supermarkets, a cinema, library, and even Torbay Hospital are all close. However, it can be busier and noisier, especially on summer weekends and evenings (the harbourfront lights up with activity). If you enjoy an urban coastal vibe and don’t mind some hustle, the town centre is ideal.

Wellswood and Warberries

Just southwest of the centre lie Wellswood and the adjacent Warberries area. This neighborhood is leafy and charming. Wellswood is known for its boutique shops, bakeries, and a relaxed “village” atmosphere (even though it’s still close to town). Warberry Road, which leads down to the seafront promenade, has several notable hotels and Victorian homes with sea views. Properties here are mostly well-kept period houses or modern flats converted from old villas. The area is quiet and family-friendly, with parks like St. George’s Park and Cockington Green nearby. You’ll also find a few coffee shops, a post office, and convenience stores along Wellswood Road. People who live in Wellswood enjoy having seaside walks on Warberry Terrace as well as easy access to local amenities. It’s an affluent neighborhood with a strong community feel.

Torre and Livermead

To the north of the town centre along the coast are Torre and beyond it, Livermead. Torre includes the area around Torre Abbey (a historic priory with gardens) and Torre Park, extending inland toward the railway. This district features older houses on the hillside and medium-sized estates. It’s quieter than the centre but still has local shops on Newton Road and a station (Torre Station). A highlight is the coastal path to Paignton and the sandy Torre Abbey Sands beach, lined with palm trees. Torre’s vibe is residential and calm, popular with families and retirees. Just a bit further north is Livermead, a small coastal suburb known for its beautiful viewpoints (Livermead Beach and Heybrook Bay), a golf club, and a holiday park. Livermead’s homes include some bungalows and villas nestled in woodland. Both areas offer countryside or bay views and are more suburban; they’re good picks if you want a balance of coastal scenery and a peaceful neighborhood.

Babbacombe and Meadfoot

East of the centre on the slopes above the sea is Babbacombe, a popular area with families and holidaymakers. Babbacombe’s main attractions are its gardens, the Downs (a large open park area with a cafe), and the Babbacombe Model Village (a charming miniature world). The neighborhood has a real community spirit – it’s often described as quaint and friendly. Housing in Babbacombe is varied: small apartment blocks, terraced houses near the park, and some large villas with panoramic ocean views further downhill. The local high street (along Warberry Road) has pubs, takeaways, and shops. Meadfoot lies just south of Babbacombe, near Meadfoot Beach. It’s quieter, with some semi-detached houses and a popular tea rooms overlooking the sea. Together, Babbacombe and Meadfoot offer easy beach access, hilltop walks, and a village feel even though they are just a few minutes from the centre by car. Parking is generally better than in central Torquay, but the steep roads mean you might prefer a car for daily errands.

St Marychurch and Watcombe

South-east of the harbour, the large suburb of St Marychurch includes Watcombe and Cockington. St Marychurch is one of Torquay’s oldest settlements and has a distinct village center. The Plainmoor area features a traditional high street with a historic church, local shops, and pubs (for example, “The Dolphin” pub is well-loved by locals). The streets here mix period townhouses and newer homes, giving it a cozy, lived-in feel. This area is very community-oriented; you’ll see local village events, church fetes, and friendly neighbors on walks. Not far away is Cockington Court and Country Park, a scenic estate with gardens, craft shops, and a mill. People in St Marychurch and Watcombe enjoy the best of suburban life: good schools (several catchment area schools are here), local sports clubs, and easy parking. Housing ranges from older semis to modern apartments. The area feels like living in a picturesque English village, yet you’re only a short drive from downtown Torquay.

Chelston and Surroundings

Further inland, you’ll find Chelston, an area that was once part of the Cockington estate. Chelston is mostly residential and very green. It has old village pubs, tree-lined streets, and even a church with a small park. Many homes in Chelston are mid-century or older houses with larger gardens, so it’s often preferred by families and people seeking more space. A notable spot is the new Hayden Park development, which offers modern apartments with sea views. Beyond Chelston to the south lies Idlecombe and Shiphay, which are quiet suburban and countryside fringes (with farms and fields). These outskirts are very peaceful but a 10–15 minute drive from the centre. Chelston residents enjoy easy access to Cockington’s parklands and local primary schools. It’s a good choice if you want a very relaxed, spacious neighborhood.

Getting Around: Transport and Access

Transport links in Torquay are convenient. The town has two train stations: Torquay station (in the town centre) and Torre station (to the north). Regular trains run north to Exeter (the nearest major city, about 18 miles away) and beyond (towards Bristol and London), and south along the coast to Paignton and Plymouth. This means you can commute to Exeter or Plymouth by train in about an hour. By road, the A380 dual carriageway (South Devon Highway) connects Torquay to the M5 motorway near Exeter. Within town, a network of local buses (mainly Stagecoach South West services) serves all neighborhoods; there are frequent routes between Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham. Taxis and rideshare are available too. The nearest airport is Exeter International Airport (about 25 miles north) with flights across the UK and Europe; many people from Torquay use it for travel.

• Tip: If you have a car, note that some Torquay roads are narrow and hilly. Parking permits are required on many residential streets. If you rely on public transit, check bus schedules on the Devon travel websites (buses run less frequently late at night or on weekends). For new drivers, remember the UK drives on the left!

Schools, Health, and Community Services

For families, Torquay provides a range of education and health options. The town has several primary schools in different districts, and multiple secondary schools. Two of the best-known are Torquay Girls’ Grammar and Torquay Boys’ Grammar – these selective schools have excellent reputations. Admission to these may depend on tests or catchment. There are also non-selective secondary schools and a few private schools in the area (for example, Truro College also has a campus at Torbay). If you move with children, research the catchment zones, because living in one part of town may allow your child into a particular school. South Devon College in nearby Paignton offers further education courses and is accessible by public transit.

Healthcare is well-covered. Torbay Hospital in Plainmoor/St Marychurch handles most medical needs, including A&E (emergency), maternity, and general care. There are also minor injury units and many general practitioner (GP) clinics around town. When you arrive, you should register with a local GP surgery (there are branches in Upton, Wellswood, etc.) to access NHS services. Pharmacies, dental clinics, and opticians are common in shopping areas like Newton Road or Abbey Road. Private medical practices and a private hospital (Spire South Devon) are also available for those who want private care.

Community life in Torquay is active. There are libraries (the main library in town centre), leisure centers (with pools and gyms), and parks for recreation. Local sports clubs (football, rugby, sailing, etc.) welcome new members. Cultural groups – such as art classes, music societies, and hobby clubs – provide social connections. Torbay Council runs community programs and supports new residents with advice. Throughout the year, Torbay holds events: the Torbay Regatta, fireworks displays, and seasonal markets keep the community engaged. For families, Torquay even has a small zoo (Living Coasts) and the Kents Cavern prehistoric caves to explore with children.

Planning Your Move

Once you’ve chosen where to live, the day itself should be carefully planned. Try to move in warm weather if you can, and avoid busy local events when possible. Make sure you measure large furniture and check if your new home has any access restrictions. It’s a good idea to spend your first night with a handful of items unpacked (bedsheets, a few dishes, clothing) so you can sleep comfortably without digging through boxes. Finally, give yourself time to adapt: finding new favorite routes for dog walking, local takeaways, and meeting neighbors will help Torquay start feeling like home.

FAQ

• What is the climate like in Torquay? Torquay enjoys a mild, temperate climate year-round. Winters are generally cool and wet, but milder than northern England, while summers are warm and sunny. The sheltered bay often gives Torquay more sunshine than inland areas. Rainfall is moderate, so keeping a raincoat or umbrella on hand is wise.

• Is Torquay an expensive place to live? Compared to major UK cities, Torquay is relatively affordable. Housing prices and rents can be higher in prime coastal spots, but many suburbs offer lower costs. Overall, everyday expenses (food, dining, utilities) tend to be reasonable. Many residents find their money goes further here than in London or the Southeast.

• What are the best areas to live in Torquay? That depends on your lifestyle. For beach proximity and a bustling scene, consider the Town Centre or Babbacombe. For a quiet family neighborhood with good schools, Wellswood or Warberries are popular. St Marychurch offers a historic village feel, while Torre and Livermead are known for sea views and suburban calm. It’s worth visiting neighborhoods to see which community feels right for you.

• How are transport links in and out of Torquay? Transport is convenient. Torquay has two train stations on the line to Exeter (and onward to London and Bristol) and to Plymouth. Major roads (A380/A3022) link to the motorway network. Local buses serve every part of Torbay, and summer ferries run across the bay to Paignton and Brixham. The nearest major airport is Exeter, about 25 miles away.

• What should I do when moving to Torquay? Prepare by booking movers, transferring utilities, and notifying your bank and council of your address change. Once there, register with the NHS and a local GP, enroll your children in school (if applicable), and obtain any needed driving permits (the UK requires a driving license and road tax for cars). Familiarize yourself with UK practices (like left-side driving and 3-pin electrical plugs) to ease your transition.

• Are there reliable movers in Torquay? Yes, Torquay has several reputable moving companies. Ed Kowalski Removals, for example, is a local firm known for friendly service and fair quotes. They handle everything from one-bedroom flat moves to full-house relocations, and offer packing, storage, and even furniture assembly. It’s a good idea to get multiple quotes, but local movers generally cater well to new Torbay residents.

• Is Torquay family-friendly? Very much so. The town is known for being safe and offering plenty for children: good schools, parks, leisure centers, and seaside activities. Many neighborhoods have playgrounds or community centers. There are also family events like festivals and educational tours (for example, exploring Kents Cavern caves or visiting the local aquarium). Parents often find a supportive community through school and neighborhood groups.

• What type of housing is common in Torquay? You’ll see a range: Victorian and Edwardian houses, terraced cottages, post-war semi-detached homes, and modern apartments. Coastal roads have many old villas, while new apartment complexes can be found in places like St Marychurch. Flats are common near the centre, whereas the hills and outskirts have more houses. Many homes have gardens or easy access to green spaces.

• How can I make friends after moving to Torquay? Torquay’s community is welcoming. Joining local clubs (sports teams, hiking groups, parent networks) is a great start. The Torbay council and libraries host community events. If you have children, attending school and nursery events will introduce you to other parents. There are also local online groups (on social media) where residents share advice. Don’t hesitate to say hello to neighbors at local shops or the pub; Torquay people tend to be friendly and helpful.