Torquay harbour in Devon

Top 5 Torquay pubs listed

If holidays aren't the perfect time to kick back and relax, we don't know what is. Indulge yourself with a hot meal and a pint one of these top 5 Torquay pubs.

1. The Drum Inn

The Drum Inn was designed by architect Sir Edwin Lutyens as the focal point of Cockington. The country pub still lives true as the heart of the village, with traditional charm and rustic character. You can view their whole menu on the Drum Inn website, but it’s worth noting that they serve a fixed price menu Monday through Saturday until 5pm, where you can enjoy a main course for £6.50 and add a starter or pudding for only £2. The pub is also child-friendly, offering smaller portions of their main dishes. You can choose two children’s courses and a Fruit Shoot for £6.95.

The traditional village is a great place to walk. You can take the family through the narrow lanes of thatched properties, before partaking in refreshment at the Inn. Enjoy one of the inn’s cask beers the beer garden. If you don’t fancy walking round the picturesque village you can treat yourself to a ride in a horse and carriage!

2. Crown and Sceptre

The Crown and Sceptre in the St Marychurch area of Torquay is a traditional local pub, with the added bonus of a collection of naval memorabilia and a 150-strong chamber-pot collection! This rather random collection hangs from the beamed ceiling of the 18th century building. If the interior puts you off, there are also two gardens to escape to. The Crown and Sceptre allow dogs and children, and serves food at lunchtime.

3. Hole in the Wall

The Hole in the Wall is the name of Torquay’s oldest pub, dating back to 1540. It’s been historically popular with smugglers and sailors alike, and it’s still a favourite with locals and holidaymakers today. Situated on the Torquay harbour-side, the varied menu includes daily fish and meat specials as well as home-made soup. The bar offers a choice of regular ales such as Butcombe Bitter, Otter Bitter, Sharp’s Doom Bar and Shepherd Neame Spitfire, as well as regularly-changed guest ales and traditional ciders.

4. Cary Arms

Located on the beach at Babbacombe, the Cary Arms is by far the most picturesque pub on this list. Take your dog for a stroll along the beach before heading inside to relax with a drink or a meal. The interior of the inn makes use of the stunning views with large windows, while incorporating charming traditional pub features such as wooden floors and stone walls. The luxury of the hotel area flows into the stylish gastro-pub. Food is served from noon to 3:00pm and 6:30pm to 9:00pm every day, and you can expect fresh local fare such as Devon beef and Lyme Bay lobster.

5. Noah’s Ark

This family-friendly bar and restaurant is a little further out towards Paignton, but is worth a mention because of its unique ship-shaped exterior! The large modern interior is crisp and clean. You can get a Sunday lunch for £6.95. Noah's Ark serves a variety of food Monday through Saturday between 11am and 9pm, although the bar stays open until 11pm. It’s also dog-friendly and has ample car parking.

If you are on holiday in Torquay with family or friends, there is plenty of choice for a pubs to enjoy a quiet drink at (or two or three!). So put your feet up and unwind while on your holiday. You deserve it!

You can find pubs with camping here.

This article was last updated on January 09, 2023
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