Paignton campsites

One of the top attractions in town is the fantastic Paignton Zoo which has a wide variety of animals including snakes, big cats, birds, monkeys and much more. Informative keeper talks and great play areas for kids help make the zoo a wonderful attraction for both younger and older animal lovers - and being open every day except Christmas Day, it's a treat for all the family whatever time of year you visit.

The Geoplay Park on Paignton's seafront has something to appeal to kids of all ages too, from toddlers to teens. This free attraction is designed around the English Riviera’s geological history with several themed areas.

Continuing along the seafront, a stroll along Paignton Pier offers great sea views and typical seaside attractions including dodgems, trampolining, crazy golf and bowling to name just a few. Paignton Sands is set below the pier and is a lovely beach for walks, sandcastle-building and bathing.

Known as one of the most beautiful beaches in the English Riviera, it has calm waters and is a popular spot in the summer.

There are several other great beaches situated close to the town too, such as Goodrington Sands, a clean beach by the steam railway, and Broadsands, a sandy bay with rock pools.  The kids will love Occombe Farm too, which is a working farm and nature trail.

Walkers should not miss the Roundham Head walk on the South West Coast Path, which offers pretty sea views across the bay at Goodrington Sands.

If you fancy seeing the sights in a different way, then you could hop on board the Dartmouth Steam Railway or enjoy an exciting boat trip with Paignton Pleasure Cruises or Dartmouth River Boats. Reach Outdoors also run stand up paddleboarding, coasteering and kayaking trips for all ages.

For more water-based fun, a visit to Splashdown Quaywest Waterpark offers eight mat, body and tyre waterslides that the whole family will enjoy.

For something a little more sedate, try Victoria Park's 11 acres of pleasure and recreation grounds, or catch a show at the Palace Theatre which offers a range of performances all year round.

Further afield, there are plenty of other enticing towns and beaches to visit, including Torquay with a range of attractions including the Living Seas coastal zoo and aquarium, Babbacombe Model Village and Brixham’s full size replica ship, The Golden Hind.

Nearby Compton Castle is well worth a visit too.