South Devon online guide featuring activities, travel, eating, shopping, hotels, self catering and bed & breakfasts on the popular English Riviera coastline. In 1983 the resorts of Brixham, Torquay and Paignton were relaunched as the English Riviera, and exotic, yet still very English alternative to going abroad. Torquay comes closest to achieving the sophisticated image; Paignton is more kiss-me-quick than 'je ne sais quoi', while Brixham remains an unspoilt fishing port. Torquay is the South Devon at its most continental - a balmy climate, palm trees sparkling with coloured lights and millionaires' yachts basking in the marina. The English Riviera stretches for 22 miles along the South Devon coastline. The area boasts 20 different beaches. more info >>

One of the best family break and activity holiday destinations in England is the Isle of Wight. This largely rural island divided from the English mainland by the Solent is a warren of country lanes, woodlands, farms and fringed with beaches. Surrounded by water, many of the islanders take the opportunity to sail and the Isle of Wight is one of the premier yachting destinations in the UK. There are other ways for holidaymakers to take to the water individually: on jet skis, kayaks, canoes, wind surfers and water skis. The Isle of Wight is a great family holiday destination because of its stretches of sand and pebble beach. Sandown and Yaverland on the east coast have long and deep sandy beaches that could accommodate a multitude of people. Certain sections of beach allow dogs which makes the island hugely attractive for pet-friendly breaks. Add to that the miles of rural walks and the annual dog show and it is possibly the best English dog-friendly holiday destination. more info >>