South Devon, Dartmouth, and The English Riviera

Our holiday begins today on the western shores of Tor Bay in the seaside town of Paignton. We're greeted by our Tour Manager at our luxurious hotel in the mid-afternoon. The Mercure Hotel is the perfect base for our holiday, situated on the seafront and just a few minutes' walk to the town centre where you can start exploring at leisure before dinner this evening.

• Dinner

We discover the English Riviera's seaside atmosphere today, beginning with a boat cruise from Totnes across the River Dart. We drift by idyllic riverside villages, the Sharpham Estate with its vineyards, and steep wooded hillsides until we reach Dartmouth.

There's time at leisure to explore the vibrant harbour town. You could visit the 14th-century Dartmouth Castle on the river bank, seek out the peaceful coves in the area, or enjoy lunch at one of the modern restaurants, elegant bars or traditional seaside fish and chip shops.

Later this afternoon, we cross the Dart Estuary by ferry to the village of Kingswear. We board the Dartmouth Steam Railway from here, which takes us along the scenic Devon coastline to Paignton. The scenery on this picturesque line is breathtaking as we pass through the wooded slopes of Long Wood and along the spectacular English Riviera Geopark coastline. Arriving in Paignton, our coach takes us back to our hotel for dinner this evening.

Trains are steam-hauled where possible. However, due to timetable changes or weather conditions, heritage diesel locomotives may be running instead.

• Breakfast, Dinner

You're at leisure today to explore at your own pace until dinner at the hotel this evening. Paignton's seafront and town centre shops are all conveniently near each other, so you can explore a lot in one day. The harbour is a true maritime treasure, with a vibrant collection of boats, a historic harbour wall, and a choice of delightful restaurants and cafes. You could try the renowned local fish for lunch or even enjoy some tapas by sea. You could also head to the bustling high street for a good choice of shops where you'll find everything from souvenirs to beach supplies.

• Breakfast, Dinner

Our coach takes us to Buckfastleigh this morning, where we join the South Devon Railway. This steam-hauled round trip runs along the valley of the River Dart, past babbling rivers and charming woodland.

After a delightful journey through some of Devon's most glorious countryside, our coach takes us to Buckfast Abbey. Home to a working community of Benedictine monks, there are award-winning gardens, an interactive exhibition, and a lovely chapel to discover at leisure.

This afternoon we visit the stunning coastal town of Teignmouth. The streets are lined with Georgian buildings, and the long sandy beaches are paired with the aroma of fresh local food. It's the perfect place to sit down to a traditional high tea, and we do just that in the riviera tearooms before time at leisure to explore.

Trains are steam-hauled where possible, however due to timetable changes or weather conditions, heritage diesel locomotives may be running instead.

• Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, our English Riviera holiday comes to an end. It's time to say goodbye to new friends and fellow travellers and make your way home. Or, you could continue to discover more of Devon on your own.

• Breakfast