South Devon and The Dawlish Coast

We arrive in Torquay, meeting our Tour Manager at the Imperial Hotel. Torquay has often been referred to as the 'English Riviera', boasting an almost Mediterranean environment. The arrival of the railway in the mid 19th-century boosted Torquay's reputation as a desirable holiday spot, and today the pretty town is just as popular as ever, with no fewer than 20 beaches and 22 miles of rugged coast.

• Dinner

Today we explore the English Riviera's splendid coastline, beginning with a boat cruise down the river between Totnes and Dartmouth. After some free time to explore the elegant riverside town of Dartmouth, we cross the Dart Estuary by ferry to Kingswear. Here we board the Dartmouth Steam Railway, which takes us along the scenic Devon coastline and the tranquil River Dart to Paignton. We enjoy the views of the beautiful sand-fringed shoreline beaches, passing colourful beach huts and the blue expanse of the English Channel, discovering the wonderful ribbon of the River Dart, lined with verdant forests and idyllic woodlands.

• Breakfast, Dinner

Today is free day to go sightseeing in Torquay. You could take a stroll along the town's charming seafront, following the 'Agatha Christie Mile' for an insight into the famous local novelist. You could also visit striking Torre Abbey, a museum and art gallery housed in a historic building that once served as a medieval monastery. If you'd like to explore the local area by rail, take the scenic rail trip along the coast to the pretty town of Dawlish, or board the quaint Babbacombe Cliff Railway for an enjoyable ascent filled with spectacular coastal views.

• Breakfast

Taking the train along the coast to the traditional town of Dawlish, enjoy free time to experience some nostalgic seaside activities, such as a visit to the amusements or a portion of fish and chips followed by some local ice cream. Afterwards, we transfer to Buckfastleigh where we join the South Devon Railway for a steam-hauled journey along the valley of the River Dart. Built in 1872, this heritage line runs to Totnes on an awardwinning route that showcases the fine scenery and cheery stations of Southern England. Sit back and relax as we enjoy a picturesque return trip. The trains used here are beautiful old steam engines which follow a seven-mile route past babbling rivers and charming woodland.

• Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, we say our farewells and you are free to depart Torquay at your leisure.

• Breakfast