Paignton and it' s safe harbour were first mentioned as long ago as 1567, and by the 17th Century, the area had become known as The Manor and Borough of Peynton. From this rather sleepy Peynton of old came the modern Paignton we know today; a vibrant and colourful holiday destination, with long safe sandy beaches and some of the best family orientated attractions that the west-country has to offer.
Largely
developed by the Victorians, Paignton soon became the place to be. The elegant
Oldway Mansion about half a mile from the beach and formerly the home of Isaac
Merritt Singer, founder of the Singer Sewing Machine Company, bears testament
to this. His son Paris Singer, continued the tradition of elegance by
the seaside by having this already graceful building completely refurbished
in the style of The Palace of Versailles in France, complete with Italian
Marble staircase and Hall of Mirrors.
But the Paignton of today is better known for being the perfect family holiday centre. It has safe beaches for paddling and bathing, traditional amusements on Paignton Pier, friendly cafes, excellent restaurants such as The Orchard, and a host of lively bars. Added to this are games, entertainments and fun-fairs on the spacious Paignton Green, numerous boat trips and excursions, and above all, a warm welcoming atmosphere.
Should you ever tire of the beach and the seafront, local attractions such as Quaywest Water Park and the inspirational Paignton Zoo offer an excellent day out for both old and young alike, as do the relaxing Cockington Country Park and the newly opened and fully organic Occombe Farm, both just a few minutes drive from Paignton town centre.
Alternatively, why not take a trip back in time on the famous Paignton and Dartmouth Steam Railway, which runs from Paignton Station, over the spectacular Broadsands Viaduct and along the beautiful River Dart Valley to Kingswear and Dartmouth.
After dark, Paignton offers some of the best night-life in the bay, with it's Apollo multiplex cinema, The Palace Theatre, and numerous other clubs and bars offering a multitude of musical entertainment. Paignton's popular Lime Tree pub and various other venues offer an amazing variety of musical acts, some of them seven nights a week, so there' s no excuse for ever falling asleep in Paignton.
However, should you prefer to relax in more tranquil surroundings, why not try one of the host of country inns and pub restaurants on hand, such as the highly recommended Hare and Hounds, just a few miles drive from Paignton town centre.
So whatever the age group, tots, teens, mums, dads or grand parents, you' ll find that the friendly little town of Paignton offers some of best all round family holiday facilities in Devon.
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