Top 10 Things to Do in Torcross, South Devon

Torcoss Best Things to Do

Looking for the best things to do in Torcross?

Nestled in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Torcross is a seaside village located in Devon, England. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, stunning coastal walks, and friendly atmosphere.

Positioned between the freshwater Slapton Ley and the expansive shingle beach of Slapton Sands, Torcross offers breathtaking panoramic views of Start Bay.

In this guide, we’ve put together a list of what to do in Torcross and the surrounding areas.

Location

Conveniently located between Kingsbridge and Dartmouth, Torcross is within easy reach of several popular destinations in Devon and beyond. It is approximately:

15 miles (24 km) south of Brixham, a scenic 30-minute drive or a short bus ride away.
20 miles (32 km) south of Torquay, around a 40-minute drive or a direct bus journey.
215 miles (346 km) southwest of London, about a 4-hour drive or a scenic train journey to Totnes, followed by a local bus or taxi ride.

A Brief History of Torcross

Torcross has a fascinating history that stretches back centuries. The village is perhaps best known for its role in World War II preparations, particularly the tragic events of Operation Tiger.

In 1944, the area was used as a rehearsal site for the D-Day landings, but a combination of live ammunition and a surprise attack by German E-boats resulted in the loss of hundreds of American soldiers and sailors lives.

Today, Torcross serves as a poignant reminder of this historic event, with memorials and exhibitions dedicated to those who lost their lives.

The village is also home to Slapton Sands, a shingle beach that has been a popular destination for visitors since the 19th century. The beach and the nearby Slapton Ley National Nature Reserve are renowned for their unique wildlife and stunning landscapes.

Top 10 Things to Do in Torcross

1. Walk the South West Coast Path

Torcross’s beachside location makes it a firm favourite for walkers.

Situated directly on the South West Coast Path, you can enjoy breathtaking coastal views while exploring the nearby villages of Beesands or Hallsands, or venture further to Stokenham, Slapton, and Strete.

The paths are suitable for most abilities and offer a fantastic way to discover the local area.

2. Swimming and Water Sports

The calm waters of Torcross Beach and Slapton Sands make them ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking.

Although equipment hire is not available, the beaches offer a perfect setting to enjoy various water activities.

Keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as seals and dolphins, especially during sunrise or sunset.

3. Nature Spotting at Slapton Ley Nature Reserve

For a gentler activity, spend your time exploring the beautiful Slapton Ley Nature Reserve.

This freshwater lake is surrounded by reeds, shrubs, and trees, making it a haven for wildlife, including the lesser spotted otter.

The reserve offers various walking trails and a wheelchair-accessible hide for birdwatching, situated in the main Torcross car park (Slapton Line).

4. Feed the Swans and Ducks

The southern tip of Slapton Ley is a popular place for children (and grown-ups) to feed the swans and ducks.

Both the Start Bay Inn and Sea Breeze Café sell small bags of bird food.

5. Visit the Sherman Tank Memorial

History lovers will appreciate the Sherman Tank Memorial, which commemorates the events of Operation Tiger during World War II.

The memorial serves as a poignant reminder of the area’s role in the war and the lives lost during the tragic exercise.

6. Explore the Remains of Hallsands

Nearby Hallsands, known as the ‘village that fell into the sea,’ offers a wonderful glimpse into the past.

The remains of this once-thriving fishing village serve as a reminder of the power of nature and the area’s history.

7. Discover Start Point Lighthouse

Start Point Lighthouse is a must-visit for those interested in maritime history. The lighthouse, which has guided ships safely through the treacherous waters of Start Bay for over a century, offers stunning views and a wealth of historical information.

Before you go check opening times as the lighthouse is only open to the public on specific days.

8. Visit the Historic Town of Dartmouth

Just a short drive from Torcross, the beautiful harbour town of Dartmouth offers the perfect day out for all ages. Explore its cobbled streets, visit the historic castle, or take a boat trip along the River Dart.

9. Sample Local Wines at Sharpham Vineyard

Around a 45-minute drive from Torcross is Sharpham Vineyard, an award-winning producer of English wines.

The vineyard offers tours and tastings to learn about the winemaking process and sample some of the delicious wines on offer.

10. Enjoy a Cream Tea at The Torcross Boathouse

No visit to Devon would be complete without indulging in a traditional cream tea. The Torcross Boathouse offers a delightful setting for this quintessential English treat, with lovely views and a delicious selection of homemade scones, clotted cream, and jam.

Torcross Beach

Torcross Beach, located at the southern tip of Slapton Sands, is often considered a separate beach entirely.

Its calm, clear waters attract swimmers, paddleboarders, and kayakers, while the shingle shores are perfect for sunbathing and angling.

The beach boasts excellent facilities, including disabled access via a slipway, a 300m level promenade ideal for wheelchairs and buggies, ample parking, well-maintained public toilets, and lifeguard service during summer. Various waterfront eateries offer everything from barista coffee to fresh fish and chips.

For those looking for something more private, head to ‘The Cove’ which lies just beyond the southern tip of the beach, accessible via the South West Coast Path.

Visiting Torcross With Dogs

Torcross is a paradise for dog owners, welcoming canine companions year-round. The village offers numerous dog-friendly attractions, including:

The expansive shingle beach
South West Coast Path access
Nearby dog-friendly beaches like Beesands and Hallsands
Miles of inland footpaths through Slapton Ley Nature Reserve and the surrounding countryside

Places to Eat and Drink in Torcross

Despite its modest size, Torcross has plenty of wonderful dining options. Here are our favourites:

Start Bay Inn: A family-friendly pub serving locally sourced seafood and traditional pub fare.
Torcross Boat House: A casual café/restaurant with panoramic sea views, offering both dine-in and takeaway options.
Seabreeze Café: A cosy traditional café perfect for light bites and desserts.
The Billy Can: A unique spot combining a café, retro sweet shop, and arts and crafts centre.
Stokeley Farm Shop Café: Located just outside Torcross, offering delicious meals and local produce.

Parking Information

Torcross offers several parking options:

Main Torcross car park (‘Torcross Tank’): Located between Slapton Ley and the beach, with public toilets and beach access.
Torcross village layby: Short-stay diagonal roadside parking bays.
Southern tip: Limited free parking with no time restrictions.

Both main car parks are chargeable. For navigation, use postcode TQ7 2TQ.