There is something special about a seaside town in summer, when the whole bay comes alive with events out on the water and along the front. Paignton sits right in the middle of Torbay, with a grandstand view across the whole sweep of the bay, and the summer calendar here is packed with regattas, air displays, concerts, fireworks and more. Best of all, much of it can be enjoyed for free, simply by finding a good spot on the seafront. Here is your guide to summer events and regattas on Paignton seafront and around the bay.
A summer full of spectacle
Throughout the summer season, Torbay hosts a remarkable variety of events out on the water and in the sky. As the lodge’s own description of the area puts it, you can enjoy “a whole host of the variety of summertime regattas events, which include firework displays, concerts, classic cars, Red Arrows display, power boat racing, tall ships — the list goes on and new things get added each year.” From a base on Paignton seafront you are perfectly placed to enjoy the show, with the bay laid out in front of you like a natural amphitheatre.
Regatta weeks
The traditional seaside regatta is a highlight of the Torbay summer. Paignton, Torquay and Brixham each hold their own regatta weeks, packed with sailing races, rowing, swimming events, family entertainment, market stalls and, usually, a grand firework finale over the water. The atmosphere is wonderfully old-fashioned and friendly, with the whole community joining in. Catching a regatta during your stay adds a real sense of occasion, and the races out in the bay make for fine spectating from the front.
The Torbay Airshow and the Red Arrows
One of the most thrilling events of the year is the air display, when fast jets and historic aircraft take to the skies over the bay and the world-famous Red Arrows trail their red, white and blue smoke across the blue water. The sheer scale and noise of a display over the sea is unforgettable, and the bay’s geography means tens of thousands can watch from the seafronts all around. It is a genuine highlight, and an event that draws visitors back year after year. Do check the dates and programme when planning your trip, as the line-up varies from year to year.
Powerboat racing and watersports
The calm, sheltered waters of Torbay make it a natural venue for powerboat racing and other on-the-water spectacles, which bring speed and excitement to the bay through the season. Alongside the organised events, summer is when the watersports operators are in full swing on the beaches, so you can watch — or join in with — kayaking, paddleboarding and more. There is almost always something happening on the water on a fine summer’s day.
Tall ships and classic boats
Few sights are as romantic as a tall ship under sail, and Torbay’s events calendar sometimes brings these magnificent vessels into the bay, along with gatherings of classic boats and yachts. Seeing them at anchor or under sail against the backdrop of the bay is a memorable experience, and a reminder of the area’s long maritime heritage.
Classic cars, concerts and town events
It is not all out on the water. The summer also brings classic-car gatherings, open-air concerts, carnivals and a whole range of town events across Paignton, Torquay and Brixham. From live music on the seafront to family fun days and food events, there is a steady stream of things to see and do, and new events are added each year. Many are free or low-cost, making them easy to fit into a holiday on a budget.
Fireworks over the bay
Summer evenings in Torbay are often crowned with firework displays, frequently as the finale to regatta weeks and other celebrations. Watching fireworks burst over the dark water of the bay, reflected on the sea, is a magical way to end a summer’s day — and from this part of Paignton seafront you have a wonderful view. Wrap up for the evening sea air, find a good spot, and enjoy the show.
Planning around the events
To make the most of Torbay’s summer events, a little planning helps. Dates and line-ups change from year to year, so it is well worth checking the local events calendar when you book and again closer to your stay, so you can build your holiday around any highlights. The biggest events — the airshow and the main regatta weeks — draw large crowds, so arrive early at popular viewing spots, bring something to sit on, and allow extra time for getting about. For the fireworks and evening events, wrap up against the sea air and find your spot in good time. And remember that from the seafront you can often enjoy a great deal for free.
Quieter events and year-round happenings
It is not all big spectacles. Throughout the year, Torbay’s towns host markets, food and drink events, carnivals, seasonal festivals and community celebrations that give a lovely flavour of local life. Brixham’s maritime events, Dartmouth’s regatta and food festival just along the coast, and various seasonal happenings across the bay all add colour to a holiday. Even outside the peak summer weeks there is usually something on, so it is always worth asking what is happening during your stay — you may stumble upon a charming local event that becomes a highlight of your trip.
Frequently asked questions
When is the Torbay Airshow? The airshow is usually held in early summer, but dates and the flying programme vary each year, so check the current calendar.
Can I watch the events for free? Yes — much of the summer’s spectacle, including regattas, air displays and fireworks, can be enjoyed for free from the seafront.
Where is the best place to watch? Anywhere along the Paignton seafront gives a fine view across the bay; arriving early secures the best spots for the big events.
Do I need to book accommodation early for event weekends? Yes — popular event weekends book up fast, so reserve your stay well ahead.
A grandstand seat on the bay
The real advantage of staying on Paignton seafront in summer is the view. Because Cranmore Lodge sits right opposite Preston Sands, positioned in the middle of the bay, many of the apartments look straight out over the water where the regattas, air displays and fireworks take place. You can enjoy a surprising amount of the summer’s spectacle from your own window or from the beach a few steps away, then stroll along the front to join the festivities. It is hard to imagine a better seat for the show. See more about the area and its events.
Stay at Cranmore Lodge, Paignton
For a front-row view of Torbay’s summer events, base yourself at Cranmore Lodge, right on Paignton seafront. View our sea-view apartments or check availability and book online.
To enquire, call +44 (0)1803 556278 or email enquiries@cranmorelodge.co.uk. Cranmore Lodge Holiday Apartments, 45 Marine Drive, Paignton TQ3 2NS.