Things To Do in Torquay

This area is known for offering one of the balmiest climates in Britain. It's so temperate (because of its proximity to the Gulf Stream) that subtropical plants such as palm trees and succulents thrive.

A Walk Across South Devon -- The 56km-long (35-mile) John Musgrave Heritage Trail, launched in early 2006, starts at Maidencombe, near Torquay, and winds its way across some of the most beautiful tracts of land in South Devon. A highlight of the trip is crossing the Dart River on the Dittisham Ferry (pedestrians only) to Greenway, once home to Agatha Christie. The path continues uphill after you get off the ferry, taking in panoramic views of the river. It comes to an end at Brixham Harbour.

Seven theaters in town, all open year-round, offer everything from Gilbert and Sullivan and tributes to Sinatra and Nat King Cole to Marine Band concerts and comedy shows. Among the most active are the Palace Theatre, Palace Avenue, Paignton (tel. 01803/665800; www.torquay.gov.uk/palacetheatre), and the Princess Theatre, Torbay Road (tel. 01803/290288).

Fifteen area nightclubs cater to everyone from teeny-boppers to gays, but dancing rules the town, and there's virtually nowhere to catch live club acts. Among the better dance clubs are Bohemia, Torwood Street (tel. 01803/292079; www.clairesnightclub.co.uk), attracting ages 20 to 30 to its Thursday-to-Sunday house music, with a cover charge varying from £3 to £12.