Linking Exeter with the English Riviera, the Riviera Line passes along what is arguably one of England's best-loved stretches of railway, offering breathtaking sea views from the comfort of your train seat.

It's the perfect way to reach award-winning family attractions in Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, making for a wonderful day out.  

Kents Cavern Prehistoric Caves

Train stop - Torquay

Step back in time at Kents Cavern, one of the most significant Stone Age sites in Europe. Nestled in the heart of Torquay, this prehistoric caves system offers a fascinating journey through thousands of years of human history. Explore winding passages filled with stunning stalagmites and stalactites, and see where Neanderthals and early modern humans once lived. 

Fascinating guided tours bring the rich archaeology to life, while above ground the woodland trail and cafe make for a perfect family day out. Whether you're a history buff or curious explorer, Kents Cavern is a must-visit attraction on the English Riviera.

Dartmouth Steam Railway & River Boat Company

Train stop - Paignton

The Dartmouth Steam Railway & River Boat Company offers one of Devon’s most scenic and nostalgic days out. Journey by heritage steam train along the stunning coastline between Paignton and Kingswear, crossing two huge viaducts and soaking up breathtaking views of beaches, cliffs, and countryside. Then hop aboard a river cruise along the beautiful River Dart, passing historic Dartmouth, woodland hills, and wildlife-rich banks.

You can also explore the charming towns of Dartmouth and Totnes as part of the Round Robin experience. Perfect for families, couples, and adventure seekers, it’s a relaxing and unforgettable way to explore South Devon’s natural and maritime beauty.

Splashdown Quaywest

Train stop - Paignton and alight at Goodrington Sands on the Dartmouth Steam Railway

The UK's biggest outdoor waterpark, Splashdown Quaywest is the wettest and wildest attraction on the English Riviera! Offering a day packed with thrills, laughs, and unforgettable fun, you'll be sure to make a splash with plenty of exhilerating flume rides to choose from. For thrill-seekers, challenge yourself on the 3Fall, introduced in 2023, a heart-pounding 3-lane head-first mat ride, or take on the Devil’s Drop—a near-vertical, 15-meter drop for the bravest of adventurers.

There's also plenty of watery fun for little ones too, with Shipwreck Island - an interactive aqua-playground for children 12 and under. Featuring slides, sprays, and a giant tipping bucket, this new attraction promises endless entertainment for the whole family.

Paignton Zoo

Train stop - Paignton

Set across 80 acres of beautiful, spacious grounds, you're in for a really wild time at Paignton Zoo. One of the South West’s most exciting visitor attractions, and one of Britain’s top zoos, Paignton Zoo is dedicated to protecting endangered wildlife and inspiring future generations. With themed habitats, indoor and outdoor play areas, and lush botanical gardens, it’s more than just a zoo – it’s a full day of discovery, adventure, and connection with the natural world.

Home to an array of animals and exotic species from across the world, visitors can discover all their favourites species, including lions, tigers, rhino, gorillas, orang-utans, giraffes, crocodiles, cheetahs, flamingos, red pandas, sloths, and a few surprises along the way too.

Check out our train guide for more exciting trips in and around Exeter this summer.

Related

Kents Cavern Prehistoric Caves
Cave
Inside Kents Cavern Caves, Torquay

Kents Cavern is one of Europe’s top and most exciting Stone Age caves, with an extensive labyrinth of spectacular and easily accessible caverns open daily all year. Our entertaining guides will take you on an underground adventure in this award winning attraction and Stone Age home to Britain’s earliest humans and Ice Age beasts. An English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark Key Site.

Dartmouth Steam Railway & River Boat Company
Steam Railway
Dartmouth Steam Railway & River Boat Company

Based on the glorious South Devon coastline in South West England, enjoy your days out in Devon on our steam trains, boat trips and paddle steamer.

Splashdown Quaywest
Outdoors
Splashdown Quaywest

Splashdown Quaywest is the wettest and wildest attraction on the English Riviera, offering a day packed with thrills, laughs, and unforgettable fun. Dive into a variety of exciting water slides, from laugh-out-loud rides to adrenaline-pumping adventures. Relax in the swimming pool area, stretch out on our spacious sunbeds to soak up the sun, and take in the stunning views of South Devon’s beautiful bay.

Paignton Zoo Environmental Park
Zoo
Family in Lemur Wood

With dozens of different animals across 80 acres of beautiful, spacious grounds – you are in for a really wild time at Paignton Zoo! Located in South Devon, Paignton Zoo is one of the South West’s most exciting visitor attractions and one of Britain’s top zoos. Come rain or shine, the zoo is a fun-filled day out for the whole family.

The Riviera Line
Railway
The Riviera Line - Dawlish

With regular trains seven days a week, the Riviera Line is great for all kinds of trips, whether its arriving at your holiday destination, shopping, exploring the countryside or connecting to different parts of the county.

Great Western Railway
Rail
GWR train on Dawlish line

Great Western Railway operates trains to Devon from over 270 destinations. Direct, high-speed services operate from London Paddington to Exeter St. Davids. While visiting the city, customers can catch local services to Okehampton for Dartmoor National Park, Exmouth for the Jurassic Coast, Barnstaple for Exmoor and the North Devon coast, and Torquay and Paignton for the English Riviera.

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