A Journey Through Time: Babbacombe’s Historic Charm

As a passionate advocate for sustainable travel, I am always on the lookout for experiences that allow me to delve into the rich history of a place while treading lightly on the earth. The Babbacombe History Tour in Torquay offered just that—a chance to explore the fascinating past of this coastal district, all while enjoying the natural beauty that surrounds it. With the sun shining brightly, I embarked on this journey with Graham, the only full-time tour guide in Torquay, whose knowledge and enthusiasm brought the stories of Babbacombe to life.

Our walk began with a descent down the cliff stairs, a path that required a bit of agility but rewarded us with breathtaking views of the crystal-clear sea below. As we navigated the uneven terrain, Graham regaled us with tales of smuggling and fateful crimes that once took place in the historic buildings we passed. It was a reminder of how the past is intricately woven into the fabric of the present, and how important it is to preserve these stories for future generations.

Victorian Engineering and Miniature Marvels

One of the highlights of the tour was the ride on the Victorian cliff railway, a marvel of engineering that has stood the test of time. As we ascended back to the top, I couldn’t help but admire the ingenuity of the Victorians, who managed to create such a functional and beautiful piece of infrastructure. The views from the railway were nothing short of spectacular, offering a panoramic vista of the coastline that stretched out before us.

Our next stop was the famous Miniature Model Village, a delightful attraction that captures the imagination of visitors young and old. Walking through the meticulously crafted scenes, I was struck by the attention to detail and the creativity that went into each display. It was a testament to the power of human creativity and a reminder of the importance of supporting local artisans and craftspeople in our travels.

A Tranquil Retreat: The Adult-Only Garden

The final leg of our journey took us to an award-winning, adults-only garden, a serene oasis that provided a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life. As I strolled through the lush greenery, I felt a deep sense of peace and connection to the natural world. It was a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving these green spaces, not only for our enjoyment but for the health of the planet as well.

Before concluding the tour, we made a delightful stop at “Gin & Co,” a new Devonshire gin shop on Reddenhill Road. Here, I had the opportunity to sample some locally crafted gin, a perfect way to end a day of exploration and discovery. Supporting local businesses is a key aspect of sustainable travel, and I was thrilled to contribute to the local economy in this small but meaningful way.

The Babbacombe History Tour was a truly enriching experience, one that allowed me to connect with the past while appreciating the natural beauty of the present. It served as a reminder of the importance of sustainable tourism and the role we all play in preserving the places we love for future generations. I left Torquay with a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to continue advocating for eco-friendly travel options wherever my adventures may take me.