Paignton Local Area Guide

Paignton is a great example of how industrialisation transformed numerous locations around the UK in the 19th century, with the one-time fishing village evolving into a Victorian tourist hotspot after the arrival of the local railway in 1859. It became part of what was soon called the ‘English Riviera’ and remains a popular seaside destination for families today.

Thanks to its celebrated natural beauty, Paignton is also part of the UNESCO accredited English Riviera Global Geopark. It’s a natural delight with a rich history and one eye on modernising its image, making it the perfect place to live, work and play.

Schools and Colleges

High levels of education are attainable for all age groups in Paignton, with schools rated as ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted available at primary, secondary and college levels. Oldway Primary falls into this category, while Churston Ferrers Grammar School and Torquay Boys’ Grammar School offer places for children up to the age of 18. Curledge Street Academy and Sacred Heart Catholic School are both rated as ‘Good’ by Ofsted, and Paignton Academy also achieved the same rating during their last inspection in 2016.

Local Attractions

As a seaside resort, the beach front remains at the heart of most of the activity in Paignton, the long sandy beaches attracting tourists from all over the UK. The traditional promenade is filled with arcades, gift shops and places to eat and drink, with the historic Paignton Pier a must visit.

The harbour is home to more restaurants and cafes and there is also a steam train that takes you on a trip over historic viaducts, across beaches and coves and close to the River Dart.

There’s a Vue cinema nearby where the latest films are available to watch, along with the Palace Theatre with its variety of live events.

Green spaces include the Riviera Global Geopark which is filled with cultural heritage and Youngs Park has a host of geese, swans and wild birds to marvel at.

And not forgetting Paignton Zoo, part of the Wild Planet Trust and a fantastic experience for all generations. The animals, including mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians all live in natural themed environments.

Shopping Facilities and Restaurants

As a coastal town you can enjoy a good selection of places that offer up locally caught seafood, along with vintage themed cafes serving afternoon tea. These are mixed in with traditional pubs and inns offering a good mixture for families to eat out, or enjoy a more intimate meal for two.

The Boathouse is a standout for locally caught fish, which looks out over Thatcher’s Rock and comes highly recommended. Victorian Times and Cupcake Café are great for more traditional fare. Paignton town centre features all the high street shops locals will need, with independent shops selling their wares on the interconnecting streets.

Property Types

Those looking for a touch of tradition will find it in and around the old town, along Winner Street and Church Street, with Victorian buildings primarily standing out. Medieval architecture also exists in Kirkham House, which is another popular tourist attraction. Grand Victorian terraced houses are now competing with more contemporary designs, with new flats and apartments also appearing throughout Paignton as new developments come to the fore. Average house prices currently stand at £224,511*, while average rentals are £678 PCM**.

Demographics

Historically, Paignton has been seen as something of a retirement town, a place to come and relax after a long career. While the area remains attractive to retirees, the regeneration and redevelopment of the town means younger families and professionals hoping to secure an affordable property are considering it as an option. Increasingly there is a broader age range of people living in Paignton as it looks towards creating a more modern image.

Upcoming Developments

New developments are springing up all around Paignton and the surrounding area, including residential and commercial properties. The derelict Crossways shopping centre will be converted into 90 new affordable flats as part of a £19 million scheme, while 39 new homes will be built where the Torbay Holiday Motel currently stands. Plans are in motion to develop a plot of land close to Luscombe Road, and 100 houses are touted for Collaton St Mary, nearby.

Travel Connections

There are a couple of options for travelling into London by train, with a 3 hour journey running into London Paddington, or a longer route that arrives in London Waterloo lasting 4 hours 30 minutes. Torquay is just over an hour away by train, with Goodrington taking just 15 minutes to reach.

Connections to London airports are as follows: Gatwick takes an average of 5 hours 30 minutes, which is similar to Luton. Heathrow is closer at 4 hours and 15 minutes, while Stansted requires a 6 hour journey. Exeter airport is approximately 50 minutes away, with a shuttle bus journey travelling 6 miles from Exeter city centre out to the airport.

*https://www.zoopla.co.uk/house-prices/paignton/ (November 2020)

**https://www.home.co.uk/for_rent/paignton/current_rents?location=paignton (November 2020)