Torbay's Latest Attraction

The new Hi-Flyer Balloon has arrived in Torquay. We took this picture from one of our rooms this morning. Once operational it will give spectacular views of the English Riviera.

May Events in Paignton

2nd -4th......Paignton Bike Festival.

Motorbikes of all shapes and sizes, live music, trade stands and much more. For more information see http://www.bmad.co.uk/


26th-30th Walking Festival.

Come and explore some of the most spectacular coast and countryside in the South West! From moorland rambles to coastal hikes, there is a packed programme of guided walks to suit everyone for details of walks go to http://www.englishriviera.co.uk/site/events-and-entertainment/walk-on-the-wild-side-festival

Forthcoming Events

The weekend of 18th 19th 20th April sees a celebration of 'all things English'. Coinciding with the Queen's Birthday and St. George's Day, the English Riviera Cream Tea Festival sees a number of events around the bay. From croquet to fish and chips and real ale to Morris Dancing, and a Rally of Morris Minor Cars. For more information visit http://www.englishriviera.co.uk/site/events-and-entertainment/the-english-riviera-cream-tea-festival.

The same weekend sees 'Heritage Open Days' on the Paignton-Dartmouth Steam Railway. A unique opportunity to visit the locomotive workshops and see behind the scenes in the running of the railway. There will also be vintage bus rides, a steam ploughing engine, vintage cars and much more.

Easter

Easter is now nearly upon us, it's really early this year.
It was bought home to us just how close it is when we went for a stroll the other day. The beach huts are back in their summer positions and the beach kiosks are being set up. Despite the windy weather of the past week or so most businesses in Paignton are spruced up and ready to go.
We still have a couple of rooms available for easter so if you fancy getting away for the weekend, why not contact us.

The Star Grading System

Over the past two years Visit Britain has changed the grading system from one where hotels were rated with stars and guest houses, b&b's as diamonds to one where all accommodation is rated with stars.

Like many other people in the business we believe that this is confusing to everyone and would like to know how much influence the grading system has when you are deciding where to stay.
Also does anyone really understand the system or what different facilities can be expected between the different categories of star rated accommodation (hotels , guest accommodation, guest house b&b etc).

We would like to know your views so please fill in the survey on the right or leave a comment.

A Stroll along the Seafront

The sunshine and blue skies tempted us out for a walk along the seafront. We took the camera and here are some of the pictures.

Passing the people eating chips or ice creams it was hard to believe that it is still January.

In the garden there are still a lot of the more tender plants continuing to grow and even starting to flower.

But this is what living in "The English Riviera" is all about.

Long Range Forecast

The long range weather forecast for the next 3 months is mainly mild with temperatures above average, rainfall below average and sunshine normal for the time of year.

So if the forecast is accurate, the next few months will be an ideal time to put on the walking boots and get out onto the coast path and the other walks in the area.