Day 1: Morning departure from North Wales and travel to our hotel in Paignton, on the English Riviera for a 4-night stay. Enjoy some tea/coffee and biscuits on arrival. A sumptuous dinner will be served in the Paris Restaurant from 6pm until 8pm followed by entertainment in the Sun Lounge from 8.30pm to 10.30pm.
Day 2: Free in Paignton
Enjoy a day at leisure in Paignton and explore at your own pace. Perhaps take a stroll along the pier or the sandy beach, visit Paignton Zoo or simply relax.
Originally a Celtic settlement, Paignton was a fishing village right up to the 19th century when the harbour was built. The arrival of the railway in 1859 brought the crowds of visitors and the town quickly became a holiday destination for the Victorians.
Return to the hotel, where complimentary Sparkling Cassis will be served in the Washington Bar from 5.30pm. Evening meal is served in the Paris Restaurant from 6pm until 8pm. After dinner, join us for super entertainment in the Sun Lounge from 8.30pm to 10.30pm.
Day 3: Newton Abbot Market & Totnes
Spend time this morning in the historic market town of Newton Abbot. There is an outdoor market held here every Wednesday, and the centre of town features the ancient tower of St Leonard.
Afterwards, we travel to the Elizabethan town of Totnes, a helter-skelter of charming streets and fine Tudor buildings nestled beneath the silhouette of the sturdy Norman castle. We have time to explore the boutique shops famed for their range of ethical products, wholefoods and fair-trade goods.
Dinner will be served in the Paris Restaurant from 6pm to 8pm.
Day 4: Buckfast Abbey & Exeter
This morning, we retreat to the serenity of Buckfast Abbey (free admission), sitting quietly alongside the River Dart. Originally founded in 1018 and home to a community of Benedictine monks, the impressive Abbey building is complete with stained-glass windows and ornate cornice detailing. Set in lovingly nurtured grounds, the Abbey is a refuge from hectic modern life. See the community at work, wander the immaculate gardens and learn about the order’s history, before sampling some of their produce, including wines, candles and perfumes.
In the afternoon, we continue to the historic city of Exeter, whose skyline is dominated by the unique Norman twin towers of its majestic cathedral. A small city, Exeter is one of the most interesting cities in England – pre-dating the arrival of the Romans. You might want to discover some of the city’s most historic attractions such as the unique Underground Passages, the award-winning Royal Albert Memorial Museum or the magnificent Exeter Cathedral. The cobbled streets of the old town are filled with independent shops, boutiques and charming cafes.
Tea, coffee and sweet treats are served this afternoon, followed by dinner in the Paris Restaurant from 6pm to 8pm, and entertainment in the Sun Lounge from 8.30pm to 10.30pm.
Day 5: We depart Devon and make the return journey home to North Wales.