The English Riviera Walking Festival is a delightful celebration of South Devon’s stunning coastline, rich heritage, and welcoming community. Running from 14th to 22nd June 2025, this not-for-profit event offers a variety of guided and self-guided walks, catering to all ages and abilities. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or enjoy a gentle stroll, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

What Is the English Riviera Walking Festival?

Set against the backdrop of the English Riviera—encompassing Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham—the festival showcases over 20 themed walks led by knowledgeable local guides. These walks explore the area’s natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and intriguing stories. Themes range from bird watching and foraging to literary trails and historical explorations.

When Is It?

The festival takes place from 14th to 22nd June 2025, offering nine days of diverse walking experiences.

Is It Free to Take Part?

While some walks are free, others may have a nominal fee to cover the costs of professional guides and event organization. Importantly, there are no booking fees, making it accessible for all.

How Do I Find Out What Guided Walks Are On?

The full programme of guided walks is available on the festival’s official website. Each listing provides details on the walk’s theme, distance, difficulty level, and meeting points. Booking in advance is recommended, as spaces are limited.

Are There Self-Guided Walks?

Yes, for those who prefer to explore at their own pace, the festival offers a selection of self-guided walks. These routes come with detailed maps and information, allowing you to enjoy the scenery and history independently.

Do I Need Any Specialist Equipment?

No specialist equipment is required. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, and depending on the weather, waterproof clothing might be advisable. Some walks may benefit from walking boots, especially those covering uneven terrain.

Can I Bring My Dog?

Absolutely! The festival is dog-friendly, and dogs are welcome on most walks, provided they are kept on a short lead.

Why Stay at Beverley Holidays?

Located in Paignton, Beverley Holidays is ideally situated for festival-goers. As proud Way Makers on the South West Coast Path, we offer direct access to some of the festival’s most scenic routes. Our park is easily accessible by public transport, making it convenient for walkers.

We provide a range of amenities to enhance your stay:

• Laundrette: Perfect for washing and drying your walking gear.

• On-site Restaurants: Open daily, offering everything from lights snacks to hearty meals to refuel after a day of walking.

• Indoor Pool, Sauna, and Hot Tub: Ideal for relaxing tired muscles.

• Dog-Friendly Accommodation: Your four-legged friends are welcome.

Our comfortable lodges and caravans provide a restful base to unwind and prepare for the next day’s adventures.

Explore the South West Coast Path

The South West Coast Path runs through the English Riviera, offering breathtaking views and diverse landscapes. As Way Makers, we at Beverley Holidays are committed to supporting walkers with information and facilities to enhance their experience.

Walk in Agatha Christie’s Footsteps

The English Riviera isn’t just known for its stunning coastline—it’s also the birthplace of the world’s best-selling novelist, Agatha Christie. Born in Torquay in 1890, Christie spent much of her life in the area, and her surroundings inspired many of her stories. The English Riviera Walking Festival offers a unique opportunity to walk in her footsteps, exploring the landscapes and landmarks that shaped her life and work.

Several themed walks are available during the festival that focus on Agatha Christie’s fascinating legacy. One popular route is the Agatha Christie Mile, a self-guided trail around Torquay that highlights key locations from her life. You’ll visit the site of her former home, Ashfield, stroll past the Torquay Museum (home to the UK’s only Agatha Christie Gallery), and see the elegant Grand Hotel where she spent her honeymoon. Each point along the way reveals snippets of her life, from her childhood through to her remarkable literary career.

For those who prefer guided experiences, there are walks led by local experts who delve into Christie’s connections to the region, sharing little-known anecdotes and historical insights. Some routes also take in Greenway House, Christie’s beloved riverside retreat on the River Dart. Now managed by the National Trust, Greenway offers a glimpse into her personal life, complete with original furnishings, first editions, and scenic gardens she often described in her books.

These walks are a treat for Christie fans and literary lovers alike, offering a rare blend of storytelling, history, and natural beauty. You don’t need to be an expert on her books to enjoy these routes—just a curiosity for a good story and a pair of comfortable shoes.

Whether you’re discovering hidden coves that inspired scenes in Evil Under the Sun, or imagining Hercule Poirot striding through Torbay’s promenades, the Agatha Christie-themed walks are a truly memorable part of the English Riviera Walking Festival.

Discover the UNESCO Global Geopark

The English Riviera is recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark, one of only a few in the UK. This status highlights the area’s unique geological heritage, which you can explore through various festival walks. From ancient rock formations to fossil-rich cliffs, the Geopark offers a fascinating journey through time.

Final Thoughts

The English Riviera Walking Festival is more than just a series of walks; it’s an opportunity to connect with nature, history, and a welcoming community. Whether you’re tracing the steps of literary legends, exploring geological wonders, or simply enjoying the coastal views, the festival promises memorable experiences for all.

We at Beverley Holidays look forward to welcoming you and providing a comfortable base for your walking adventures. Book your stay with us and be part of this wonderful celebration of the English Riviera’s natural and cultural treasures.