Your Ultimate Guide to the English Riviera Airshow
Posted 26th Feb 2025
The English Riviera Airshow is a highlight in the UK’s event calendar, drawing aviation enthusiasts and families alike to the stunning South Devon coastline. The 2025 edition promises to be a spectacular experience, combining thrilling aerial displays with a host of ground-level activities. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of this exciting event.
Since its inception in 2016, the English Riviera Airshow has grown in popularity, attracting over 165,000 spectators annually. The event is free to attend, thanks to the support of Torbay Council, the English Riviera BID Company, corporate sponsors, and individual donors.
1) When is the Airshow?
The English Riviera Airshow 2025 is scheduled from Friday, 30th May to Sunday, 1st June 2025. This weekend offers a perfect opportunity to enjoy the early summer weather while witnessing some of the most impressive aerial performances.
2) Where is the English Riviera Airshow?
The event takes place at Paignton Green, located along Esplanade Road, Paignton, TQ4 6BG. This picturesque seaside location provides a natural amphitheatre, making it an ideal spot for both aerial displays and ground-based attractions.
3) Where’s a Good Place to Watch the English Riviera Airshow?
For a premium viewing experience, Beverley Holidays offers an exceptional vantage point. Situated with panoramic views across Torbay, guests can relax on the Jetty Terrace or choose a front-row seat on the touring field to enjoy the English Riviera Airshow. The elevated position ensures uninterrupted views of the aerial displays, all from the comfort of a home-away-from-home setting.
Family-run Beverley Holidays provides a range of accommodations to suit diverse needs, including holiday caravans, sea view luxury lodges, and camping facilities. Amenities such as on-site dining, swimming pools, and entertainment ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. To secure your spot during the English Riviera Airshow weekend, early booking is recommended. Reservations can be made directly through the Beverley Holidays website or by contacting the reservations team.
4) What Aircraft Are Flying? What About the Red Arrows?
The English Riviera Airshow 2025 promises an exciting weekend as the RAF Red Arrows, RAF Typhoon, and RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight are all confirmed to appear on both days of the event. This year’s show will be especially poignant as it marks the 80th anniversary of VE Day, adding an extra layer of significance to the aerial displays. While the full programme is still being finalised, visitors can look forward to a memorable mix of military and civilian aircraft taking to the skies.
5) Is the Airshow Free? Do I Need to Buy a Ticket?
Yes, the English Riviera Airshow is free to attend, making it accessible to all. While there’s no admission fee, donations are welcomed to support local charities and help sustain the event. For those driving to the event, it’s advisable to pre-book parking to guarantee a spot. Premium parking options are available, which often include additional perks such as official programmes and limited-edition badges.
6) What is the Timetable? What Time Does It Start?
The detailed timetable for the 2025 airshow will be released closer to the event. Historically, flying displays have commenced in the early afternoon, around 1 pm, with ground activities and exhibitions opening earlier in the morning. It’s recommended to arrive early to explore the event village, secure a good viewing spot, and enjoy the full range of attractions on offer.
7) What’s on Paignton Green?
Paignton Green serves as the central hub for ground-based activities during the airshow. Visitors can expect an event village featuring a variety of food stalls, trade stands, and interactive exhibits. Family-friendly attractions, such as funfair rides and bouncy castles, are typically available, ensuring entertainment for all ages. Live music and performances often complement the aerial displays, creating a vibrant festival atmosphere throughout the weekend.
8) Where Can I Park? Are There Road Closures?
Given the popularity of the event, parking can be limited. Pre-booking your parking spot through the official English Riviera Airshow website is highly recommended. Premium parking zones offer convenient access and often come with added benefits. Disabled parking facilities are also available with spaces allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Parking for 2025 has now been released.
Be aware that road closures and traffic management measures are typically implemented around Paignton seafront and surrounding areas to ensure safety and smooth traffic flow. These closures usually occur from late morning until evening on event days. Detailed information on road closures and parking options will be provided closer to the event, so it’s essential to check the official website for updates before planning your journey.
9) Is the English Riviera Airshow the Same as the Torbay Airshow?
Yes, the event originally known as the Torbay Airshow was rebranded as the English Riviera Airshow in 2020. Despite the name change, the event continues to deliver the same high-quality aerial displays and family-friendly attractions that attendees have come to expect.
Amazing Views from Beverley Holidays
Beverley Holidays stands out as a premier accommodation choice during the English Riviera airshow, offering unparalleled views of the displays over Torbay. Guests can enjoy the spectacle from the comfort of the park’s facilities, including the Jetty Terrace, which provides a relaxed setting to watch the performances. The park’s elevated position ensures that you won’t miss any of the action, all while avoiding the crowds typically found at ground level.
How to Book
To secure your stay at Beverley Holidays during the English Riviera Airshow, it’s advisable to book early due to high demand, choose from a range of accommodations to suit your preferences. Whether you’re looking for a luxury lodge with hot tub with guaranteed sea views, a comfortable caravan, or a scenic camping pitch, Beverley Holidays caters to diverse needs, ensuring a memorable experience during the airshow weekend.
The English Riviera Airshow 2025 promises to be an unforgettable weekend, filled with breathtaking aerial displays, family-friendly activities, and stunning coastal views. Whether you’re a dedicated aviation enthusiast or simply looking for a fantastic day out by the sea, this event has something for everyone. And for the best views, Beverley Holidays offers a perfect spot to watch the action while enjoying all the comforts of a relaxing getaway. Be sure to book your stay early to make the most of this incredible experience—there’s no better place to enjoy the sights and sounds of the airshow than from the beautiful surroundings of Beverley Holidays!
