Why is Torbay known as The English Riviera?

Torbay encompasses the coastal towns of Brixham, Paignton and Torquay. Torbay is also known as The English Riviera due to the fact that in Victorian times visitors used to compare the area to the French Riviera. This section of south Devon has always be well known for its warmer climate. The area benefits from the Atlantic jet stream currents which push warmer air into Torbay. It means that many tropical plants can thrive which would otherwise struggle.