In a world shaped by urgency, constant movement and digital distraction, the journey to the English Riviera and Dartmouth offers something quieter and more rewarding. It invites the traveller to look beyond the screen and through the train window, where landscapes, towns, coastlines and histories unfold gradually. This is the spirit at the heart of Alexander J. Naughton’s travel writing, where the railway is not simply a means of getting somewhere, but a way of seeing the country with greater attention. The route from London Paddington to Torquay, Paignton and Kingswear for Dartmouth follows the Great Western Main Line and was made famous by the Torbay Express, introduced by the Great Western Railway in 1923. Through the publicity of the railway, Torquay, Paignton and Brixham became celebrated as the English Riviera.
The destination itself is a richly varied coastal region. Torquay is perhaps the most classic expression of the English Riviera, with its palm trees, busy harbour, international marina, sandy beach and continental style cafés, restaurants and cocktail bars. It is a traditional seaside resort, but one with layers of cultural interest. Torre Abbey, founded in 1196, brings history, gardens and art together, while the town’s Agatha Christie associations add literary depth. Christie was born in Torquay and drew inspiration from the English Riviera throughout her life, with many of her stories shaped by the places, people and scenery she knew so well.
Paignton offers a more traditional family seaside atmosphere. Its long, accessible beachfront, promenade, pier, green and colourful beach huts give it an open and welcoming character. Paignton Pier remains a popular all weather attraction, while the harbour sits midway between Torquay and Brixham on the western shore of Tor Bay. The town is also the gateway to the Dartmouth Steam Railway, which continues the journey beyond the national rail terminus towards Kingswear. From there, the experience becomes even more scenic, with views of Goodrington Sands, Broadsands, red sandstone cliffs, coves, viaducts and the wide sweep of Tor Bay.
Brixham brings a different tone to the Riviera. It is a working fishing town where life has long centred on the harbour. Heritage trawlers, dayboats and the famous Fish Market keep the town closely connected to the sea. Known as part of England’s Seafood Coast, Brixham places fresh fish and seafood at the heart of its identity. Its maritime heritage is also seen in the Brixham trawlers, whose design became known around the world, and in the town’s association with William of Orange and the Glorious Revolution.
The wider bay gives the region its distinctive beauty. The English Riviera is sheltered by the rolling hills of Dartmoor and shaped around a horseshoe bay of beaches, coves and clear waters. Its geology has international importance, recognised through the English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark. This landscape brings together natural caves, red rocks, limestone headlands, marine life, seals, dolphins, porpoises and seabirds, including the guillemot colony at Berry Head.
Beyond the bay, Dartmouth adds depth, history and maritime grandeur. Dating back to 1147, it is a town of castles, forts, ancient buildings, ferries, museums and naval tradition. Its streets include buildings from the 16th century, while the Britannia Royal Naval College continues its role in training Royal Navy officers. Although Dartmouth’s railway station never received a train, passengers still arrive by rail to Kingswear and cross the River Dart by ferry, making the final approach part of the charm. Together, the English Riviera and Dartmouth turn the journey into a complete experience of coast, culture, railway heritage and slow travel.
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