Devon Road Trip Photo Gallery - Torquay

Torquay has transformed from a fishing village into a tourist resort thanks to its sheltered bay and mild climate. During the Napoleonic wars in the early 19th century, the upper classes couldn't visit continental Europe anymore and looked for an alternative to the French Riviera. They came here and built nice mansions and parks, with a beautiful waterfront promenade being the star attraction today. After World War II, tourism declined along these stretches as package holidays became popular, train fares went up, and day trippers increased. The threat of mass tourism loomed over the resorts as they had to decide whether to move downmarket. The demographics have also changed, with new residents on fixed incomes while the young left for better opportunities. Princess Pier was built in 1890s to honour Princess Louise, daughter of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. I then climbed uphill and walked the short hiking path to see the London Bridge Arch, a limestone cliff eroded by the elements. You can't get close to it but observe it from a vantage point near it.