England Hosts An Annual Seafood Extravaganza With Mouth-Watering Local Delights

Travelers might associate the term "Riviera" with the sunny resorts along the Mediterranean coast of France and Italy, but what about the English Riviera? That might sound a little tongue-in-cheek given Britain's reputation for uncertain weather, but it this genteel stretch of Devon coastline certainly lives up to the billing. Acquiring the nickname in the Victorian era for its favorable climate, invigorating sea air, and splendid views, it became a popular spot for a relaxing vacation. Nowadays, it is also a great destination for foodies who want to experience more of British seafood than just good old fish and chips: Each year around September or October, the area holds an annual showcase of local delights called England's Seafood Feast.

The English Riviera is a nickname for Torbay, 22 miles of coastline facing east across the English Channel towards France. The area is categorized by four scenic beach towns: Brixham, Paignton, Babbacombe, and Torquay, all arranged around the sheltered natural harbor of Tor Bay. The Riviera has everything you'd expect from this part of England with coves, beaches, elegant Victorian piers, picturesque harbors and lighthouses, and charming guest houses. The region has also been associated with fishing for around 1,000 years with Brixham's port growing to become home to the country's largest trawler fleet in the 19th century. With such a strong heritage, Torbay is the perfect venue for the two-week catalogue of events that unfold annually at the Seafood Feast. Let's take a look at some of the highlights.

While many places around the shores of England could arguably make a similar claim, the stretch between Dorset and Devon has been marketed in recent years as England's Seafood Coast. The English Riviera is well-suited for the corresponding Seafood Feast, especially with the Brixham Fish Market's reputation as one of the most valuable and technically-advanced fishing ports in the country. Rather than centring on one particular location, the festival is hosted by more than 30 venues around the Torbay area, ranging from Michelin-starred eateries such as The Elephant by Simon Hulstone in Torquay to pop-up events by award-winning fish and chip restaurants. 

Some of the highlights of the 2024 event included freshly-cooked mussels and live music at Offshore Bar & Restaurant; an elegant five-course tasting menu at Sandridge Barton Wines; a chef's fish curry accompanied by classic sea shanties at Berry Head Hotel in Brixham; and a bracing swim followed by hearty seafood chowder at Cantina Kitchen and Bar in Paignton. More intrepid diners could enjoy a spot of sea kayaking followed by grilling your own catch arranged by Reach Outdoors, a Paignton-based adventure tour operator. Even four-legged friends weren't left out with the beach ban lifted on Paignton beach to accommodate the Sea Dogs walk with seafood treats afterwards at the Shoreline Bar & Restaurant. Details about venues and events for the 2025 edition of the festival are scarce at the time of writing, but keep an eye on the website for further details. 

Whether you are in town for the England's Seafood Feast or not, a tour of Brixham's famous Fish Market is a must for foodies. You'll need to set your alarm early because the action kicks off at 6:15 a.m., but once you are suited up in your white coat and hairnet you will have the chance to see how the whole process works, checking out 40 types of fish and watching the daily auction. When the tour concludes you can sample the catch of the day at the Rockfish restaurant next door.

There is plenty of things to enjoy in the Torbay area when you're not tucking into seafood. Bookworms visiting Torquay can take a tour to explore the life and times of the town's most famous resident, Agatha Christie. Alternatively, fans "Fawlty Towers" can stop off at the Gleneagles Hotel, John Cleese's inspiration for the classic sitcom. A little further down the coast, you'll be forgiven for thinking you have time-warped back to the golden age of British seaside holidays in Paignton. The town has a lovely long red sand beach ideal for paddling with a classic Victorian-era pier featuring all the usual amusements and kiosks. If you prefer something a little more secluded, head to Babbacombe Beach, a popular spot for rock pools, diving, and fishing. For more energetic sea views, the English Riviera is part of the South West Coast Path and makes for a bracing hike.