The Torcroft
The Torcroft has enjoyed many owners, styles of interiors and fashions over the decades, and there are original brochures from some of these eras which give guests a sense of history. Many of The Torcroft's original features have been preserved to an outstanding standard, which are particularly stunning in the lounge and dining room. The Torcroft has been extended over the years, including a second floor of guest bedrooms at the top of the house.
In the early 19th century Torquay started to attract visitors in ill health as a winter resort, due to its fresh air and mild climate. Later in the century, Torquay became a favoured resort for the upper classes. In 1870, Lawrence Palk, built a new harbour for the town which made it popular with yachts and other boats.
Torquay
Torquay is a seaside resort town on the English Channel in Devon, south west England.It was established as a popular spa destination by the Victorians during the 19th century, largely due to its temperate, mild climate. Torquay has a micro climate that generally means warmer, longer summers than other parts of the UK. Known for beaches such as Torre Abbey Sands, Blackpool Sands, Babbacombe and cliffside Oddicombe, its coastline is nicknamed the English Riviera.
Between the wars, an advertising campaign by the Great Western Railway ensured that Torquay became a major holiday resort. In 1948 Torquay hosted the watersports events of the Olympic Games. In 1950 the European Broadcasting Union was formed here.
Torquay, and the surrounding area, is a major tourist destination in the UK, offering fabulous places to visit and plenty to do. The Torcroft is an excellent base for visitors, who will find plenty to do locally, and is a short distance for day trips. Torquay offers first class restaurants and bars, stunning beaches, the Jurassic Coast, the Princess Theatre and the Riveria Centre.
Pictured above are 2 photographs from the 1937 brochure, kindly sent by the daughter of an Australian couple who spent their honeymoon at The Torcroft.