Torquay and Tinsel plus a Murder Mystery

The 3-star Toorak Hotel is part of TLH Leisure Resort and has 70 bedrooms spread over 3 floors. It has an extensive range of indoor and outdoor leisure facilities, a luxury spa, swimming pool, bistro and games arena as well as on site entertainment. Located close to the sea front and town centre, this is an ideal base for exploring the English Riviera and beyond.

Day 1 – Travelling south, a comfort break will be made en route to the historic City of Salisbury, where you will have some free time to purchase lunch & explore. You might choose to visit the city’s Cathedral where there is 800 years of history in one of the UK’s most iconic medieval buildings. Discover the original 1215 Magna Carta, one of only four in the world, and explore its legacy in the accompanying exhibition. Learn about the world’s oldest working mechanical clock and the fabulous stained glass (entrances not included). Continuing on to Torquay and your hotel, dinner is included tonight.

Today is a relaxing day beginning with an included visit to the Donkey Sanctuary near Sidmouth, a fascinating quirky attraction which appeals to everyone. Your visit begins with an informative introduction during which you will meet many of its furry residents. You will have time to explore the exciting indoor attractions and Exhibition Barn and find out just why donkeys matter after which a light lunch is included. Next, we travel to Exmouth for an included 1-hour Festive River Cruise. Sit back & relax on the calm and sheltered waters of the river Exe.

This festively decorated boat has covered and heated lower decks, with the upper outside deck having cosy blankets, plenty of fresh air and great views. Included is informative and entertaining on board commentary during which you will be shown the highlights that this beautiful river has to offer whilst partaking in a glass of homemade mulled wine and a tasty minced pie. Returning to the hotel, dinner is included.

Today we travel to the City of Exeter, where we begin with an included guided tour of the stunning Cathedral. Here, an experienced guide will take you on an enthralling tour (ground floor only). Discover the characters that have influenced the Cathedral through its long history, hear about the building of this ancient masterpiece and uncover the secrets from its past. There will be free time afterwards to explore the adjacent Christmas Market made up of approx. 90 cosy wooden stalls full of locally made produce and products. There will also be time to explore the city at your leisure before returning to Torquay where you can either relax & enjoy the facilities within the TLH complex, or you might choose to explore Torquay and its seafront at your own pace.

Following an early hotel dinner and where pre-booked, you will re-board the coach for the short transfer to Babbacombe Theatre. Cue the music & turn down the light, its ‘Curtains Up’ for a festive sparkling show, ‘Step in to Christmas’. This promises an abundance of comedic moments and yuletide musical treats.

Happy memories will come flooding back as you reminisce with enchanting musical moments of both old and new favourites. You will be returned to the hotel later this evening.

Today we travel to the historic port town of Dartmouth where you can either choose from a morning free to explore at your leisure or you might choose to pre-book an optional guided tour of the Britannia Royal Naval College (limited places – extra cost). With an intriguing heritage spanning over 150 years an expert resident guide will take you on a revealing voyage from past glories to the present day. During the tour we will take you into the heart of the College, from the elegant Chapel, through to areas including the Quarterdeck, Parade Ground, Senior Gun Room and Britannia Heritage Museum. The iconic architecture designed by Sir Aston Webb, is a spectacle in itself.

Returning to Torquay, there will be ample time to freshen up before tonight’s Murder Mystery event which takes place during dinner in a private function room, an intriguing finale to this week’s Riviera holiday.

Day 5 – Checking out of the hotel after breakfast we retrace our steps making a stop in the Dorset riverside market town of Wimborne Minster. There will be free time here to purchase lunch in the historic centre where you might also choose to pay your respects at the Minster itself. Since it was founded in about 1860, Wimborne Market has grown to become one of the largest open air and covered markets in the south of England. The Friday market includes both open air and indoor market stalls. Departing here this afternoon we continue homeward, returning you to your original departure point(s) later today.