Babbacombe Model Village

The Basics

Both adults and kids alike will enjoy Babbacombe Model Village, with its gardens, tearooms, and indoor displays. Humorous touches are scattered throughout, and while not all of them are obvious, it’s fun to look out for things such as fire-breathing dragons perched over Windsor Castle. Easily accessible from Torquay proper, Babbacombe Model Village is a popular stopping point for independent travelers and families in the South West of England.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Tickets are usually for single entry, but if you want to return within seven days to check out the evening illuminations, get your ticket validated before you leave.

• Allow at least two hours for touring Babbacombe—it’s much larger than many visitors realize.

• Kids can pick up a “spotter sheet” on arrival, which includes items that they need to search for throughout the park.

• Access to the park is via some steep slopes, which can be difficult for manual wheelchair users to navigate.

How to Get There

The Babbacombe Model Village is a 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) north of central Torquay. The easiest way to get there is by private vehicle, as it’s about a 6-minute drive. Alternatively, it’s about a 30- to 40-minute walk from central Torquay.

When to Get There

Opening times vary depending on the season, and the park is busiest during the school holidays. Since most of the displays are outdoors, it’s best to visit when the weather is fine. A beautiful time to visit is during evening illuminations, generally held once a week in the summer months and on special occasions at other times.