Torre Abbey & Plant World

Approximate Journey Time: 3 hours

Time at destination: 5 hours split between both destinations

Comfort Stop: Yes

Drop off and pick up point: Coach park at both destinations

Ease of Access:

Torre Abbey

Most areas of the Abbey are fully accessible, with lifts to upper floors, accessible toilets, and plenty of seating available. Staff are always happy to help, and assistance dogs are welcome.

Plant World

The nursery and shop are easily accessible, though the hillside gardens do include some steep and uneven paths. Many visitors still enjoy exploring at their own pace, and assistance dogs are welcome.

 

Torre Abbey

Begin your visit with a fascinating 40-minute guided tour of the house, bringing to life more than 800 years of history within Torbay’s most historic building. This Ancient Scheduled Monument, founded in 1196, is set within 18 acres of beautiful gardens and parkland. After your tour, take time to explore further at your own pace. Discover elegant heritage rooms home to over 600 works of art from the 18th century to the present day, and enjoy interactive galleries featuring local stories, talking portraits, and engaging displays.

Step outside into award-winning gardens filled with colourful borders of herbaceous perennials, roses, and dahlias. Rare shrubs and trees flourish in the Riviera climate, while the Palm and Cactus Houses showcase exotic species, including endangered palms from Kew Gardens. A special highlight is the Potent Plants Garden, celebrating Torquay’s most famous resident, Agatha Christie. Inspired by the poisons in her stories, this garden reveals a collection of beautiful yet deadly plants – a must for mystery lovers.

 

Plant World Gardens & Nursery

Begin your visit with a journey around the globe as you explore the extraordinary four-acre gardens, laid out to form a living map of the world. Each continent is represented by themed landscapes, showcasing rare and unusual plants from every corner of the planet.

Stroll through vibrant borders, exotic shrubs, and unusual trees, all thriving in Devon’s gentle climate, while enjoying sweeping views over the River Teign. From towering palms to delicate alpines, every path reveals something new and surprising.

After exploring, browse the specialist nursery where many of the plants you’ve admired can be purchased – a perfect opportunity to take a little piece of your adventure home.

 

 

 

 

Torre Abbey is a stunning historic site in Torquay, founded in 1196 as a monastery and later transformed into a grand family home. Today, it’s one of Devon’s most fascinating heritage attractions, combining beautiful gardens with impressive art collections and interactive exhibits. Visitors can explore its medieval ruins, elegant Georgian rooms, and tranquil grounds, while uncovering over 800 years of rich history and culture.

 

Plant World, near Newton Abbot, is a unique garden and nursery designed like a map of the world, where visitors can stroll through landscapes representing different continents. Each area showcases rare and exotic plants from around the globe, creating a vibrant journey across five continents in one place. With stunning views over the Devon countryside and a vast range of plants for sale, it’s a paradise for garden lovers and a fascinating day out for all ages.

Torre Abbey Plant World