A LARGE conservation charity in one of the UK’s most popular holiday spots has gone into liquidation – putting several tourist attractions at risk.
Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust (TCCT) is responsible for more than 1,700 acres of green spaces in and around the Devon seaside towns of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham.
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Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust manages many different sites across the English RivieraCredit: facebook/@TorquayinpicturesThis included the popular Occombe Farm, which has now closedCredit: instagram/@occombefarm
That amounts to 80 per cent of the green space along the English Riviera including 40 miles of footpaths and bridleways.
The trust is also responsible for managing the entire 22-mile stretch of the South West Coast Path (SWCP) – made world famous in the recent Salt Path movie – that runs through the Torbay area.
Now these destinations known as the “crown jewels” of Torbay, are at risk.
One spot, Occombe Farm, which is an all-weather family farm attraction with indoor and outdoor play areas, animals, paddocks and walking trails – will close for good.
The attraction opened nearly 20 years ago, and has been much loved by families since – including my own, as I grew up in the area and frequently visited as a child.
The attraction was the ideal spot for families to escape to, with something for all ages and interests.
Little kids could run around in the play areas, older kids could learn about the farm animals and even get up close to them, and families could gather over lunch in the cafe – it even hosted many events such as Halloween trails and beer festivals.
While Occombe Farm is the only attraction fully closing, the charity was responsible for many other spots and now locals are worried paths won’t be cleared, bins won’t be emptied and sites will become unmaintained.
This is because, Torbay Council (which owns the freehold for most of the land cared for by TCCT) has said that its “hands are completely tied” due to legal obstacles concerning the liquidation.
Essentially, this means that Torbay Council cannot enter and care for the sites TCCT cared for, until they speak to the appointed liquidator.
I used to grow up visiting places managed by Torbay Coast and Countryside TrustCredit: Cyann Fielding
But this worry is part of a bigger fear.
If these sites aren’t cared for or maintained, they could be at risk of losing their prestigious titles.
This includes the UNESCO Global Geopark title, which destinations TCCT cared for helped to gain.
The English Riviera is one of just three UNESCO Global Geoparks in England and 10 in the UK.
TCCT said: “Many areas we manage form part of the English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark, due to their unique natural heritage and we’ve worked alongside national, regional, and local associations to ensure Torbay’s green spaces receive the recognition and preservation they deserve.
“It is with great sadness that the incredible achievements of our passionate team, including our volunteers, is drawing to a close.
“Our priority now is to support them as we navigate this process.”
Berry Head National Nature Reserve – also run by the trust – is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) has the largest colony of guillemots on the South Coast and other threatened species like the Greater Horseshoe Bat.
This includes a 22-mile stretch of the South West Coast PathCredit: instagram/@countrysidetrust
Berry Head is also home to 400-million-year-old limestone, making it an internationally acclaimed geological site, as well as two well-preserved Napoleonic-era forts.
If all of these elements become uncared for, locals are worried that Berry Head won’t meet the requirements of the titles anymore, and consequently lose them.
Other destinations TCCT cared for include Anstey’s Cove, a small beach popular for kayaking, paddle boarding and snorkelling, and Elberry Cove – often compared to Mediterranean destination due to its crystal clear waters and romantic ruins.
Inland, Cockington Country Park is award-winning parkland that feels more like a hidden fairytale village spanning over 450 acres with pretty ornamental gardens, farmland and woodland – all within walking distance of Torquay seafront.
The park, which dates back to the Domesday Book, also forms part of the UNESCO Global Geopark and has been repeatedly awarded a Green Flag.
The liquidation means that events at this popular destination will be cancelled, such as the annual orchard apple picking.
The biggest jewel in the trust’s crown is the South West Coast Path though, which recently featured in Hollywood movie The Salt Path starring Gillian Anderson.
The trails are managed by TCCT, meaning over the years all the signage, walkways, handrails and so on, have been added by them.
Locals are concerned that the 22-mile stretch could become inaccessible without regular maintenance.
Whilst the future of each site isn’t clear, many have spoken out about the importance of saving English Riviera’s top places to visit.
Councillor David Thomas, leader of Torbay Council, said: “The closure of Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust will have a significant and deeply felt impact on the people who were employed at sites across the Bay.
“In the coming weeks, we will be taking time to understand the full implications of this news and what it means for the future of these important spaces and initiatives.”
MP Steve Darling said in a Facebook post: “This is a huge loss for our natural environment and for the dedicated staff who have worked so hard to protect it.
Locals fear what will happen to many of the sites now they aren’t cared forCredit: instagram/@countrysidetrust
“Despite repeated calls for support, the Conservative administration has failed to help the Trust find a sustainable path.
“As its assets return to council ownership, we must ensure they are not sold off without public input.
One person then commented: “Please fight your hardest for these natural, public and beautiful spaces to be protected and kept in the best interest for the people of Torbay!
“These natural spaces should remain as they are, with additional funding if necessary — selling any single part of it off to foreign investment, developers or anybody other than local charities or Torbay Council would be absolutely devastating to the people of Torbay.”
A Torbay Council spokesperson told Sun Travel: “We understand that the closure of the Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust (TCCT) will have a wide-reaching impact on our communities, and that many residents will have questions and concerns.
“However, at this time, due to the complex process for liquidation, we are unable to provide any further information on the individual spaces or services that are managed or provided by TCCT.
“We await confirmation of the liquidators’ appointment to determine its next steps, recognising how important these green spaces are to our community.
“We would like to reassure residents and visitors that we will continue to work closely with partners and stakeholders to assess the impact of the Trust’s closure.
“This includes considering what it means for our cherished green spaces, as well as the important environmental designations, community initiatives, and long-term stewardship of our natural assets.”
A spokesperson for the South West Coast Path said: “We are working with Torbay Council and SWISCo (a local service provider) to ensure that current works to improve accessibility along the South West Coast Path and King Charles III England Coast Path National Trails are not impacted by the recent news.”
This include Cockington Country Park, which feels more like a fairytale village with quaint cottages and expansive parklandCredit: AlamyThe charity’s liquidation also means an abundance of events have been cancelledCredit: instagram/@occombefarm
Cascais in Portugal is just a 40-minute train ride from LisbonCredit: AlamyThe town has a long history of being a glamorous destination, especially with royaltyCredit: GettyThe town itself has a Museum Quarter and lots of cobbled streets with quaint shops like Santini – a famous gelato ice cream storeCredit: Alamy
The town started out as a fishing village before becoming a popular retreat for the Portuguese royal family.
For example, in the 1870s, King Luis I of Portugal had a summer home in Cascais and as a result, the destination was viewed by others as a glamorous place to go.
Many wealthy families then started to visit, resulting in a number of grand mansions being built.
Later, during the Second World War, the town became a safe haven for exiled European royalty.
And a number of spies also resided in the region – which ultimately inspired Ian Fleming’s first James Bond novel, Casino Royale, set in Estoril nearby.
Today, the rich and famous still enjoy the town with Cristiano Ronaldo’s new £22million house – which is rumoured to be Portugal’s most expensive residence – located in Quinta da Marinha, in Cascais.
For those heading to the town there is plenty to do.
Rather uniquely, Cascais has a ‘Museum Quarter’ where visitors can explore the Condes de Castro Guimaraes Museum inside the Palace of the Counts of Castro Guimaraes.
The mock-Gothic building features the oldest museum in the town.
Alternatively, travellers can head to the Sea Museum that includes exhibits on underwater archeology and the original fishing community that lived in the town.
Then in the historic centre, there are a number of charming cobbled streets with traditional mosaic pavements, pretty squares and quaint shops.
Of course, the town has sprawling beaches too.
One spot is Praia da Conceicao – a golden sand beach near the centre of the town where you can head to Estoril along a coastal path.
The path stretches over 1.5 miles long and offers beautiful sea views from several beaches.
One recent visitor said: “This is a beautiful beach in the Cascais area near the train station.
“I’d say it’s a small beach with calm, clean, but cool waters.
“The beach also has good facilities: restrooms, showers, a beach bar, a restaurant, and umbrella rentals.
“I loved the caves and rocks, and Rua Frederico Arouca near the beach is lined with bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops.”
Many of the streets in the town’s historic centre feature intricate mosaicsCredit: Getty
If you enjoy surfing, you should head to Praia do Guincho, which boasts large, crashing waves.
There is also the Santa Marta Lighthouse to explore, which has a blue and white exterior and also has a museum about the country’s lighthouses.
If you fancy a longer hike, with forests and sights of historic palaces, head to the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park.
Depending on what time of the year you visit, the town also hosts a number of events such as jazz festivals, sailing championships and a classic car exhibition.
When it comes to the food scene, there is a lot of choice as well.
Linking back to its fishing village past, the destination has lots of top seafood spots with fresh dishes such as lobster stew and grilled fish.
One well-rated spot is Residente, which features a cream and green interior, with a tiled bar and lots of plants hanging from the ceiling.
You could opt for traditional Portuguese octopus rice with garlic and coriander for €22 (£19.13) or traditional cod fish with egg, onion and potato for €18 (£15.65).
There are many sprawling beaches in the town, as well as a 1.5 mile coastal pathCredit: Getty
For something sweeter, make sure to head to Santini – a historic ice cream shop that has been a part of Cascais for over 50 years.
The town also has a lot of hotels to choose from depending on your budget.
You could stay at the Grande Real Villa Itália Hotel & Spa, which used to be the home of exiled Italian kings.
The hotel faces the ocean and has a swimmingpool, spa, gym and is close to a number of golf courses.
It costs from £179.05 a night, for two adults.
Or you could head to Legacy Hotel Cascais, Curio Collection By Hilton from £137 per night.
The hotel is just a five-minute walk to the town centre and a 10-minute walk to the beach.
Flights to Lisbon cost as little as £51 return from the UKCredit: Getty
In addition to modern rooms and a breakfast buffet, the hotel also has a rooftop pool, indoor swimming pool, spa and wellness centre, sauna, sun terrace and sprawling garden.
The best way to get to the town is by flying to Lisbon, which costs from £41 if flying from Manchester, from £42 if flying from London and from £57 if flying from Birmingham.
Once in Lisbon, hop on the train to Cascais, which takes around 40 minutes and costs from as little as €2.30 (£2) per way.
Make sure to grab a seat on the left side of the train, as the entire journey runs along the coastline to Cascais, so you will be able to see lots of pretty towns, beaches and monuments.
Cascais is then also the last stop on the journey so you don’t need to worry about missing your stop.
If you are looking for other places to travel to in Portugal, here are Portugal’s lesser-visited areas including Algarve-alternative beaches where you can stay from £19 a night.
THE first glimpse of a popular UK seaside town’s £20million beachfront transformation has been revealed in brand new footage.
Located in the heart of Devon, the new project is set to redefine a stretch of stunning British coastline.
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A first look at the major transformation has been revealed in new fly-through footageCredit: Torbay CouncilThe revamp is set to cost an eye-watering £20millionCredit: Torbay Council
An incredible new fly-through tour has provided residents with a first look at Paignton’s bright future.
The ambitious new plans include the instalment of vital flood protection and upgrades to public areas.
After being appointed by Torbay Council, the construction firm Knights Brown has revealed that it is preparing for full-scale works to commence in early November.
It aims to protect homes, businesses, and community areas from coastal flooding, while also introducing brand new promenades, seating zones, landscaping and improved lighting.
Phase one will focus on Paignton Green North, with work scheduled for completion before the English Riviera Airshow in May 2026.
The following phase will aim to tackle Paignton Green South.
While a separate single-phase scheme at Preston seafront is due to start at the end of the year.
The £20million project is being funded by the UK government and the Environment Agency as part of broader efforts to strengthen climate resilience.
Construction zones are expected to briefly pause during the 2026 six-week summer holiday period.
Throughout construction residents will also still be able to access both beaches.
Promenades will also stay open but may be narrowed in places.
The green spaces surrounding the work will also remain fully accessible and local businesses will continue to run as usual.
Cllr Chris Lewis, deputy leader and cabinet member for place development and economic growth atTorbay Council, said:“This marks Paignton’s first large-scale transformational project—an initiative that goes far beyond flood defence.
Among the plans is the installation of vital flood protection and revitalised public areasCredit: AlamyTorbay council has said the scheme homes to unlock Paignton’s future as a ‘thriving, vibrant coastal town’Credit: Alamy
“It will deliver a dramatically enhanced seafront experience for all, with modern design and improved public spaces that add lasting value to the area.
“More than protection, this scheme is about unlocking Paignton’s future as a thriving, vibrant coastal town.”
Mike Crook, divisional director at Knights Brown, added: “We’re proud to be working in partnership with Torbay Council on this game-changing project for Paignton and Preston.
“We have vast experience in coastal and marine projects, having worked on schemes across Wales and the UK, including Mumbles in Wales and Associated British Ports in Southampton.
“Our team is excited to contribute to Paignton and Preston’s future—not just through construction, but by being an active and positive presence in the community.
“We look forward to working closely with residents, businesses and local organisations to ensure this project benefits everyone.”
The project is being funded by the UK government and the Environment AgencyCredit: Torbay Council
It may not have the heat of Italy, but this tiny village sitting on the British coast is built to almost exactly reflect it – and it even has the same climate
The village became much more famous after being on the show(Image: Getty)
Now that autumn has arrived and the season of chilly weather, gusts and downpours is upon us, many will fantasise about a getaway to an exotic location.
A Greek isle, the Spanish coastline or perhaps the Italian Riviera.
Whilst those yearning for a trip to the latter may find it’s not as challenging as they might imagine, with one tiny village nestled on the British shoreline designed to almost perfectly mirror it, albeit without the Aperol spritz and the pasta.
If you’ve been contemplating a UK break that feels far more exotic than it truly is, you’re in good company, but North Wales might just have the answer, at a fraction of the cost.
Its striking coastline, verdant hills, and a culture as vibrant as its surroundings, have emerged as a favourite for those seeking both adventure and relaxation – and its terrain isn’t a world away from the Cinque Terre – even if the climate may not always cooperate, reports the Express.
Nestled on the estuary of the River Dwyryd lies the charming Welsh treasure of Portmeirion. The brainchild of Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, constructed between 1925 and 1975 in the manner of an Italian village, its dwellings are adorned with vibrant hues, concealed passageways and flourishing gardens.
Given such a distinctive setting, it’s hardly surprising that the village captured the imagination of the film and television world.
Portmeirion boasts the remarkable distinction of being the actual “Village” in the iconic 1960s television series The Prisoner, featuring Patrick McGoohan. The programme chronicles the former spy imprisoned in the enigmatic village as he battles to keep his secrets safe.
Following a jaunt to the village, an enthusiast took to TripAdvisor to leave a glowing five-star review, saying: “Being a fan of the TV programme ‘The Prisoner’, I had always wanted to visit ‘the village’ and it didn’t disappoint! We had a stroll along the seaside walkway & came back through the woods. The village shop is dedicated to the TV programme & the prices inside were very reasonable – my wife & I loved it.”
Portmeirion isn’t just for fans of ‘The Prisoner’; its charm is universal, offering a myriad of unique experiences at every turn that make it an ideal spot for those who relish the sensation of being somewhere truly special.
And it’s not only enthusiasts of the show singing Portmeirion’s praises; Which? consumer experts have crowned the village as the top seaside spot in Wales.
Their endorsement reads: “The best seaside destination in Wales, Portmeirion in Gwynedd, is also one of the UK’s most unusual holiday villages.”
They praised the village, awarding top marks for both tourist attractions and the seafront, noting: “Visitors loved the architecture and its setting above a wide, sandy estuary – giving it five out of five stars for tourist attractions and for its seafront.”
Echoing this sentiment, another visitor shared their experience online: “What an amazing place! Fabulous, friendly staff, especially Dafyyd at the gate. Such a happy soul.
“We visited on a gorgeous, sunny day and had a lovely time wandering around looking at the beautiful buildings, soaking in the amazing views and eating our picnic.”
