Dave Thomas: Time to enjoy our attractions... both historic and brand new

This week I’ve spent some time visiting a couple of our attractions around the Bay.
Not only are we regenerating our spaces but our attractions are also looking at how they can improve their offer to those that live here and those that choose to visit us.
I was very kindly offered the chance to see the new children’s water park that is part of Splashdown Quaywest in Paignton, the largest all outdoor waterpark in the UK!
Like many of you, I have seen this new area take shape when visiting Goodrington beach. There is nothing like this currently in the Bay, or close by, so I expect it will be a successful addition to what is already available at the park.
In 2022 Splashdown Quaywest signed a new lease with us for the next 40 years. Not only did they renew the lease for the main waterpark site, they also took on the leases for the land either side.
Their plans to develop the site have meant they will be investing more than £3 million
over the next three years. This investment started last year with the launch of the new hide and seek slide as well as the new frontage of the site that now includes a Costa Café and ice cream kiosk
Future plans include the development of the former Go Kart track that has been out of use for a considerable amount of time. In this area they are looking at ideas for an all year round offer and a car park.
It is really great to see this local attraction improve their offer, supporting the whole Bay with their investment which those who live and visit here will benefit from.
I also had the pleasure to visit Torre Abbey and see their new exhibition which opened this week. Created by the South West Heritage Trust and Torre Abbey, it is called The Carys: From Rebels to Riches, and will showcase items from the Cary Archive, giving a unique insight into the family.
The Cary family lived at Torre Abbey for more than 250 years, but they were more than just residents of Torquay, they helped to form our place. This exhibition uses documents from the Cary Archive to explore the history of the Cary family and their impact on Torquay.
The rise of the Cary family can be traced back to north-west Devon at the time of the Domesday Book, almost a thousand years ago. The Carys became wealthy and influential again during the Tudor and Stuart periods and continued to add to the land they owned in south Devon.
This included acquiring the manors of Coffinswell and Stokenham, Cockington and the former monastery of Torre Abbey.
As it is half term next week this will be a great exhibition to visit with the family and learn more about this important family to the Bay.
Torre Abbey are also looking at celebrating Valentine’s Day, which is also next week for those that need a reminder, in a truly unique way.
From February 10 to 18, couples can enjoy free entry to the Abbey by purchasing one of their exquisite Torre Abbey roof tiles.
For only £15, the roof tile not only grant you both free access but also provide an incredible opportunity to contribute to their vital restoration project. What a way to leave a lasting mark on Torre Abbey.
Your message and tile will adorn either their remarkable medieval gatehouse roof or the stunning chapel's Victorian Vestry roof. In return, you will also receive a personalised certificate, recognition on a dedicated panel inside Torre Abbey, and be acknowledged as a proud supporter on the Abbey’s website.
This really does offer you and your partner the perfect chance to be a part of the Abbey's rich history.
Pop over to the Abbey to find out more information or visit their website.