Torbay crowned most Instagrammable bay in Britain

Torbay has been officially crowned the most Instagrammable bay in Britain, according to a new study by travel experts.

Miro and Sons Kotor Tours analysed Instagram hashtag data from coastal locations across the country and found that Torbay topped the list, with an impressive 401,801 posts featuring the hashtag #Torbay.

Cardiff Bay followed in second place with 369,256 tagged posts, while Whitley Bay in North Tyneside secured third with 366,346 posts.

The term Instagrammable, now officially recognised by the Cambridge Dictionary, is defined as “attractive or interesting enough to be suitable for photographing and posting on the social media service Instagram”.

Above: Canoes at London Bridge, Torquay, Torbay on The English Riviera. Image: English Riviera BID Company

Torbay’s popularity on social media could offer a timely boost for the region ahead of the crucial spring and summer tourist seasons.

The English Riviera, the official tourism site managed by the English Riviera Business Improvement District Company, shared the news on Facebook, generating significant pride and interest from followers.

In a post, The English Riviera wrote: “Travel experts have analysed Instagram data and found that Torbay is the most Instagrammable bay in the UK, boasting an impressive 401,801 posts tagged with #torbay.

“The English Riviera is the region of Torbay on the South Devon Coast, and it is an ideal base for exploring the beautiful coast and countryside of South Devon.”

Though some noted that areas further from the seafront, such as Torquay’s town centre, don’t always reflect the same natural beauty seen along the coastline, public reaction was overwhelmingly positive, with many saying how lucky they feel to be able to call Torbay their home.

Above: Coleton Fishacre National Trust, Paignton. Image: English Riviera BID Company

One person said: “Smashing. More proof, not that it was needed, that we live in a wonderful bay.”

Another added: “They don’t call it Torbados for nothing!”

Writing in this week's Torbay Weekly, Carolyn Custerson, chief executive of ERBID, said: “The English Riviera has always held a special place in the hearts of holidaymakers, but with so many destinations to choose from across the UK and abroad, standing still is not an option.”

 She said: “One of the biggest wins so far has been extending the tourism season. With a well-thought-out events calendar, we’re seeing more visitors in the ‘shoulder months’ during spring and autumn. 

“At the heart of all this is a shared goal: to make the English Riviera a vibrant, year-round destination — not just for visitors, but for the people who live and work here too.”