Nostalgia: A history of changes to Paignton seafront

Paignton Seafront has changed considerably over the years since the arrival of the railway in 1859.

Prior to that, there were cottages dotted around, a few of which still remain. Initially the Victorian houses were built as gentlemen’s residences. In an enviable position overlooking Torbay, some of them may have been subjected to occasional incursions from the sea during high tide and gale-force winds. Over the years several hotels appeared catering for the visitors who were beginning to visit the town and enjoy the mild climate and refreshing sea air.

Paignton Seafront, Circa 1900

Torbay Ale House was one of the first structures to be built on the sea front; thought to have been constructed in the 15th century, it was accessible only from the sea and catered for the many vessels in and around the bay. After it was demolished, it was replaced by Torbay House, built in 1807 but later demolished in the 1870s. The only part of the building remaining is the gatepost at the entrance to Parkfield House.

Torbay House

One of the next things to be built in 1879 was the pier. Architect George Bridgeman designed a splendid structure reaching far out into the bay with a concert hall at the end. Unfortunately, in 1919 a fire destroyed the end of the pier, including the concert hall, and that part of the pier fell into the sea. Rumour has it that the remains of the grand piano can sometimes be seen at low tide. The concert hall was never rebuilt, but the rest of the pier still stands and has had a variety of attractions that appeal to visitors and residents.

As the seafront developed and Paignton grew into a larger town with more visitors, other constructions started to appear. In 1935, to celebrate the silver jubilee of George V. A magnificent arch was built and stayed in place for some years. In the 1960s a clock which chimed every 15 minutes followed by doors opening and models of horses and riders travelling around the dial graced the entrance to the sea front for a while. During the 1950s a large marquee sat near to the entrance to the pier. Children’s entertainment and occasional concerts took place there by a resident orchestra led by Charles Shadwell. The marquee was replaced in the 1960s by the festival theatre. Many well-known acts performed there. One regular visitor was the comedian Jethro, who came every summer and played to packed houses. The theatre closed in 1999 and was replaced by the Vue cinema, which still stands, although for how much longer we are unsure.

The sea front is about to undergo extensive changes which hopefully will be enjoyed by the residents and bring more visitors to the town.

Paignton Heritage Society look at all proposals for the town and comment where appropriate. As a growing society with an increasing membership, we are forward-looking and try always to have a positive input into plans for the future.

Coming up

The last meeting of our summer programme will be held at Gerston Chapel, Torquay Road, Paignton, on Thursday, 19 June, starting at 7pm. Our speaker will be Janet Downer, and the title of her talk is More Dark Deeds in Devon: Exploring Local Events and Legends, Real and Not So Real. Should be very entertaining. Entry is £5 (£4 for members of PHS) and, as usual, includes tea/coffee.

Our autumn programme starts in September; details will follow. Kirkham House, our medieval gem, after a very successful April and May, will be closed until July. Throughout July and August, Kirkham will be open every Sunday from 1pm to 4pm.