Babbacombe Model Village
Torquay’s Babbacombe Model Village is a fun and charming destination that’s suitable for the whole family. It's a representation of English village life in miniature—complete with cottages, gardens, and transport—alongside well-known landmarks such as Stonehenge and Windsor Castle. With more than 400 models and approximately 13,000 miniature people, there’s plenty to see here.
The Basics
Both adults and kids alike will enjoy Babbacombe Model Village, with its gardens, tearooms, and indoor displays. Humorous touches are scattered throughout, and while not all of them are obvious, it’s fun to look out for things such as fire-breathing dragons perched over Windsor Castle. Easily accessible from Torquay proper, Babbacombe Model Village is a popular stopping point for independent travelers and families in the South West of England.
Things to Know Before You Go
Tickets are usually for single entry, but if you want to return within seven days to check out the evening illuminations, get your ticket validated before you leave.
Allow at least two hours for touring Babbacombe—it’s much larger than many visitors realize.
Kids can pick up a “spotter sheet” on arrival, which includes items that they need to search for throughout the park.
Access to the park is via some steep slopes, which can be difficult for manual wheelchair users to navigate.
How to Get There
The Babbacombe Model Village is a 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) north of central Torquay. The easiest way to get there is by private vehicle, as it’s about a 6-minute drive. Alternatively, it’s about a 30- to 40-minute walk from central Torquay.
Trip ideas
When to Get There
Opening times vary depending on the season, and the park is busiest during the school holidays. Since most of the displays are outdoors, it’s best to visit when the weather is fine. A beautiful time to visit is during evening illuminations, generally held once a week in the summer months and on special occasions at other times.
Another fun, family-friendly attraction in Torquay is Dinosaur World. On display are life-size models of dinosaurs and real fossils, and kids can even ride on some of the dinosaurs. It’s educational as well as entertaining, and interactive features such as seasonal quizzes keep kids interested.