Cockington, A Horse and Carriage Ride Into Paradise

Just off the seafront in Torquay, to the left of the Livermead hotel, you will find a lane which leads to what is known as the jewel in Torquay's crown, Cockington, and if you visit Cockington on the second Tuesday in July you will be able to savour the delights of the ancient Cockington Fair.

Cockington is a small village situated about half a mile from the seafront, just next to the Livermead area in Torquay. It really is one of those picture postcard settings and it is recommended that you jump on one of the horse and carriages that are ready and waiting to bring you into the village or alternatively, take you for a tour around on your arrival.

I have seen and heard the gasps of delight when people see Cockington for the first time and although there are a few tacky gift shops scattered around the village, there are far more interesting landmarks to get your attention. The old forge and is probably the most famous Cockington landmark but when is comes to refreshments Cockington really starts to thrive.

Cream teas in the cottage garden

There are two places that I always recommend and they are The Drum Inn and Rose Cottage. The Rose Cottage is set in some breath taking gardens and whilst you are getting stuck in to the famous Devon cream tea you can relax, listening to the fabulous tunes that are being played by the resident pianist. For a relaxing hour in the Torquay sun, you really cannot beat it.

For those of you who like your refreshments a little stronger, you will be pleased to know that a two minute walk up the lane will bring you to the Drum Inn. Set under a thatched roof you are able to enjoy some fine ales accompanied by a varied menu which caters for all tastes, I can highly recommend the sirloin steak, absolutely first class.

After refreshments have been taken you could stroll down to the Manor house which hosts a number of local craftsmen and women who have stalls set up to sell their wares, from glass blowing to local artists you are sure to find something that tempts you into making a purchase.

All is fair in tug-of-war…

If you are lucky enough to visit in July you will be able to take in the famous Cockington Fair. It always takes place on the Cricket field and it really is a traditional type of fair, none of the candy floss and fairground rides but stalls and hoop la, tug-of-war etc that have been operated by the same families for decades.

It really is a breath of fresh air and if you are staying in Torquay, Paignton, Brixham, or anywhere in South Devon for that matter, you really should make the effort to visit Cockington, with or without the fair, as you will leave with a smile on your face knowing that you have experienced something that is extremely rare in this day and age.