Princess Pier, Torquay

What better way to enjoy a waterfront stroll than along Torquay's palm-lined promenade and Princess Pier? The pier, built in 1890, is the perfect place to stop and gaze out to sea, or to enjoy watching the constant comings and goings in the adjacent marina. Plus there's the chance to catch sightseeing and fishing boat trips between Torquay, Paignton, Brixham and Greenway from the end of the pier, as well as banana boat rides!

The pier is a firm feature of the Agatha Christie Mile, for the Queen of Crime - who grew up in Torquay - regularly went roller-skating with friends here during her youth. Torquay Museum’s Agatha Christie Gallery features photographs of this period in her life.

It's also favourite among anglers, and at its far end is a great spot to catch the evening sun as it sets below the hills.

Very fresh in the wind ... Nice to feel the sea blowing up at you.

The pier offers a wonderful view.
Agatha Christie often went roller skating on the pier, as this was very fashionable at the time. At that time there was a concert hall at the end of the pier, but unfortunately it burned down in 1974.