13 Aug Making the Most of a Torbay Summer

What a wonderful summer we’ve been enjoying here in Torbay! We’ve been incredibly lucky with the sunshine, and it’s a great reminder of how fortunate we are to live in such a beautiful coastal community. From our stunning beaches and scenic walks to the funfair, sailing events, the circus and ice creams, alongside the buzz of holidaymakers making happy memories…

But summer isn’t just for visitors—it’s for us locals too. It’s the perfect time to reconnect with neighbours, enjoy a picnic, fire up the barbecue and build the friendships that make our communities stronger.

As Community Builders with Torbay Communities, that’s exactly what we’re here to encourage. Using an Asset-Based Community Development approach, we focus on what’s strong, not what’s wrong, and go where the energy is—bringing people together to have fun, reduce loneliness and build resilient neighbourhoods.

Recently, more than 50 residents came together for a fantastic community picnic at St Luke’s, Waldon Point. We enjoyed live music, a quiz, games, laughter and a raffle, raising funds for a much-needed bus shelter to protect residents from the wind, rain and summer sun. We also held a wonderful neighbourhood barbecue with residents from Warren Road and Melville Street, they shared food, stories and plenty of smiles while getting to know one another.

Many of us have also been making the most of the sea, with daytime swims and magical evening dips beneath July’s spectacular red moon. August promises even more amazing night skies, and whether you’re catching the ferry or hopping on the number 12 bus to Brixham for those incredible top-deck views, there’s always something to enjoy.

With the Torbay Literary Festival, events at Torre Abbey, Paignton Carnival, Brixham Sea Shanty performances, and community gatherings like the Brixham Scala Ceilidh, there’s no shortage of opportunities to get involved.

So why not knock on a neighbour’s door, invite them for a barbecue, a stroll along the seafront, or simply stop for a chat? Community starts with a conversation, and together we can make this summer one to remember.

To find out more about activities in Torquay, please call me on 07931567885 or email [email protected].