




Whether you’re discovering the English Riviera for the first time or returning for the umpteenth time, booking a lodge with a hot tub has to be one of the best ways to enjoy everything this incredible part of Devon has to offer.
Groups of mates, couples and families will be spoilt for choice with things to see and experience here with top attractions like Paignton Zoo with its 2,000 animals and Splashdown Quaywest Water’s awesome slides.
Going self-catering means you’ll save money and have the freedom to eat when you want and go enjoy easy access to beaches like Goodrington Sands.
Many of our cabins welcome pets, so the whole family can enjoy coastal walks along the South West Path. With Torquay and Brixham just minutes away, these luxury lodges put you right in the heart of Devon’s top attractions.
If you’re after a holiday park that’s got everything on tap, Beverley Park is a solid bet. This lodge site has two distinct areas – the main lively section and the more peaceful Meadowside part. So you’ve got you options depending on what sort of break you’re after.
We like the facilities here which have both indoor and outdoor heated swimming pools plus a sauna, steam room and gym. For the kids there are multiple play areas and crazy golf. The Starlight Cabaret Bar puts on evening shows and there’s a restaurant, café and takeaway on site too.
Accommodation-wise, you’re looking at modern caravans which have one double bedroom (with en-suite WC) and two twins, all with TVs. Beds come made up and you get deluxe towels included. You can save money visiting out of the manic season and central heating makes a big difference in cooler months.
One of the best things about Hoseason’s Beverley is the location. You’re less than a mile from Goodrington Sands at Paignton – a lovely beach that’s great for swimming. And after a day out exploring, you can head back to your private hot tub.
Beverley View is the sister park to Beverley Park and it’s a family-run site that packs in loads of facilities too. What we like about this place is that it’s got a loyal following with many guests come back year after year which means guests are happy with what they get.
The real selling point though is the decking area with its hot tub and stunning sea views. After a busy day, sitting out there with a drink watching the sunset over the bay is pretty special.
The Ocean 6 Lodge here is a good choice for families as it has three bedrooms – one king-size double with en-suite shower and two twins with TVs. The beds come made up ready for your arrival and you get towels and toiletries included.
Activity-wise, you’ve got access to both a tropical indoor heated pool and an outdoor pool in summer. There’s a sauna, steam room and fitness gym too. The Starlight Bar puts on entertainment and there are several food options including the Jetty Lounge and Waterfront poolside café.
Location is spot on – you’re close to Goodrington Sands beach and attractions like Splashdown Water Park and Paignton Zoo. The historic towns of Dartmouth and Brixham are nearby too. I reckon this is a great choice if you want a bit more luxury than Beverley Park.
Devon Hills has a different feel to the Beverley parks – it’s set in rolling countryside but still just three miles from the beach. This gives you the best of both worlds – peaceful surroundings but easy access to the “English Riviera”.
What I like about Devon Hills is the range of activities. There’s an 18m swimming pool, gym, sauna and steam room. Kids can try Waterwalkerz and Seascooters while adults might fancy Body Zorbs classes. You can even have a go at archery, disc golf, crossbow and fencing!
You get a choice of accommodation and the ‘Superior Lodge’ comes with a private Hot Tub… and is a bit of a beast. A good one for larger groups as it sleeps up to eight people in two double and two twin bedrooms. It’s got an open-plan living space and a well-equipped kitchen.
The surrounding area is fantastic for cycling and the South Devon countryside gives you a good mix of beaches, seaside towns and pretty villages. Compton Castle is worth a visit and if you’re feeling adventurous, there’s white water rafting at Ashburton.
After all that activity, the private hot tub on your decking is the perfect place to relax. This park is a good choice if you want more space than the Beverley options and prefer a countryside setting with loads to do.
Primley Meadow is the poshest of the bunch. It’s part of Hoseason’s fancy Bouja Luxury Caravan Breaks Collection. The central complex was converted from historic stables and barn which gives the whole place a lovely rustic feel.
The Tor Lodge is a real stand-out. It’s bright and spacious with French doors opening onto a south-facing sundeck with hot tub. The master bedroom has a double bed, TV, walk-in wardrobe and en-suite shower room. The second bedroom has twin beds and there’s a sofa bed in the living area that can sleep two more people.
You’ve got both indoor and outdoor heated pools, a Splash Pad and Jacuzzi. The Hayloft Bar and outdoor terrace is a great spot for food and drinks and the sprogs get multiple play areas including an indoor soft play area and a craft room.
I love that there are private woodland walking routes and cycling trails right on your doorstep. And you’re only a few miles from Torquay with its coastal zoo and aquarium. Make sure you take the Western Lady Ferry across to Brixham for an excellent day out too!
Of all four options, this is the most luxurious and has the most upmarket feel. The hot tub here feels like a proper treat rather than just an add-on. If you’re after a bit of pampering, Primley Meadow is your best bet.
Paignton sits right in the heart of what’s known as the “English Riviera” in Devon. The town has a traditional British seaside vibe with its iconic long sandy beaches and red sandstone cliffs.
The seafront area features a traditional pier packed with amusements and food stalls. Perfect for wasting a few quid on the 2p machines!
Paignton Zoo stands out as one of the UK’s top wildlife spots with over 2,000 animals across 80 acres. After a full day of walking the zoo grounds your legs will thank you for that hot tub waiting at your holiday accommodation.
Goodrington Sands sits just south of the main town – a massive beach with colourful beach huts that look like they’re straight off a postcard. The water quality here is very good too.
Paignton works brilliantly for dog owners looking for a dog-friendly stay on the coast. Many beaches allow dogs during off-peak seasons or have dedicated dog-friendly sections year-round.
Goodrington’s North Sands welcomes dogs all year while the main beaches have seasonal restrictions. Check the signs before letting Fido loose.
The South West Coast Path runs right through Paignton offering miles of scenic walking routes for you and your four-legged mate. Many local pubs welcome dogs with water bowls and treats – The Boathouse and The Ship Inn both have dog-friendly policies.
Most dog friendly cabins near Paignton provide specific facilities like enclosed gardens and washing areas – essential after your dog discovers the joys of rolling in whatever that smell was on the beach.
Paignton Zoo Environmental Park – Home to thousands of animals across 80 acres of natural habitat. The zoo focuses on conservation and offers close encounters with everything from gorillas to giraffes. Kids go mental for the miniature train that circles the park. Open 10am-5pm daily with seasonal variations.
Paignton Pier – A classic Victorian pier stretching out into the bay. Packed with arcade games penny pushers and dodgy candyfloss. The views back to shore make for decent photos though. Free to enter but your wallet won’t thank you after an hour in the arcade. Open daily from 10am with seasonal closing times.
Dartmouth Steam Railway – Catch this historic steam train from Paignton to Kingswear for views you can’t get from the road. The journey follows the coastline with some properly stunning scenery. Visitors rave about the Round Robin ticket that combines train boat and bus travel. Open February to November with varying timetables.
Splashdown Quaywest – The UK’s biggest outdoor waterpark sits right on Goodrington Sands. Eight water slides ranging from gentle to “why did I agree to this?” levels of terrifying. After getting thrown around water slides all day that hot tub back at your luxury lodge will feel even better. Open May to September weather permitting.
Occombe Farm – A working organic farm with nature trails farm shop and café serving food grown on site. Great for kids who’ve never seen where their chicken nuggets come from. The farm shop sells local produce worth taking back to your self catering accommodation. Open Tuesday to Sunday 10am-4pm.
Attraction | Activity Type | Price Guide | Suitable for |
---|---|---|---|
Paignton Zoo | Wildlife Park | £££ | Families Everyone |
Paignton Beach | Sandy Beach | Free! | Everyone Sun Lovers |
Dartmouth Steam Railway | Heritage Railway | £££ | Families Train Enthusiasts |
Splashdown Quaywest | Water Park | £££ | Families Thrill Seekers |
Occombe Farm | Working Farm | £ | Families Young Children |
Paignton Pier | Traditional Pier | Free entry | Everyone |
Goodrington Sands | Beach | Free! | Everyone Dog Owners |
Oldway Mansion Gardens | Historic Gardens | Free! | History Fans Garden Lovers |
Torbay Velopark | Cycling Track | ££ | Cycling Enthusiasts |
Berry Head Nature Reserve | Coastal Walks | Free! | Walkers Bird Watchers |
When’s the best time to visit Paignton?
June to September offers the warmest weather but also the biggest crowds. May and October provide decent weather with fewer tourists and better deals on log cabins and holiday lodges.
Do I need a car in Paignton?
Not essential. The town centre beaches and main attractions sit within walking distance. Buses connect to nearby towns but a car helps if you’re staying in lodges outside town or want to explore Dartmoor.
Which beaches allow dogs year-round?
Goodrington North Sands and Fairy Cove allow dogs all year. The main beaches have restrictions May to September.
What’s the best family attraction?
Paignton Zoo tops the list for most families with Splashdown Quaywest coming second during summer months.
Are there any good walks nearby?
The South West Coast Path offers stunning walks in both directions. Berry Head Nature Reserve provides circular routes with amazing views.
Where can I find luxury lodges with hot tubs?
The surrounding countryside offers the best selection of lodges with hot tubs, particularly around Brixham and the edges of Dartmoor.
Is Paignton good for rainy days?
Yes – the cinema Paignton Zoo (many indoor sections) and nearby Living Coasts provide wet weather options.
What’s the parking situation like?
Several large car parks serve the town centre and seafront. Prices increase dramatically in summer so check if your accommodation includes parking.