Anstey's Cove
A hidden cove on the English Riviera, Anstey's Cove boasts crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and excellent climbing. A true natural gem.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Anstey's Cove
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A hidden cove on the English Riviera, Anstey's Cove boasts crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and excellent climbing. A true natural gem.
"Absolutely stunning location. They call it the English riviera and now I see why."
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The path down to the cove is steep; good shoes are a must for a safe and comfortable descent.
🏊♀️ Pack for a Swim
The water is crystal clear and inviting for a refreshing dip or snorkeling adventure.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crystal Clear Waters
The Cove
Invitingly clear water perfect for swimming, paddling, and snorkeling. A true gem of the English Riviera.
Dramatic Coastal Scenery
Surrounding Cliffs
Stunning cliffs and breathtaking vistas along the South West Coast Path. A photographer's dream.
Rock Pooling Adventures
Cove Shoreline
Captivating rock pools teeming with marine life, ideal for curious explorers of all ages.
Challenging Climbing Routes
Coastal Cliffs
Exciting sport and trad climbing routes for experienced climbers, offering steep and pumpy challenges.
+3Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Steep Descent, Rewarding Views
Parking and Facilities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The path down to the cove is steep; good shoes are a must for a safe and comfortable descent.
🏊♀️ Pack for a Swim
The water is crystal clear and inviting for a refreshing dip or snorkeling adventure.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for the stunning coastal scenery and unique rock formations.
🧗♂️ Experienced Climbers Welcome
Anstey's Cove offers challenging routes for those looking for a coastal climbing experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The path down to the cove is steep; good shoes are a must for a safe and comfortable descent.
🏊♀️ Pack for a Swim
The water is crystal clear and inviting for a refreshing dip or snorkeling adventure.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for the stunning coastal scenery and unique rock formations.
🧗♂️ Experienced Climbers Welcome
Anstey's Cove offers challenging routes for those looking for a coastal climbing experience.
☕ Cafe & Facilities Available
Enjoy refreshments at the cove's cafe and utilize the clean toilet facilities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Anstey's Cove is widely praised as a stunning, unspoiled gem of the English Riviera, with visitors loving its crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and rock pools. The nearby cafe and facilities are a welcome bonus, though the steep walk down is a point of caution for some. It's a highly recommended spot for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
"Absolutely stunning location. They call it the English riviera and now I see why. There is a car park just up the hill with a short walk down to the crystal clean water. Lovely say out in the sun watching the world go by at this location."
Rob Hinson
"This is one of my favourite local places to visit on any day of the week. It’s very unspoilt. They have pay and display parking both on street and a public car park. Absolute gem of a place ❤️"
B
"What a gem Anstey's Cove is! This little haven boasts a fantastic cafe serving delicious food and coffee, plus the welcome addition of clean toilet facilities and plenty of seating. But the real star of the show is the beautiful cove itself, with its invitingly crystal clear water and captivating rock pools. I can just imagine children having an absolute blast here, paddling in the clear water and becoming intrepid explorers amongst the rocks!
We also took the opportunity to walk a section of the South West Coast Path from Anstey's Cove back to Torquay, and I cannot recommend it highly enough. The scenery was utterly breathtaking, with truly spectacular vistas, similar to the stunning view I've included below."
Ian
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Anstey's Cove is located in Torquay. You can reach it by car, with pay and display parking available nearby. It's also accessible via walking trails, including sections of the South West Coast Path.
The walk down to Anstey's Cove is quite steep, which may be challenging for individuals with mobility issues or very young children. Sturdy footwear is recommended.
Yes, you can enjoy a scenic walk along the South West Coast Path from Torquay to Anstey's Cove, offering breathtaking coastal views. +1
There are pay and display parking options available, including on-street parking and a public car park close to the cove.
While direct public transport to the cove itself might be limited, you can take buses to Torquay and then walk or take a taxi to the vicinity of Anstey's Cove.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Anstey's Cove is a natural cove and does not require an entrance ticket. Parking fees may apply.
Anstey's Cove is a natural attraction and is generally accessible at all times. The cafe facilities will have specific operating hours.
There is no entry fee for Anstey's Cove itself. Parking charges may apply in the designated areas.
While the cove is a natural area, visiting at night might be less safe due to the steep paths and lack of lighting. It's best enjoyed during daylight hours.
General public access is permitted. However, it's advisable to check local guidelines for any specific restrictions, especially regarding dogs or fires.
🎫 🏊♀️ Onsite Experience
You can swim, snorkel, explore rock pools, sunbathe, and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery. Experienced climbers can tackle the challenging routes.
Yes, the water is known for being crystal clear and is a popular spot for swimming and wild swimming.
Absolutely! Anstey's Cove boasts a cafe serving food and coffee, as well as clean toilet facilities.
The clear waters and marine life make Anstey's Cove an excellent spot for snorkeling and freediving.
Children can enjoy paddling in the clear water and exploring the rock pools. However, the steep descent requires supervision.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the dramatic cliffs, the crystal-clear water, the unique rock formations, and the stunning coastal vistas along the South West Coast Path.
The western-facing aspect can offer beautiful sunset views, especially with the dramatic coastal backdrop.
Drone usage may be subject to local regulations and permissions. It's advisable to check with local authorities before flying a drone.
Explore the South West Coast Path for panoramic views, and the rock pools offer macro photography opportunities.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a macro lens can capture the details in the rock pools. A polarizing filter can enhance the water and sky.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
However, parents should be mindful of the steep path leading down to the cove. It's essential to keep a close eye on young children during the descent and ascent. While the cove itself is safe for supervised play, the journey requires extra care.
🧗♀️ Adventurous Climbers
+3If you're looking for a unique climbing experience with stunning sea views, Anstey's Cove delivers. The coastal setting adds an extra thrill, and the opportunity for deep water soloing further enhances its appeal to the adventurous climber.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including seals, and enjoy the diverse flora and fauna that thrive along this beautiful stretch of coastline. The well-maintained paths make for an enjoyable and scenic trekking experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Anstey's Cove: A Natural Gem
The journey to the cove itself is part of the experience. While the walk down is steep, it's consistently described as worthwhile, offering glimpses of the stunning scenery that awaits. This natural haven is a stark contrast to busier tourist spots, retaining a sense of tranquility and raw beauty that appeals to those seeking a more authentic coastal experience.
Beyond its visual appeal, Anstey's Cove is a hub for activity. It's a popular spot for wild swimming and snorkeling, with many enjoying the abundant marine life visible in the clear waters. For the more adventurous, the surrounding cliffs offer challenging bouldering and climbing routes, attracting enthusiasts from across the region.
+2Exploring the South West Coast Path from Anstey's Cove
Many visitors combine a visit to Anstey's Cove with a hike along the path, describing the scenery as utterly breathtaking and spectacular. The elevated views offer a different perspective on the cove and the wider Torbay area. It's a chance to truly immerse yourself in the rugged coastal landscape that makes this region so famous.
Popular routes include a circular walk from Meadfoot beach, passing through Anstey's Cove and along Bishops Walk, offering a diverse experience of coastal paths and green spaces. Keep an eye out for local wildlife; some visitors have even spotted seals on nearby Thatchers Rock.
Climbing and Bouldering at Anstey's Cove
+3Climbers can expect a variety of styles, including sport climbing and trad climbing, with notable routes like 'Might and Main' (6c+) and 'Empire of the Sun' (7b) being frequently mentioned. The steep arête climbs are particularly popular, offering a rewarding experience for those who conquer them. The combination of challenging ascents and the stunning sea views makes it a memorable climbing location.
+1For those interested in deep water soloing, Anstey's Cove also offers opportunities, adding another dimension to its climbing appeal. It's a place where climbers can push their limits while surrounded by the natural beauty of the Devon coast.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit