What's On

Name: The Esplanade Hotel Paignton by Compass Hospitality
Address: Esplanade Rd, Paignton, TQ4 6EG, United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 1803 556333

Discover the exciting events happening in and around Torbay. From festivals and regattas to our own special nights, there’s something for everyone.

Upcoming Events

Brixham Classic Car Show

14th September

Admire a stunning collection of classic cars at the Brixham Classic Car Show.

Links: Brixham Classic Car Show – Car & Motor Vehicles in Paignton, Paignton – English Riviera

Train of Lights

Winter season (dates to be confirmed)

Experience the magic of the Train of Lights, a festive journey through the illuminated countryside.

Links: Train of Lights – Christmas in PAIGNTON, Paignton – English Riviera

The Agatha Christie Festival

13th – 21st September

Celebrate the life and works of Agatha Christie with a week of literary events, tours, and performances.

Links: The Agatha Christie Festival – Festival in Torquay, Torquay – English Riviera

Torbay Half Marathon

21st September

Challenge yourself or cheer on the runners at the Torbay Half Marathon, with a scenic route along the coast.

Links: Torbay Half Marathon & 10k – Sports in Torbay, Paignton – English Riviera

Torbay Triathlon

5th October

Watch or participate in the Torbay Triathlon, featuring swimming, cycling, and running events.

Links: Torbay Triathlon Autumn – Triathlon in Paignton, Paignton – English Riviera

Our Psychic Fair

1st November

Explore the mystical at the Esplanade Hotel’s Psychic Fair, with tarot readings, spiritual guidance, and more. A unique experience not to be missed.

Links: Facebook

Brixham Pirate Festival

2nd – 4th May 2026

Description: A lively early-May weekend where the nearby harbour town transforms with a sea-shanty atmosphere — think pirate costumes, street performances, music, market stalls and fun for all ages. (brixhampiratesfestival.com)

More Info: Visit the official website → brixhampiratesfestival.com (brixhampiratesfestival.com)

Distance from the hotel: A short boat or car/bus ride from Paignton — great as a half-day or full-day excursion.

English Riviera Airshow

29th – 31st May 2026

Description: A spectacular free-to-attend airshow over the bay — expect aerobatic displays, vintage aircraft, ground-based fairground fun, food stalls, and family entertainment along the seafront. (English Riviera Airshow)

More Info: Full event details on the official site → englishrivieraairshow.co.uk (English Riviera Airshow)

Distance from the hotel: Right by Paignton Green — roughly a 5-minute walk from the Esplanade Hotel.

Paddle UK SUPER Festival (SUP & Watersports)

25th – 28th June 2026

Description: A five-day stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) festival and world-class ICF SUP competition set against the stunning coastline of Torbay — perfect for both competitors and spectators. (superfestival.paddleuk.org.uk)

More Info & Booking: Learn more at the official event site → superfestival.paddleuk.org.uk (superfestival.paddleuk.org.uk)

Distance from the hotel: Reachable by a short drive or public transport to Torquay/Torre Abbey — a comfortable day-trip from Paignton.

Fireball World and National Championships (Sailing Regatta)

20th – 31st July 2026

Description: International sailing thrills return to Torbay — the prestigious Fireball World Championship and UK Nationals, hosted by the local yacht club. Visitors can enjoy racing action, social events, the opening ceremony, and the seaside atmosphere. (English Riviera)

More Info: Programme and details at 2026.fireballworlds.com and the host club’s site → rtyc.org (sail-world.com)

Distance from the hotel: Short trip to Torquay harbour or embarkation points — great for sailing enthusiasts or those wanting to enjoy harbour life.

Agatha Christie Festival (Torquay & the English Riviera)

12th – 20th September 2026

Description: A celebration of the works and legacy of the iconic crime-novelist — with literary talks, themed walking tours, events and social gatherings across Torquay and the Riviera. (iacf-uk.org)

More Info: Check out the 2026 Festival programme on the official site → iacf-uk.org/festival-2026 (iacf-uk.org)

Distance from the hotel: Around 10–15 minutes by car or bus to Torquay — ideal for a culturally rich day out.

Paddle UK SUPER Festival (SUP & Watersports)

25th – 28th June 2026

Description: A five-day stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) festival and world-class ICF SUP competition set against the stunning coastline of Torbay — perfect for both competitors and spectators. (superfestival.paddleuk.org.uk)