Renowned for its equable climate. One of the most beautiful and popular seaside resorts in Britain, standing on seven hills with beaches facing every way and wide choice of walks among pines and heather. Development of resort from 1815 accelerated by arrival of the Great Western Railway in 1848 and the discovery of prehistoric bones in Kent's Cavern proving the antiquity of humans living 250,000 years ago. Today open to the public. Torre Abbey, originally a wealthy monastery, contains a Museum and Art Gallery. Large marina and harbour for yachts. Nearby at Paignton is the terminus of the Torbay steam railway running down to Kingswear. Compton Castle, a 15th century fortified Manor House, is excellently preserved. The famous Cockington Forge, and Babbacombe, with its beautiful sandy bay, are both within a mile or two from the centre of the town.