Welcome to the holiday resort of Paignton with its long red sanded beach, which is instantly recognized by its 235 metre pleasure pier which was opened in June 1879.
In 1980 a major redevelopment project was undertaken. This included the widening of the shoreward end to ensure a uniform neck, and the construction of the rather stylish pavilions that remain today. Paignton Pier comprises an entrance building at the shoreward end along with what looks to be several individual pavilion buildings connected along the neck. These in fact form one single amusement arcade through their entire length. At the pier-head there is now an open amusement area containing karts, slides and carousel.
Paignton is mentioned in records dating back to the Domesday Book of 1086 AD. The town´s name has also been spelled as Peynton and Paington and is derived from Paega´s town, the name of the original Celtic settlement. Paignton was a small fishing village until the 19th century, when the Paington Harbour Act led to the construction of a new harbour in 1837. It was also around this time that the modern spelling of Paignton appeared.
Next to the beach is Paignton Green offering the perfect spot for a game of cricket or rounders, or just to sit and relax, also in the summer months there are a number of exciting family events staged here, also on the green is Pirates Bay - an 18 hole pirate themed adventure golf course full of fun and adventure for adults and children alike.
Rather than the traditional UK style crazy golf, adventure golf is an American concept where the holes are skill based and the old style luck based windmill type holes are replaced with water obstacles, sand traps, sweeping contours and a whole lot more.... Look out for our holes where you´re putting over the water, or our island green, watch out for the pirates, the marooned shipwreck and many other pirate themed elements.
There are 5 Paignton Beaches, Broadsands Beach, Elberry Cove, Goodrington Sands, Paignton Sands and Preston Sands.