Anstey's Cove

Anstey’s Cove is a small shingle beach between Torquay and Babbacombe, tucked between high cliffs and a thickly wooded hillside. It is for people who will trade an easy walk for a quieter beach, and dogs are welcome all year. Torbay classes it as a Quality Standard beach under the English Riviera Beach Standards. The nearest town base is Torquay.

Getting there and parking

There is a pay and display car park at the top of the hill. The walk down to the cove can be a bit difficult, with a steep slope and steps, although there is a handrail. There are toilets at the cove.

Swimming and the water

Tor Bay beaches are not patrolled or monitored by lifeguards, so swim with a buddy, tell someone when you expect to be back and stay in the shallows close to the shore. The water suits swimming or paddleboarding, and you can rent a deckchair.

Dogs

Dogs are allowed at Anstey’s Cove all year round, unlike Oddicombe and part of Meadfoot, which close to dogs from 1 May to 30 September. Pick up after your dog, and keep it on a lead if it is excitable or does not respond well to commands.

Walks and coasteering

The cove is a base for walks along the coastal paths to Hope’s Nose, in a wildlife reserve with butterflies and birds. It is also a place to try coasteering, which takes place around the rocky coastline. The route from Torquay to Babbacombe passes the cove and continues to Oddicombe Beach, so you can add Babbacombe on foot.