Anstey's Cove (Torquay)

A secluded shingle cove between Torquay and Babbacombe below limestone cliffs, Environment Agency-classified Excellent, reached by a steep road/footpath through Kilmorie Woods.

Beach & safety

Water quality: Excellent

Lifeguard: Not confirmed — no dedicated RNLI lifeguard patrol found for this cove

Hazards: Deep water close to shore and submerged rocks at the cove mouth; Environment Agency notes bacteria levels may rise after heavy rainfall.

Amenities: toilets · cafe · car-park

Dogs

Official source: View the rule at source →

Family

Pretty and sheltered but the steep road down (about 5 minutes, unsuitable for wheelchairs/buggies) and shingle underfoot make it less convenient than Torbay's bigger sandy beaches.

Fishing

Not a documented ShoreMarks mark. Deep, clean water close to the limestone cliffs suggests wrasse/pollack potential from the rocks at the cove edges, but no dedicated angling source was found confirming this — light research only, consistent with this batch's bathing-water focus.

Access & parking

Steep road/footpath down from the car park off Ilsham Marine Drive; no wheelchair/buggy access. Sat-nav: TQ1 2QP. Get directions →