Short answer: Harbour Light is the best-rated pub in Paignton, right on the harbour over two floors. The Boathouse at Preston Sands has a sun-trap beer garden across Tor Bay and a log burner for cold days.
Harbour Light, right on the harbour over two floors with an outdoor area. It is the best-rated place in Paignton and the harbour setting does the rest.
The Boathouse at Preston Sands is beach-front with a sun-trap beer garden looking across Tor Bay, breakfasts from nine and a log burner when it turns cold. Family run, and the better of the two beach options.
Costero Lounge by the Festival Theatre — bright, comfortable, with order-at-table by QR code so nobody has to leave the pushchair to queue. Strong gluten-free and vegan options.
The Hyde Dendy on the Esplanade has plenty of indoor and outdoor space and copes with a crowd. One thing to know: the carvery is Sunday-only despite what the signage suggests.
The Spinning Wheel Inn on the Esplanade is really a live music venue with a proper pub attached — bands most weekends.
Harbour Light, the Boathouse, Costero Lounge and the Hyde Dendy all take dogs. Fairy Cove behind the harbour is dog friendly all year, and Paignton Beach South opens to dogs from 1 October.
Devon's good rooms are small rooms. Book at weekends and always for Sunday lunch, and ring rather than trusting a booking form out of season.
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