Torquay Reading trip
Escape to the beautiful seaside town of Torquay for an Agatha Christie-inspired getaway on the English Riviera. Enjoy a relaxing stay at the elegant Imperial Hotel, with breakfast everyday and 1 dinner included, giving you plenty of time to explore the town’s charming waterfront, historic streets and literary heritage. The highlight of your trip is a visit to Greenway, Agatha Christie’s former holiday home, with transport included (entrance to Greenway at own expense or free for National trust members). Discover the places and landscapes connected to one of Britain’s best-loved crime writers. We will also include a walking tour of Torquay, taking in the main sights and exploring the town.
Our book club will focus on Peril at End House by Agatha Christie, a captivating murder mystery featuring the much-loved detective Hercule Poirot. Join fellow readers to explore the twists, clues and secrets behind this classic crime novel.
Your trip will be organised by Books in Places and hosted by an experienced member of our team. With over 60 literary trips and reading retreats organised across the UK and overseas, we bring together book lovers to share their passion for reading, travel and discovery.
Books in Places creates relaxed, sociable literary escapes, offering the chance to explore wonderful destinations and connect with like-minded readers. Many guests return time and again, making new friendships along the way.
Most of our guests travel solo, with single occupancy as standard. However, twin rooms are also available for friends or couples who would like to share the experience.
Prices are based on making your own way, by train or car. Should you need flights please call us.
Please note that this trip involves a degree of walking and may include steps, so a basic level of mobility is required.
The Hotel
Overlooking the beautiful Torbay coastline, The Imperial is an elegant Victorian hotel set in a clifftop location, within easy reach of Torquay harbour and town centre. Facilities include comfortable bedrooms, a restaurant, bar, indoor swimming pool, spa, sauna, steam room and gym. Enjoy spectacular sea views alongside excellent dining and relaxing leisure facilities.
Your Room
The Standard Double Rooms at The Imperial offer comfortable, traditionally styled accommodation with a cosy double bed and en-suite bathroom. Each room features complimentary Wi-Fi, a television, tea and coffee-making facilities, hairdryer and comfortable seating area.
Hotel Facts
- 152 rooms
- Lounge & bar
- Restaurant
- Free on-site car-parking
- Free WiFi
- Indoor pool
- Jacuzzi, gym & fitness centre
- Lift
- Ensuite room
- Smart TV
- Hairdryer
- Iron/ironing board
- Tea/Coffee making facilities
- Air-conditioning
- Complimentary toiletries
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive at The Imperial Hotel in beautiful Torquay and take time to check in and settle into your room. In the evening, we’ll come together for a welcome dinner (included in your stay), giving everyone the chance to get to know one another and start our literary getaway. Our featured book for this trip will be Peril at End House by Agatha Christie.
Day 2
After breakfast, we’ll head out to visit Greenway House, Agatha Christie’s former holiday home, now cared for by the National Trust. Set in beautiful gardens overlooking the River Dart, this fascinating property offers a wonderful insight into Christie’s life, family and love of Devon. Explore the house and gardens, discover the places that inspired her writing and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
In the afternoon we will enjoy a walking tour of Torquay, discovering some of the town’s highlights. Afterwards, we’ll come together for our book club discussion, sharing our thoughts, favourite moments and theories about Peril at End House. Dinner this evening is at your own expense.
Day 3
After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely day discovering Torquay and its connections to the Queen of Crime. You might like to explore the harbour, stroll along the seafront, visit the Agatha Christie Mile or discover more about her life and literary legacy. There are plenty of lovely cafés, independent shops and seaside spots to enjoy.
We’ll have another opportunity to spend time together, share our love of reading and perhaps discuss other favourite books. Dinner this evening is at your own expense.
Day 4
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking out and departing for home, taking with you wonderful memories of our Agatha Christie-inspired reading retreat.
Please note: Breakfast is included each morning, with one welcome dinner included on arrival day. All other lunches and evening meals are at your own expense.
Location
Torquay, the beautiful seaside town on the English Riviera, is easily accessible from across the UK. Regular train services connect Torquay with major destinations, including London, Bristol and Plymouth, with convenient connections from nearby towns and cities. Alternatively, travelling by car offers flexibility, with the town well connected via the A380 and M5.
With its stunning coastal scenery, fascinating literary heritage and connections to Agatha Christie, Torquay is the perfect destination for a memorable reading break inspired by the Queen of Crime. Discover the places that shaped her life and work, including Greenway, her former holiday home, while enjoying a relaxing stay at the elegant Imperial Hotel.
Free on-site parking is available for hotel guests.
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