The much-anticipated Geopark Festival is about to start on the English Riviera, taking place from 25 to 31 May 2024. And this year it's bigger and better than ever with the introduction of new Geopark Discovery Experiences.

This annual event is a celebration of the international significance of the English Riviera’s UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation) Global Geopark status.

It sees Geopark Partners and Associate Partners hosting a wide range of events and activities across the Bay.

The aim of the festival is to showcase the wonders of the Geopark through collaborative working, and to allow residents and visitors the opportunity to discover something new along the way.

The week-long festival invites you to delve into the essence of the English Riviera, exploring our rich culture, history and the stunning UNESCO Global Geopark.

The festival program boasts an array of exceptional Geopark Discovery Experiences across Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham.

Learn about Agatha Christie’s Extraordinary Life as you embark on a walking tour that celebrates the life of the legendary novelist, or take a private Geopark and wildlife boat tour as you discover the Geopark’s wild side, offering an intimate look at our unique geological formations and diverse wildlife.

If you are looking for something more relaxing, the festival boasts both sunrise and sunset yoga experiences. These encourage participants to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of sunrise or sunset along our stunning coastline.

Join us on a beach to sing sea shanties or enjoy a full-day coastal open air painting workshop. You can try your hand at kayaking or go on a guided tour at Berry Head forts.

With 18 experiences to choose from, there’s something for everyone.

The English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark is a testament to our commitment to preserving and celebrating our natural landscapes and cultural heritage.

We invite everyone to join us in this celebration and experience the Bay in a way that resonates with them.

Nick Powe, Chair of the English Rivera UNESCO Global Geopark, said: “The theme for this year’s Geopark Festival is Discovery and I am delighted that so many of the Geopark partners have come up with some truly extraordinary experiences.  

“Badged as Geopark Discovery Experiences, guests can choose from a variety of themes including the ocean, wellbeing, wildlife, geology, and creativity.

“Not only will they have a great experience on land or at sea, but they will find out, in a fun way, why the English Riviera has such a prestigious international UNESCO label, and what makes it one of Earth’s extraordinary places.

“The Geopark Festival is an annual event, but this year’s is all about discovering how special this part of Devon is.”

Melanie Border, English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark Co-ordinator, said: “This annual event allows us to celebrate all aspects of the Geopark and our UNESCO designation.

“When many hear the term Geopark they instantly think of the fantastic Geoplay Park on Paignton seafront, but our UNESCO designation covers the whole of the English Riviera.

“Through our key partner sites and associate partners, the festival aims to tell the Geopark’s story from a cultural, environmental, and historical perspective. All events and activities have been designed to show how naturally inspiring our region is, and how Global Geoparks are not just about rocks.”

Cllr Jackie Thomas, Torbay Council’s Cabinet Member for Tourism, Culture & Events and Corporate Services, said: “We are fully committed to safeguarding our planet and the Bay, and our UNESCO designation only strengthens that commitment for future generations.

“The Geopark Festival highlights the importance of our unique history and how we are working with partners to educate about, protect, and celebrate our natural, historical and cultural environment.

“Our new Geopark Discovery Experiences show that the English Riviera is a truly unique place to visit. We hope that residents and visitors will enjoy the Festival and make the most of what we have to offer across our glorious Bay in Torquay, Paignton and Brixham."

So, this year we invite you to visit and discover your UNESCO Geopark. Bring a friend to share the experience and tell your family and friends you have celebrated ‘One of Earth’s extraordinary places'.

The Geopark Discovery Experiences have been made possible thanks to funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and the delivery partners English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark and English Riviera BID Company who have led, coordinated and created this fantastic programme.

For more information on the festival and to book tickets for Geopark Discover Experiences, please visit the official English Riviera tourism website Geopark Festival | What's On | Devon (englishriviera.co.uk).

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