Residents and visitors are being invited to celebrate the landscapes, stories and creativity of the English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark during a festival of discovery, culture and connection. 

The Geopark Festival, which has events running from Thursday 21 May to Friday 29 May 2026, invites everyone to explore Torbay’s extraordinary geology and heritage through an inspiring programme of walks, workshops, exhibitions and hands‑on experiences, with events taking place across the English Riviera in Torquay, Paignton and Brixham. 

This year’s programme is bigger and better than ever, bringing together artists, scientists, educators and outdoor specialists and offering opportunities to experience the Geopark in a variety of different ways — from fossil discovery and coastal foraging to creative workshops, guided geowalks, yoga in nature and evening talks. 

Some of the Festival’s highlights include: 

• Hands‑on discovery experiences such as beach labs, fossil activities and coastal foraging walks. 

• Creative exhibitions and workshops, including Colour‑ing the Bay at Torre Abbey and the Strata Stories exhibition at Artizan Gallery. 

• Guided Geopark walks and coastal adventures exploring cliffs, caves and ancient landscapes. 

• Wellbeing experiences in nature, from sunrise and sunset yoga to coastal yoga walks. 

• Live performances and heritage storytelling, including sea shanties on the beach and evening talks with Geopark partners and patrons. 

Whether you’re a local resident or visiting the English Riviera for the first time, the festival offers a chance to slow down, look closer, and discover the remarkable connections between land, sea, culture and community. 

Councillor Jackie Thomas, Torbay Council Cabinet Member for Tourism, Culture and Events, and Corporate Services, said:  

“The English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark plays and important role in enhancing and protecting our unique landscape and cultural heritage here in Torbay and the festival is a wonderful way to celebrate this. I’d encourage both residents and visitors to get involved and experience the vibrant towns, rich heritage and a spectacular coastline that make the English Riviera and our UNESCO Global Geopark so special.” 

Melanie Border, English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark Co-ordinator, added:  

“Working with our partners and associate partners, the festival is a fantastic opportunity to tell the story of the Geopark, inviting residents and visitors to immerse themselves in one of Earth’s most extraordinary and inspiring places. 

“This year’s programme offers vibrant mix of activities and events celebrating all that makes our Geopark unique – from its geology, which sits at the heart of the designation, to the area’s rich heritage, history, culture and biodiversity.” 

There is more information about the Geopark Festival, including a full programme of events and activities, on the English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark website.