The Palace Hotel

Walk through those heavy wooden doors on the Esplanade and you're stepping into proper old-school Paignton hospitality. The Palace isn't trying to be trendy or ironic about its heritage—it leans into it, all period features and the kind of space that's hosted generations of families wanting a proper seaside break. You'll find yourself on the front line of the seafront, watching the bay stretch out, which honestly beats being stuck inland near the shopping centre. It's the sort of place where afternoon tea feels like an event, not a marketing angle, and the staff actually seem pleased you're there rather than rushing you through.