If you’re looking for an unforgettable family-friendly event by the sea this spring, the English Riviera Airshow is one of the absolute highlights of the UK calendar—and 2026 is extra special. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, this free-to-watch spectacle promises three incredible days of world-class aviation, set against the stunning backdrop of South Devon’s coastline.
Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast, planning a fun-packed family break, or simply looking for a unique seaside experience, this guide will help you make the most of the airshow—and show you why staying at Devon Holidays in Finlake is the perfect base for your trip.
✈️ What Is the English Riviera Airshow?
Held annually along the beautiful Torbay coastline (primarily around Paignton Green and the seafront), the English Riviera Airshow is one of the UK’s premier free air displays. It attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year—and for good reason.
In 2026, the event reaches a major milestone:
✨ The English Riviera Airshow Turns 10 ✨
And the organisers are going all out.
🚀 2026 Flying Highlights
Expect jaw-dropping displays from some of the UK’s most iconic aircraft:
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❤️ RAF Red Arrows – precision flying at its finest
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💙 RAF Typhoon Display Team – fast, loud, and breathtaking
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🤍 Battle of Britain Memorial Flight – a moving tribute to history
📅 Event Schedule
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Friday 29 May – Evening Flying Special
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RAF Red Arrows
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Battle of Britain Memorial Flight
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Saturday 30 May
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RAF Red Arrows
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RAF Typhoon
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Battle of Britain Memorial Flight
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Sunday 31 May
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RAF Typhoon
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Battle of Britain Memorial Flight
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🌊 Why the English Riviera Is the Perfect Setting
The airshow takes place along the Torbay coastline, often referred to as the English Riviera—and once you see it, you’ll understand why.
Think:
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Wide sandy beaches
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Calm, sheltered waters
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Palm-lined promenades
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Stunning sea views perfect for aerial displays
Watching jets roar over the sea with the South Devon coastline as a backdrop is something you won’t forget in a hurry.
👨👩👧👦 A Brilliant FREE Day Out for Families
One of the best things about this event?
It’s completely free to watch.
That makes it an ideal option for families looking for a budget-friendly day out without compromising on excitement.
Alongside the flying displays, you’ll usually find:
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Food stalls and local vendors
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Family entertainment on the ground
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A lively, festival-style atmosphere
Kids love the noise and spectacle, while adults appreciate the skill, history, and atmosphere.
📍 Best Places to Watch the Airshow (Real, Tried & Tested Spots)
Choosing the right viewing location can make all the difference. Here are the best genuine spots based on how the display line works along Paignton seafront:
1. Paignton Green (Main Viewing Area)
📍 Best for: Atmosphere, proximity, and facilities
This is the heart of the airshow.
Pros:
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Right on the display line
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Big screens and commentary
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Food stalls and toilets
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Great for families
Cons:
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Very busy (arrive early!)
👉 Tip: Bring a picnic blanket and arrive mid-morning for a good spot.
2. Preston Sands
📍 Best for: Slightly quieter beach viewing
Just a short walk from Paignton Green, Preston Sands offers a bit more breathing room.
Pros:
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Less crowded than the main green
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Still excellent views
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Easy access to cafés
Cons:
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Slightly off-centre from main commentary
3. Roundham Head / Cliff Areas
📍 Best for: Elevated panoramic views
For a more scenic experience, head up to the cliffs around Roundham.
Pros:
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Stunning views of the entire bay
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Great photography angles
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Less crowded
Cons:
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Limited seating
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Not ideal for very young children or pushchairs
4. Goodrington Sands
📍 Best for: Space and relaxed viewing
A bit further along the coast, but still within the display zone.
Pros:
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More space to spread out
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Family-friendly beach
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Nearby facilities
Cons:
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Slightly further from central action
🚗 Parking Advice (Important – Plan Ahead!)
Parking is one of the biggest challenges during the airshow, so here’s real, practical advice:
✔️ Official Event Parking
The organisers offer pre-bookable parking and seating:
Highly recommended if you want a stress-free day.
✔️ Local Car Parks
Main options include:
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Paignton Seafront Car Parks (fill up very early)
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Victoria Car Park (Paignton) – larger but still busy
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Goodrington Car Parks – good alternative
✔️ Park & Walk (Best Strategy)
If you don’t mind a short walk:
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Park slightly further out (e.g. Preston or outskirts of Paignton)
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Walk 15–25 minutes in
This can save a lot of time compared to sitting in traffic.
✔️ Public Transport (Often the Smartest Option)
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Trains run directly to Paignton Station
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Buses run frequently across Torbay
👉 If you’re staying locally, this is often the easiest choice.
📸 Tips for Making the Most of the Airshow
To really enjoy the experience:
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Arrive early – especially on Saturday
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Bring plenty of sunscreen (even if it looks cloudy!)
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Pack snacks and water
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Bring a camera or binoculars
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Check weather updates (flying is weather dependent)
And most importantly—look up and enjoy it.
🏡 Where to Stay: Devon Holidays at Finlake
If you’re travelling to the airshow, where you stay can transform your experience.
Instead of dealing with packed seafront hotels, imagine:
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Peaceful countryside surroundings
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Spacious holiday lodges
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Family-friendly facilities
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Easy access to the English Riviera
That’s exactly what you get with Devon Holidays at Finlake.
🌿 Why Devon Holidays at Finlake Is the Perfect Base
Located just a short drive from Torbay, Finlake Resort & Spa offers the best of both worlds:
✔️ Close to the Action
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Around 25–30 minutes drive to Paignton
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Easy day trips to the airshow
✔️ Relax Away from the Crowds
After a busy day at the airshow, return to:
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Quiet woodland surroundings
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Comfortable, fully equipped lodges
✔️ Fantastic On-Site Facilities
Perfect for families:
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Indoor & outdoor swimming pools
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Gym and spa
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Restaurant and bar
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Children’s play areas
👨👩👧👦 Turn Your Airshow Visit into a Full Devon Holiday
Why just visit for a day when you can make a proper break of it?
While you’re here, you can also explore:
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🌊 Beaches – Paignton, Goodrington, Broadsands
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🚂 Dartmouth Steam Railway
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🦁 Paignton Zoo
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🌄 Dartmoor National Park (just a short drive away)
It’s the perfect mix of coastal fun and countryside adventure.
📅 When to Book (Important!)
The English Riviera Airshow is extremely popular—especially in its 10th anniversary year.
That means:
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Our accommodation fills up fast
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The best lodges go early
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Prices can rise closer to the date
👉 Booking early is strongly recommended
📲 Book Your Stay with Devon Holidays
Ready to plan your trip?
👉 Book online:
👉 Or message directly on WhatsApp:
Whether you’re planning a short break or a longer family holiday, the team can help you find the perfect lodge.
✨ Final Thoughts
The English Riviera Airshow 2026 is shaping up to be one of the biggest and best yet.
With:
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World-class RAF displays
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A stunning seaside setting
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Free entry
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A fantastic family atmosphere
…it’s an event that truly has something for everyone.
Pair that with a relaxing stay at Finlake with Devon Holidays, and you’ve got the perfect Devon getaway.
✈️ Don’t Miss It
Mark your calendar:
29–31 May 2026
Bring your family.
Bring your camera.
And get ready for an unforgettable weekend in Devon.