Entertaining teens on holiday can be tricky, planning and agreeing on some activities beforehand can make the experience easier for all. Having a few ideas up your sleeve ahead of time might persuade them to get from under their douvet and off the phone. Using my own teen as a vocal aide I have pulled together some ideas that will hopefully be of interest.

What is Teignmouth Like

I have lived ‘up the road’ about 30 minutes away from Teignmouth for about 20 years now. It was close enough to visit frequently enough and became a good alternative to Exmouth. There is a certain ‘vibe’ about Teignmouth which I describe as being a bit cooler than it’s brasher sister Dawlish. There is a definite arts and music undercurrent in the town which is evident in the annual Jazz festival, and the small independent arts quatre.

The town itself is a mix of traditional seaside sites, shops and cafes but has enough of its own heritage to make it feel ‘reel,’ retaining a character. Teignmouth is not however as expensive as say the fishing ports of Salcombe or Dartmouth. As much as like these towns I prefer Teignmouth as it has a much more relaxed feel about it. If I lived there I know I would be part of a year round community.

Without further comment let’s answer the question about what would interest a teen in Teignmouth!

Take to the Water | Watersports in Teignmouth

Teignmouth SeaSports South West runs a variety of activities and courses for water-based activities. They hold an AALA (adventure activities licensing authority) licence as well as RYA, (Royal Yachting Association) recognition which requires a suitably qualified Chief Instructor responsible for the standards of safety and tuition. They run a number of private and small group courses in a variety of activities such as:

• Power boating
• Wind surfing
• Kayaking
• Windsurfing
• Sailing

There is a mix of options from taster sessions to a five day summer holiday club which works out at £37 pp pd, and will offer them an opportunity to try out a variety of activities on the water.

TEL:01626 772555

Website: https://ellipsoid-marlin-eyng.squarespace.com/

Email: [email protected]

Pizza Party on the Beach

If they are hungry and just want to hang out a bit on the beach a picnic, of course, is great, but a pizza won’t fail! Try Franco’s Italian in Regent Street.

Check out the Independent Shops

Teignmouth has some interesting shops tucked away in its back streets. Lots of small independents. Interesting vintage, second hand and collectors shops if that is of interest.

Forget Me Not in Somerset Place has some weird looking succulents and plants for the bedroom.

Hello Retro and SPS Records are opposite each other in Clampet Lane

Shaldon Zoo For Conservation Minded Teenagers

Shaldon Zoo is very close to Teignmouth, it’s a small zoo but has some interesting animals for the kids to look at. This visit could either be a family ticket or for a special treat, over 15s can be a zookeeper for the day for £99. For kids who are into animal conservation, this could be an excellent experience as the Zoo provides a great experience.

Minutes walk from the Zoo you will find The Ness, a great pub with stunning views of the estuary. Or if you are looking for a pub right on the estuary shore you could look at the London Inn right in the heart of the village.

Skateboarding & Games on Seafront

The Teignmouth skatepark is right on the sea front and is designed for those that are into street skating, there is a variety of obstacles which are laid out on different levels and spaced out for long lines.

Just along from the skate park you will find the entrance to the pier where you can find the usual array of slots machines and games.

Cycle Tour From Teignmouth

Hire some bikes from Exe Trail cycle hire in Dawlish and take one of the many cylce routes which are around Teignmouth or try the estuary cycle route which is mostly flat and runs close to Teignmouth between Exeter and Dawlish.

Go on a Sea Safari

Why not try a sea safari to spot some local marine life and to get a different view of the coastline. Sea Safari offers a number of boat trips which hope to give you sight of dolphins, birds and whales along the coastline. There is also helpful commentary on the unique geology of the region. Under 16’s need to be accompanied by an adult. Salings leave from Teignmouth harbour.