The Babbacombe Theatre: still going strong

Of the dozen seaside theatres that survived from Britain’s Edwardian peak, the Babbacombe Theatre is the one that has refused to die. Built in 1900 as a tea pavilion, converted to a theatre in 1939, and running its trademark summer variety show every season since.

The current shows mix mainstream tribute acts, comedy nights, and family-friendly variety bills. The atmosphere is properly proper – red velvet seats, a proscenium arch, and an audience who clap before the curtain goes up.

It’s a small house – around 600 seats – and the sightlines are excellent. Book the front circle for the best view but accept that legroom up there is what it is.

Pre-show: walk along Babbacombe Downs (the promenade is right outside) and watch the sun set over Lyme Bay. Post-show: walk five minutes to the Cliff Railway, ride down to Oddicombe, eat fish and chips on the beach.

Programme runs roughly Easter to October. Book direct – babbacombe-theatre.com – or in person at the box office.