If you’re looking for the perfect way to experience the sparkling coastline of the English Riviera, look no further than the Golden Hop 122. Operated by Stagecoach South West, this isn’t just a bus route; it’s an open-top adventure that captures the essence of a classic British seaside holiday. With the wind in your hair and panoramic views of the spectacular Tor Bay, the Golden Hop 122 offers a fun, family-friendly, and convenient way to explore the very best of South Devon.
Distinctive for its bright yellow livery and cast of friendly “Bus Hopper” animal characters—like Gary the Rabbit and Chirpy the Cricket—this service turns a simple journey between towns into a sightseeing event. Whether you are a local looking for a breezy weekend trip or a visitor eager to see the sights without the hassle of parking, the 122 is your golden ticket to the bay.
What makes this route special
The Golden Hop 122 is arguably the most scenic bus route in Torbay. As an open-top service, it offers unrivalled vantage points that you simply can’t get from a car. You sit high above the traffic, gazing out across the shimmering waters of the English Channel, the rugged red cliffs of the UNESCO Global Geopark, and the palm-lined promenades that give the Riviera its name.
Beyond the views, the bus itself is an attraction. The “Bus Hoppers” bring a smile to children’s faces, making travel exciting rather than a chore. It’s a true “hop-on, hop-off” style experience (using a DayRider ticket), allowing you to explore at your own pace. You can spend the morning at a model village, grab lunch at a bustling harbour, and finish the day building sandcastles on the beach—all connected by one friendly yellow bus.
A route breakdown of key locations
The route winds its way along the coast, connecting the charming hilltop district of Babbacombe with the holiday hubs of Torquay, Paignton, and Goodrington.
Babbacombe & St Marychurch
The journey often starts in the picturesque area of Babbacombe. Here, you can visit the famous Babbacombe Model Village, a miniature world of wonder, or take a ride on the historic Babbacombe Cliff Railway down to Oddicombe Beach. The views from Babbacombe Downs are some of the highest and most expansive in the bay.
Torquay Harbourside
Descending towards the main town, the bus glides past the elegant hotels and villas of Torquay. The stop at Torquay Harbour is perfect for exploring the marina, visiting the fascinating Torquay Museum, or taking a boat trip across the bay. The vibe here is lively, with plenty of cafes and shops to explore.
Paignton Seafront
Continuing along the coast road with the sea constantly by your side, you arrive at Paignton. This is the heart of the traditional seaside experience. Hop off here for the iconic Paignton Pier, the Geoplay Park, or simply to stroll along the flat, accessible promenade. The town centre is packed with independent shops and eateries, making it a great pit-stop.
Goodrington Sands
A short hop further south brings you to Goodrington, a haven for beach lovers. The bus drops you right near the action. Goodrington Sands is famous for its safe swimming and rock pools. It’s also home to Splashdown Quaywest, the UK’s largest outdoor waterpark, and the majestic steam trains of the Dartmouth Steam Railway often chug past nearby.
Hoburne Devon Bay
The route typically terminates at Hoburne Devon Bay, a popular holiday park. This makes the 122 an essential link for holidaymakers staying at the park, offering a direct, door-to-door connection to the entire bay’s attractions.
When does the route run
The Golden Hop 122 is a seasonal service, designed to capture the best of the British summer. It typically operates from April through to September or October.
Because it is an open-top service, it is all about enjoying the good weather. While there are undercover seats on the lower deck for the occasional British shower, the top deck is the place to be when the sun is shining. If you are visiting in the deep mid-winter, you will need to rely on the regular 12 or 22 services, which cover similar ground but without the open-air thrill.
Service frequency and connections
During the peak summer season, the Golden Hop 122 runs frequently, typically every 20 to 30 minutes during the daytime (roughly 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM). This high frequency means you never have to worry too much about checking a timetable; you can simply enjoy your ice cream and head to the stop when you’re ready.
If you want to visit Paignton Zoo, one of the area’s biggest attractions, the 122 gets you close to Paignton town centre, where you can easily transfer to the number 22 bus or the Stagecoach Gold service for a short ride inland to the zoo entrance.
Value for money
Stagecoach offers excellent value for visitors wanting to explore the whole bay. The best option is usually the Torbay DayRider ticket.
- Cost: Prices are subject to change, but a typical Adult DayRider is around £7.00, with child and group options available (a Group ticket for up to 5 people is often a steal at around £14.00-£15.00).
- Flexibility: This ticket allows unlimited travel not just on the 122, but on any Stagecoach bus in the Torbay area for the whole day. This means you can ride the open-top bus one way and catch a quicker, standard bus back if the weather turns or evening falls.
Top tips for the journey
- Grab the front seat: The front seats on the top deck offer the “driver’s eye” view and are the most coveted spots. Be prepared to wind-proof your hair!
- Sun protection: The sea breeze can be deceiving. Even on cloudy days, the UV levels can be high, and you’re exposed to the elements on the top deck. Sunscreen and a hat (held on tight!) are must-haves.
- Watch for the characters: If you are travelling with kids, challenge them to spot the different animal characters on the passing yellow buses.
- Camera ready: The stretch between Torquay and Paignton, hugging the sea wall, offers spectacular photo opportunities. Have your camera ready for the “Livermead” section where the sea is often just a few feet away.
Planning a day out on this route
For a perfect day on the Golden Hop 122, start your morning at Babbacombe. Enjoy a coffee on the Downs and a visit to the Model Village. Then, hop on the 122 and grab a top-deck seat for the scenic ride down to Torquay Harbour for a seafood lunch.
In the afternoon, re-board and enjoy the coastal breeze as you head to Goodrington. Spend a few hours at Splashdown Quaywest or relaxing on the sands. Finally, catch the bus back towards Paignton or Torquay as the sun begins to lower, casting a golden glow over the bay—a fitting end to a ride on the Golden Hop.
