Steam fans are set for a bumper month of fun in Torbay as Tornado, star of the curtain raiser for year's Top Gear Series, comes to town to run the Torbay Express, and the Torbay Steam Festival rolls into action at the end of the month. To celebrate, Blue Chip Vacations is offering a host of discounts across a number of its luxury self-catering properties in the area.More on

Tornado

On the opening programme of this season's Top Gear, Tornado, stoked by Jeremy Clarkson, came a close second behind James May and his classic Jag, while Hammond, on his Vincent motorbike, failed to finish the London to Edinburgh challenge. The Peppercorn class A1 steam locomotive will pull the Torbay Express 12th, 19th and 26th July, as well as 2nd and 9th August.

Torbay Steam Fair - 31st July to 2nd August: Steam engines of all shape, size and type will be on hand to drive timber saws, and threshers as well as fairground rides including Gallopers, a Big Wheel, Dodgems, fairground organs and various children's rides. As well as ploughing and heavy hauling, numerous Vintage and Classic Cars, Motorbikes, Commercial Vehicles, Tractors, Old Farm Engines and Military vehicles will be on display. There'll even be a Tug of War for children to pit themselves against a Steam Engine.

GRAB A LATE DEAL ON THE ENGLISH RIVIERA FOR THESE FANTASTIC EVENTS!

4 Corbyn Lodge, Torquay, Devon - Sleeps 8 - 10% saving!

This luxury reverse level mews house has stunning views across the English Riviera as well as a private balcony dining area. Situated in a central sea-front location, Torquay Harbour and the town centre are just a 20 minutes stroll away. Guests are able to enjoy leisure facilities at the nearby Grand Hotel and the complementary Leisure Club membership card, which admits two, also provides 10% off any meals taken in the hotel restaurant. Living Coasts, Bygones and Kents Cavern are close by making Corbyn Lodge the perfect location for a large family getaway.
Week beginning 25 July - Was £2,319, Now £2,089 (saving £189)
http://www.bluechipvacations.com/holiday-cottages/torquay/4-corbyn-lodge.html

Hesketh Treetops, Torquay, Devon - Sleeps 2 (adults only) - 15% discount!

Hesketh Treetops is an elegant Regency style apartment set over two floors with the living area and bedroom situated on the first floor. Close to the Blue Flag rated Meadfoot Beach, the apartment is a hop, skip and a jump to the sand and sea, but it's also within easy reach of Torquay town centre, making for a perfect romantic getaway. As an added bonus, guests are permitted to use the Osborne Hotel's health club, which includes an indoor pool, gym, and sauna, for an additional fee.
Week beginning 25 July Was £683, Now £617 (saving £66)
http://www.bluechipvacations.com/holiday-cottages/torquay/hesketh-treetops.html