Ideally located in the heart of the English Riviera, Torquay Alpine Ski Club (TASC) is a non-profit, member-oriented facility providing a convenient and inexpensive environment to master snowsports. Set within the grounds of Barton Hall, the club uses a specialized Dendix surface, a diamond-patterned bristle matting recognized for its durability and realistic “edge-bite,” making it the ideal training ground for mountain preparation.
Following recent insurance updates, the club now operates as a member-only facility. Membership is designed to be highly accessible at just £10 per year, which includes Snowsport England “green” membership for essential on-slope insurance. Whether you are a first-timer attending a “Learn to Ski in a Day” course or an advanced skier refining your technical skills, TASC offers a community-focused atmosphere with qualified instructors focused on safety and progression.
KEY INFORMATION
- Address: Barton Hall, Kingskerswell Road, Torquay, Devon, TQ2 8JY
- Phone: 01803 313350
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: skitorquay.co.uk
- Booking Portal: Online Booking
GETTING THERE
Torquay Alpine Ski Club is situated at Barton Hall, easily accessible via the A380 and Kingskerswell Road. It is centrally located for residents of Torquay, Paignton, and Newton Abbot. Detailed instructions on how to access the slope are provided in your booking confirmation email.
SLOPE DETAILS
- Main Slope: 150 metres – A high-performance Dendix run providing ample room for technical turns and endurance building.
- Nursery Area: Dedicated space for beginners and the Junior Ski School to build confidence safely.
- Skill Level: Beginners (age 6+) to advanced racers and technical enthusiasts.
LIFTS
- 1 x Button Lift: A classic platter-style lift that serves the full length of the main slope, helping skiers prepare for common European resort lifts.
SNOW / SURFACE
The club uses Dendix, often referred to as the most realistic artificial surface. It is comprised of thousands of bristles arranged in a diamond shape. This specific configuration reduces friction and is seen by enthusiasts as the nearest artificial equivalent to real snow, allowing for precise edge control.
FEATURES & FACILITIES
On-Slope
- Racing Club: Specialized training and race-fit sessions (Wednesday evenings) for those looking to compete.
- Ringos (Snow Tubing): High-energy inflatable ring sessions, perfect for children’s birthday parties.
- Junior Ski School: A fun-focused Saturday morning program specifically for ages 6–16.
- School Instruction: Custom programs for local schools and youth groups.
Off-Slope
- Clubhouse: A comfortable social space for members to gather.
- Refreshments: Serving cold drinks, confectionery, and homemade cakes during social sessions.
- WhatsApp Group: A dedicated community channel for members to stay updated on news and events.
OPENING TIMES (SUMMER 2026)
Effective from April 2026. All sessions must be pre-booked online.
| Day | Session Type | Time |
| Tuesday | Evening Lessons | 07:00 PM |
| Wednesday | Advanced/Race Fit | 07:00 PM |
| Thursday | Coffee Morning | 10:00 AM (Monthly) |
| Thursday | Evening Lessons | 07:00 PM |
| Saturday | Junior Ski School | 09:30 AM |
| Sunday | Open Practice/Session | 10:30 AM |
PRICES
Last Updated: May 9, 2026. Prices include equipment hire (skis/boards/boots).
| Item | Price | Details |
| Annual Membership | £10.00 | Mandatory for all users (valid to Oct 2026) |
| Adult Instruction | £31.50 | 1.5-hour group lesson |
| Junior Instruction | £21.00 | 1.5-hour group lesson |
| Open Practice | £15.00 | For competent members only |
| Coffee Morning | £31.50 | 2 x 45min blocks + coffee & cake |
| Snowboarding | £31.50 | Adult & Junior instruction |
LESSONS & COURSES
- Beginner Group Lessons: Designed to get novices mobile quickly using experiential learning (ages 8+).
- Junior Ski School: Every Saturday at 09:30 AM. Focuses on balance and confidence through games for ages 6–16.
- Coffee Mornings: A monthly relaxed session on Thursdays at 10:00 AM. Includes two coached ski blocks and a social break with homemade cakes.
- Learn to Ski in a Day: Intensive monthly courses for rapid progression.
- Private Lessons: Tailored one-to-one coaching available upon request.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
- For Beginners: The Saturday morning Junior School is the best entry point for children.
- For Socializing: The monthly Thursday Coffee Mornings are ideal for those who prefer a quieter slope and a social atmosphere.
- For Intensity: Wednesday nights are dedicated to advanced technical skills and “Race Fit” training.
PLANNING YOUR VISIT
- Membership: You must double-check that your membership details are accurate. Incorrect information may delay or invalidate your Snowsport England insurance.
- Booking: All lessons must be booked in advance via an online portal.
- Events: The Devon Schools Ski Race 2026 is currently delayed; watch the official website for new dates.
WHAT TO BRING
- Gloves: Compulsory for all slope users.
- Long Sleeves & Trousers: Mandatory to protect against friction burns.
- Helmets: Not provided for Junior Ski School; parents are strongly advised to bring their own.
- Membership Confirmation: Keep your confirmation email handy for slope access instructions.
HOW TO BOOK
All bookings and membership purchases are managed through the Torquay Alpine Ski Club Website. For private lessons or school group enquiries, email [email protected].
WHO IT’S BEST FOR
- Budget-Conscious Skiers: The £10 annual membership makes it one of the most affordable ways to ski regularly in the UK.
- Nervous Learners: The monthly Coffee Mornings provide a low-pressure, supportive environment.
- Aspiring Racers: Technical Wednesday night sessions are perfect for those wanting to enter the competitive scene.
FAQs
Why do I need a membership?
Due to updated insurance requirements, all slope users must be members. The £10 fee covers your mandatory Snowsport England “green” insurance and supports the club’s non-profit mission.
Is equipment hire extra?
No. The cost of your instruction or practice session includes the hire of boots, skis/snowboards, and poles.
Can children snowboard?
While the Junior Ski School starts at age 6, snowboarding instruction is generally available for older children and adults. Please check specific age availability when booking.
What is a “Learn to Ski in a Day” course?
This is a monthly intensive program designed to take you from a total beginner to being “resort-ready” in a single day of focused coaching.
COMPARISON LINE
Compared to larger commercial snow domes, Torquay offers a more intimate, community-driven experience with a focus on affordable coaching and technical race training on a realistic Dendix surface.
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE
LAST UPDATED: May 9, 2026