Torquay and other resorts in south Devon were recommended by doctors as healthy places to stay. The climate was mild in the winter but not too hot in the summer. The sea air was believed to be of particular help to invalids, particularly those who had tuberculosis. There was no real cure for this disease at that time and all doctors could suggest was a stay at a healthy seaside resort. Large numbers of wealthy invalids stayed in Torquay, particularly in the winter months. Some visitors felt invalids dominated the town but coming to Torquay for your health was an important feature of the town's growth and popularity in the 19th century.