Nestled on the southern coast of Devon, Brixham is a charming fishing town overlooking the waters of Torbay. It boasts a rich maritime history and scenic coastal walking trails and is home to a replica of the iconic Golden Hind galleon.
Things to do in Brixham
Stroll along the Brixham Breakwater, a nearly-one-kilometre-long Victorian-era structure that protrudes into the harbour. It’s a popular spot for fishermen hoping to catch wrasse, mackerel and mullet and offers scenic views of the colourful town.
Step aboard a replica of the first English ship to circumnavigate the globe, the Golden Hind, which is moored in the centre of Brixham. Explore the Captain’s cabin of this Tudor galleon and see where prisoners once slept below the decks, then browse the hands-on exhibits and artefacts that bring its 16th-century history to life.
Follow the coastal walking trail that leads to spectacular Berry Head, which is topped by a 1906 lighthouse and the ruins of a Napoleonic fort. Its protected nature reserve is a birding hotspot and home to the largest breeding colony of guillemots on England’s south coast, as well as the award-winning Guardhouse Café, which dishes up freshly-caught fish from Brixham’s market.
A short drive from Brixham takes you to the 1920s country retreat of Coleton Fishacre, whose Arts and Crafts-style residence is surrounded by magnificent gardens. It boasts a number of rare and tropical plant species that thrive here due to the warm Gulf Stream, in addition to those collected by Lady Dorothy on her world travels.
Getting around Brixham
Brixham is around one hour’s drive from Exeter Airport and around one hour from Plymouth. Ferries connect to Torquay during the summer months, while the town is small enough to explore on foot.