Brixham harbourBrixham is on the south coast of Devon, across the Tor Bay from Torquay. Around the harbour, 18th century fisherman’s cottages line charming, narrow streets and a variety of atmospheric cafes and restaurants serve fresh seafood from the famous Brixham Fish Market. Brixham hosts a number of unique annual events, including its renowned Pirate Festival, which is known for its world record attempts and takes place over the May Bank Holiday. Also well worth checking out are Brixham Hap’nin, a two-day music festival in St Mary’s Park, and Fishstock, an excellent seafood event where you can sample fresh shellfish from some of the area’s best producers. The coastline around Brixham is some of Devon’s most beautiful. A short walk away from the village centre is Fishcombe Cove, where you can swim, sunbathe and enjoy the soothing sound of waves breaking on the shore.
For a fun, family day out, visit The Smugglers and Pirates Experience, in the heart of the village. This excellent attraction transports visitors back to 18th century Brixham, when pirates ruled the sea and smuggling was a way of life.
Brixham beachThere are some excellent places to eat in Brixham, many of which serve fresh seafood and other local produce. Beamers is a nautical-themed restaurant with views across the harbour, where the chef makes early morning visits to the local fish market to ensure that guests are served the freshest and best quality seafood available. The Breakwater Bistro and Restaurant is another Brixham eatery with views of the harbour and out to sea, towards Lyme Bay. This is a relaxed place to grab a coffee or a nice bite to eat and a glass of wine as the sun sets on the horizon. A long-term favourite among Brixham residents is Tiffany’s, which serves everything from crab salad to homemade cakes, and all at a very reasonable price. Another couple of good options for seafood are Simply Fish and The Poopdeck.
“Brixham is a bustling fishing village, where you can watch the comings and goings of trawlers in the harbour, and delve into a turbulent history of pirates and smugglers.”
For a glimpse into the area’s fascinating past, visit the award-winning Brixham Heritage Museum, where you’ll find a remarkable collection of artefacts and plenty of hands-on activities for kids.
Brixham is an excellent base from which to explore the villages, towns, cities and picturesque coastline of South Devon. Totnes, Torquay and Paignton are nearby and well worth exploring. If you’re prepared to travel a little further afield, the cosmopolitan cities of Exeter and Plymouth can be easily reached by public transport.