There’s nothing like exploring a seaside town in England. Steeped in history and rich tradition, visiting these small but vibrant towns often feels like stepping back in time, as communities proudly honour and preserve their heritage through the architecture, events, businesses and day-to-day activities.
Brixham is a wonderful example of this – life centres around the historic harbour where tales tell of smugglers and pirates, while modern day fisherman head out to sea and bring back their catch of the day to stock the local seafood restaurants throughout town. With so much to see and do in this bustling town, there’s something for everyone to enjoy! Read on for our top recommendations for things to do in Brixham, as well as the best places to stay for your visit.
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Stroll around the colourful harbour
Brixham’s harbour is the hub of the town, boasting one of the largest fishing fleets in the UK, where over 100 fishing boats land to sell their catch of the day at the town’s thriving fish market on the quayside. There is a viewing platform at the market for visitors to watch fishermen coming and going, with large trawlers and smaller day boats too. As you look out to sea from the coast around Brixham, you’ll be able to spot some of these smaller boats at work! You can also book a tour of the fish market, where you’ll gain insight into the operational side of the daily fish auction process, before finishing off the tour with a freshly caught breakfast at Rockfish restaurant (more on Rockfish below!).
The harbour is lined with a picturesque array of colourfully painted houses, creating a quintessentially British scene, like something from a postcard. Taking the time to amble along the pretty streets, you’ll spot nods to the maritime heritage of the town in the decor adorning homes, such as shells and ship’s wheels. There’s a really friendly atmosphere here that you often find when residents love, and take pride in, where they live.
In addition to the pretty houses and hotels along the harbour, there are also plenty of restaurants, bars and pubs each offering a different view of the comings and goings on the water. Sitting outside The Old Market House pub, we spotted a family of swans swimming alongside seagulls that are part of any seaside visit in the UK! We highly recommend heading to the second-floor terrace at The Old Market House for an elevated view over the water, while also enjoying their seafood dishes – plus they have lots of veggie options too!
Admire the eclectic street art
Along the harbour, above what is now the I.Scream ice cream shop on the corner of the Strand, you’ll spot a mural depicting a pirate with a Jolly Roger flag – a nod to Brixham’s pirate past. Just around the corner, on King Street, another large mural of a sailor sits above what used to be Brixham’s Smugglers and Pirates Experience. These pieces are just two in a diverse range of murals around the town that were painted by local artists, and many of which touch on a part of Brixham’s rich history.
Heading away from the harbour there are many murals to spot along the town’s walls, each seemingly with a tie to the specific location or shopfront on which they’re painted. On Fore Street, above the art and antiques shop Vimutti, a sprawling steampunk-style octopus matches the copper and brass-toned shopfront below. On the side of Dobles Jewellers, you’ll find an enormous treasure map of Brixham in 1615, which was painted taking reference from original documents from the period.
Taking a glance down Union Lane, off Fore Street, there’s a large mural depicting Lord Nelson with his fleet of ships during the Napoleonic Wars. The sailors would have come ashore here in Brixham to collect water and other supplies for their ships moored out at sea. This link to Nelson, his fleet, and his victory in the Battle of Trafalgar, is commemorated in this sprawling mural with incredible detail, especially in the crashing waves lapping at the ships.
Over on Middle Street, on the corner of Apters Hill, a mural inspired by the local heritage fleet wraps neatly around a cafe. The mural depicts the ‘Vigilance’ and ‘Provident’ sailing trawlers, their characteristic red sails standing out against the blue and white sky and photo-realistic waters. Further along the street, a simple depiction of a woman descending the steps between shopfronts points to the independent shops and cafes in town.
The murals around town were commissioned by both independent traders and Brixham Future – a not-for-profit organisation working to rejuvenate the area through “micro-regeneration” – turning what used to be blank walls into bright and colourful art pieces to delight the community and encourage tourism in the town. With so many beautiful pieces to discover, from decorated planters to large-scale murals, it’s well worth putting aside the time to explore the winding alleyways and lanes throughout Brixham – there are hidden gems to discover everywhere you look!
Explore Brixham’s past at Brixham Heritage Museum
Over on New Street, next door to the Town Hall, you’ll discover a time capsule of the town’s history at Brixham Heritage Museum. Don’t be fooled by the small entryway – the building is packed full of exhibits across 2 floors, bursting with information about the town’s geology, its important position in Britain’s fishing industry, and the town’s role in the Napoleonic Wars.
There are reconstructed Victorian era rooms giving an insight into Brixham’s social history, with interesting artefacts and interactive displays, plus a play area to keep smaller children occupied! With so many links to fishing, smugglers and pirates, wars and maritime history, you’ll find yourself needing more time than you think.
This small but mighty museum is free to enter (though donations are accepted) and it’s run by a team of friendly, dedicated volunteers. As such the museum is only open on select days, so it’s worth checking the Museum website in advance for up to date opening times.
Eat the catch of the day at Rockfish
Like any seaside town in the UK, in Brixham you’ll find yourself spoilt for choice with a plethora of fish and chip shops dotted in and around the harbour. Whether you’re in the mood for a sit down meal or a quick chippy takeaway, look no further than Rockfish. This award-winning seafood restaurant sits overlooking the harbour, where boats bring their catch into the fish market below and it arrives in the Rockfish kitchen soon after. Rockfish is known for its truly fresh seafood, and their motto is “Tomorrow’s fish is still in the sea”.
There’s seating inside the restaurant with al fresco options available on the terrace, directly overlooking the fishing fleet. The atmosphere is lively but relaxing, and each member of staff we’ve spoken to has been super friendly! With an extensive menu it can sometimes be tricky to know what to order, especially as the restaurant has a main menu and a Seasonal Landings menu highlighting the fish that have landed that morning. At Rockfish, the servers take the time to explain in detail what the catch of the day is, and how it will be cooked.
If you’re vegetarian, they have a halloumi dish with chips so you can still enjoy the atmosphere without consuming seafood. There’s also a varied children’s menu, with dishes like fish bites or sausage and chips, and a dedicated allergens and gluten free menu so you can feel confident that your requirements are being catered for when ordering.
If you’re short on time or don’t fancy a sit-down meal, there’s also a Rockfish takeaway next door with casual seating for a quick bite. We recommend taking out and finding a spot to sit and watch the bustling harbour while you enjoy your freshly cooked food – just watch out for the seagulls!
Visit the Golden Hind Museum
Situated in the harbour for over 50 years, this full-sized replica of the iconic Golden Hind serves as a museum to entertain and educate visitors about life on board. The original ship was captained by Sir Francis Drake during his circumnavigation of the world between 1577-1580. You can walk along the wide open decks, before heading inside to view the indoor displays, ranging from cabinets filled with Tudor pistols to replicas of the captain’s quarters.
There’s a free audio tour in addition to the information boards in each section, plus there are activity sheets available to keep young children entertained – though any little one will have a hard time being bored while exploring the gun decks or seeing the hoards of pirate treasure on board!
There are some steep steps between decks that people with mobility issues may find trickier to navigate, but aside from this it’s a fun activity for everyone! The ship is open from Spring to Autumn, no matter the weather, and the funds from your ticket purchase go towards the running and maintenance of this fascinating museum. Find up to date opening times and prices on the Golden Hind Museum website.
Walk along Brixham Breakwater
Around 10 minutes’ walk from all the activity at the harbour, you’ll find Brixham Breakwater. This impressive structure was completed in 1916, when the cast-iron lighthouse was installed at the far end, and stretches for half a mile (0.8km) offshore. The Breakwater provides shelter for vessels mooring at the harbour and marina, including the historic Brixham fishing fleet.
It’s well worth walking the length of the Breakwater right out to the characterful lighthouse, to view a different perspective back across towards the harbour and town, with the many boats of all shapes and sizes in the foreground. The views are spectacular as you look back towards land and Breakwater Beach (more on this below), and it’s especially scenic at sunset with golden light bouncing off the water.
The Breakwater is a popular spot for fishing, as it’s possible to fish on both the seaward side and into the harbour. You’ll see lots of people casting their rods all along the Breakwater, hoping to catch anything from conger eels and mackerel to bass and pollack.
For animal lovers like us, it’s always a real treat to see wild seals along the water’s edge here! It’s important not to disturb them and we, like many others, spend lots of time admiring them from a distance while they happily bask and snooze. Walking the Breakwater is a lovely way to enjoy a gentle stroll by the sea.
Swim at Breakwater beach
On the sea side of the Breakwater you’ll find Breakwater beach, a stretch of shingle and pebbles that’s open all year round. The water is so clear here, it’s a fun place to go for a swim and see what wildlife you can spot! The beach is popular for scuba diving, with some of the calmest (and warmest!) waters in the country, and the opportunity to see seahorses, fish and even shipwrecks off the coast.
Back on the shore, the beach is perfect for a quick paddle on a sunny day or simply relaxing on the warm stones. You might even spot seals swimming around the marina! There’s disabled access down onto the beach so everyone can enjoy their time here. When the tide comes in, the beach shelves quite quickly – just a couple of steps and you’re knee-deep in the water – so take care with little ones if you’re splashing around in the shallows.
To the East side of the beach, you’ll spot the peculiar Time and Tide Bell – one of 13 bells located around the coast of Britain as part of an installation highlighting our relationship with nature. It’s so exciting for us to spot these as they’re so rare – the only other one we’ve spotted so far is at Bosta Bay, on the Isle of Lewis and Harris! The bell has a unique design that produces a gentle musical sound at high tide, that varies according to the motion of the waves. A very special sight to see if you visit the beach at high tide.
It’s worth noting that dogs are welcome on the beach during the Winter months, but are not allowed on the beach between 1st May and 30th September. As for facilities, there are toilets just set back from the beach, including a disabled toilet. If all the swimming and paddling has worked up your appetite, the beach’s Breakwater Bistro is popular amongst locals and tourists, with tables overlooking the sea and a varied menu including breakfasts, nibbles, fresh seafood, sandwiches and of course a variety of waffles, sundaes and ice creams that top off any visit to a seaside cafe!
Take in the sea air at Berry Head National Nature Reserve
Just around the coast from central Brixham is Berry Head National Nature Reserve. This stunning headland nature reserve is surrounded by the sea on 3 sides and is home to a variety of wildlife, so it’s no surprise that the area is classified as both a National Nature Reserve and a Special Site of Scientific Interest (SSSI). The wildlife here includes the endangered Greater Horseshoe bat located in the caves, and a colony of guillemots on the cliffs below the Southern Fort which is one of the largest colonies on England’s south coast. On a fine day, you’ll also be able to spot seals, dolphins and porpoises from the cliffs!
There’s also a few historical points of interest at Berry Head as the location was chosen as a strategic point for the defence of the coastline during the Napoleonic Wars, and again in WWII. The Napoleonic defences at Berry Head are some of the best-preserved examples in Britain, and include 2 forts and several gun batteries.
Aside from the historical importance and rare wildlife, Berry Head is also simply a gorgeous place for a walk, with coastal views across Torbay and beyond from the lighthouse. It’s worth walking to the cliff edge here to see this sweet lighthouse, as its short tower is quite unusual – when the lighthouse was constructed in 1906, it didn’t require a large tower as the headland gave the beacon sufficient elevation.
For more information about the reserve, its history and wildlife, there is a Visitor Centre open to the public. There’s also delicious local food available at the award-winning Guardhouse Cafe – definitely stop in here during your trip to try their locally-made cakes and cream teas, which includes a large locally-made scone and lashings of clotted cream and jam!
It’s free to visit Berry Head, though parking charges apply if arriving by car – the funds from which go directly towards the care of this ecologically important site. The journey takes around 10 minutes from the harbour at Brixham if you choose to drive, or it’s around 30 minutes if you walk here along the picturesque South West Coast Path. With the abundance of wildlife it’s no surprise that dogs must be kept on lead in certain areas throughout the nature reserve, and in the cafe, but it’s a beautiful place to visit all year round.
Seasonal activities
A few things in and around Brixham to look out for at certain times of the year:
Join in the swashbuckling fun at Brixham’s Pirate Festival
Every May, over the bank holiday weekend, Brixham is taken over by thousands of pirates as the town celebrates its annual Pirate Festival! Year on year, the festival has grown exponentially and is now one of the largest pirate gatherings in the world, with thousands of visitors descending on Brixham from all over the globe for a long weekend of swashbuckling pirate fun in the historic port.
There’s SO much going on during the weekend and there’s something for all ages, from treasure hunts, best-dressed competitions and assault courses for kids, to historical skirmish re-enactments and cannon fire on the Golden Hind ship, and a pirate parade through the town. There’s live music, food stalls, hands-on workshops, meet and greets with pirate characters, photo opportunities with mermaids, and tours on board some of Brixham’s most famous ships. There’s even a quiet day (usually the Monday) without cannon or gun fire for those who are sensitive to loud noises.
Expect authentic costumes and weaponry, rooted in Brixham’s maritime history of smugglers and pirates, celebrating the town’s heritage in a weekend-long event that is lead by the community, and invites tourists to join in on the fun. More than just a bank holiday festival, the event keeps alive the stories and traditions upon which Brixham was built. Keep an eye on the Brixham Pirate Festival website and Instagram for updates about the next event!
If you fancy a swim in the sea without having to navigate the shingle beach, just few minutes’ walk around the coast from Breakwater beach is Shoalstone Pool – a 53 metre seawater swimming pool. Shoalstone is one of only a handful of outdoor tidal pools left in the country, and is one of the largest in the world. It’s built into a natural rock pool that was popular for bathing during Victorian times, though its design has since been upgraded to add walls to retain the water, and to create a shallow and deep end with a gently sloping floor.
Shoalstone is the perfect place for a dip in the sea at Brixham if you’re not confident swimming in open water, or if you have children. There are large, open areas to relax on the pool deck, changing cubicles, toilets, and a family-friendly cafe at the Stones Throw Beach Bar Bistro, serving locally-sourced food, as well as snacks and drinks, with stunning views across the bay.
The pool is open all year round, though lifeguards are only on duty throughout the day during the Summer season, and there is no charge to visit. The pool is run entirely by a dedicated team of volunteers within the community, who rely on the suggested donation of £3 per swim or £8.50 per family to keep up with the costs of running the site. Find out more on the Shoalstone Pool website.
Set sail on a boat trip
What better way to immerse yourself in the maritime heritage at Brixham than by sailing on a local boat! Many local companies run day tours and trips from the marina, offering the chance to spot marine wildlife, experience life on board historic vessels, enjoy spectacular views across the water, and feel the fresh sea breeze as you sail around the bay. Here are our top 2 recommendations:
Boat Safari. Sailing visitors around the bay on board their 40ft catamaran, Boat Safari offers a range of trips to suit your needs. For animal lovers, they offer wildlife safaris ranging from 1-4 hours, where you’ll have the chance to spot marine wildlife such as sea birds, seals, porpoises and dolphins! For a slower pace, they offer sunset cruises to relax and enjoy picturesque views over the water from their unique bow viewing area. There are toilet facilities on board, as well as hot drinks facilities, inside their fully heated cabin. Find out more on the Boat Safari website.
Our Daddy Sailing. For a true taste of history as you head out to sea, Our Daddy is a classic former fishing boat that is over 100 years old, and has been converted into a unique sailing vessel for day trips and cruises. Founded by sailing enthusiasts, the company is dedicated to preserving the boat’s traditional heritage while providing a modern, safe and comfortable experience for guests to enjoy their voyage. What’s unique about their trips is you can get as involved with the sailing as you wish! Guests can participate in hauling up and trimming sails, standing at the helm and working to get the vessel cutting through the waves, or simply sit back and relax while enjoying the sea views and wildlife spotting. For avid photographers, it’s a fantastic vessel for snapping memorable shots on board and at sea. For more information head to the Our Daddy Sailing website.
Where to stay in Brixham
Our top recommendations for accommodation in Brixham:
Sampford Harbour Side Guest House. Situated on King Street, just a few minutes’ walk from Brixham Harbour, Sampford Guest House offers visitors a comfortable stay within an historic 18th-century, listed fisherman’s house. Each room has its own private bathroom, and there are stunning views out to sea from your window! There are a variety of home-cooked breakfast options available to set you up for your day, whether you’re strolling around town or heading further afield. Car parking is available in reserved bays for an additional cost of £5 per day, and the guest house is dog-friendly. Find out more and book your stay at Sampford Guest House here.
Mariners Cottage. This charming cottage right on the harbour is the closest you’ll get to the sea! Mariners Cottage overlooks Rockfish restaurant and boats in the harbour from the front of the property, and is ideally situated for exploring the town. There are 2 bedrooms and a cosy living room, with characterful wooden beams on the ceilings and a stone fireplace housing a large TV for relaxing at the end of the day. The cottage has a fully-equipped kitchen and washing machine, plus a spa bath, and is dog-friendly so your four-legged friends can join you on your holiday! It’s the perfect, cosy cottage for a stay that feels like a home from home. Find out more and book your stay at Mariners Cottage here.
21 Burton Street. If you’re looking for a large place to accommodate your family while visiting Brixham, this stylish holiday home sleeps 7 and is less than a 15 minute walk to Brixham Harbour. There are 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, with a living room, dining area and fully-equipped kitchen for easy family catering. Outside, there’s a garden and patio that are set back from the road for optimum privacy and peace – the elevated position of the house means you’re not overlooked by surrounding properties – and there’s free, on-site parking included in your stay. The hosts go above and beyond to make sure families are catered for, with thoughtful additions for children such as plastic cups, and games to play. A perfect place for a family getaway! Find out more and book your stay at 21 Burton Street here.
1 Fisherman’s Loft. Another historic cottage lining Brixham Harbour, 1 Fisherman’s Loft is a sweet 1 bedroom home with a view over the Golden Hind and other boats in the harbour. The house is thoughtfully decorated with maritime objects and furnishings, from the living room lamp shaped like a lighthouse, to the bedding adorned with colourful beach huts! The owners are super friendly and will meet you on your arrival to show you to your private parking space. There’s a washing machine and a fully-equipped kitchen for home comforts at your fingertips, though if you’re staying this close to the plethora of eateries on the harbour you’ll be spoilt for choice with dining options! Find out more and book your stay at 1 Fisherman’s Loft here.
Berry Head Hotel. Located just outside Berry Head National Nature Reserve, Berry Head Hotel sits within 6 acres of grounds and provides stunning clifftop views along the coastline. Each room, from their single rooms up to their family rooms, have an ensuite bathroom and complimentary toiletries, as well as tea and coffee making facilities. Free parking is included on site, and the hotel has its own restaurant and bar for those days when you don’t fancy walking into town to eat. There’s croquet and pétanque equipment for playing games outdoors in the sunshine, and the hotel even has its own heated indoor pool for colder days when it’s looking too chilly to head to the beach! When you do want to visit the town, Brixham Harbour is just 20 minutes’ walk from the hotel. Find out more and book your stay at Berry Head Hotel here.
Shrimp Cottage. One of our favourite houses in Brixham! Shrimp Cottage, with its sweet blue and white facade, is the perfect cosy home for couples to enjoy a romantic getaway in Brixham. There’s 1 bedroom and bathroom, with a fully-equipped kitchen and snuggly living area perfect for cosying up in the evenings, with a working fireplace for colder days. The bedroom, on the top floor of the building, features a free-standing bath for a relaxing, hot soak after a bracing day by the sea! The cottage is tucked away on a quiet residential street, but you can walk to Brixham Harbour in just 5 minutes – the best of both worlds! Find out more and book your stay at Shrimp Cottage here.
While you’re in the area
A few recommendations if you have more time in and around Brixham:
Enjoy the tranquility at Coleton Fishacre
A stunning National Trust property along the coast from Kingswear, which is easily accessible if you’re walking along the South West Coast Path at the lower entrance, or via the spacious National Trust-owned car park at the main entrance. The country home here was built in the Arts & Crafts style, and visitors can gain a real insight into the ‘upstairs, downstairs’ life in the 1920s with its glamorous Saloon and servants’ rooms.
Though we have to say, our highlight of a trip to Coleton Fishacre is the gardens, as paths weave beneath towering bamboo and palm trees, past peaceful ponds and along pristine flowerbeds bursting with colour during the warmer months. There’s a beautiful, spacious cafe with indoor seating and a large outdoor patio seating area that becomes a sun trap on brighter days. We highly recommend trying the blueberry Bakewell slice while you enjoy a cuppa in the sunshine! Dogs are welcome on lead throughout the gardens and cafe, though only assistance dogs are permitted in the house. Find out more on the National Trust website.
A short 20 minute drive up the coast from Brixham brings you to the town of Paignton, and Paignton Zoo. Set across 80 acres, the zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals and around 1,600 plant species. Visitors can spot a variety of animals from orangutans, rhinos and tigers to giraffes, lemurs and giant tortoises. You can also book an experience to feed some of the animals, including the lions! There are indoor and outdoor play areas for children, and food and drinks outlets across the site, plus a nature trail through the rainforest area. A fun, full day out for all the family. Head to the Paignton Zoo website for up to date opening times and ticket prices.
Hike part (or all!) of the South West Coast Path
Spanning 630 miles (1014 km), the South West Coast Path covers the full coastline of England’s South West peninsula. With more than 115,000ft of ascent and descent, completing it is equivalent to climbing Snowdon 48 times, Ben Nevis 26 times and Everest 4 times! The coast path begins at Minehead in Somerset and runs along the coastline of Exmoor, through North Devon and into Cornwall, before crossing the mouth of the River Tamar and continuing back into Devon, eventually ending at Poole Harbour on the Dorset coastline.
Staying in Brixham, you have the perfect opportunity to check off a section of the coast path! Beginning in Kingswear and heading along the rugged coastline, you’ll be treated to views over bright blue waters below, where you might spot wild seals enjoying a swim! The climbs are not for the faint-hearted, but the quiet beaches you’ll come to along the way make fantastic rest stops where you can cool off in the sea and enjoy a snack break (or head up to the cafe at Coleton Fishacre!). Coming around the headland through Berry Head National Nature Reserve and having a view into Brixham makes for a stunning end to this challenging but rewarding hike. Head to our Kingswear to Brixham walk page download our OS Map route and see photos from this hike, or read our Kingswear to Brixham blog post for a detailed overview of this breathtaking route.
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