Brixham, Devon
What often comes to mind when you mention Brixham to people is fish – that’s because the town’s harbour has one of the largest fishing fleets in the UK and a very busy fish market. Buyers come to Devon’s South Coast from far and wide to pick up the best of the morning’s catch for top restaurants all over the country. You’ve heard of Brixham crab, surely? Well, this is where it comes from, caught in the local waters, landed on the shore.
Brixham is well worth a visit because it’s charming and retains an element of yesteryear – that lovely seaside charm on this part of the English Riviera seems a million miles away from the hectic pace of modern life. And all that sea air is going to do you the world of good! Have a stroll around and explore, see the maritime themed murals as you amble through the narrow streets. The town has a thriving artistic community so there are several galleries and a regular craft market. Pack your bathing suit for an hour or so on Breakwater Beach, or for a swim in the seafront Art Deco lido; take a boat trip around the bay, the best way to appreciate the vista of colourful houses climbing the hillside and fishing boats jostling in the harbour.
If you’ve got sensible shoes on go for a stroll on the South West Coast Path, through the woods and up over the clifftops to Berry Head National Nature Reserve where the views are phenomenal and you might even spot seals and dolphins. Climb the decks on the replica of Sir Francis Drake's flagship, the Golden Hind on the quay, then go for something to eat; if you’re in Brixham it would be wrong not to have seafood, so go to Beamers, run by a local couple. For tea and cake, or a proper job Devon cream tea, go to DillyDally Tearoom.
Every year on the early May Bank Holiday Weekend, it’s Brixham Pirate Festival and that, me hearties, is enormous fun.
All information correct at the time of writing