Brixham is a coastal town, boasting one of the largest fishing fleets in the UK. It is the smallest and southernmost population centre of Torbay. Brixham was originally a Saxon settlement, established with the landing of William of Orange during the Glorious Revolution. Consequently, many of the residents are descendants of the Dutch Army and various street names reflect the history of the Dutch influence. Brixham is more than just a fishing town. It is a place where you can explore arts, culture, food, and unique attractions.
The town is split into two – cow town (Upper Brixham) and fish town (Lower Brixham). Lower Brixham is a working fishing port which many people know as ‘the town of Brixham’. Higher Brixham was the original rural Saxon settlement. A thriving Victorian farming community developed centred around its medieval parish church of St. Mary’s.
The town has always been centred around the harbour, where heritage trawlers fight for space with dayboats heading out to sea. These trawlers and fishermen bring home delicious locally caught fish to the famous Brixham fish market – the heart of England’s Seafood Coast. This fish market provides the freshest and most delicious seafood to many of the local restaurants as well as further afield.
Brixham holds a Pirate Festival each year. The festival was started in 2007 by a group of locals to simply ‘liven up a quiet bank holiday’. It has since grown into a something that attracts people from all over. With live displays and historic sailing ships docked in the port, there are lots of activities for all ages to get involved in. The festival hosts live music all weekend, showing of the best of local bands. It is a great weekend to be a part of during Your Devon Escape.
There are so many places to check out, events to take part in and activities to try within the Brixham area. Make sure to take a trip to Shoalstone Pool, a sea pool located past the breakwater, where you can enjoy a cold-water swim during the summer months. Or to Berry Head and enjoy a stroll and the views across Tor Bay. Or head down to The Golden Hind, located in the harbour, and explore the five decks of Sir Francis Drake’s Tudor galleon.
Brixham is home to various venues of arts, history and culture. Visit the artist corner on the strand where artists work during the day. Stop and admire the paintings and drawings they produce live and maybe purchase a piece to take home with you to remember Your Devon Escape. There are lots of art galleries featuring local and visiting artists including The Strand Gallery. Pop in on a rainy day to appreciate local work. Or head to the Brixham Heritage Museum, the maritime heritage and culture museum. The museum was opened to show the people of Brixham and its visitors the town’s past and place in world history. Step inside and learn all about the story of Brixham whilst on Your Devon Escape.
For more ideas for what to do on Your Devon Escape, why not check out our journal for recommendations. Or make us all jealous on Your Devon Escape by sharing your adventures with #yourdevonescape or tag us on Facebook @YourDevonEscape, on Instagram @your_devon_escape or TikTok @yourdevonescapeltd.