Brixham will keep you busy with things to do and see. Whether you want to pack in as much as possible or take it slow and leisurely, this gem of a Devon seaside town won’t leave you wondering what to do next.

There’s plenty for everyone, whatever their age and interests. Heritage lovers, seafood fans and beach lovers won’t be disappointed, and if you’re just looking to chill out around a picturesque harbour, we’d argue that you couldn’t choose a better place.

Here are some of our favourite attractions, restaurants and sights to see in the town.

Brixham Harbour

As workplaces go, a Devon fishing harbour is one of the most relaxing you can enjoy. Brixham is home to one of England’s largest fishing fleets, so there’s always plenty going on.

Once you’ve explored the harbourside with its shops and cafes, take a stroll along the breakwater that stretches for half a mile out to sea.

Golden Hind Museum

Step back nearly 450 years, to the age of Elizabethan sailing and exploration. The Golden Hind is a replica of the vessel Sir Francis Drake took around the world. Children love it, particularly the treasure-hunting activities provided.

South West Coast Path

Explore the coast around Brixham by following local stretches of the South West Coast path. Follow it from the harbour out towards Berry Head and then, if you’re up for it, a mile and a half south to Sharkham Point.

Brixham Heritage Museum

Treason, smugglers and murder mysteries – Brixham Heritage Museum unearths many of the fascinating stories associated with a busy little fishing port. As a bonus, the museum offers free entry.

Berry Head National Nature Reserve

It’s just a 30-minute walk from the bustle of Brixham harbour to the tranquillity and spectacular views of Berry Head. The headland is home to many seabirds, including one of southern England’s largest guillemot colonies. The area is also the site of a dramatically positioned Napoleonic fort, built to help protect against possible invasion.

Boat trips

There’s nothing quite like getting out onto the water to add that special touch to a seaside day out. You can choose from several different types of trips, from fishing excursions to ferry rides across the bay to Torquay.

Sightseeing tours are particularly popular. Exploring the Devon coast from the sea is informative, and fun and gives you plenty to talk about.

Wizz Kidz

If you need somewhere to let the children run around and have fun indoors, visit this massive soft play area. Great for kids up to age 12, and ideal when they need to burn off energy indoors.

Brixham beaches

The rocky coastline around this area of south Devon means the beaches are small, precious havens to be discovered and enjoyed. Here are three very close to Brixham:

Breakwater beach

Possibly Brixham’s premier beach, it’s very close to the town and has parking and all the essential facilities nearby. You won’t find many cleaner beaches in Devon, or indeed anywhere in England, which is why it’s won a prestigious Blue Flag. It’s a favourite with scuba divers because of the clear water and exuberant sealife.

St Mary’s Bay

The largest of the three beaches we’ve listed, St Mary’s is a short walk from the Berry Head National Nature Reserve, where you’ll find facilities and refreshments. As the tide goes out it exposes a wide expanse of smooth sand. If you visit, you may want to look out for fossils.

Fishcombe Cove

Secluded and sheltered, this little shingle beach is guarded by tall cliffs and wooded hillsides. Being a short distance from the town, the cove can be somewhere to escape the crowds and enjoy a quiet swim.

Restaurants and cafes in Brixham

A day out in Brixham isn’t complete until you’ve sampled some of the local fares. Seafood is going to be high on the menu, and this being Devon, cakes and cream aren’t far behind.

Some favourites include:

DillyDally Tearoom

Are you jam first or cream first on your scones? Whichever, this hugely popular and award-winning tearoom will ensure it’s a truly Devon treat. In the heart of the town, it’s famous for its cakes and popular as a place for a tasty breakfast.

Shoals on the Lido

This family business specialises in local seafood, freshly caught from the waters around Brixham. It’s in a gorgeous location, above the Lido and with an open-air terrace with sea views.

Brixham Fish Restaurant and Takeaway

For many of us, fish and chips on the harbourside is one of the ultimate seaside treats. Choose to eat in or take it with you to enjoy on the quayside.

Brixham is just one of the many south Devon destinations that our guests enjoy and go back to, year after year. Discover it for yourself by booking a holiday with us. You can do that today by calling 01803 843887 or booking online. If you’ve fallen in love with the beauty of South Devon, Beverley Holidays also has a a fantastic range of holiday homes for sale.