Brixham Harbour Overview and Visitor Information

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Moored boats in calm lagoon at sunset
Credit: pexels.com, Moored boats in calm lagoon at sunset

Brixham Harbour is a bustling fishing port on the south coast of Devon, England. It's a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering stunning views of the harbour and surrounding coastline.

The harbour is home to a large fishing fleet, with many boats setting off early in the morning to catch fresh seafood. You can watch the fishermen unloading their catch at the harbour market, which is open daily.

Brixham Harbour is also a great spot for sailing and water sports, with a range of boats and equipment available for hire. Many visitors enjoy taking a leisurely boat trip around the harbour to see the sights from a different perspective.

The harbour is surrounded by a picturesque town, with plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants to explore. You can find everything from fresh seafood to local crafts and souvenirs, making it a great place to spend a day or a week.

Harbour Facilities

Credit: youtube.com, Brixham, Devon - Walking Tour of Brixham Harbour

Brixham Harbour has a thriving fish market where over 100 fishing boats land and sell their catch.

A visitor viewing platform is conveniently placed so you can watch the busy comings and goings of the fishing fleet.

You can see some of the smaller day boats working at various vantage points around Tor Bay, such as Berry Head, Fishcombe, and Hopes Nose.

The harbour has recently been subject to a huge regeneration project, creating an amazing new fish market complex with business and retail units.

Several restaurants, bistros, and pubs serve delicious, locally caught seafood along the Harbour's edge.

You can enjoy famous Devon cream teas and locally made pasties at small cafés in the central shopping area.

There are 'trot and 'swing' moorings available in the harbour, but for more information on moorings and availability, check out the 'Moorings Page'.

Boat Trips and Mooring

Brixham Harbour is a great place to explore by boat. You can enjoy regular ferry trips across the beautiful bay to Paignton and Torquay.

Credit: youtube.com, Torquay Brixham Boat Trip

There are many local boat trips to book, including wildlife sea-faris, fishing trips, and beautifully restored heritage sailing vessels. These trips offer a unique perspective on the harbour and its surroundings.

Keep an eye out for dolphins, porpoises, and seals as you make your way across the bay on a boat trip.

Berthing & Mooring

If you're planning to spend time in Brixham Harbour, you'll want to know about the berthing options available.

There are drying out berths within the Inner Harbour that you can use, but you'll need to book a spot with the Brixham Harbour office in advance.

On average, these berths are 2 – 2.5 metres above chart datum, so you'll want to be aware of the tidal restrictions.

Scrub pad berths, made of concrete slabs, are suitable for flat bottom boats, bilge keels, and fin keeled vessels.

The outer grid berths, made of wooden beams, are better suited for larger vessels with long keels.

Vessels drying out on the outer grid must bear down on at least three of the wooden beams to avoid putting stress on their keel.

Due to safety concerns, fin keels are not permitted on these grids.

Boat Trips

Vibrant coastal scene of Brixham Harbor at low tide, showing moored fishing boats and colorful waterfront buildings.
Credit: pexels.com, Vibrant coastal scene of Brixham Harbor at low tide, showing moored fishing boats and colorful waterfront buildings.

You can enjoy regular ferry trips across the beautiful bay to Paignton and Torquay.

Many local boat trips can be booked, including wildlife sea-faris and beautifully restored heritage sailing vessels.

There’s plenty of local wildlife so look out for dolphins, porpoises and seals en route.

You can also book fishing trips, which are a great way to catch a glimpse of the bay's marine life.

Regular ferry trips are a convenient way to travel between Brixham and its neighboring towns.

Approach

Approaching Brixham Harbour is relatively simple, but it's essential to follow the necessary steps to ensure a safe and smooth entry.

You'll need to monitor VHF channel 14 and call for clearance to enter or leave the harbour limits.

Large trawlers can leave the harbour at speed, so it's crucial to give Victoria Breakwater a wide berth when approaching.

Position yourself where you can see what's emerging, as this breakwater is located just over 1 mile west of Berry head and has a white lighthouse at the outer end.

Credit: youtube.com, Brixham Harbour in 4K HDR

The fairway into the harbour is clearly marked by port hand (Fl R) and starboard hand (Fl G) buoys, so keep to the starboard side.

The fairway is about 75m wide and must be kept clear at all times.

At night, the fairway is covered by the white sector of the light (Dir Iso WGR 5s) at the southern end of the harbour.

You can contact the harbour authorities on VHF channel 14 or by phone on 01803 851854, and the Marina is on VHF channel 80 or by phone on 01803 882929 or mobile 07740 806034.

Local Information

Brixham Harbour is a bustling hub of activity, with a rich history dating back to the 16th century. It's a must-visit destination for anyone interested in maritime history.

The harbour is home to a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering a range of amenities for visitors. You can find everything from fresh seafood to souvenirs.

Brixham is a popular spot for fishing, with many local fishermen still operating out of the harbour. If you're interested in trying your hand at fishing, you can even book a local fishing trip.

Office

Credit: youtube.com, Does My Town Hall Have A Website? - CountyOffice.org

The office is a hub of activity in our local community, and there are a few things you should know about it.

It's located in the heart of downtown, making it easily accessible by public transportation or on foot.

The office is open Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm, with extended hours on Wednesdays until 7pm.

You can reach the office by phone at 555-1234 or by email at [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]).

Parking is available in the adjacent lot, but be aware that spots are limited and often fill up quickly.

If you're planning a visit, be sure to check the office's website for any updates or closures before heading out.

In Around

You can find a variety of cafes, restaurants, and pubs surrounding Brixham Harbour, all within a short walk of under ten minutes.

Brixham town centre is just a short walk away, where you can access ATMs that are open to the public.

The Breakwater is a beautiful spot at the heart of Brixham Harbour, featuring a pebble beach and a 1.2 kilometre pier that's perfect for a leisurely walk.

Vibrant yellow cafe racer motorcycle parked at scenic Brixham Harbor in England, with boats and tourists in the background.
Credit: pexels.com, Vibrant yellow cafe racer motorcycle parked at scenic Brixham Harbor in England, with boats and tourists in the background.

Day boat cruises and heritage sailing trips are just a few of the many activities you can enjoy in and around Brixham Harbour.

Rockfish, a renowned fish restaurant, is a must-visit in Brixham, as you can watch the trawlers offload their catch into the Fish Market below while you enjoy your meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Brixham famous?

Brixham is famous for being one of the UK's busiest fishing ports, bringing in an abundance of fresh seafood. Its prime location on England's Seafood Coast makes it a hub for high-quality fish and seafood.

Is Brixham worth a visit?

Yes, Brixham is a charming destination worth visiting, with its picturesque harbour and operational fishing port. Plan ahead to make the most of your trip, especially when it comes to dining out.

Louis Becker

Senior Writer

Louis Becker is a seasoned writer with a deep passion for maritime transportation. His insightful articles have shed light on the complexities and challenges of global shipping, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of the industry's dynamics. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to accuracy, Becker has established himself as a trusted voice in maritime journalism.

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