Ed
10 December 2022
The coastline at Brixham is dominated by one thoroughfare, one of the UK’s greatest and best-loved nature trails – The South West Coast Path. Along its distance, the trail winds through some of the most beautiful natural habitats, and the stretch around Brixham does nothing to buck this ever so pleasant trend.
Brixham to Babbacombe – 13.2 miles
For more seasoned walkers, try the Brixham to Babbacombe stretch. At 13.2 miles in length, it gives you a good feel for the English Riviera at its most dynamic and impressive. This section passes around the limestone peninsula of Berry Head Nature Reserve, and past the wave shaped red sandstone formations at Shoalstone Beach. The path winds through Brixham into woodland and past Fishcombe Cove and Elberry Cove too before reaching the neighbouring town of Paignton. The path evens out at Paignton through to Torquay because the South West Coast Path incorporates the sea front promenades, so this is where you can stop and enjoy some lunch – you won’t be short of choices. Once you leave Torquay harbour and marina, the built-up areas recede from the coast and you’re back to the breath-taking cliff top walks. The path becomes rugged as it winds over headlands and above some lovely pleasant beaches. Eventually, you come out at Babbacombe Downs where this section of the walk ends. Babbacombe is great to explore, and is famous for its beaches and popular Model Village, one of the largest and best in the UK.
Difficulty: Moderate. Endurance is the main factor. Some climbs and rocky pathways.
Brixham to the Breakwater – 3 miles
Starting at the Golden Lion pub on New Road, at the edge of the town centre, this route is a nice gentle amble. Along the way, New Road merges into Fore Street, which is a mainly pedestrianised thoroughfare where you’ll find many of the shops and eateries. Depending on how long you amble around the shops, it shouldn’t be too long before you end up at the waterfront. A long stroll along the marina is a must when travelling to town. Finish the walk with a stretch along the breakwater itself for panoramic views of the bay.
Difficulty: Easy. The route has paved surfaces all the way with low gradients – suitable for prams/wheelchairs.
Breakwater to Berry Head National Nature Reserve – 3 miles
This walk is a natural extension of the previous walk if you are feeling ambitious and the weather is clement. For those of you with a pram or a wheelchair, you will be able to get as far as the visitor centre and the café and some paths at the Nature Reserve, but vast stretches of the South West Coast Path are unpaved and that includes some sections on the Berry Head peninsula. The views and opportunities for wildlife spotting are outstanding from the Nature Reserve over the sea and back towards the town.
Difficulty: Easy. Although some sections are unsuitable for prams/wheelchairs.
There are many more activities and places to visit in Brixham. Visit our blog for more ideas.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.