The fish market and piles of lobster pots line the seafront to Brixham’s lively quayside, where colourful fishing boats sway in the harbour. Salty air and culinary aromas met us as we walked into town. Every type of fish is available to eat there, including traditional fish and chips, shellfish, and one stall offered squid salad, all served from varied outlets such as the Sprat and Mackerel, a traditional pub, the fishy illustrated swinging sign outside proclaimed.
Being that Brixham is the trawling industry’s birthplace, it isn’t surprising that fish inspired food and gifts are everywhere. However, the town’s historical connections were unanticipated.
Near the Torbay and Teignmouth Ferry landing stage, and by the South West Coast Path, a life-size reconstruction of The Golden Hind is moored up as a tourist attraction and educational centre. As we drew closer, the rigging and sails rattling in the breeze, were a pleasing sound as we admired the galleon’s decoratively painted woodwork. In the sixteenth century, famous explorer, Sir Francis Drake, with Queen Elizabeth I’s support, captained the original vessel around the world. No wonder so many visitors normally flock to see the replica with its stories of old.
Further on, we came across a statue of William Prince Of Orange, its back towards the water and surveying the terrain, just as the Dutchman would have done in 1688 when he landed in Brixham with his accompanying fleet. He later became King William III of Great Britain and Ireland with his wife Mary II. And today some of the businesses have used him as their namesake.
Following the SW Coast Path towards the RNLI Lifeboat Station, Mayflower Garden, created by the community is well kept and creative, and my favourite part is where a flamboyant rhinoceros charges through the blooms.
There are plenty of seats along the way, so perfect for soaking up the atmosphere and recharging energy levels.
After a brief amble around the rest of town, up and down alleyways with houses on either side including St Peter’s Hill, with a church at the top, and a tiny shop at the bottom – it was time to drive home.
Until next time.
Sue. X