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Devon Walks: Coast South of Brixham

Martin Hesp

Looking to explore the stunning coastal landscape of Brixham? Look no further than Berry Head Country Park! With its rich history and abundance of flora and fauna, this headland is a must-see for any nature lover. And with fresh fish available from David Walker & Sons, it's the perfect excuse to visit trawler-town.

Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust: https://www.countryside-trust.org.uk/

Here's a suggested itinerary for a walk that takes you from Brixham Harbour to Berry Head Country Park:

Berry Head National Nature Reserve: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/berry-head

Heading East from Brixham Harbour

Begin your hike at Brixham Harbour, and make your way to the breakwater. From there, cross over to Breakwater Beach, and follow the concrete path up to Berry Head Road. Turn left onto Berry Head Road and follow it until you reach the path that leads down to Shoalstone Point.

Visit Brixham: https://www.visitbrixham.com/

Fortifications at Berry Head

Exploring Berry Head Country Park

Once you've reached Shoalstone Point, follow the path that leads through delightful coastal woodlands and into Berry Head Country Park, which is run by the Torbay Countryside Service. Here, you'll find an informative visitor centre and a series of cheap and informative leaflets that will help you learn all about this extraordinary landscape.

As you make your way through the park, you'll come across the massive hole left by the quarrymen who once nibbled away at Berry Head. You'll also see the impressive ramparts of the Northern Fort, which were put up to guard against a land-attack in the Napoleonic Wars. And if you hike out to the end of the headland, you'll be rewarded with stunning views and a visit to the lighthouse.

From Berry Head to St. Mary's Bay and Sharkham Point

After you've finished exploring Berry Head Country Park, follow the South West Coast Path down to St. Mary's Bay, where you can take a quick dip before continuing on to Sharkham Point. From there, you can cut up across the fields to Yards Lane, which will take you to Higher Brixham.

End your hike at David Walker & Sons

Fish merchant Neil Walker outside his seafood hut close to his main base inside the fish harbour

Before you head back to Brixham Harbour, stop by David Walker & Sons to pick up some of the best fresh fish in the South West region. And if you're looking for a place to stay, consider the Quayside Hotel, which offers comfortable accommodations and stunning views of the harbour.

Fact File Basic hike: from Brixham out to Berry Head Country Park. Recommended Map: Ordnance Survey Outdoor Leisure 20 - South Devon. Distance & Going: Two-and-a-half to five miles depending on whether you extend hike to Sharkham Point - easy going.

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