Activities

Things to do on a rainy day in Brixham, Torbay, South Devon

What To Do On a Wet Day in Brixham

13 Best Things to Do on a Rainy Day Indoors in Brixham, Torbay, South Devon

Wondering what to do on a rainy day in Brixham? We know that the British weather can bring plenty of gloomy-looking days, especially as we go into the colder months too, but that doesn’t mean the fun needs to stop!

There’s plenty to do on a wet day in Brixham, especially when you want to stay warm and dry.

Some people like going for a walk in the rain, and discovering all that the English Riviera coastline has to offer. And if you have the right equipment and good waterproofs it can be fun to tackle the elements. 

There are plenty of spots for muddy puddle rambles in the countryside or windswept coastal walks. Just pick a route, get outside, and explore. 

But if you prefer to escape the rain and find some more sheltered activities, we’ve got you covered. There’s so much to do around Brixham that a rainy day can be a good opportunity to visit some wonderful places.

Grab your raincoats and discover some of the best things to do when it rains in the beautiful fishing town of Brixham.

Related: 9 Best Things To Do In Torquay When It’s Raining

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13 Things to Do When It’s Raining in Brixham

1. Visit the Brixham Battery Heritage Centre

Museums make the perfect rainy day activity, and Brixham has some fascinating history to learn about.

The Brixham Battery Heritage Centre is a hidden gem located next to the battery gardens.

Run by a group of volunteers, their aim is to restore the Brixham coastal defence Battery built in 1940 and to provide on-site information to the general public and other organisations. Dogs on a lead are also welcome.

2. Take a Tour of the Brixham Fish Market

Take the rare opportunity to get a fascinating insight into behind-the-scenes operations at England’s largest fish market.

With the tour starting at 06:20 and finishing with a seafood breakfast in The Rockfish at 08:00, you’ll get a look into how the entire operation works. From the daily fish auction process, learn everything there is to know about the trawlers and discover how fish gets from the sea to our plates.

There’s only a handful of tour dates throughout the season, and spaces fill up fast so book early to avoid disappointment. Take a look at the tour dates here.

3. Stop for a Cosy Hot Chocolate

With so many independent coffee shops and cafes around Brixham, choosing somewhere to go is the hard part. From Curious Kitchen serving fit-for-a-king hot chocolates to Chocella to the appropriately nautical-themed Brixham Steam Packet Company and Chart Room, they’re all excellent.

Whichever you choose, they’re all worth visiting for a hot chocolate and a homemade sweet treat when the weather is miserable.

Cosy hot chocolate in Brixham, Things to do in the rain, Torbay, South Devon

4. Step Back in Time at Lupton House

Lupton House is a Grade II* building on the outskirts of Brixham. Once an old empty school, with gardens, and woods, a group of local people vowed to breathe life back into this spectacular building. 

Open to the public nowadays it can be used for weddings and events, or to visit The Coach House Cafe and admire the beautiful architecture and Italian garden to the south of the estate. 

The perfect place to escape the rain and soak up a little English history!

5. Admire the Art at Strand Art Gallery

Located in the heart of Brixham’s harbourside, The Strand Art Gallery is a wonderful way to spend a couple of hours sheltering from the miserable weather. 

Here you’ll find works by the likes of W H Hockman, Gordon Allen, and David Deakins, alongside a range of modern artists. The gallery specialises in fine art paintings focusing on marine art and local Devon landscapes.

6. Go Shopping

Shelter yourself from the rain with an afternoon of retail therapy. 

Brixham is home to a whole host of boutique shops where you can find a plethora of items. Retailers sell everything from cakes and groceries, to hand-crafted gifts and jewellery, to home accessories and clothes.

Just take a brolly when walking from shop to shop!

Shopping in the boutique and local shops in Brixham, Things to do in the rain, Torbay, South Devon

7. Eat Fish and Chips

Visiting Brixham and not eating fish and chips is against the rules here, and luckily there are plenty of places to eat inside. 

You can’t miss The Rockfish which is located next door to the busy Fish Market. Serving traditional fish and chips, and daily freshly caught specials, there’s a good reason it’s a popular spot. Simply Fish is another excellent choice, located alongside the harbour.

8. Keep Kids Entertained at an Indoor Soft Play Area

There are not many parents who find it trickier than trying to entertain small kids on a rainy day, Luckily there’s lots of things to do in Brixham for kids.

Especially if the kids are full of energy and need to burn it off. Indoor soft play areas are the perfect antidote, as the kids can run riot in padded safety while you supervise with a coffee closeby!

Wizz Kidz, located in Brixham, is 5,000 sq ft of pure fun with a football pitch, rock climbing wall, toddler zone, and a café to keep an eye on your kids wherever they are.

9. Learn at the Brixham Heritage Museum

Discover Brixham’s maritime history in this little gem. Free to attend and founded in 1958, this is a great spot to learn about the town’s past and view key objects from the years.

Learn more about the museum here.

10. Bring Out the Board Games 

On a family or couple’s holiday, you can’t go wrong with Monopoly, Connect Four, or Sorry. The perfect activity to keep everyone occupied and laughing for a couple of hours. 

Pack your own, or many hotels such as the Quayside Hotel have a whole host of board games for guests to enjoy.

Playing board games in Brixham, Things to do in the rain, Torbay, South Devon

11. Stay Cosy in Self-Catered Accommodation

Of course, no matter the weather, staying cosy indoors is always a relaxing option on holiday. At the Quayside Hotel, we offer self-catered accommodation where you can stay warm and dry indoors all day, with all the facilities you need (and more). 

Read more information about our Quayside Apartment here.

12. Board the Golden Hind

Exploring the Golden Hind on a wet day is the perfect activity. It would be hard to walk through the town and not notice the large pirate ship in the middle of the harbour, sitting next to the Old Markethouse. 

The life-size ship is a replica of the boat Sir Frances Drake used to sail around the globe in 1577. Board the ship and you’ll learn exactly what life was like onboard during the famous voyage.

Golden Hind in Brixham, Torbay, South Devon

13. Sail Away from it All

Even on a rainy day in Brixham, you can explore the English Riviera in comfort. 

Take the ever-popular Western Lady Ferry Service which carries passengers under cover multiple times a day from the New Pier in Brixham, right into the centre of Torquay. 

Dogs are welcome on board and are free to travel. 

Or take a pleasure cruise and head along the River Dart to explore beyond Torbay and the English Riviera.

You can book your tickets at the office around Brixham Harbour. Boat trips and times may differ according to weather and tidal conditions.

Summary of What to Do on a Rainy Day Indoors in Brixham

Stormy weather doesn’t have to stop the fun. Even if your outdoor plans have been cancelled, you can still find plenty of fun rainy day activities to do inside. Keep this list of what to do when in rains in Brixham in your pocket for the next drizzly day.

Whether you’re visiting Brixham for a weekend staycation or a week-long UK getaway, the Quayside Hotel is the ideal place to stay. You’ll be within walking distance of all the main attractions beaches and restaurants. See our best rates here.

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Things to do in Brixham with a Dog, Torbay, South Devon

Best Things to Do in Brixham With Dogs

Dog-Friendly Activities in Brixham, South Devon

Situated on the South Devon coastline, Brixham is a thriving vibrant town with lots going on for everyone to enjoy. Dog-friendly days out in Brixham have become more and more popular with the number of activities on offer.

Home to many bars, restaurants, and shops, Brixham is a popular spot among couples and families looking for a good time on the South Coast.

It’s also popular among families who want to escape the busy city and relax next to an idyllic coastline.

It really is a dog’s life on the English Riviera, thanks to all the open spaces to sniff around, beach walks, pubs, restaurants, and attractions to keep their tails wagging.

Read on to find out the best things to do in Brixham with dogs, and the best dog-friendly activities in Brixham.

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Dogs on the beach in Brixham, Torbay, South Devon

What to do in Brixham with Dogs

Take Your Dog to The Beach

A short walk from the main centre of Brixham, you’ll find an array of beaches perfect for an afternoon with your pooch.

Shoalstone is a great beach for all the family; Fishcombe Cove is a beautiful shingle beach surrounded on three sides by tall red sandstone cliffs, and Breakwater Beach is recommended in the Good Beach Guide for its all-round quality and views of the stunning English Riviera.

All beaches are dog-friendly year-round, apart from Breakwater beach which is dog friendly during the winter but dogs are banned from May to September.

For more information about the dog-friendly beaches in Brixham, have a read of our guide.

Walking with your dog on the beach, Torbay, South Devon

Strolling Along a Coastal Path

Nestled along the English Riviera, Brixham is home to miles of coastal paths and walks. You and your pooch will be spoilt for choice! 

You’ll be able to discover new trails, wander through woodland, enjoy panoramic views, hidden coves, and much, much more. 

If you’re looking for a shorter walk, the Breakwater is the perfect option. Half a mile long, this is a beautiful walk to check out the boats and Torbay scenery. Built to protect the harbour, it provides a stunning stroll any time of year. And not to mention, it’s a great seal-spotting location.

Coastal walks in Torquay and Torbay - Best things to do in Torquay when staying at the Quayside Hotel

Brixham Heritage Museum

Discover Brixham’s maritime history in this little gem where well-behaved dogs are also allowed to enter. Free to attend and founded in 1958, this is a great spot to learn about the town’s past and view key objects from the years.

Learn more about the museum here.

Head to a Dog-Friendly Bar

Part of the laid-back lifestyle of South Devon is enjoying a humble pint and watching the world sail by. Many of the popular pubs in Brixham offer a warm welcome to customers bringing their canine companions. 

The Prince William has a wonderful outdoor seating area overlooking the busy harbour and marina. The Old Markethouse is another dog-friendly spot in the centre with both indoor and outdoor seating.

Take the Ferry to Torquay

If you have a few days in Brixham or are looking to explore a little further afield, we recommend embarking on a day trip to Torquay. 

Take the ever-popular Western Lady Ferry Service which departs multiple times a day from the New Pier in Brixham, right into the centre of Torquay, and the ferry company allows dogs. 

Once on the other side, have a wander around the harbour, stroll around the town and enjoy lunch in one of the many dog-friendly restaurants.

Go Crabbing

You’ll soon see why crabbing is so popular in Brixham, and it’s the perfect activity for your furry friend to relax and watch. 

Grab a line, net, some bait, and get stuck in along the harbour walls. Not just for kids, this is a great activity for adults too. Who can catch the most crabs?

Crabbing in Brixham for kids and families to do, Torbay, South Devon

Admire the View at Berry Head Nature Reserve

A stroll up to Berry Head coastal headline is a must for anyone visiting Brixham, especially with your furry friend. With panoramic views of South Devon, there are also two forts dating back to the Napoleonic Wars and an iconic lighthouse.

You can easily spend a few hours here admiring the scenery and grabbing a well-earned snack from the Guardhouse Cafe, which has plenty of outdoor and indoor seating.

Explore Brixham Harbour

A trip to Brixham wouldn’t be complete without time spent exploring, watching, and strolling around the harbour. 

With so much going on every minute of the day, you’ll learn a lot about the fishing industry, and it’s the perfect activity for a man’s best friend.

The Quayside Hotel in Brixham, South Devon, Torbay, England

Summary of Dog-Friendly Activities in Brixham

Whether you’re on the hunt for a dog-friendly weekend or a week-long holiday, Brixham is the ideal place in South Devon. Dogs are made to feel very welcome, and your four-legged friend will love the endless list of things to do, beaches to visit, and coastal walks to explore.

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View of the Quayside Hotel and Harbour in Brixham, Near Torquay, Torbay, South Devon

Five Top Tips to Spending a Day in Brixham, Torbay

A One Day Itinerary Travel Guide for Brixham, South Devon

Want to spend a day in Brixham? The whole of Torbay is on our doorstep. That means, the whole of the most beautiful part of England.

We’ve got the sea, coastal walks, relaxing cafes, and adventures galore. But sometimes it’s good to stay local. You might be tired after a long hike, or you might want to have a car-free day.

So here’s our five top tips on how to spend a day in Brixham.

How to Spend a Day in Brixham

A Stroll to the Breakwater

After breakfast, take a stroll around the harbour and along the Breakwater. 

Half a mile long, this is a beautiful walk in Brixham to check out the boats and Torbay scenery. Built to protect the harbour, it provides a stunning stroll any time of year. And not to mention, it’s a great seal-spotting location.

After your stroll, stop at the Breakwater Beach and enjoy the award-winning views from the shore.

Take a Boat Ride

Explore Torbay and the English Riviera on a site-seeing boat ride. Arguably one of the best ways to explore Torbay, you can’t beat cruising along the water for a few hours. 

Take the ferry to Torquay to explore the local town, or soak in the breathtaking sights of Torbay and the River Dart on a leisurely cruise to Dartmouth with the Western Lady Ferry. That would take up most of your afternoon. And we wouldn’t blame you!

Boats run from 1 Apr 2022 – 31 Oct 2022. Boat trips are weather dependent and may differ according to weather and tidal conditions.

Fish and Chips

With fish as fresh as it can get, a day out in Brixham isn’t complete without sampling some of the best fish and chips in the country. 

Our advice? Get your fish and chips to takeaway, and find a bench to soak up the stunning views of the harbour.

You can’t miss The Rockfish which is located next door to the busy Fish Market. Serving traditional fish and chips, and daily freshly caught specials, there’s a good reason it’s a popular spot. Brixham Fish and Chips and Simply Fish are also excellent.

Climb for a View

After fish and chips, you’ll need to burn off some energy so hike up to the Berry Head and enjoy panoramic views of South Devon as you walk up there.

A stroll up to Berry Head coastal headline is a must for anyone visiting Brixham. With breathtaking views of Torbay, Berry Head is a National Nature Reserve and there are also two forts dating back to the Napoleonic Wars and an iconic lighthouse.

You can easily spend a few hours here admiring the scenery and grabbing a well-earned snack from the Guardhouse Cafe.

Dinner at the Quayside Restaurant

Now the evening lies ahead, and we may be biased but, a day out in Brixham can’t be complete without eating at the Quayside Restaurant for a delicious meal.

A lovely restaurant that’s relaxed and friendly. There’s an a-la-carte menu, a fabulous reputation, quality food that’s locally sourced and excellent customer service.

Enjoy pre-dinner drinks in the cosy, nautical Main Mast Bar, or in the hotel lounge by the fire overlooking the stunning views of Brixham Harbour.

Summary of How to Spend a Day in Brixham: 1 Day Itinerary

That’s how we would spend a day in Brixham. Of course, you could easily spend a few days exploring the famous fishing town but with so much to see and do we’ve packed the best into one day. 

Whether you’re visiting Brixham for a couple of days or a week-long staycation, the Quayside Hotel is the perfect place to stay. You’ll be within walking distance of all the main activities, beaches, shops, bars, and restaurants. View our best room rates here.

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Brixham Marina, Near Torquay, Torbay, South Devon

Brixham: The Ultimate Travel Destination for Every Couple

Is Brixham the Perfect Weekend Away for Couples?

Finding the ideal getaway as a couple is no easy task, especially when you’re searching for a range of activities to enjoy with your partner. 

At the Quayside Hotel in Brixham, South Devon, we’ve got everything you could possibly need for the perfect couples retreat you’re longing for.

We’ve put this guide together to give you some inspiration and help you plan the perfect couples’ romantic retreat in Brixham.

Or, if you’re planning on bringing any children, take a look at our guide: 13 Best Things to do in Brixham with Kids.

Where is Brixham Located?

Brixham is a historic fishing town located on the south coast in the district of Torbay and the county of Devon.

Its close proximity to neighbouring towns of Torquay and Paignton, as well as many other locations on the South Devon coast, make it the perfect base for exploring the English Riviera.

What To Do in Brixham on a Romantic Holiday

Time to Relax

Switching off isn’t easy but we’re here to help. Reconnect and recharge away from the usual hustle and bustle of everyday life with slow, lazy mornings and a delicious breakfast served in our hotel restaurant.

After a lovely lie-in, enjoy a relaxing stroll around the harbour, soak in the fresh sea air, or spend the day at the beach. Perhaps take a wander to one of our top-rated coffee spots in Brixham, before a facial or massage at one of the local beauty salons.

Food and Drink

If you’re a big foodie then Brixham is the place for you. Restaurants and bars are plentiful with many located just a stone’s throw from The Quayside Hotel. And not to mention we have our own restaurant right here at the Quayside serving daily fish specials and traditional British dishes.

Enjoy a delicious brunch, homemade afternoon tea at a cafe, freshly caught fish and chips, or savour yourself for a three-course meal on the harbourside.

Take a look at our guide on our top 9 restaurants and places to eat in Brixham.

Nature

For some couples, nature is the perfect way to unwind, reconnect and enjoy time together in the great outdoors. 

Perhaps a boat ride whilst you soak up the breathtaking views of Torbay and the English Riviera, a blustery walk around the fishing town or a picnic admiring the stunning coastal scenery. 

Grab your partner and lose yourself in all Brixham naturally has to offer.

Adventure Lovers

A slower-paced holiday may not be for you, and if you’re searching for adrenaline-fuelled adventures to get your heart rate going, then Brixham will not disappoint.

Jump into the open sea as one and let the cold water refresh you as you connect with the great outdoors.

Why not try your hand at reaching new heights with Adelong’s adventure centre. Pick from a range of heart-thumping activities from Coasteering, Caving, Climbing, Abseiling, Gorge Walking, Canoeing, Bushcraft and Archery.

Summary of why Brixham is the Ultimate Travel Destination for Couples

Book your stay with us today at the Quayside Hotel, Brixham. We’ve got everything you need for that unforgettable couple escape, no matter your needs. To start planning your trip with us, click here.

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Golden Hind in Brixham, Torbay, South Devon

13 Best Things to Do in Brixham with Kids

Top Things to do in Brixham with Kids, Teenagers and Toddlers

Underrated and unexpected, Brixham is a truly amazing place to visit, and not just because it serves unforgettable fish and chips. It’s a treasure trove of history, beautiful scenery and delicious food.

Brixham, located in South Devon on the English Riviera, is brimming with things to see and do. Kids will be spoilt for choice until the minute they leave this seaside harbour town. 

Whether you’ve got young kids or older children there’s something to keep all families entertained in the famous fishing port.

Keep reading to find out our best things to do in Brixham with kids to make sure your young ones have the perfect holiday in South Devon

Top Activities to Do in Brixham with Children

Head to the Shoalstone Seawater Swimming Pool

If you’re on the hunt for a place to swim, look no further than the seawater pool. 

Picture panoramic views of Torbay, and there’s even a cafe close by perfect for a post-swim snack. Bring your sun lounger and you’ll truly feel like you’re abroad!

The natural rock 53m pool is open from May – September. Find out more about the Shoalstone pool here.

Enjoy a Day at the Beach

A short walk from the main town centre, you’ll find an array of beaches and Brixham coves.

Shoalstone is a great beach for all the family; Fishcombe Cove is a beautiful shingle beach surrounded on three sides by tall red sandstone cliffs, and Breakwater Beach is recommended in the Good Beach Guide for its all-round quality and views of the stunning English Riviera.

You may also be interested in: The Top 5 Best Beaches in Brixham

Dogs on the beach in Brixham, Torbay, South Devon

Cruise on a Boat

Admire the views of the English Riviera and South Devon with a boat tour. Arguably one of the best ways to explore Torbay, you can’t beat cruising along the water for a few hours. Book a sight-seeing tour, or take a ferry Brixham to Torquay.

Trawlers-and-Boats-in-Brixham-South-Devon

Check out the View at Berry Head National Nature Reserve

A stroll up to Berry Head coastal headline is a must for anyone visiting Brixham. With breathtaking views of South Devon, there are also two forts dating back to the Napoleonic Wars and an iconic lighthouse.

You can easily spend a few hours here admiring the scenery and grabbing a well-earned snack from the Guardhouse Cafe.

Look out for Seals

Brixham is home to many grey seals, and spotting these beautiful mammals as you stroll around the harbour is common. 

The Torbay Seal Project has been set up to monitor and protect the growing number of these rare North Atlantic Grey seals. 

If you’re really lucky, you may also spot dolphins swimming around the harbour!

Go Crabbing

You’ll soon see why crabbing is so popular in Brixham. Grab a line, net, some bait and get stuck in along the harbour walls. Not just for kids, this is a great activity for adults too. Who can catch the most crabs?

Crabbing in Brixham for kids and families to do, Torbay, South Devon

Take the Ferry to Torquay

If you have a few days in Brixham or are looking to explore a little further afield, we recommend embarking on a day trip to Torquay. 

Take the ever-popular Western Lady Ferry Service which departs multiple times a day from the New Pier in Brixham, right into the centre of Torquay.

Discover the Golden Hind

There’s never a dull moment in Brixham, and it would be hard to walk through the town and not notice the large pirate ship in the middle of the harbour. The life-size ship is a replica of the boat Sir Frances Drake used to sail around the globe in 1577.

Board the ship and you’ll learn exactly what life was like on board during the famous voyage.

Golden Hind Ship in Brixham, Torbay

Stroll Along the Breakwater

Half a mile long, this is a beautiful walk to check out the boats and Torbay scenery. Built to protect the harbour, it provides a stunning stroll any time of year. And not to mention, it’s a great seal-spotting location.

Learn at the Brixham Heritage Museum

Discover Brixham’s maritime history in this little gem. Free to attend and founded in 1958, this is a great spot to learn about the town’s past and view key objects from the years.

Learn more about the museum here.

Enjoy a Sweet Treat

With so many independent coffee shops and cafes around Brixham, choosing somewhere to go is the hard part. From Curious Kitchen to Chocella to the appropriately nautical themed Brixham Steam Packet Company and Chart Room, they’re all excellent.

Whichever you choose, they’re all worth visiting for a hot chocolate and a homemade sweet treat after a day on your feet exploring the local area.

Enjoy Fish and Chips

You can’t miss The Rockfish which is located next door to the busy Fish Market. Serving traditional fish and chips, and daily freshly caught specials, there’s a good reason it’s a popular spot.

Or, sit down and enjoy takeaway fish and chips whilst soaking up the stunning views of the harbour. Our favourites? Brixham Fish and Chips or Simply Fish.

Related: 5 Best Fish and Chips in Brixham

Brixham Harbour from the Quayside Hotel, South Devon

Explore Brixham Harbour

This list wouldn’t be complete without time spent exploring, watching and strolling around the harbour. With so much going on every minute of the day, you’ll learn a lot about the fishing industry. 

For an even closer look, we recommend lunch at The Rockfish where you can watch trawlers unloading their daily catch on the dock. Request a table outside on the balcony.

Summary of Best Things to Do in Brixham with Kids, Teens & Toddlers

Whether you’re visiting for a hotel in South Devon or places to stay in Brixham, the Quayside Hotel is the perfect place to stay. You’ll be within walking distance of some of the best things to do in Brixham with kids, teens and toddlers. Click here to see our best room rates.

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Best Things to Do in Brixham With Kids

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