To Brixham

Would you believe, we've been down in Devon for around 18 years, and had never been to Brixham?

We finally went on Monday. It could scarcely be easier from Topsham: a straight-through train along the coast to Paignton, and out the door of the station to the bus station, from which a 12 bus goes to Brixham. The Brixham terminus is at the harbour end of Lower Brixham ("Fish Town" - as opposed to the historically separate Upper Brixham, nicknamed "Cow Town"). I don't terribly like overcast autumn/winter days, and out-of-season coastal towns can feel very run-down - but it was a very pleasant afternoon. From the slightly shabby view over the car park ...

... a short walk takes you to the quay, with its replica of the Golden Hind.

From there you can potter left to look at the fishing quay ...

... or go right to the other side of the harbour, where the dockside path or higher roads take you to Prince William Marina, the half-mile breakwater, and ultimately to Berry Head. We saved the last for another day (it's not far, but at 3.30pm the dusk was already starting to set in).  but did get to the end of the breakwater.

Lower Brixham is built up the limestone sides of an inlet, and the vista that opens up as you walk along the Berry Head road is a delight, almost Mediterranean in style, with intriguing glimpses up the steep flights of steps between the pastel-coloured houses.

From the breakwater - though it wasn't the best day for it - you have a panoramic view right across Torbay, to Torquay and beyond.

We must definitely visit on a brighter day.

- Ray