HISTORY
The stories that shaped our harbour.
The sea keeps its secrets.
Brixham keeps its stories.
Here in Brixham, the sea has shaped our town for centuries.
Tales of fishermen and explorers, pirates and smugglers, storms and shipwrecks, and ordinary people living extraordinary lives.
From ancient times to the present day.
These are the stories that built our town, our harbour and our way of life.
Sit down, take a breath
and let us tell you a few of them.
SMUGGLERS OF BRIXHAM
Long before the trawlers, Brixham’s hidden coves and rugged coastline provided the perfect refuge for smugglers, privateers and rogues of the sea. Beneath moonlit cliffs and beyond the watchful eyes of the authorities, contraband was landed in secret and fortunes were won or lost in a single night.
From notorious raids to buried treasure, daring escapes and whispered legends passed down through generations, these are the tales of smuggling, rebellion and life on the edge.
THE FISHING FLEET
The lifeblood of Brixham for generations.
Follow the story of Brixham’s famous trawler fleet, where red sails once drifted across Tor Bay and fishermen ventured beyond Berry Head in search of their living. Facing rough seas, long days and uncertain fortunes, their courage, resilience and hard work built a proud maritime heritage that continues to shape the town today.
“Every harbour keeps its secrets. Some are still waiting to be discovered.”
MORE TALES FROM BRIXHAM
BERRY HEAD
DEFENCES
Guarding the bay for centuries against enemies from across the sea.
1866: THE GREAT
STORM
When the sea unleashed its fury and tested the strength of our town.