Towering above the glistening waters of Torbay with a sweeping view out over the horizon is one of Devon’s lesser-known scenic secrets, Berry Head Brixham.
Tucked away just south-east of the bustling seaside resorts, rocky coves and picturesque villages of the English Rivera. And, within walking distance of one of the busiest traditional fishing ports in the UK. This hidden gem promises an incredible day out in one of the UK’s national nature reserves. Including one steeped in rich history, dotted with captivating heritage and geological sites teeming with unique and rare wildlife to explore.
The famous South West Coast Path joining onto the headland, invites a dramatic coastal walk of any length. With some of the of the most incredible panoramic vistas where afterward you can pop in for a bite to eat at the award-winning Guardhouse Café.
While synonymous for its archaeology, biodiversity, and landscape it is also a is also a natural space where children, families and pets can explore the outdoors and appreciate the peaceful enjoyment of the countryside. With the magnificent backdrop and unspoilt panoramic views, it is a place to meet friends and socialise, a place to sit and eat or drink, to take a packed lunch and make the most of this unique slice of paradise.
Read our locals guide to Berry Head Brixham for everything you need to know about a day out to this magical coastal treasure.
Locals Guide to Berry Head Brixham
Looking for something in particular? Use our quick links below to navigate the content or read on for our comprehensive guide to Berry Head Brixham.
- What is Berry Head Brixham?
- What makes Berry Head so unique?
- Explore the Napoleonic forts on Berry Head
- Wildlife at Berry Head Nature Reserve
- Berry Head Lighthouse
- The Guardhouse Café
- Berry Head Brixham walks
- How do I get to Berry Head?
- Berry Head car park
- Where to stay near Berry Head Brixham?
What is Berry Head Brixham?
With its iconic lighthouse, Napoleonic fort and unrivalled ocean panorama showcasing dramatic views of Torbay and beyond. Berry Head Brixham is a vast headland of rugged rocks and sheer cliffs which tower over 200 feet above the sea.
Home to an array of unique and protected wildlife on land and sea, and one of 200 of the UK’s national nature reserves, it is also the gateway to UNESCOs English Riviera Global Geopark on the southern boundary of Torbay.
Torbay’s unique geology has created this beautiful coastline of today. Spanning over 170 acres of diverse habitat, with a timeline that stretches back over 400 million years. All easily explored along a meandering stretch of the South West Coast Path.
What makes Berry Head so unique?
Biodiversity and earth heritage
Berry Head Brixham contains many different heritage assets all closely interwoven with tremendous geological, historical, ecological and landscape importance. Not only is Berry Head one of the UK’s 200 National Nature Reserves, a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) but is also appointed as a Scheduled Ancient Monument which falls within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
In 2007 the English Riviera received the prestigious international recognition when it was designated a Global Geopark and is one of only seven sites in the UK and Ireland to hold this incredible status
Early history of Berry Head
Berry Head has a wealth of history and is steeped in chronicles from the Iron Age to the Napoleonic era. The name ‘Berry Head’ is derived from the Anglo-Saxon word ‘bury’, meaning ‘fort’. There was a primitive cliff castle on the headland in the Iron Age, some two thousand years ago, consisting of ramparts and ditches forming a defensive settlement.
A scattering of Bronze Age and Romano-British material has also been found across the headland, and there are remnants of ancient fields to the west of the headland which suggests the area was farmed during the medieval period.
In the 19th Century, Berry Head was transformed into an extensive Napoleonic fort built between 1795 and 1806 to protect Brixham harbour from the threat of an invasion from France.
During the Napoleonic War, Torbay was of great naval importance. The sheltered waters were used by the British fleet as an anchoring and resupply point. The shape of the Bay provided the naval fleet safety during times of crisis and thus was a catalyst for the building of the Napoleonic Forts on Berry Head and serve as a reminder of the strategic role played by the promontory through the ages.
The Limestone Quarry at Berry Head
The Limestone Quarry found on the along the cliffs at Berry Head was founded over 300 years ago. Over the years lime was extracted for use in fertilisers, mortar and cements, with thousands of tons of stone still being removed as recently as the 1950’s. The stone from the quarry was utilised to support the D-Day campaign and was also used in creating important local structures like the Brixham Town Hall.
Today the secluded tranquillity of the quarry is a perfect refuge for roosting seabirds and hunting peregrine falcons. The inner quarry contains a network of caves which are home to important bat colonies. Many important plant species also benefit from the thin, fertile lime rich soil which supports an important assortment of flora.
Things to see at Berry Head
Explore the Napoleonic forts on Berry Head
Step back in time and explore the forts at Berry Head. Perched at a strategic high point covering the harbour of Brixham and the rest of Torbay in anticipation of a French naval attack. They consisted of ramparts with long rows of guns, protected by a dry ditches and sheer cliffs.
The North Fort was heavily garrisoned and contained a formidable battery of guns and large cannons designed to protect the waters of Torbay. Today, the North Fort is still intact and has a few of its guns on show as is the powder magazine and guard room.
The Southern Fort was built to protect the main fort from landward attack and contained a barracks, powder magazine, kitchen and storehouse, the ruins of which can still be explored. The former artillery house now features a public display. With information on the history of the area, its fauna and flora as well as other fascinating insight into this incredible part of Devon.
Wildlife at Berry Head Nature Reserve
The diverse mixture of habitats on this peninsula has created a haven for wildlife both in and out of the water.
Greater horseshoe bat
Hidden deep within its limestone cave system, Berry Head is home to a colony of one of Britain’s most endangered species. The Greater horseshoe bat.
It is an internationally important site for this protected species. Not only do the bats use the caves for their winter hibernation, but there’s a maternity roost which house the pregnant females during the spring and then later in the summer, where they nurse and raise their young.
A herd of North Devon’s cattle has been brought in to graze around the headland so that the insects attracted by the cow pats provide a readily available a source of food for the bats!
Birdlife
With over 200 varieties of birds of which breed within or close to the reserve. Berry Head is one of the most rewarding and ideal locations in South Devon for bird watching.
Its most famous resident is the guillemot. Known as ‘Brixham penguins’ because of their upright stance and their monochromatic dark and light colouring. Berry Head is home to one of the largest breeding colonies of guillemots. With up to 1500 of these charismatic, hardy seabirds which return to breed on the cliff ledges after a harsh winter at sea, remaining until July whilst they rear their chicks.
You’ll also be treated to regular sighting of razorbills, kittiwake, fulmar and shag which are among other seabirds that nest on the sheer cliffs.
Enjoy the song of the distinctive song of the rare colourful cirl buntings while they perch in bushes and hedges. Or watch as the peregrine falcons, sparrow hawks and kestrels can be found circling high above the rocky sea cliffs.
Marine life
A stroll along the coast path could reward you with regular sightings of various marine life in the glistening waters below.
A regular visitor to the waters, keep an eye out for the charming harbour porpoise and bottlenose dolphin. Even on the odd occasion a peek at a humpback, fin or pilot whale. Curious seals are also one of the sea mammals sighted fairly frequently popping up from beneath the waves.
Plant life
Berry Head is home to a colourful and rare assortment of plants, flowers, and botanical rarities. With its unique soil, mild climate and wide exposure, the cliff tops of the headland are support rich and diver plant communities.
It is one of only two locations in Britain where the white rockrose can be found, and the small hare’s-ear, a delicate low-growing plant with tiny yellow flowers growing in clusters in spiky triangular-leaved bracts.
Another rare plant found here is the small restharrow, whose pink flowers resemble miniature sweet peas. These plants and flowers in turn support a huge range of insects as well as 28 species of butterfly, including the rare small blue.
Berry Head lighthouse
Built in 1906, the Berry Head lighthouse is diminutive and unusual looking lighthouse boasts an interesting pedigree. It is said to the smallest, highest and deepest in the British Isles Standing at only 5 meters tall.
This active lighthouse happens to be not only the shortest lighthouse in the country but perched atop the near-perpendicular cliffs achieves a dizzying height of 58m above sea level. It is known also as the deepest because the optic was originally turned by a weight which descended to the bottom of a 45m deep shaft.
Berry Head Nature Reserve visitors centre
Be sure to pop into the visitor’s centre for help and advice as well as lots of information on what to see and do. There are fascinating interactive displays and a live CCTV feed to watch the guillemots on the cliff below the South Fort.
There are often guided walks and other events like natural history workshops. As well as children’s activities that are held throughout the year. In particular, the bat walks are especially popular. It’s the rare and unique opportunity to see the bats emerge from their roost within the caves and circle about as they prepare to go hunting.
This is also the location of the first ‘Bat Beacon’. It houses fascinating displays and information on this incredible creature and is a and are a great way to let people know about this critically endangered and rare nocturnal wonder.
The Guardhouse Café Brixham
A day out to Berry Head is not complete without a visit to the multiple award-winning Guardhouse Café.
Built 1802 and used by the troops defending the fortress, the guardhouse has hosted a tearoom for well over 100 years. And, inside the café you can still see part of the tunnel system which was built inside the fort all those years ago.
Now offering excellent locally sourced and freshly prepared food and drink in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. You’ll be hard pressed to find a more panoramic coastal vantage of this enchanting coastline.
Berry Head Brixham walks
With the South West Coast Path meandering along the rugged rocks where the sheer cliffs cut deep into the ocean, Berry Head Brixham provide a spectacular background for one of the world’s most unspoilt and peaceful walks in the UK.
Berry Head to Sharkham Point (1.6 miles)
Route map for Berry Head To Sharkham Point on plotaroute.com
This moderately easy section of the South West Coast Path takes in spectacular views. It has gentle ascents and descents which make for relatively easy walking. The route between Berry Head and Sharkham Point was originally the way along which the coastguards regularly patrolled. Thus earning the name the Coastguard Walk.
Starting at the car park with the fort to the left, follow the road which eventually branches off, leading out of the park. The route rises gradually around the back end of the bay and then leads to a short bridge which continues and will bring you to the entrance of Sharkham Point.
Once you have explored the area, you can either head back or continue the circular route, which takes you through Brixham and back up to the starting point.
Brixham Breakwater to Berry Head National Nature Reserve (3 miles)
Route map for Brixham To Berry Head Nature Reserve on plotaroute.com
This walk is relatively level with good footpaths along the way but does have a bit of an incline as you scale the headland.
It begins at the Brixham harbour and meanders along the picturesque marina. Once past Breakwater Beach and the Shoalstone outdoor lido the route leads uphill to the spectacular Berry Head Nature Reserve. Here you’ll witness some of the most dramatic panoramic views across the English Riviera and beyond.
The wildlife and forts of Berry Head
This route explores the vast array of wildlife, scenery and historical monuments found on the flat plateau of Berry Head.
With routes that are relatively level and many on surfaced paths, it’s ideal for pushchairs, wheelchairs, mobility scooters. From the visitors’ centre, navigating along the paths means a leisurely 1.5 mile walk, taking in the lighthouse, through the fort and around the nature reserve.
How do I get to Berry Head?
Berry Head lies within an hour’s drive of the South Hams and is either a pleasant walk or short drive from Brixham.
By car: Gillard Rd, Brixham TQ5 9AP
By foot: Park in Brixham or closer at the Shoalstone Car Park and follow the route up to where it meets the South West Coast Path.
Berry Head car park
The Berry Head car park operates on a pay when you leave basis and uses a camera to record your vehicle registration when you arrive. You can either enter your registration into the machine when you arrive or visit the Park with Ease website and pay within 48 hours of your visit.
Parking charges
£1.50 per hour up to 3 hours, then £6.00 for 4 hours and over.
Where to stay near Berry Head Brixham?
Brixham is a picture postcard holiday destination found along the magnificent coastline of the English Riviera. Conveniently located a short walk or 10-minute drive from Berry Head. This fantastic fishing town is alive with character, steeped in historic charm and offers a wealth of things to do.
A visit to this scenic waterside town is sure to entail exploring the Golden Hind, a full-sized replica of Sir Francis Drakes’ iconic ship, a wander through the narrow streets dotted with independent stores, followed by a bite to eat in one of the amazing restaurants serving fresh, local produce. Within easy striking distance of Brixham, spend the day out exploring some of South Devon’s other most popular spots.
Pop across the River Dart on the famous lower ferry and spend the day taking in the sights and sounds of Dartmouth. Or why not travel in style and climb aboard a steam train on the South Devon Railway from Kingswear to Totnes for a memorable and exciting family day out.
For more detailed information read our comprehensive guide to Brixham.
Brixham holiday cottages
Blue Buoy Cottage, Brixham
Perched above the town, in an enviable location within Brixham. Blue Buoy Cottage’s spectacular setting is a perfect base for exploring the enchanting beauty of Berry Head and surrounding English Riviera.
Enjoying sea views from each of its four floors. This period property boats French doors to a terrace overlooking Brixham’s fish market, marina and breakwater.
The large, decked terrace is an ideal spot to sit and relax with a glass of wine while taking in the exceptional views over this fishing port.
Pilchard Cottage, Brixham
Nestled in the heart of the historic fishing port of Brixham, along one of the many characterful winding streets, Pilchard Cottage is a perfect bolt hole for the ultimate romantic retreat. This charming, centrally located traditionally styled fisherman’s cottage is the quintessential Devon harbourside holiday cottage.
The cottage provides excellent one-bedroom accommodation within easy walking distance of the many restaurants, shops, cafes and bars nestled around Brixham’s picturesque inner harbour.
Collapse in a satisfied heap after a long day at the beach, or exploring the South West Coast Path. In the open-plan living space, you can unwind on the sofa and watch your favourite film. Plan the next day’s activities in front of the electric fire, or celebrate your getaway with a local tipple in the sociable kitchen.
Book your South Devon holiday
Whether your passion is history, wildlife, walking or just relaxing with loved ones, South Devon has something for you.
Our collection of over 450 holiday cottages range from luxury accommodation in the heart of Dartmouth and rustic country escapes to traditional fisherman’s cottages in Brixham and large homes for family and friends in the bustling town of Salcombe. You are sure to find the perfect cottage for your next South Devon holiday.
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