A HUMPBACK whale was spotted off the coast of a pretty destination in Devon this week.
Brixham is on the southern edge of Tor Bay and can’t be missed when it comes to Devon‘s coast – from its pretty multicoloured cottages to seawater lido and apparently, whales too.
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Local skipper, Tristan who also goes by Mr Fish, revealed that he saw what he believes to be a Humpback whale off the coast of Brixham earlier this week.
He told local press: “It was amazing to see. As far as I know there has never been a humpback seen off Brixham before. What a thrill.
“I’ve seen some unbelievable things at sea over the years, huge dolphin pods, feeding frenzies, rare wildlife, but this honestly tops it all.”
The mammals are huge at around 15-metres long and weighing around 30-tonnes.
Usually they’re spotted along the west side of Britain when they travel from the chilly seas of Norway to the warmer Cape Verde to breed – but sightings across the UK are on the rise.
It might be a rare sighting of a humpback whale, but around the coast of Brixham, you’re likely to spot grey seals, bottlenose dolphins and porpoises.
If you’re keen to see some for yourself, there are dedicated boat tours to spot marine life from £20pp.
The town itself is very important for the fishing industry and in all the local restaurants, expect to find catch of the day.
You can find these at Rockfish, Beamers, Smugglers Restaurant and Bar, Breakwater Bistro and Crusoe’s Restaurant.
Further inland, Middle Street is known for having independent shops, boutiques and cafes.
Also in Brixham is Shoalstone Seawater Pool, one of the few saltwater tidal lidos – which has even been compared to Australia in the summertime.
The 53-metre pool is built into the rocks and has been used since the Victorian times – it dates back to 1896.
It’s completely free to swim at Shoalstone, but the lido does ask for donations in order to stay open.
About the pool, The Lido Guide said: “Any swimmer who has spent any time at all looking at swimming-related social media feeds will be familiar with the Bondi Icebergs sea pool, even if they have never set foot in Australia.”
Unfortunately, Shoalstone is currently closed to the public as it’s undergoing repairs, but it’s scheduled to reopen for swimming in June.
Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding, who hails from Devon, revealed the must-do things for those visiting Brixham.
She said: “One of three towns on the English Riviera, Brixham is usually quieter than its busier neighbours – Torquay and Paignton, but the town is a gem to visit.
“Come rain or shine, the harbour always makes a nice walk and if you head out to Brixham Breakwater – around half-mile long – you will almost certainly see some of the local seals twirling in the water and basking in the sunshine.
“The Breakwater Beach is a good spot for a dip as well. Back in the main town, make sure to spend some time around the harbour where you can spot a replica of the Golden Hinde.
“Adults – don’t miss Liberty… Their cocktails all feel like pieces of art and trust me you’ll want to try the entire menu. For food, Rockfish is a staple.
“It can be found in the main harbour building and is the perfect opportunity to try out freshly caught fish.”