Brixham: Walking Through Time

Join South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and  well-known  local historian John Risdon,  for a circular 5 mile walk  from Brixham Library on Sunday 16th October 10am – 3pm.  It will be an opportunity to find out more about the history and heritage of the coastline from Brixham around to Churston cove and then returning inland via Churston village.  From the present right back to prehistory, discover stories hidden in the landscape the people  and buildings which give us hints to how the area has changed.

The walk will take in the fish port of Brixham, coast around to Churston cove and coast path along to Elberry which is very important for seagrass. The route follows part of bronze age routeways, arrowheads have been found in the area and there is a Neolithic burial just over the headland at Broadsands. The route also takes in Marridge Woods  and the Grove Woods,  running along the coast from Elberry Cove to Brixham, these woods are quite extensive and in need of a lot of care and attention. They include ruined limekilns, overgrown forestry tracks. The cove at Churston is  another delightful shingle cove  with good bathing; unfortunately the back of the beach fills up with sea-born rubbish and needs frequent cleaning.  Walk Leader John  Risdon will discuss Lord Churston of Lupton House and his long standing connections and influence on the village of Churston and surrounding area.

Historian John  Risdon commented “ This unspoiled southerly walk of Torbay never fails to please and inspire. The ever-changing beautiful scenery of sea and rural landscape abounds in tales of heritage from the distant past to the recent 20th century.  AONB Communities Officer Nicky Bailey said “We’d love to see lots of locals at this event to hear their own recollections of the area as well as those uncovered by John. We look forward to welcoming you.”

Meet at Brixham Library, Market Street, Brixham, TQ5 8EU. The route  is fairly easy but some steps on coast path. You will need to wear sturdy shoes or walking boots and bring waterproofs and a  packed lunch. There is no need to book, for more info  please email nicky.bailey@southdevonaonb.org.uk or call  Nicky on 07855 307683.
The walk is part of the Torbay libraries local history year (contact: Liz.Lent@torbay.gov.uk).