Does Brixham evoke images of summer days on the Torquay Riviera, fishing boats, ‘pirate Thursdays’ and long summer evenings enjoying harbourside drinks? Of course it does, but please think again. As we discovered, this South Devon town makes an enjoyable, romantic weekend getaway before Christmas…

Jump in the car and head down the M5 (no Friday afternoon delays at Bristol). Past Exeter, road improvements at Kingsteignton make getting to south Devon even easier. Leave at lunchtime and you’ll be sniffing the sea breeze in time for afternoon tea, settling into your cosy B&B and planning a romantic supper.

Beacon House B&B is commandingly located
There’s lots of good accommodation in Brixham, but Nigel and Amanda’s Beacon House (236 ‘Excellent’ and a ‘Very Good’ on TripAdvisor says everything) is one of the best. It’s located commandingly on the north-west side of town overlooking the harbour, marina and beyond. They’ve got off-street parking too – a rarity in Brixham’s centuries-old heart – and are just a few minutes’ (steep!) walk from well-reviewed harbourside restaurants such as The Lusty Wench, Beamers and Simply Fish.

Romantic walks by the sea
In between eating and drinking, Brixham offers plenty to fill an early winter weekend. Take romantic, bracing walks around Berry Head, visit the acclaimed Brixham Heritage Museum or stroll hand-in-hand along Breakwater Beach – or onto the breakwater itself. There’s interesting shopping too and a plethora of well-stocked charity shops. We love the Rowcroft Hospice Shop, which supports a great local charity. And when you are tired, what better than a hot chocolate, glass of wine or more delicious seafood and views over Tor Bay as you relax at family-run Breakwater Coffee Shop & Bistro.

Even out of season, Brixham has enough to fill a weekend. But if you fancy exploring further afield, Dartmoor and Torquay are close. Then there’s the happy bohemian gentility of nearby Totnes – imagine Stroud with Devonian dialects. And of course, Kingswear and Dartmouth are only a short drive away over the interestingly named ‘Slappers Hill’.

Long weekend UK breaks often impress
Repeatedly, despite regularly venturing around the world, we’re reminded how enjoyable UK weekend breaks can be. Down in Brixham, just hours from Gloucestershire, it’s easy to lose yourself in the romantic pre-Christmas atmosphere. Brixham isn’t just for high summer – try it soon and see what we mean!