For many years the harbour was thriving with fisherman and many of the old traditions of seamanship have been passed on through generations of Paigntonians. Today the harbour still remains a hive of activity, especially during the height of summer and the vast amount of tourist who enjoying it’s benefits.
I’ve used the ferry a number of times over the years to get to and from Brixham or Torquay and it’s a stunning way to travel especially on a sunny day. There are sometimes events going on and the biggest is Paignton festival usually an annual event that happens near the end of June, but unfortunately this year (2019) they’ve had to cancel the event due to a lack of funds.
The harbour is part of the South West Coastal Path and just to the side of the harbour you’ll find a hidden gem Fairy Cove which is great for sitting back enjoying a bbq and beer. Just take your rubbish to the bin on the harbour if you do.
St Austell Brewery was chosen as the new operator of the old Harbour Light restaurant. The Harbour Light restaurant has over 5,000ft² of space for development, which St Austell Brewery have invested £1 million to create a stunning new bar and dining venue with outside seating over overlooking the Harbour.
The harbour was established in the 18th Century and the local Council has managed the harbour since 1935. The Harbour dries out at low tide and is well known for having an unconventional fairway approach. Unlike the majority of harbours in the United Kingdom the approach to Paignton is made on the port side of the fairway and not the starboard side. This unusual and interesting feature is marked by a ‘N’ or negative seasonal buoy and provides for a much safer harbour approach.
- Contrary to some beliefs the concrete structure out toward fairy cove is actually a waste water pipe installed in the late 1950’s.
- Check out the Paignton Harbour webcam
- Anchors Rest
- Crab & Hammer
- Curious Crab
- Harbour Inn
- Harbour Light (St. Austell Brewery)
- Molly’s
- Pelican Café (Fish & Chips)
- Rickshaw Boy (Chinese)
- Rowing Club
- Still House
- TJ’s
Paignton, Devon, TQ4 6DT.
- Car, You can usually find free on street parking around Cliff Road, Roundham Ave, Alta Vista Road or failing that parking is available in the multi storey off Cliff Rd TQ4 6DH with 100 spaces (Height restrictions: 1.98m. There are no disabled spaces.)
- Ferry, PPC (Paignton Pleasure Cruises) ferry to/from Torquay or Brixham.
You can now catch a ferry to and from Goodrington Promenade for only £1.The Goodrington service no longer seems to be available.
- Check out the Paignton Harbour webcam
- The Dart Princess and other ferry leave from the end of the North pier, Harbour Light side.
- Easy walk and wheelchair friendly.
- The Harbour dries out at low tide
- Be aware of the seagulls if your outside with food.
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Originally posted on 4 Jul 2017 @ 13:27 by Ash