Berry Head is a National Nature Reserve. This stunning headland, with its iconic lighthouse and Napoleonic Fort, is surrounded by water on three sides and offers exceptional views across Torbay and beyond. It is Torbay’s most designated heritage site being a Special Area of Conservation, National Nature Reserve, Site of Special Scientific Interest and Scheduled Ancient Monument to name only four! The guillemot colony is protected by the only Area of Special Protection in the UK, which prohibits boats from entering the cove during their breeding season.
You can enjoy superb coastal walks, spot a wide range of wildlife on land and at sea or simply relax in the award-winning Guardhouse Café. Our visitor centre has lots of stories about the reserve, its history, wildlife and the work of Torbay Coast & Countryside Trust.
Stroll, hike, run or simply sit and enjoy the panoramic view from one of the most beautiful and peaceful places in the world. Over 170 acres of diverse habitat and wildlife, fascinating history and stunning scenery. This is a must-visit day out and is either a pleasant walk or short drive from Brixham. Dogs are welcome but may need to be kept on leads in certain areas when livestock are present (see signs on site). Disability access is good with tarmac or laid paths into both the North and South Forts.
Berry Head is home to a colourful and rare assortment of plants, animal species and grasslands – the site has recorded 200 varieties of bird, fifty of which breed within or close to the reserve. Hidden in the quarry caves are a small colony of greater horseshoe bats, one of Britain’s most endangered species. The high cliffs are host to the largest breeding colonies of guillemots on the south coast of England and these are Berry Head’s most famous residents, peaking at 1,400 birds during the breeding season. These cliffs are subject to an Area of Special Protection order between March and July, for breeding season, to safeguard the colony from disturbances by marine vessels and climbers. Follow the link for more detailed information.
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Located in the Napoleonic Guardhouse this cafe boasts spectacular views across the headland and out to sea. Thier menu is a freshly-prepared selection of hot and cold food, drinks, snacks and treats throughout the day, from 9am – 5pm, with last orders at 4pm.
We are proud to work with the Guardhouse and their team and are sure you will enjoy your visit. Do check out their website for opening times, their menu and more.
The headland towers 200 feet above the English Channel protecting what was an important naval anchorage during the Napoleonic War. There are two garrisoned forts (dating back to 1795) that were built to protect Brixham Harbour from the perceived threat of French Invasion. Limestone was quarried here from 1780 until the 1970s. In the latter years, limestone from Berry Head was used to produce steel for the manufacture of Ford cars at Dagenham.
Gillard Rd, Brixham TQ5 9AP or use this link to find our car park: https://what3words.com/radiating.slack.moment
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