Paibri one

Verified Slow Way

Verified by 100.00% of reviewers

A very pleasant walk which certainly qualifies for inclusion as a Slow Way. Apart from two very minor diversions (one being Carl Ape’s Roundham Head diversion – well worth the extra 200 meters) it follows the South West Coast Path and accordingly is well signposted, well-trammelled and easy to follow, mostly along well-drained and maintained paths. However, Devon coastal cliffs mean plenty of demanding inclines, often stepped, so less appropriate for wheels or those of unsure footing. The reward is stunning views, frequent benches, comfort stops and refreshments (seasonal) on the main beaches and Fishcombe Cove, and bracing sea air. The wooded stretch from Elberry Cove to Brixham can have muddy stretches following heavy rain in late Autumn, Winter and Spring and is more comfortably walked in boots or stout shoes than light weight sandals. I respect JonBonJimBob’s reservation about mud especially passing Waterside Holiday Park but shudder at the main road as alternative – better to wear boots or even wellies.
It divides into two parts.
Paignton bus and train station to Broadsands
The hectic, bustling transport hub and commercial town centre is quickly left behind for the quieter harbour and, after Roundham Head, the bathing-hut-fringed Goodrington Sands. It then ducks under the Paignton to Kingsweir steam railway which it follows (but climbs above!) to Broadsands. This stretch is well provided with benches, offering rest and stunning views across Torbay. It includes 3 longer sets of steps, 79 , 59 and the grand finale before passing under the railway viaduct of 119 and arriving at Broadsands.

Elberry Cove to Brixham
From Broadsands follow the “sun-baked”, well-trodden mud track towards Elberry Cove. From here the way climbs and meanders largely through lush, deciduous woodland as it follows the cliff contours round Churston and Fishcombe Coves and enters Brixham via Battery Gardens. The final stretch uses the harbour-side path adjacent to the long stay carpark and which continues past the Yacht Club and Fish Market to the termination point at the town centre bus stop.

Great route along the SW Coast Path (mainly). Combines woods (between Churston and Elberry) with sea glimpses; and for the rest of the route the sea is ever present by your side. Can swim at Churston beach (just out of Brixham), Elberry, Broadsands (loos and cafes too), Goodrington (stop at the lovely Cantina for a bite to eat) and, as a slight diversion, go round the outside of Roundham Head. Fair amount of ups and downs, so you'll need to be a reasonably fit walker.

This is a beautiful route that largely follows the South Devon Coast path but it's let down by difficult mud in places. It can become unpassible in the autumn and winter months unless you don't mind deep, thick sludgy mud.

Expect some sections of steep steps and exposed hillside but also beautiful views over the entire bay. Occasional glimpses of passing steam trains in the right season add to the beauty of this walk.

Share your views about this route, give it a star rating, indicate whether it should be verified or not.

Include information that will be useful to others considering to walk or wheel it.

You can add up to 15 photos.