Battery Gardens is one of Brixham’s environmental and historic assets. The site is rich in panoramic views and scenic beauty. It has long been a traditional observation point for Brixham trawler races, both past and present.

 

The Spanish Armada to William of Orange

 

It is known that as far back as 1586 a gun platform was established in the grounds in response to the threat of attack from Spain (which came with the Armada two years later). This was maintained until 1664.

 

The battery was next activated on November 5th 1688 when William III and his army landed and camped on Furzeham Common. Guns were positioned to protect the fleet, the town, and to cover the road from Paignton.

The American War of Independence

 

During the period from 1776 – 1890, the battery was known variously as Furzdon, Furzeham, Furzham, Furzedown and Fishcombe Point.

 

During the end of the eighteenth century, Brixham was the resupply station for the western approach of the Royal Navy. As such it was a very necessary port for the Navy, especially during the American War of Independence.

 

When France joined America in 1778 and Spain in 1779, the Board of Ordnance decided that, along with other naval stations along the south coast of England, Brixham was to be protected by gun emplacements.

 

Battery Gardens was to be the most westerly battery covering the harbour. The militia were to prepare the positions and the guns, 24-pounders, arrived in May 1780 at the same time as the Berry Head guns (the site of a Napoleonic fort a little along from Battery Gardens). The land having been commandeered, compensation was paid in 1783 at the end of hostilities.