Fish Quay in Teignmouth, South Devon, is a vibrant and historically significant part of the town, playing a key role in both its fishing heritage and its modern-day appeal. The quay has recently undergone a major redevelopment, with a £1.1 million investment aimed at boosting the local fishing, leisure, and tourism industries. This regeneration has provided new facilities for fishermen, including a modern pontoon, improved landing and processing areas, and better access for vehicles transporting catches to market. The upgrades also make it easier for charter vessels to bring visitors into town, enhancing Teignmouth’s appeal as a destination for both locals and tourists.

The project was funded by Devon District Council, the European Fisheries Fund, and Teignbridge Council. Local fishermen have welcomed the improvements, seeing them as a way to secure the future of their industry and encourage the next generation to fish from Teignmouth. The new quay is not just about commercial fishing; it also supports recreational fishing and provides better access for leisure boating, making it a focal point for a wide range of maritime activities.

Fish Quay sits alongside the New Quay Inn and near the lifeboat station, with public landing steps and a pontoon for easy access. The area has seen several phases of development over the years, with the most recent overhaul designed to widen the quay and provide improved facilities for landing, sorting, and storing catches. This has brought significant commercial and community benefits, revitalising what was once a rather scruffy part of the harbour.

Teignmouth itself has a long history as a fishing port, dating back to at least the 13th century. The town’s fishing industry was once focused on herring, mackerel, and sprats, with local fishermen supplying both the local market and, historically, even the Newfoundland fisheries. Over time, as fishing declined, tourism became increasingly important, but the fishing heritage remains a vital part of the town’s identity.

Today, Fish Quay is a great spot not only for those interested in fishing but also for anyone wanting to enjoy the lively atmosphere of Teignmouth’s working harbour. It’s a wonderful place to observe the comings and goings of fishing boats, enjoy the views across the estuary, or simply soak up the maritime character that defines this charming Devon town.

If you’d like to see how I interpret the unique atmosphere of Fish Quay and Teignmouth in watercolour, please visit my website: www.timwilmotartist.com

Polperro Harbour from Quay Road, watercolour 15" x 11"

Polperro, Cornwall, Watercolour 15" x 11"

Teignmouth, Devon, UK, watercolour, 15" x 11"

Rockport Harbour, Maine, watercolour 15" x 11"

West Looe Roof Tops, watercolour 15" x 11"

Porlock, Devon, Watercolour 15" x 11"

I was inspired to paint Porlock Weir by its unique charm as a small fishing village nestled on the North Coast of Exmoor National Park. The interplay of ancient cottages, rugged shoreline, and dramatic surroundings captivated me. Its timeless atmosphere and connection to nature made it an irresistible subject for watercolour exploration.

Spithead, Datrmouth Harbour at Night

When I painted this scene of Dartmouth at night, I wanted to capture the quiet beauty and atmosphere of the harbour under the glow of streetlights. The reflections on the wet pavement and the gentle shimmer of light on the water create a sense of calm and solitude. I was drawn to the interplay between the deep blues of the night sky and the warm yellows from the streetlamps, which contrast beautifully against each other.

Canal, Scali delle Pietre, Livorno, Italy. watercolour 15" x 11"

This watercolor painting captures a picturesque scene of the Canal at Scali delle Pietre in Livorno, Italy. The composition is dynamic, with a strong diagonal perspective leading the viewer's eye from the foreground to the distant bridge. The artist uses vibrant and warm tones, particularly earthy oranges and yellows, to depict the sunlit buildings and canal walls, contrasted with cool blues and greens in the water and shadows.

In the foreground, two silhouetted figures stand near the canal's edge, adding a sense of life and scale to the scene. A "no entry" road sign on the left provides a modern touch amidst the timeless architecture. The canal is lined with small boats, their forms loosely sketched but recognizable, with reflections shimmering in the water below. The bridge in the background arches gracefully over the canal, framed by soft greenery and distant structures.

The painting's loose brushwork and use of light create an impressionistic feel, emphasizing atmosphere over detail. The interplay of warm sunlight and cool shadows evokes a tranquil yet lively ambiance typical of Livorno's historic canals.

Newport, Oregon, Watercolour, 15" x 11"

The 'Princess' Fishing Boat.