The Rich Rum History of the Devon Coast

 

Devon’s long and fascinating connection with rum stretches from its maritime trading days to its present resurgence in craft distilling. Once associated with smugglers and sailors, rum is now an integral part of the county’s artisanal drinks scene. Here’s how Devon rum evolved - and how Torbay Rum is keeping the tradition alive.

Devon’s Maritime Legacy: The Birth of the Rum Trade

Centuries ago, Devon’s bustling ports played a key role in the trade routes between the Caribbean and England. Ships would arrive loaded with sugar, spices, and rum, bringing exotic new flavors to the South West. With its sheltered bays and strong naval presence, Devon became a natural hub for the spirit.

Rum was particularly popular among sailors, with the Royal Navy famously issuing daily rations to its crews. It wasn’t long before the locals developed a taste for it too—both through legal trade and more illicit means.

Smugglers, Shipwrecks, and Rum-Running on the Devon Coast

Devon’s rugged coastline, dotted with hidden coves and secret tunnels, made it a hotspot for smuggling. During the 18th and 19th centuries, rum was one of the most sought-after contraband items, with smugglers dodging customs officers to bring barrels ashore under the cover of darkness.

Legends of shipwrecks carrying casks of rum washing up on Devon’s shores only added to the drink’s mystique. While its origins lie in the sugarcane plantations of the Caribbean, rum quickly became a fixture along the Devon coastline. Smugglers took advantage of the region's rugged coves and secluded beaches, such as those near Brixham and Salcombe, to bring illicit shipments of rum ashore - until stricter enforcement finally put an end to the smuggling era.

These hidden operations made the rum history of Devon both thrilling and notorious. The South Devon coast’s natural geography provided perfect hiding spots for contraband, creating legends of secret caves and daring nighttime escapades.

Read more about the smuggling history of Torbay.

Devon Rum and Maritime Heritage

Rum wasn’t just contraband; it was also central to the lives of sailors. Known as "grog" when mixed with water and lime, it became part of daily naval rations, symbolizing the camaraderie and resilience of seafaring life. The rum history of Devon is deeply intertwined with its maritime heritage, as the region's ports played a key role in the trading routes of the time.

A New Chapter: The Rise of Craft Devon Rum

Fast forward to today, and Devon’s relationship with rum is stronger than ever. No longer just a historical curiosity, rum in Devon is experiencing a resurgence, with premium, locally crafted options available for those who appreciate quality and character.

Torbay Rum is proud to be part of this movement. Inspired by the county’s rich maritime history, our Golden Spiced Rum is crafted using Caribbean oak-aged rum, blended with soft Devon water and infused with whole spices, caramel, and pineapple. The result? A smooth, complex, and beautifully balanced rum that reflects the essence of the English Riviera.

Torbay Rum continues the story of Devon rum, inspired by the smuggling routes, maritime culture, and natural beauty of the South Devon coast. Our spiced rum is crafted to capture the warmth and richness of the region, making it perfect for enjoying by the sea or at home.

By bringing the past into the present, Torbay Rum connects drinkers to the rich rum history of Devon. Every bottle is a nod to the smugglers, sailors, and coastal landscapes that have shaped this iconic spirit.

Not only that, we do our bit to celebrate the modern coastal culture of Torbay. Our label is made of a fully biodegradable material in cane fibre, and we're partnered with local charity Above Water, who focus on educating young people on water safety.