Fishhouses

Fishhouses are traditional coastal buildings in the United Kingdom, particularly in the south-west of England, that were originally used for the storage and processing of fish. They are typically located near harbors or fishing villages and have a distinctive architectural style that reflects their maritime history.

The term "fishhouse" can refer to both the building itself and the activity of fishing. The buildings are often made of local materials such as stone or wood and have a simple, functional design. They usually have a large central chamber for storing fish, with smaller rooms or compartments for processing and preparing the catch.

Fishhouses played a crucial role in the development of coastal communities, providing a place for fishers to store and sell their catch. They also served as a hub for social activity, with fishers often gathering to share news and stories. Today, many fishhouses have been converted into residential or commercial properties, but some have been preserved as historic buildings and museums.

The architectural style of fishhouses varies depending on the region and the specific use of the building. In some cases, they may have been adapted to serve other purposes, such as a school or a community center. Despite these changes, the original fishhouses remain an important part of the cultural heritage of the UK's coastal communities.