A child in warm winter clothing admires string lights in a snowy scene, surrounded by a golden bokeh background, encapsulating the festive spirit of Christmas in Devon.

Our Guide to Spending Christmas in Devon

Devon comes to life over the festive season with twinkling lights glowing among the trees, carolers filling the streets with song and artisan crafts getting their moment to shine. Experience the best of the holiday cheer and heart-warming atmosphere of a Christmas in Devon with our insider’s guide.

 

The best ways to spend Christmas in Devon

A child sits on Santa’s lap, smiling as they open a red gift box, surrounded by festive decorations, garlands, and warm lighting, capturing Christmas in Devon magic.

Where to find Father Christmas

It’s a busy time for Santa Claus! He’ll be out and about at some of the country’s biggest events from Winter Wonderland in Torquay to Brixham’s Lanterns, Lights and Luminations and more besides. However, we’ve picked out a few choice places to catch him this festive season:

Father Christmas Experience at Torre Abbey - both Father and Mother Christmas will be popping by Torre Abbey in Torbay to meet families and share some special Christmas gifts. And while you’re there, stop by the ‘800 years of Christmas’ exhibition, craft fair and free kids crafts sessions.

Sail with Santa - one of the more unusual venues to meet Father Christmas. A special ride with Stuart Line Cruises will have plenty of festive fun with magic, balloon modelling and a visit to Santa’s grotto. Adults can enjoy mulled wine and mince pies while cruising down the scenic River Exe.

Kingsbridge Celebrates Christmas - if you love a classic high street Christmas celebration, Kingsbridge is a great choice. Browse the delightful Farmer’s Market with live caroling throughout the day. Watch out for Father Christmas's grand arrival and visit him (for free) inside his grotto. There’s an ice rink on hand too!

A child in a knit hat gazes upward in awe beneath a canopy of vibrant blue and purple lights, capturing the festive magic of Christmas in Devon.

The bright lights of the Christmas market

Christmas in Devon wouldn’t be complete without browsing artisan crafts at a Christmas market, hot chocolate or mulled wine in hand. Whether you want a city centre extravaganza or a quiet country village affair, there are plenty to choose from. Here’s our pick of the bunch:

Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market - if you want the biggest Christmas market in Devon, you’ll need to head to Exeter Cathedral. With over 100 traders filling Cathedral Green with festive cheer, you’ll have a day out to remember. This year, the historic Cloister Garden will also be featuring a range of independent businesses.

Dartington Trust Christmas Fair - set within Dartington’s historic Grade 1 Listed buildings, you’ll find high-quality contemporary crafts from over 50 local makers. Everything from ceramics, jewellery, textiles and more. The White Hart pub is also right on site to serve up seasonal refreshments.

The Big Sheep’s Christmas Market - North Devon’s largest indoor market will be bringing some festive fun. Delicious local food, seasonal crafts and handmade treasures will fuel the Christmas celebrations. And for any sugar-fuelled kids, the EWEtopia Indoor Play Zone will help burn off some of that energy!

A close-up of evergreen branches adorned with glowing star-shaped lights, set against a background of warm, golden bokeh, evoking the charm of Christmas in Devon.

A taste of Christmas’s gone by

Remember the magic and enchantment of Christmases in eras past. Many historical venues across Devon will be revisiting the charm of traditional festivities. Here are some excellent options:

Saltram - overlooking the River Plym, Saltram’s 18th Century house and gardens are the perfect place to be enchanted by the magic of the season. This Christmas, wander festive trails around the impressive estate grounds, discover grand interiors dressed to impress and enjoy a enchanting portrayal of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.

Dickensian Evening - ready to mix Dickensian charm with Christmas shopping? For one night only, the shopkeepers and entertainers of Tavistock dress in their finest traditional garb for a festive high street like no other. Browse intriguing gift stalls while jugglers, stilt walkers and bedecked streets light up the faces of passers-by.

Killerton - enjoy a once bustling family home looking as it did in the 1920s - all set up for Christmas with lush green garlands, sparkling trees and decorative fireplaces. Discover cosy scenes from years gone by in each room from festive games around the fire to afternoon tea and carol singing.

Twinkling string lights and glowing snowflake decorations illuminate a festive street scene at night, with blurred figures in the background, celebrating Christmas in Devon.

Fun and festive Christmas events

Christmas in Devon is all about bringing people together to embrace the holiday spirit. Whatever festive entertainment you love, there’s an exciting event or performance for all that will warm hearts and minds. Here’s a few Christmas events we love:

Pantos and shows - is it really Christmas without some theatrical magic? Whichever genre you prefer, there’s a show for you. In 2024, there’s the modern Christmas movie classic remade for the stage in Elf! The Musical, Cinderella’s traditional rags-to-riches tale or the classic story of The Elves and the Shoemaker.

Christmas light trails - twinkly lights and mesmerising sights can be found across the county. Powderham Castle and grounds are lit up for a special Illuminated Light Walk, RHS Garden Rosemoor offers a magical trail of light and colour with accompanying soundscapes. And for all the magic in miniature, Babbacombe Model Village has it’s own trail of festive lights and scenes.

Festive railways - Britain and steam railways go hand in hand - Santa Specials and Christmas rides have long been part of the festive season. These days, the question is: do you choose the Polar Express or the Train of Lights? For the Polar Express, head for the South Devon Railway and for the Train of Light, steam on over to Dartmouth Steam Railway.

Enjoy all the festive fun from our heaven in Devon

Step into Christmas at our luxurious, award-winning hotel on the edge of Dartmoor, where festive planning is all taken care of. Gidleigh Park offers a leisurely holiday season at our magnificent country house, set in over 100 acres of dramatic landscape. Famous for outstanding hospitality and culinary excellence, savour festive charm from our countryside getaway.

After a day enjoying Christmas in Devon’s fun and festive atmosphere, meander up our winding driveway and relax in ultimate comfort at Gidleigh Park.