Your guide to New Year's Eve fireworks in Devon
New Year's Eve fireworks are a cornerstone of British culture. Like popping corks and 'Auld Lang Syne', they're woven into the fabric of our festivities.
It just wouldn't feel like New Year's Eve without them. So, if you're in Devon when the clock strikes 12, we'd heartily recommend raising a glass at one of our much-loved New Year fireworks displays.
This guide tells you everything you need to know. We'll recommend a few of Devon's finest displays (as recommended by locals), plus some insider tips to help you avoid the crowds.
But first, let's cover the basics. What essential gear do you need to make your New Year's Eve celebration go off with a bang?
New Year's Eve fireworks: the essentials
We don't need to tell you to wrap up warm. This is England, after all.
But let's put it this way: you might need to wrap up warmer than you think.
Devon enjoys milder weather than most of the UK. However, the average temperature for a January night is still a chilly four degrees Celsius. And most events will go ahead whether it's raining, snowing or a bit of both.
So, dress prepared. We're talking gloves, a scarf and a hooded waterproof jacket. You'll be standing in one place for a while, so you'll need all the insulation you can muster.
A steady supply of hot drinks would also be welcome. Most ticketed shows sell hot chocolate, mulled wine and other favourites. If you're watching from afar, bring a flask.
Finally, if you're coming with very young children, be sure to bring ear protection. Babies and toddlers have delicate ears and don't appreciate loud bangs like we do.
Dos and don'ts
· We'll say it again: DO wrap up warm.
· DO book ahead if it's a ticketed event. Some must be pre-booked to guarantee entry.
· DO check parking arrangements before you travel. A dedicated car park isn't always a given.
· DO arrive early. For safety, many events close their gates before the display starts.
· DON'T bring sparklers. They may be banned – again, for safety. If they're allowed, you may be able to buy them on site.
· DON'T bring Fido. Not only are dogs banned from ticketed events, but they'd also have a very bad time if they weren't. Leave your pup at home for their own safety and comfort.
Where are the most popular New Year's Eve fireworks in Devon?
You can expect most large towns and cities to host some sort of New Year party. And, more often than not, they'll put on a whizz-banging display at midnight.
But where's best to watch New Year's Eve fireworks in Devon? That depends on what you're looking for.
Dartmouth's New Year party, for instance, is famously raucous. On December 31 each year, this scenic harbour town puts its knees up and its hair down. Say goodbye to the polite Dartmouth – now it's all songs, toasts and feather boas. Seriously. Fancy dress isn't just welcome. It's expected.
And, naturally, there are fireworks. The whole shebang culminates with a rip-roaring display over the River Dart. Beautiful.
If you're searching for something a little more family-oriented, you can't go wrong with Plymouth. The yearly event sees the city's waterfront light up with fairground rides, snack stalls and live music – and fireworks, of course.
Plus, it's free. While this is good news for our stretched post-Christmas budgets, it does mean that the event attracts visitors from far and wide. Make sure to get there early to secure a good spot.
Tips for avoiding the crowds
Dartmouth and Plymouth are popular for a reason – their fireworks displays are the stuff of legend.
This is great if you don't mind rubbing shoulders with strangers (and, most likely, giving them a New Year hug). But what if you'd rather keep things low-key? Can you enjoy the New Year’s Eve fireworks in Devon without fighting your way through a loved-up throng?
Yes, you can. In fact, you've got several options.
The first is to take the DIY approach. Simply gather your nearest and dearest and find a good vantage point nearby.
Plymouth locals recommend Devil's Point or Jennycliff Bay. If you're hoping to catch fireworks in Exeter, meanwhile, you could do worse than the Barley Valley Nature Reserve. Be warned, though: these viewpoints might be semi-hidden, but they still attract a fair few like-minded fireworks fans. Parking may be a problem if you arrive late.
Take steps to stay safe, too. A torch is essential – especially at spots like Devil's Point, where steep cliffs and water are involved. It's worth taking folding chairs, too, for the sake of comfort.
The second option is to find a small private event – like ours! We're dishing up a luxurious three-day celebration at Gidleigh Park this New Year. Join us and you'll enjoy a Buck's Fizz brunch, a seven-course Michelin-star tasting menu and a fireworks display over the estate. Plus, there'll be storytelling, bagpiping and, on New Year's Day, a bracing guided walk across Dartmoor.
Now for the wildcard option: how about watching fireworks by boat? At least one cruise company in Plymouth offers New Year tours, where you can enjoy the flashes and bangs while bobbing gently on The Sound. Let's hope for gentle weather…
Need somewhere cosy to stay?
You can always trust New Year's Eve fireworks to warm the heart. But they don't half chill the bones, too.
No doubt you'll be longing for a warm bed and a warm welcome. That's why we'd like to invite you to stay here at Gidleigh Park.
Our five-star hotel has everything you need to bask your way into the New Year. Sumptuous rooms. Michelin-star dining. The wild, untamed beauty of Dartmoor on your doorstep. It's all here – and it's all waiting for you.
You could even join us for our luxurious New Year's dinner and fireworks display. Either way, we can't wait to show you what true Dartmoor hospitality feels like.