Things to do in Devon at Christmas
With its miles of sandy beaches, it is easy to think of Devon as a summer holiday destination. However, the county has lots to offer over the festive period too.
To help you to get into the spirit, here are our favourite things to do in Devon at Christmas.
Sail with Santa and Stuart Line Cruises
Meet Santa on the River Exe this Christmas by hopping onboard a Stuart Line Cruises.
Enjoy a relaxing cruise down the river, there is magic and balloon modelling at guests’ tables as well as all the usual festive fun on this very special grotto ride. For adults, there will be commentary about the river, mulled wine and mince pies.
The kids can meet Santa in his grotto and will all receive a special gift.
Sail with Santa, Exmouth, selected dates between 4 December and 23 December 2021. Book online.
Exeter Winter Wonderland
Set in the heart of the city centre, the new for 2021 Exeter Winter Wonderland is billed as a magical day out for the whole family to enjoy.
There will be an ice rink and Santa’s grotto as well as rides and locally sourced festive refreshments.
The Winter Wonderland is free entry, with tickets available to purchase for the ice rink and Santa’s Grotto.
Christmas Wonderland Illuminations at Babbacombe Model Village
Enter a magical miniature wonderland of festive lights at Babbacombe Model Village. FOR 2021 new lighting, along with special fire and lighting effects help create an enchanting atmosphere.
The lights on from 4.00pm to 6.00pm (the village opens 11.00am to last entry at 4.30pm, close by 6.00pm).
Kingsbridge Celebrates Christmas 2021
2021’s event will be bigger and better than before. Once again there will be a farmers market set-up on the Town Square, stalls lining Fore Street, Father Christmas, and live entertainment. There really is no better place to kick start your Christmas shopping.
Stallholders came from across Devon to sell hot food and gifts ranging from metal garden ornaments to Salcombe Gin, soaps to crepes, and hog roasts to Christmas puddings.
Winter at Kents Cavern
Winter Underground at Kents Cavern is fun for all the family. Enjoy the festive magic of Winter with us. The cave tour is suitable for all, adults and children. Your day out includes underground lights, winter warmers in the café, and the Winter Warrior Trail.
Tickets include a light-up flashing wand for every child, a festive drink & mince pie for adults and an activity booklet for the Winter Warrior Trail in the Woodlands.
Why not make a day of it and leave your car there and do a Winter Walk. The beach at Anstey’s Cove is only 10 minutes’ walk from the cave.
Christmas lights at Killerton
There is festive fun for everyone at Killerton this Christmas. Visit during the day to see the ground floor of the house traditionally decorated, reminiscent of years gone by. Little ones can help Percy The Park Keeper on a garden trail to see what winter nature they can spot along the way.
Be sure to stay for the after-dark illuminated trail through festive gardens at Killerton. With over a million lights, this is a spectacle to see. Spend time together and create everlasting memories as you make your way through the sparkling trail.
Christmas market at Newton Abbott
Expect all thing things Christmassy from good seasonal food and mulled wine to designer chintz.
With a mix of stalls and shops open late, this event (taking place just for two nights!) is a magical Christmas market where you can pick up gifts for your loved ones. The best bit has to be the Lantern Parade that sees huge paper lanterns, beautifully lit up from inside, carried through the streets. Listen to the carollers while you enjoy some of the street food on offer, and if you have youngsters, they can meet Santa in his Clock Tower grotto.
To help keep you in the Christmas spirit, there is nothing like getting cosy in a traditional lodge with loved ones.
Nestled within South Devon is Landal Barton Pines, a collection of traditional lodges ideally located to explore everything Devon has to offer at Christmas.
