Christmas time in North Devon is truly enchanting. The rolling green hills, delicately coated with a soft glaze of frost, set the perfect scene. Nestled within each valley, you’ll find a charming, sleepy village adorned with a warm, inviting glow emanating from its fire-lit pubs and cafes. These places eagerly await your arrival, ready to provide a cosy haven for sipping a delightful cup of tea or indulging in the seasonal warmth of mulled wine.
Among the myriad festive activities, one of the highlights in Devon is strolling through the numerous traditional Christmas markets scattered across the county. Whether you’re on a quest for gifts to delight your loved ones or simply relishing the joy of exploring the diverse stalls, each market promises a delightful array of delectable treats. Engaging in this wholesome experience is undoubtedly the best way to kindle the spirit of Christmas in Devon.
In this blog, we will outline some of our favourite Devon Christmas markets taking place this year.
North Devon Christmas Market- Braunton
Where: Caen Street Car Park, Braunton
When: December 7th
Times: 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Discover a vibrant ambience with live music echoing through the air. Treat your taste buds to an array of culinary delights, including delectable mince pies that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. The event showcases some of North Devon’s finest crafty creators, adding an extra layer of uniqueness to your shopping experience.
With over 130 stalls to peruse, along with the local shops, pubs, and bars that stay open for the occasion, you’ll have ample opportunities to find the perfect holiday gifts. Take a leisurely sip of mulled wine or relish a frothy hot chocolate as you explore the diverse array of stalls. This event promises a wonderful atmosphere, making it a perfect opportunity to soak in the holiday cheer while supporting local artisans and businesses.
South Molton Festival of Food and Drink
Where: South Molton Pannier Market
When: Friday, November 29th
Times: 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Embrace the enchantment of the season at this special one-night event in the heart of South Molton.
Explore over 60 stalls in the pannier market, each offering a treasure trove of unexpected trinkets. Delight your taste buds with a variety of wonderful food and drink options while enjoying live entertainment that adds a festive flair to the atmosphere.
This family-friendly event goes beyond shopping, offering a multitude of activities for all ages such as fairground rides, a visit to Santa’s grotto, and a children’s lantern parade. There will also be the uplifting tunes of Bideford’s Pipes and Drums, a captivating Snow Globe, tempting food stalls, and a charming Christmas tree festival all coming together to create a joyous Yuletide atmosphere.
Combe Christmas Market- Ilfracombe
Where: Ilfracombe War Memorial and High Street
When: Friday, November 24th
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM, with the Christmas light switch on at approximately 6:45 PM at the War Memorial.
Nestled in the charming coastal town of Ilfracombe, framed by a picturesque harbour adorned with sailing boats and colourful houses, the allure of this North Devon gem extends throughout the year. However, during the festive season, the town transforms into a captivating winter wonderland. Picture Christmas lights casting a warm glow, lanterns illuminating windows, and festive wreaths adorning doorways.
Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit, meander through the stalls offering delectable treats, handcrafted treasures, and more. Make this Christmas in Devon truly special by embracing the festive cheer at Ilfracombe’s Food, Drink & Craft Stalls event – a perfect addition to your holiday celebration or getaway!
Exeter City Christmas Market
Where: Cathedral Green, Exeter
When: Saturday, November 16th to Thursday, December 19th
Times:
10 am to 7 pm (Monday to Wednesday)
10 am to 9 pm (Thursday to Saturday)
11 am to 5 pm (Sunday)
Experience the festive magic at one of Devon’s premier Christmas Markets, located on Cathedral Green in Exeter. Running from Saturday, November 16th to Thursday, December 19th, this award-winning market offers a splendid array of delights.
Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit as you look around the stalls of some of Devon’s best traders, showcasing everything from festive food and drink to crafts and unique gift ideas. The event boasts a charming backdrop, with Exeter Cathedral providing a stunning setting for your Yuletide adventures.
Traditional wooden chalets, reminiscent of German markets, create a cosy and festive atmosphere, enhanced by the sparkle of lights and carefully crafted arrangements on each stall. This picturesque scene is the perfect backdrop for your holiday shopping and exploration.
But it’s not just about shopping – the festivities extend to Exeter Cathedral itself. Enjoy carol services, concerts, and educational activities, adding an extra layer of joy and community spirit to this magical event.
Dingles Vintage fairground and Christmas market
When: 3rd of December
Where: Dingles Fairground Heritage Centre, Milford, Lifton, PL16 0AT
Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
This unique venue houses the National Fairground Collection, offering a captivating journey into the enchanting world of a bygone era.
Spanning 50,000 square feet, the Dingles Fairground Heritage Centre is an indoor attraction that showcases vintage engineering, stunning artwork displays and a love for our history.
Here, you can experience the magic of a bygone age by riding or admiring a diverse selection of vintage fairground rides, making it the perfect destination for a family day out.
For one special day each year, the centre transforms into perhaps the most family-friendly Christmas market in Devon. Explore a wide range of local food and craft stalls, perfect for finding unique gifts and indulging in seasonal treats. Don’t miss the chance to visit Santa in his Grotto, where the magic of Christmas comes to life. Enjoy the heartwarming melodies of a children’s Christmas choir, and participate in a charity raffle for a chance to win wonderful prizes.
Devon Hotel and Spa For Christmas
If you are planning a December getaway to celebrate the Christmas season, there is no better place to stay than Northcote Manor Hotel and Spa in Devon.
Discover the allure of our enchanting 18th-century manor, an idyllic country hotel near Exeter, perfect for your getaway needs. Whether you’re seeking a pampering session or a romantic break, Northcote Manor offers something for everyone.
During your stay, indulge in the beauty of the Devon coast or explore the wonders of the national parks, that may even have snowcapped tours. Our manor’s prime location ensures that you can relish the intimacy and breathtaking scenery of the surrounding countryside.
The timeless beauty and charm of Northcote Manor make it a treat for any occasion. For an unforgettable experience, book your stay in our country house hotel in Devon.