The most wonderful time of the year has arrived, so many families, couples and friends will want to find the best places and events to visit during the Christmas period to get into the festive cheer. Christmas in Devon this year is packed with glorious events, Christmas markets, pantomimes, and lots more.
In this blog, we’ve rounded up all the best things to do this Christmas here in the heart of Devon whilst you stay with us at the charming and historic Northcote Manor.
Christmas Markets
Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market – 18th November to 18th December
This year is the ninth year for Exeter’s Cathedral Green to host their infamous Christmas market. It’s now Devon’s biggest Christmas market with over 100 traders and an estimated 600,000 visitors attending.
There are a variety of stalls, from global street food to unique hand-crafted gifts displayed in cosy little wooden cabins, with seasonal sights and lights surrounding the grounds, as well as festive food you can feast your eyes (and mouths!) on.
Totnes Christmas Market – 6th, 13th, and 20th December
Totnes is reputable in Devon for its Christmas market and late-night shopping across December, with plenty of stalls, breathtaking lighting, and handmade and hand-cooked goodies! Totnes even has free activities for children, including the Gnome Trail and a pom-pom workshop held at The Royal Seven Stars on the nights of the markets. You can also try to spot the 40 gnomes hiding in the shop windows!
Sandy Cove’s Christmas Market – 10th and 11th of December
A brand-new Christmas market is coming to the coast of North Devon at Sandy Cove Hotel in Combe Martin Bay (near Ilfracombe). In this Area of Outstanding of Natural Beauty, there will be plenty of mulled wine and hot chocolate to drink, with the county’s best small businesses and local food on offer. If you’re quick enough, you may even be able to pre-book a festive afternoon tea at the Sandy Cove Hotel to add even more festivity to your visit.
Santa’s Grottos and Winter Wonderlands
Exeter’s Winter Wonderland – 17th November to 2nd January
In 2021, Exeter brought to life its first Winter Wonderland, and it’s back! What’s more, this year there is a brand-new Christmas market alongside some other new and exciting features. Located in Northernhay Gardens in the centre of Exeter, this Christmas haven includes an ice rink, Santa’s grotto, a German-themed bar, and games and rides for people of all ages to relish in. Enjoy a full festive day out as it opens daily from 11 am to 10 pm!
Trago Mills Christmas Steam Train: The North Pole Express to Santa’s Grotto – 19th November to 22nd December
Said to be the best value Santa experience in Devon, Trago Mills’ Steam Railway returns with the North Pole Express to Santa’s Grotto. Running regularly between 10 am and 4 pm, you and the family can begin your journey by visiting Santa and his elves in his grotto. Here, the kids can meet and greet Santa and tell him exactly what they’d like for Christmas (the children will even receive an early present)!
Then, you can ride on the Trago Mills Model Railway, which is included in the ticket. Tickets only cost £3 for adults and £4 for children, and they can be purchased on the day. Adults can also enjoy a complimentary hot drink whilst children receive a small soft drink.
Sail with Santa in Exmouth – 3rd to 22nd December
For over 20 years, Sail with Santa has been a festive family activity from the day it began. Sail down the River Exe with Stuart Line Cruises as you and the family meet Santa in his onboard grotto. The children will be able to receive a handpicked gift, whilst adults can enjoy some mulled wine with a mince pie. The duration of the cruise is one hour, and tickets are £12 for adults and children over the age of 1, whilst children of 12 months and under are £5 each.
Christmas Illuminations
Torquay’s Bay of Lights – 19th November to 8th January
This year is the first year Torquay introduces the ‘Bay of Lights’ festivities to the area. The Light Trail is a 1.5-mile route that travels through Torre Abbey, Torquay seafront, Fleet Street, and the town centre. Some highlights of the trail include a light tunnel across Torquay seafront and a 12-metre-high mappable pixel Christmas Tree.
Darmouth’s Christmas Train of Lights – 25th November to 30th December
Another family favourite, Dartmouth’s steam railway hosts the spectacular Christmas Train of Lights. The train leaves from Paignton and travels through Goodrington and Kingswear, and on the way, you can admire the colourful lights, decorations, and festive scenes on either side of the track. Once you reach Kingswear, you have the opportunity to get off and appreciate the train in all its glory!
Glow 2022 – RHS Garden Rosemoor – 17th November to 30th December
Don’t miss one of the biggest and boldest, infamous Glow trails at the RHS Garden in Rosemoor. This Christmas illumination experience is very popular with our guests here at Northcote Manor. This year, the trail is one of the longest routes and will feature dazzling new light displays that will take your breath away, as well as festive entertainment every evening. The dates vary across November and December, so make sure to book your tickets in advance online.
We hope you’ve planned a series of festive-themed days out here in Devon, from the Santa’s Grottos to Christmas lights and illuminations, all these events will get you more and more excited for Christmas 2022.
If you’re new to the area and looking for somewhere to stay in Devon, why not make a booking at Northcote Manor? We have an award-winning restaurant, luxurious spa, cosy bed chambers, and, most importantly, Christmas decorations and festivities that will blow you away! Get in touch today to find out more.