Over 25 Magical Christmas Days Out in Devon for Festive Fun!
You’ll find Sparkle & Festive Cheer at Devon’s Top Attractions this Holiday Season!
Find Santa and Christmas things to do in Devon this holiday Season!
Top Devon attractions are aglow with festive spirit – there’s bright lights, fabulous grottos, friendly Santas, nativity scenes, animals warm in their stables, busy elves, festive food and drink in inviting cafes, fun-filled indoor play and some unique gifts on offer at our award-winning county-wide attractions. We can’t guarantee the snow, but we can guarantee plenty of Christmas sparkle this year!
Anne Blackham, Marketing Manager for Devon’s Top Attractions, said “Christmas is a special time of year to spend with family and friends and our unique variety of attractions are putting on a fantastic display to give families magical days out to spend together over the holidays!”
What’s On in South Devon
Babbacombe Model Village There’s a Miniature Christmas to discover on selected dates from 16th November to 4th January. See the illuminations with lots of Christmas sparkle and festive lighting. Enjoy festive scenes during the day and night, plus magical illuminations as it turns to dusk, plus there are new lights for 2024! A fun Christmas character spotter sheet will add some extra fun during the daylight – will you be able to find all the miniature Santas and Elves?
A truly magical festive experience awaits you at Kents Cavern. Get into the festive spirit and join them for a magical Christmas concert on dates between 26th November and 19th December. Hear the amazing acoustics of the choir and then take a walk around the magnificent cave system singing carols by candlelight. Finish with mulled wine or hot chocolate and festive treats in the cafe! Plus, on various dates from 7th to 24th December step into a world of festive fun and adventure with Santa in the Caves! Join them for an interactive pantomime experience where you’ll meet a host of colourful characters as you journey through the decorated caves.
Bygones, in Torquay are celebrating the Victorian Christmas. Start thinking about getting in the Christmas spirit with a visit back in time to the Victorian era, from 1st December their life-sized Victorian street and rooms are transformed into a traditional Christmas setting! A wonderfully festive atmosphere for all the family. No extra costs – included within the admission fee.
Christmas at the Zoo is back at Paignton Zoo. Santa will be visiting on dates during the festive season, so book your grotto visit. Each child ticket includes a gift from Santa and zoo entry (at a reduced price) for the day of their grotto visit. There’ll be storytelling sessions, there’ll be live music every weekend and adults can enjoy mulled cider and mince pies. Decorate a bauble for the Christmas tree, create some Christmas themed enrichment for the animals and make some eco-friendly reindeer food to take home.
The Bay of Lights is returning to the English Riviera with sparkling events around the English Riviera this wintertime! From 16th November to 2nd January the spectacular Bay of Lights is returning, and it promises to be even bigger and better than last year. Taking place throughout Torquay, Babbacombe, Paignton and Brixham; the whole Bay will come alive with a flurry of exciting, illuminated family events.
At Buckfast Abbey their popular three-day Christmas Market will return from 28th to 30th November. 10am to 5pm, there’s FREE entry and parking. Join them for a festive celebration spanning across three days! With the biggest selection of fabulous local crafts, products, and gifts and non-stop entertainment for the whole family. This year is the first time Santa is making an appearance too (book online for tickets). There’ll be tasty treats, festive cheer and lots of great family fun plus some amazing entertainers that will be performing live.
Join Wallace and Gromit for the ultimate forest walkies at Haldon Forest Park. This interactive dog-focused trail features a variety of games and challenges for you and your happy hound to complete. Follow the route using the OS Maps app to find a series of panels. Each one has a fun challenge for you and your dog to take on and a crossword clue for you to solve. Pick up your Forest Walkies with Wallace & Gromit pack before you set off. It’s also the last chance for families to do the Gruffalo Party Trail which is on until 5 January and don’t miss the chance to choose your special Christmas tree Christmas tree sales.
On various dates throughout December experience the Magic at Pennywell this Christmas! At this time of year, the Farm is transformed into a magical winter wonderland with twinkling lights, hundreds of Christmas trees and plenty of Christmas sparkle. Included in your experience is a walking nativity journey, tractor & trailer ride, Christmas cuddles with the animals, a visit to Elf’s sweet shop, group visit to Father Christmas and special gift. Plus mince pies, homemade biscuits and drinks. Allow 2-2.5 hrs for your visit.
The Polar Express is back at the South Devon Railway from 29th November with its sleek black steam engine. Billowing steam, your authentic steam train ride will last around an hour and you’ll be entertained meeting the Conductor and his crew. All the while the train steams towards the North Pole! Here you’ll meet Santa and one of his friendly elves. He’ll climb on board the train to meet you all. The Conductor will even clip your Polar Express tickets just like in the film! After the show there’ll be a photo opportunity – the whole family can pose with the train.
The Woodlands Christmas Grotto is back on various dates from 23rd November to 23rd December. Join your elf tour guides for an adventure through the North Pole in this 10-room interactive walkthrough experience featuring snowy forests, cosy cabins and the amazing Elf Toy Factory. Board the Woodlands Express for an immersive train ride meeting Santa and receiving a gift. Plus the Christmas evening event continues to grow with eight enchanting nights between December 3rd to 20th. Get into the festive spirit with a jolly stroll down the Christmas light trails, join your elf tour guides for an adventure through the North Pole, ride the Woodlands Express train and meet Santa.
Festive Things to do in Plymouth
The National Marine Aquarium will be hosting a Sustainable Ocean Friendly Christmas Market on 4th December! This market evening is adults only, to allow you a peaceful evening of looking at the animals and shopping, with the fun kicking off at 5.30pm until 9.30pm (last entry 8pm). However, to allow everyone to join in with the festive spirit, the Ocean Friendly Market will open at 15:00, meaning Aquarium visitors with children and annal passes are welcome to visit and pick up sustainable Christmas gifts until 5.30pm. There’ll be a free festive snack and drink on arrival, join in the soywax wrap making workshop and enjoy the festive talks, where you can learn more about how to have an Ocean friendly Christmas.
On 5th December, browse and buy some fantastic locally made items at the Christmas Market at The Box. As well as local makers, they’ll be offering a special discount in their onsite shop on the night and The Box Kitchen & Bar will be open. 6pm-8pm. Please book your ticket in advance. ‘Around The World In 80 Sleighs’ is a festive spectacular incorporating the traditions of a range of different countries through music and song on 15th December. On 20th December they’re holding a special Family Late. Explore the galleries after hours, listen to stories, enjoy some night sky themed crafts and dance along to some Christmas hits – 5.30-8pm. Santa will be popping in to say hello. Finally the popular Breakfast with Santa is back, see details online.
What’s On in Exeter and East Devon
Visit Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM) in Exeter to enjoy their Winter Festivities Craft Activity on 14-15th December. This year they are turning their festive focus to different cultures around the world, and how they may celebrate the winter period. Make some traditional beading from Africa, or maybe a colourful line of bunting (Papel Picado) all the way from Mexico! You can make something similar to the artefacts in the exhibition, or you could bring your own Christmas magic and use colourful beads and paper to brighten up your Christmas tree. Buy your ticket on the day from the Shop@ RAMM.
Bring the whole family to Devon’s enchanting Winter Wonderland at Powderham Castle from the 25th November – 31st December. The historic castle and its grounds will come alive with sparkling lights and festive magic, offering an unforgettable experience. Stroll through the mesmerising light displays and let the kids visit Santa in his grotto, where he’ll hand out special gifts to those on the nice list. Savour seasonal treats and warming drinks as you explore the beautifully decorated castle and grounds. Or treat yourself to a Festive Afternoon Tea in the Music Room.
There’s a feel-good Christmas at Killerton . Weave your way through the ground floor of Killerton house, traditionally dressed with lush green garlands, sparkling trees, decorative fireplaces and fairy lights to give that feel-good glow of Christmas. Discover Christmas traditions old and new with interactive activities for all ages leading you through the gardens, parkland, and Chapel grounds. Head to the chapel and marvel at the 12 sparkling Christmas trees, lovingly decorated by community groups. Daily 30th November to 31st December (closed 25th and 26th Dec).
Enjoy Christmas in Devon from 12th November to 1st January on a Festive Special River Cruise with Stuart Line Cruises. Sit back, relax and enjoy Christmas on the calm and sheltered waters of the River Exe. Our festively decorated boats have covered and heated lower decks, with cosy blankets, plenty of fresh air and great views on our upper outside deck. You will have a warm welcome with a glass of proper homemade mulled wine and a tasty warmed minced pie to enjoy whilst you sit back and take a breather from the busy Christmas season.
Christmas is just around the corner! Get into the festive spirit and kickstart your festivities by enjoying Christmas at Crealy Theme Park & Resort. From 30th November to 23rd December join Sooty and Co. in Sooty’s Christmas Show. Visit the enchanting winter Christmas Light displays and rides in the dark. Don’t forget to visit Santa and post your Christmas List to the North Pole!
THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Tram Ride is back at Seaton Tramway on various dates between 23rd November to 24th December. Families will enjoy the magical tram ride to Santa’s home at the North Pole in one of the specially decorated single-deck tramcars. Enjoy a hot chocolate and a delicious treat, speak to Santa and admire the awesome lights whilst you walk around the North Pole. All guests will receive their first gift of Christmas – A Silver Sleigh Bell – from Santa himself. Upon the return journey, you will be able to enjoy singing Christmas carols.
Head to Bicton Park on the 13th December for their Christmas Craft Fair 4-8pm and enjoy a complimentary mince pie and drink (while supplies last) to help get all of that Christmas shopping ticked off. They have over 30 different local craft stalls, the Budleigh male voice choir singing carols, and a special Christmas light display in the garden centre accompanied by the Lister engines puffing away.
Visit the Donkey Sanctuary from 4th November to 3rd February for the mini winter wonderland trail. Learn about their miniature herd in their super new paddock as you walk around the sanctuary answering the questions to win a prize. Winter care at the sanctuary is all about helping the donkeys stay happy in mind and body when the temperatures begin to drop and the weather changes. There’s fresh, local, seasonal produce in the Taste of the West award-winning restaurant and have a browse in their gift shop too.
What’s on in North Devon
It’s a magical time at Clovelly on 8th December as the Christmas lights are switched on. Starting at 4pm, a local brass band leads the procession down to the harbour with festive carols sung along the way. A hog roast, grog and other refreshments are available at the harbour and Lifeboat Station. Then Father Christmas will make a surprise visit. At 5pm the switch is thrown and the entire village and harbour are lit up. It’s a fantastic sight and there’s a grand finale of fireworks to finish off. £10 per car. All proceeds to the RNLI. Plus, there’s the Boxing Day barbecue and a fantastic New Year’s Party will be taking place on 31st December. See details at www.clovelly.co.uk/events/.
The Magic of Christmas is coming to the Milky Way at various dates from 7th to 23rd December. Journey through the magical snowy forest to Buzzlewick’s Elf Emporium in The Old Barn, where all children will get to meet Buzzlewick the Elf and friends, have a go at gingerbread decorating, write a letter to Santa and make reindeer food. Then there’ll be the chance to be invited into Santa’s cosy Christmas Cottage to chat to the jolly fella himself and choose your special festive gift. See the garland festooned train station made jolly with festive music and giant Christmas tree, there’s a hot chocolate to enjoy on the Festive Train and a special themed show created by Merlin.
Dartington Crystal is running an exclusive offer for November. The perfect keepsake in time for Christmas. Half price hand casting available, the perfect keepsake just in time for Christmas. Have a hand, foot or even a paw print cast forever in glass. Why not add that extra special touch with some personalisation? Saturday dates are also available: 16th, 23rd, 30th November and 7th December. Booking is essential for this service
There’s an Elf Invasion coming to Quince Honey Farm on Saturday 14th, 21st & Monday 23rd December. Hidden around the honey farm are lots of cheeky little elves all getting into mischief and causing trouble for the bees! Can you find them and solve the secret message? There will be a prize waiting for you when you complete the puzzle. Enjoy some Christmas crafts and visit the Play Hive to enjoy a warming cup of hot chocolate served with a cookie, and have free time to explore the indoor and outdoor play areas. Advanced booking online only.
The Big Sheep Farm and Theme Park has their Christmas Market on Saturday 7th, 14th and 21st December from 9am to 2pm. Browse along the best Christmas stalls full of great quality, tasty local food and drink, festive craft & handmade treasures! FREE EVENT! Plus from 13th-16th December it’s the Christmas Toddler Takeover making magical memories. Join them and Jiggy Wrigglers for their festive event full of snow, festive cheer and family FUN!
Create magical festive memories with loved ones at RHS Garden Rosemoor’s winter illuminations. This year’s Glow trail takes you on an exciting new route featuring different garden areas with spectacular light installations, enjoy delicious food and Christmas shopping. Discover more than 200 captivating sculptures set across the gardens and woodland, as the Winter Sculpture Exhibition transforms the garden, on display until 31st January. On 8th December enjoy a tale as old as time with Wonder Pantomimes as they bring the story of Beauty and the Beast to Rosemoor. Tickets £6, book online. On 15th December there’s a festive afternoon of carol singing too.
If you’re looking for unique Christmas gift ideas, take a look at what Devon’s Top Attractions are offering. They range from animal adoptions, annual passes to your favourite attraction and all sorts of special experiences, drive a train or tram for a day, animal encounters or island adventures.
If you believe in the magic of Christmas, make a day out with your family really special this festive season at one of Devon’s quality-assured attractions, after all, ‘Tis The Season to be Jolly!’ Find out more what’s on Christmas here.
