There is nothing more likely to ignite the festive spirit than attending a Christmas Market. The atmosphere, the smell of hot food and drink and the wonderful gifts really get the festive period underway. Torquay and the surrounding areas host a wonderful array of markets, each with their own unique feel.
1. Christmas Market at Torre Abbey
The first Christmas Markets at Torre Abbey will take place from 29 November to 22 December 2024. Torquay is finally getting its very own Christmas market, after hopes for a festive event were dashed last year. It is being run by the same company who were behind the hugely popular bar at the Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market. The Torre Abbey Christmas Market will begin on the same day as The Bay of Lights but will end slightly earlier, running until just before Christmas. It will be free to attend, with dogs on a lead also welcome. FIND OUT MORE
2. Winterfest at Torre Abbey
Following the huge success of previous Winter Fests, they will be again hosting this craft and gift fair in the historic setting of the Abbey on Saturday 30 November and Sunday 1 December 2024. Torre Abbey will be filled with stalls selling truly unique crafts and Christmas gifts where you can expect seasonal music, a Christmas trail and some indulgent nibbles and beverages. This promises to be a charming event in the heart of Torquay and the perfect opportunity to dig out those Christmas jumpers and get into the Winter Fest spirit. FIND OUT MORE
3. Torquay Museum Christmas Fairs
Feel festive with TWO Christmas days out for the whole family! With EVEN MORE stalls selling high-quality local products, you can buy all your Christmas gifts and stocking fillers while enjoying the angelic voices of children’s choirs, partake in the yummy festive food and drink from the Museum Café and bar, or join the Education Team for Christmassy crafting for all ages. There will be live entertainment too. Yule be sorry you missed it! FIND OUT MORE
4. Newton Abbot Racecourse
Save the date for the return of the much-loved Newton Abbot Christmas Fayre on Saturday 30 November 2024. Join in with a fun-filled festive family day out to pick up some beautiful presents and put yourselves firmly in the Christmas mood. FIND OUT MORE
5. Plymouth Winter Wonderland
Plymouth, get ready to deck the halls with boughs of holly and lace up your skates, because Plymouth’s Winter Wonderland is back! Following the resounding success of last year’s event, the magical winter festival is set to return to Central Park from November 15th to January 1st, 2025.
This year’s Winter Wonderland promises to be even more enchanting, with a host of festive delights for all ages. Step into a Winter Wonderland of twinkling lights, festive music, and Christmas cheer. FIND OUT MORE
6. Christmas at Lupton House
Come and join in at Lupton House for 2 days of craft stalls and family fun at Lupton House 23, 24 and 30 November 2024 and Sunday1st December 2024. FIND OUT MORE
7. Exeter Christmas Markets
Exeter’s Christmas Markets will run from 15 November – 15 December 2024 .
Make it a day out to remember at Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market. You’ll discover something for everyone, with over a hundred twinkling festive chalets, local gifts and produce, bars, global street food and seasonal entertainment. You can also take advantage of Exeter Cathedral’s Entry By Donation offer to explore its amazing architecture and discover one thousand years of wonder. FIND OUT MORE
8. Christmas Shopping Fayre at Westpoint
In its 26th year, Westpoint, Exeter will host its annual Christmas Shopping Fayre from Friday 6th to Sunday 8th December 2024. Each year there is an incredibly diverse range of exhibitors from far and wide who transform Westpoint into an Aladdin’s cave of wonderful gift ideas and essential Christmas items.
It’s a magical few days and we know you will all enjoy the show as much as their many thousands of regular visitors. In their 23rdyear, they’re going to make it memorable with many, many new exhibitors with 100’s of brand new lines, more entertainment to enjoy and look out for the celebrity appearances. Prices are Adults £5; OAP £4; 16 under free. There is also lots of free parking! BOOK TICKETS
9. Brixham Christmas Market
Brixham’s Christmas Market will be incorporated with their ‘Lantern, Lights ‘luminations’ event on 22 to 23 November 2024. It includes magical events, shopping and Christmas festive fun. There will be hot food stalls and street markets in varied venues across the town. Full details of the event can be found at their website. A full programme of events will be available nearer the time. FIND OUT MORE
10. Kingsbridge Christmas Market
Kingsbridge will celebrate Christmas once again on Saturday 7th December 2024. so get in the festive spirit and eat, drink, and be merry in Kingsbridge this Christmas… Starting on the Quay, the Farmers Market will kick off the festivities with their fruit & vegetables grown locally, a glistening array of fresh fish, the smell of freshly baked bread still warm from the oven, and meat served by the farmers who tended the livestock. Luscious homemade cakes, a wide range of homemade preserves, cheeses, locally grown flowers, plants, and herbs. Pies, pasties and honey, plus free range eggs, local ale and more. An interesting selection of local craft stalls perfect for gifts and, especially for Christmas, some live music and entertainment.
Local shops will join in with their brightly lit windows and costumed staff, many offering one-off promotions. Stalls will be laden with a wide variety of wonderful gifts and festive treats providing an even bigger and better opportunity to browse and complete your Christmas shopping. All the while street entertainers, local bands and carol singers add to the magical atmosphere throughout the day and a welcome rest will be found in one of the wide range of cafes and restaurants in town. FIND OUt MORE
11. Christmas at the Castle
From 25th November to 31st December 2024, ‘Christmas at the Castle’ is back, offering a festive experience for everyone.
Wander through the Christmas Illuminated Light Walk, where the castle and its grounds are adorned with holiday lights for a striking display. Inside, the Festive House Experience features rooms decorated in seasonal decor. Enjoy live music performances and a variety of food and beverage options from vendors on the grounds, all adding to the festive atmosphere. FIND OUT MORE
12. Plymouth Christmas Markets
Plymouth Christmas Market is the most wonderful place to soak up the holiday atmosphere and find unique gifts for your loved ones! As you stroll through the market stalls, you’ll be serenaded by live music and performances that add to the festive cheer. From local musicians to professional entertainers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. FIND OUT MORE
Please note: Dates, times and events correct at time of publication. We cannot be held responsible for changes to these details.