Don’t let the period between Christmas and New Year drag, we have lots of ideas of how to spend your time when in Devon for the festive season.
Zooluminate, Dartmoor Zoo
Experience a magical, wintery and festive walk around Dartmoor Zoo’s gorgeous site, taking in a series of beautiful light installations, which bring the zoo to life after dark in the most enchanting way possible!
There are stunning installation spaces the entire way around the site, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities for those selfies, plus – some of the enclosures are going to be illuminated, so you might even get the chance to see the animals all snuggled up for the night. https://www.dartmoorzoo.org.uk/events/zooluminate/
Bay of Lights, Torquay, Paignton and Brixham.
During the winter period, the English Riviera plays host to an exciting event: The Bay of Lights! Taking place throughout Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, the whole Bay will come alive with a flurry of illuminated events. From lantern parades to a steam train covered in lights, to carols by candlelight, the English Riviera will have a truly magical feel this winter, so it’s worth taking an evening to take it all in. And don’t forget the star of the show: The Illumination Trail along Torquay seafront! From 29th November 2024 to 2nd January 2025 you can enjoy a 1.5-mile route along Torquay seafront with glittering and unexpected surprises along the way.
https://www.englishriviera.co.uk/whats-on/featured-events/bay-of-lights
Drakes Trail, Dartmoor
Drake’s Trail in West Devon is a 21 mile cycling and walking route linking Tavistock with Plymouth. This important part of Devon’s recreational route network runs through superb countryside with attractive scenery along the western edge of Dartmoor together with much historical and heritage interest.
But the trails aren’t just about Drake – they take you through wooded river valleys and across open moorland, up close to fascinating wildlife and history.
http://www.drakestrail.co.uk/
Head to a National Trust Property
Even on the wettest of days, the National Trust offers many places to visit if you want to get out of the house. Discover unique houses and gardens in Devon and Exmoor transformed for Christmas time. With many offering delicious treats in their on-site cafes and tea rooms, there is hours of entertainment to be had.
https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/devon/christmas
Red Coat Guided Tour, Exeter
Discover one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in England with Exeter’s Red Coat Guides.
These FREE guided walking tours operate daily throughout the year, offering a wide range from which to choose. Meet your Red Coat Guide at the starting point and discover historic Exeter for yourself.
https://www.exetercornexchange.co.uk/book-tickets/exeters-red-coat-guided-tours/
Haldon Forest
Whether you want a quiet stroll in the crisp air or a challenging hilly hike, Haldon have a walking trail for you. The whole family can join your winter wanders with their bookable mobility hire.
Haldon Forest Park’s all-weather cycling trails are perfect for every rider. From your kids’ first balance bike, or if you’re a seasoned pro, they promise you won’t get bored. Their cycling experts, Forest Cycle Hire, have a huge range of bikes available, including e-bikes, adaptive cycles, and tag-alongs.
https://www.forestryengland.uk/haldon-forest-park
Head to a Panto
Oh no you didn’t! A pantomime is a great festive tradition whatever your age, and Devon has lots of locations offering some wonderful shows across Twixmas. We suggest ‘Big Panto Guide’ to look over Devon’s pantomime offerings all in one place
https://www.bigpantoguide.co.uk/devon.php
Festive Special River Cruise, Stuart Line Cruises
Take time out of the busy festive season to sit back, relax and enjoy Christmas in Devon on the calm and sheltered waters of the River Exe. These festively decorated boats have covered and heated lower decks, with cosy blankets, plenty of fresh air and great views on their 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.
https://www.stuartlinecruises.co.uk/festive-specials/
Head to the beach
Boasting 2 costlines, Devon has lots of beaches to head to over Twixmas. There is no better way to blow away the cobwebs, and for those feeling brave, head to for a quick dip!
Look over Devon’s beaches on this interactive map to find the best beachy match for you
https://www.thebeachguide.co.uk/south-west-england/devon/
And remember to check with your Devon Farm’s host during your stay as many of our locations offer a range of on-site activities, from getting involved with the animals, to finding out more about their area, and games rooms and areas available, our hosts will be happy to run through everything they offer.
