Christmas in Devon 2025: Festive Magic, Family Fun & Winter Adventures Await

Guest Blog Post – Devon's Top Attractions 

This Christmas, Devon transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland, offering families and visitors an unforgettable blend of festive fun, heart-warming traditions, and enchanting days out. With over 25+ Christmas events, from light trails and Santa grottos to magical theatre shows and cosy seasonal cruises, the county is the perfect place to reconnect, slow down, and soak up the spirit of the season. 

Whether you’re seeking nostalgic charm, thrilling winter adventures, or a peaceful countryside escape, Devon has something to delight every member of the family this festive season. 

Christmas in Exeter & East Devon 

Christmas at Powderham Castle 

1st – 31st December 

Wander through transformed rooms, shimmering displays, and beautifully lit pathways as the castle celebrates Christmas in truly enchanting style. Meet Father Christmas in the all-new Winter Garden from 1–24 December.  

Festive Special Cruise with Stuart Line Cruises 

20th November – 1st January 

Running until 1 January, enjoy mulled wine, mince pies, crisp sea air and glowing winter views aboard their heated, decorated vessels. From 6–22 December, Sail with Santa returns with festive fun for little ones.  

Christmas Spectacular at Crealy Theme Park & Resort 

6th – 23rd December (select dates) 

Visit Santa’s enchanting grotto and enjoy free gifts from the Magical Toy Shop. New for 2025: the Aladdin Family Pantomime, the reimagined Snowflake Express, the Christmas Sooty Show and beautiful park-wide illuminations.  

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ at Seaton Tramway 

28th November – 24th December (select dates) 

Hop aboard this immersive tram-ride-to-the-North-Pole, complete with hot chocolate, Santa meet-and-greets, twinkling lights and a special Silver Sleigh Bell for every guest.  

Forever Home Winter Trail at The Donkey Sanctuary 

4th November – 9th February 

For just £5, complete the winter trail, claim a prize, and enjoy scenic walks, engaging exhibits, daily talks and plenty of adorable donkeys. 

Killerton Christmas 

29th November – 4th January 

Explore the festive warmth of Killerton’s decorations, including the striking Red Dress Project, handmade ornaments, dazzling trees and seasonal music. Outdoors, playful family activities guide you through the gardens and parkland—perfect for a winter wander.  

Night at the Museum at Royal Albert Memorial Museum  

11th December 

Step into RAMM after dark for a magical night of twinkling galleries, torchlit adventures, festive face paints and lantern-making. Keep an eye out—Father Christmas himself will be roaming the halls with treats to share. 

Bicton Christmas Train 

6th – 23rd December (select dates) 

Enjoy a festive ride through beautifully lit gardens, a walk-through Christmas grotto, woodland magic and plenty of Christmas tunes for a fun family outing. 

Christmas in South Devon 

Illuminations at Babbacombe Model Village  

Enjoy magical after-dark illuminations, Christmas character spotting, crazy golf and the immersive Mythical Kingdom experience. 

Carols in the Cave & Santa in the Caves at Kents Cavern Prehistoric Caves 

Experience festive music deep underground or visit Santa in the magical cave grotto—an unforgettable seasonal adventure. 

Victorian Christmas at Bygones, Torquay 

1st December onwards 

Step back in time as this charming Victorian street transforms into a traditionally dressed Christmas setting, included in the admission price. 

Christmas at Paignton Zoo  

6th–24th December 

Meet Santa, explore festive zones and enjoy the magic of Christmas across the zoo. 

English Riviera Bay of Lights 

28th November – 2nd January 

From lantern parades to steam trains covered in lights, carols by candlelight and the dazzling Illumination Trail along Torquay seafront—this is one of Devon’s most breathtaking festive celebrations. Plus, a real ice rink returns from 6 Dec–2 Jan. 

Buckfast Abbey Christmas Market  

27th – 29th  November 

Discover artisan gifts, festive treats, entertainment and an extra special Christmas performance of Bach on 13 December. 

Festive Workshops & Santa’s Grotto at House of Marbles 

6th – 23rd December  

Create a candle arrangement (accompanied by a glass of prosecco!) on 20th December, enjoy late-night shopping throughout the season and don’t forget to meet Santa in his cosy, enchanting grotto. 

Stick Man Christmas Trail at Haldon Forest Park 

5th February – 4th January 2026 

An interactive family trail packed with wintry adventures, hidden letters and nature play. Plus, the outdoor Earth Photo Exhibition returns until March 2026. 

Magical Christmas Experience at Pennywell Farm 

14th November – 24th December 

Meet friendly elves, cuddle Christmas animals, enjoy a live Nativity and visit Santa in his grotto for a magical festive passport adventure. 

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ at South Devon Railway  

28th November – 23rd December 

A full theatrical experience where the story comes to life with music, lights, treats and beloved characters. 

Christmas Grotto at Woodlands 

29th November – 23rd December 

Step into an immersive world of elves, festive trails, magical workshops—and end your journey with a special meeting with Santa. 

Festive Fun in Plymouth 

Plymouth Christmas Market 

27th November – 21st December 

Browse over 100 chalets filled with delicious treats, handcrafted gifts and artisan products, plus funfair favourites like the carousel and helter-skelter. 

Christmas at The Box  

24th December 

Join Mistletoe the mischievous elf, help find the missing Naughty or Nice List and meet Santa for festive photos and fun. Plus, keep an eye out for Breakfast with Santa on selected December Sundays. 

Plan Your Festive Day Out in Devon 

If you believe in the magic of Christmas, there’s no better place to celebrate than Devon. With twinkling light trails, cosy grottos, festive markets and unforgettable experiences, it’s the perfect time to gather your loved ones and make memories to treasure.