If you’re eagerly awaiting a trip to Devon this winter, then you’ll be pleased to hear that there are a host of events to enjoy in addition to the county’s usual attractions. Today, we’re going to take a look at some of the best.
And as a quick tip, if you haven’t already organised your getaway and are hoping to sort out a last-minute break, then it’s worth visiting this website. From here, you can rent a holiday cottage in Devon for the duration of your stay, which gives you a really cosy, homely base from where you can explore the region. Plus, it also acts as a handy place to relax when the wind is howling and you don’t fancy venturing outside.
Exeter Christmas Market
First on the list is Exeter Christmas Market, which is running until December 19th. This fantastic festival takes place at Exeter’s Cathedral Green, and will offer everything a classic Christmas market should, from beautiful decorations and handmade gifts to indulgent festive food and drink.
And remember, you don’t need to be on the hunt for some last-minute gifts to enjoy it, because Christmas markets like this are the perfect places to relax and get into the spirit of the season. That said, the things on sale here are so tempting that you may well end up with one or two purchases, even if you didn’t intend to buy anything!
Babbacombe Model Village Winter Wonderland
Another winter event well worth attending is the Babbacombe Model Village Winter Wonderland, which you’ll find in Torquay. Now, the model village is a great place to visit at any time of year, especially if you have a young family, but it really comes to life during this event.
As well as being sprinkled with realistic snow, the tiny streets and buildings are lit with little Christmas lights from 15:00 onwards. It’s impossible not to get into the festive spirit once you see it!
The display will be up from December 14th until January 5th, and a number of other events will be held along the way. These include miniature Christmas pantomimes on selected dates, as well as the Christmas Character Hunt, which challenges visitors to find tiny yuletide characters in the model village.
Paignton Zoo’s Crafty Christmas
Paignton Zoo is another attraction that’s fun to visit all year round, but its Crafty Christmas event makes it a winter must-see. Running until December 24th, Crafty Christmas will give kids the chance to meet not only Santa, but his helpful elves too!
Plus, little ones will also be able to ride around the park on the Jungle Christmas Express, not to mention take part in activities like making Christmas baubles. And once you’ve done that, you can watch the zoo’s animals being given little Christmas presents by the keepers too!
Walk Out the Old Year
Keen walkers, meanwhile, should make every effort to join Walk Out the Old Year. Taking place at Arlington Court in Arlington, Barnstaple on New Year’s Eve, this event gives you the chance to go on a guided walk through the estate.
Led by a knowledgeable ranger, you’ll be able to see some of the prettiest scenery in North Devon, not to mention walk off a few of those mince pies!