Where to see Santa in South Devon this Christmas
As Christmas fast approaches like a herd of flying reindeer, it’s always worth knowing where you can see Santa...
South Devon is home to an array of Christmas markets throughout November and December. Discover unique trinkets, stocking fillers, and locally crafted delights in beautiful locations.
Use the quick links below to read more about a particular Christmas market, or continue reading for our full guide…
Where: Cathedral Green, Exeter
When: 15th November – Sunday 15th December 2024
Times: Monday – Wednesday 10am – 7pm, Thursday – Saturday 10am – 9pm, Sunday 11am – 5pm
‘It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, everywhere you go…’ well, in Exeter mainly. Inspired by traditional German markets, this year’s Christmas market on Cathedral Green is set to be one to remember. Be sure to gaze up at the dazzling festive lights, enjoy the sweet scent of mulled wine, hot chocolate and festive treats as it drifts through the air, and browse the numerous market stalls.
Where: The Piazza, Plymouth City Centre
When: 28th November – 15th December 2024
Times: Monday – Saturday 10am – 6pm, Thursday 10am – 9pm, Sunday 10am – 5pm
Organised by Plymouth City Centre Company, this market is a festive wonderland where you can enjoy a warming tipple, listen to gospel choirs, indulge in local food, and purchase some last-minute stocking fillers and unique gifts. The eclectic stalls under twinkling Christmas lights will transport you to a world of all things ‘merry and bright.’
Where: Ocean Studios, the Factory Cooperage, Royal William Yard, Plymouth, PL1 3RP
When: 30th November – 1st December, 14th – 15th December 2024
Times: 10am – 4pm
Run by Real Ideas, the Native Makers Festive Market calls itself an ‘alternative retail experience’, specialising in local and regional festive wares. The market will include over 50 artists and makers across three rooms, and is the perfect place to find unique Christmas gifts.
Where: The Great Hall, Dartington, TQ9 6EL
When: 7th – 8th December 2024
Times: 10am – 4pm
A free event run by the Dartington Trust, The Great Hall Craft Fair features works by many talented makers. With over 60 stalls to browse, live music to listen to, entertainment to get involved in, and food to feast on, it’s sure to be a weekend full of festive cheer.
Where: Fore Street, Bovey Tracey, TQ13 9AD
When: Saturday 7th December 2024
Times: 2pm – 6pm
Join in the festive fun with the Christmas Lights switch on and Christmas Market in Bovey Tracey. Browse the stalls, feast on street food, enjoy a glass or two of mulled wine and listen to festive music. Plus, if that wasn’t enough, the little ones will even get the chance to see Santa himself in his Grotto.
Where: Fore Street, Kingsbridge, TQ7 1PP
When: Saturday 7th December 2024
Times: 9am – late
This Christmas festival is more than just a market. Encompassing several events along Fore Street and the Town Square, you’ll be able to see Santa, watch local artists perform live entertainment, and walk through a dazzling display of Christmas lights. Once you’ve seen what Kingsbridge Celebrates Christmas has to offer, head to the market for gifts, stocking fillers and an array of festive treats. There’s even an ice skating rink!
Where: Totnes High Street
When: Tuesday 3rd, 10th, and 17th December 2024
Times: 3pm – 9pm
Add some Christmas magic to your week and enjoy late-night shopping and the Christmas Market in the beautiful market town of Totnes. Enjoy good food and warming drinks, fairy lights, artisan shopping, and entertainment as the whole town gets into the festive spirit. It’s a family-friendly event that everyone will love.
Where: Buckfast Abbey TQ11 0EE
When: 28th – 30th November 2024
Times: 10am – 5pm
The annual Buckfast Abbey Christmas Market will return once again with tasty treats, festive cheer and lots of great family fun. There is a fabulous live entertainment schedule which will fill the air with festive melodies, so be sure to check the itinerary ahead of arriving!
Where: Buckfastleigh Town Hall and The Brew Hub
When: Saturday 30th November 2024
Times: 10am – 5pm
More than 50 artists, designers, makers and creators from all around the South West will be attending this market across two venues. The Town Hall will be home to a wide range of creatives and craft vendors, while the Brew Hub will house a host of local food and drinks producers.
Where: The Scala, Brixham Town Council, TQ5 8TA
When: Saturday 7th December 2024
Times: 10am – 3pm
Visit Brixham town hall for some festive fun, with an array of local crafty vendors selling unique and handmade Christmas gifts. While you’re there, warm up with a hot drink and enjoy a free mince pie on the house!
Looking for a last minute Christmas getaway? We have holiday cottages located in and near all of the towns and villages hosting fantastic festivities. Treat you and your loved ones to a beautiful family-friendly property, or an abode where your dog can holiday with you. Discover our collection of self-catering properties in South Devon, and start planning your perfect getaway.
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