There’s something special about autumn in Devon. The countryside turns golden, the evenings become cosy and the calendar fills with events celebrating the very best of the season. From local food and artisan makers to pumpkin-filled adventures, creative evenings and spectacular illuminations, October and November are a wonderful time to explore the county.
Whether you’re planning a family day out, a weekend escape, a romantic break or simply looking for something new to do, here are some of the highlights to enjoy this autumn.
Savour the flavours of autumn
Autumn gets off to a delicious start with the much-loved Powderham Food Festival, returning on 3 and 4 October. Set against the beautiful backdrop of Powderham Castle, the festival brings together local producers, street food and live cooking demonstrations – a delicious way to welcome the new season.
On 13 and 14 October, Exeter Cathedral Autumn Fair transforms the magnificent Cathedral into a celebration of artisan food, drink and craftsmanship. Browse handcrafted jewellery, clothing, ceramics, seasonal gifts and more, with free entry during the fair.
Later in the month, food lovers can head to the coast for the Dartmouth Food Festival, taking place from 23 to 25 October. With world-class chefs, tastings, talks and exceptional local produce, it’s a fantastic celebration of Devon’s food and drink in the beautiful setting of Dartmouth.
Get into the Halloween spirit
When the evenings draw in, Devon takes on a magical autumn glow.
At Pennywell Farm, Pumpkin Nights runs on select evenings from 26 September to 1 November. After dark, the Pumpkin Patch comes alive with twinkling lights, live music and fire pits, creating an atmospheric autumn experience beneath the stars.
New for 2026, Pumpkins at the Castle brings a spectacular pumpkin makeover to Watermouth Castle on the North Devon coast. Discover pumpkin-filled walkways, autumn displays, seasonal photo spots, a family trail and the Courtyard Pumpkin Market, all within the grounds of a Victorian castle.
Try something a little different
For a creative evening, Paint & Dine at China Blue runs until 21 November, combining good food, good company and the chance to paint your own piece of pottery. It’s ideal for a date night, catch-up with friends or simply trying something new.
If you prefer your adventures with a little more adrenaline, Go Ape Sundown Adventures return this October. Take to the treetops after dark and experience the forest in a completely different way, with glowing lights and twilight challenges adding an extra sense of adventure.
See Devon in a whole new light
As the evenings draw in, some of Devon’s autumn experiences really come into their own. At Babbacombe Model Village, the famous illuminations return on select evenings, transforming the miniature world into a twinkling spectacle with thousands of lights and special effects.
Halloween weekend brings more themed fun, with Coldharbour Mill’s Steampunk Halloween Steam Day taking place on Sunday 25 October. The historic mill becomes a world of gears, goggles and steam, with themed activities and autumn entertainment for all ages.
End autumn with a little sparkle
From 28 November, the Bay of Lights Illumination Trail returns to the English Riviera, bringing a spectacular trail of light and colour to the coast. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy Devon after dark as the festive season gets underway. Wrap up warm, take a stroll and enjoy the sparkling displays against the backdrop of the English Riviera.
Discover autumn in Devon
From delicious local produce and artisan crafts to pumpkin adventures, creative evenings and magical nights beneath the stars, autumn is a wonderful time to discover Devon. So wrap up warm, embrace the changing season and explore somewhere new. With golden countryside, cosy evenings and plenty of memorable experiences, autumn is calling in Devon. Discover What's On.
