Devon is a wonderful place to welcome the New Year, whether you’re looking for a lively night out, a bracing coastal walk or a quiet few days in the countryside. You can watch the winter light over the sea, explore a historic harbour, walk on Dartmoor or Exmoor, or start 1st January with a refreshing dip.

If you’re planning a New Year break in Devon, here are some ideas for making the most of the festive season.

Watch the year end by the sea

Devon’s coast offers plenty of ways to spend New Year’s Eve outdoors. Take an afternoon walk along the seafront at Torquay or Exmouth, explore Ilfracombe Harbour, or find a quieter stretch of coast to watch the last light of the year.

Some towns may hold New Year’s Eve events or fireworks, but programmes vary from year to year. Check local listings before you travel, and don’t assume a display is taking place. If you’d rather keep things simple, a sunset stroll followed by a relaxed evening is a memorable way to see out the year.

Start New Year’s Day with a walk

A winter walk is one of the simplest ways to enjoy Devon in January. Choose a route to suit your group, check the weather and daylight hours, and allow extra time for muddy or slippery paths.

For coastal views, walk a section of the South West Coast Path around Hope Cove and Bolt Tail, or explore the dramatic cliffs and coastline near Beer and Branscombe. For a flatter outing, follow the Tarka Trail between Instow and Appledore and enjoy views across the Taw and Torridge estuary.

On Dartmoor, the route between Haytor and Hound Tor offers classic moorland scenery. If you’d prefer woodland shelter, try a walk around Bellever Forest. On Exmoor, the Valley of Rocks near Lynton combines striking rock formations with views towards the coast.

Try a New Year’s Day sea swim

A cold-water dip has become a New Year tradition for some visitors and locals. Beaches around Croyde, Woolacombe and other coastal communities can make atmospheric places to watch or take part.

Sea conditions can change quickly in winter. Check local safety advice, swim with others, stay within your ability and avoid entering the water if conditions are unsafe. You can enjoy the spectacle from the beach just as well, wrapped up warm with a flask.

Explore a town or harbour

If you’d like a change from walking, spend part of the day exploring one of Devon’s towns. Take in the harbour views at Dartmouth or Ilfracombe, stroll along the seafront in Sidmouth, or wander through the historic streets of Exeter or Plymouth.

Opening times can vary over the New Year period, so check ahead if you’re planning to visit an indoor attraction or make a particular stop. Keeping your plans flexible gives you room to enjoy a walk or a warm-up indoors, depending on the weather.

Make it a family-friendly break

For a relaxed outing with children or a mixed-age group, choose a route with a clear path and easy turn-back points. The Grand Western Canal in Tiverton offers a peaceful towpath walk, while Stover Country Park has woodland and lakeside scenery. The Tarka Trail is another good option for a gentle stroll, with several places to join the route.

A short walk, time to explore a harbour and a cosy evening together can make a New Year break feel special without needing a packed schedule. Check seasonal opening times before setting off.

Enjoy a slower countryside escape

For a quieter start to the year, stay somewhere with easy access to the countryside and plan your days around fresh air, good food and time to unwind. Dartmoor and Exmoor both offer wide-open landscapes, quiet lanes and villages to explore.

Winter conditions on the moors can be challenging, with poor visibility, strong winds and limited daylight. Check the forecast, choose a route that matches your experience and carry suitable clothing, footwear and a charged phone.

Plan your New Year in Devon

New Year is a popular time for a short break, so book travel and places to stay ahead where possible. Check event listings, opening times and transport arrangements before you go, especially on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Pack warm layers and waterproofs, and have an indoor alternative ready in case the weather changes.

From a coastal sunset to a walk across Dartmoor, there are many ways to spend New Year in Devon. Choose a few things you’d enjoy, leave space to take the day as it comes, and begin the year with a little fresh air and a change of scenery.