Christmas in Sidmouth 2026

If you're looking for somewhere special to spend the festive season, Sidmouth offers a lovely setting for a Christmas break by the sea. With its beautiful coastal scenery, independent shops, welcoming places to eat and a programme of seasonal events, the town has plenty to offer throughout November and December. Whether you're visiting for a festive day out or planning a longer winter escape, you can enjoy a change of pace, discover local businesses and make the most of everything Sidmouth has to offer at this time of year.

Why Choose Sidmouth for a Christmas Break in 2026?

Christmas brings an extra special atmosphere to Sidmouth, with independent shops adding festive touches to the town centre and local cafés and restaurants offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy seasonal food and drink. Browse the shops along Fore Street and the High Street for Christmas gifts, enjoy a warming drink after a winter walk or take in the coastal views along the Jurassic Coast. With festive entertainment, seasonal activities, and a welcoming choice of hotels, guesthouses, and self-catering accommodation, Sidmouth is the perfect place for a winter break in East Devon. Whether you're visiting before Christmas or extending your stay into the New Year, there's plenty to make your festive getaway memorable.

Seasonal Events

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There's plenty to look forward to in Sidmouth this Christmas, with a programme of festive events, live entertainment and seasonal activities taking place throughout November, December and into the New Year. Whether you're visiting with family, enjoying a festive evening with friends or looking for something to get you into the Christmas spirit, take a look at what's happening in Sidmouth.

Winter Trail at The Donkey Sanctuary

From 3 November 2026

Enjoy a seasonal visit to The Donkey Sanctuary this winter and discover its Winter Trail, starting on 3 November. Explore the sanctuary and enjoy a different perspective on this much-loved attraction during the festive season.

A visit makes a lovely winter day out for families and anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors while discovering more about the donkeys.

Late-Night Christmas Shopping in Sidmouth

Saturday 21 November 2026

Get into the festive spirit with an evening of late-night Christmas shopping in Sidmouth. Discover the town's independent shops and businesses, browse for unique gifts and enjoy the opportunity to get some Christmas shopping done while soaking up the seasonal atmosphere.

Green Room Healing will be taking part, opening until 8pm and welcoming visitors with mulled wine, bubbles, sausage rolls and mince pies. It will also be an opportunity to find out more about the treatments and appointments available, with gift vouchers on sale for anyone looking for a thoughtful Christmas present.

Neil Sands Christmas Memories at Manor Pavilion

Thursday 3 December 2026, 2pm

Welcome the festive season with Neil Sands and his wonderful cast as they return to Manor Pavilion with their brand-new production, Christmas Cracker.

Enjoy an afternoon filled with more than 60 much-loved Christmas songs and carols, bringing together festive favourites and nostalgic memories of Christmases past. With dazzling costumes, magical moments and even falling snow, this heartwarming show promises plenty of festive entertainment.

Whether you're a fan of traditional Christmas music or simply looking for a festive afternoon out, it's a lovely way to get into the Christmas spirit.

Carols by Candlelight at The Donkey Sanctuary

Friday 4 December 2026

Enjoy an evening of traditional Christmas carols at The Donkey Sanctuary with its annual Carols by Candlelight event. A chance to come together and enjoy festive music in a special seasonal setting, this event is a lovely way to celebrate the spirit of Christmas.

Sidmouth Town Band Christmas Concert

Friday 4 and Saturday 5 December 2026

Enjoy an afternoon or evening of festive music with Sidmouth Town Band at Manor Pavilion. A popular annual event for the whole family, the Christmas concert features a selection of traditional and popular music, with guest conductor David Hayward.

Performance times:

  • Friday 4 December at 7.30pm

  • Saturday 5 December at 2.30pm

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at Manor Pavilion

27 December 2026 – 2 January 2027

Keep the festive celebrations going after Christmas with the Sidmouth Amateur Dramatic Society's annual pantomime. This year, the company presents the classic fairytale Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.

When the enchanted mirror declares Snow White the fairest in the land, the wicked Queen Secretia becomes determined to get rid of her rival and claim the hand of the handsome Prince. With the help of the lovable Muddles, the Nurse and seven new friends, can Snow White escape the Queen's wicked plans?

Packed with comedy, adventure and plenty of pantomime fun, it's a great festive outing for all the family.

Performance dates and times:

  • Sunday 27 December: 2pm and 7.30pm

  • Monday 28 December: 2pm and 7.30pm

  • Tuesday 29 December: 7.30pm

  • Wednesday 30 December: 7.30pm

  • Friday 1 January: 2pm and 7.30pm

  • Saturday 2 January: 2pm and 7.30pm

December Stays

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Why not make the most of the festive season with a winter break in Sidmouth? Whether you're visiting for a particular event, enjoying a spot of Christmas shopping or simply looking for a change of scenery, the town offers a welcoming setting for a seasonal escape.

Enjoy crisp coastal walks, discover independent shops, sample festive food and drink and make time to explore the surrounding East Devon countryside. With a variety of accommodation available, from welcoming hotels and guesthouses to self-catering properties, there are plenty of ways to enjoy a Christmas break by the sea.

For a relaxing festive stay, both The Kingswood Hotel and The Elizabeth Hotel offer a welcoming base in the heart of Sidmouth. Enjoy comfortable accommodation, delicious food and easy access to the town’s independent shops, seafront and seasonal festivities, making it easy to enjoy everything Sidmouth has to offer over the Christmas period.

Explore our places to stay in Sidmouth and start planning your festive getaway.

Christmas Shopping

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Christmas shopping in Sidmouth is a great opportunity to discover independent businesses, find thoughtful gifts and support local traders. From unique handmade products and festive decorations to artwork, clothing and delicious treats, the town offers plenty of inspiration for finding something special for friends and family.

Make time to explore Sidmouth's independent shops and discover a range of gifts you won't necessarily find on the high street elsewhere. You can also enjoy the town's late-night shopping event on Saturday 21 November, with participating businesses staying open into the evening.

Christmas shopping at Kennaway

Looking for something a little different this Christmas? Kennaway is opening its galleries to a selection of small businesses and independent traders, creating a space to discover a variety of unique gifts, handmade products and festive treats.

Visitors can browse an eclectic collection of items, including children's clothing, Christmas decorations, glassware, cards, journals, artwork, prints, jams, chutneys, chocolate, alpaca products and wooden gifts.

There will also be opportunities to pick up French patisserie, deli produce, festive cakes and other seasonal treats. With such a varied selection of independent traders, Kennaway is a great place to find something special while supporting small businesses in Sidmouth.

Gift vouchers at Green Room Healing

Looking for a thoughtful Christmas gift? Green Room Healing will have gift vouchers available, offering a lovely way to treat someone special to a little time for themselves. Whether you're shopping for a friend or family member, a gift voucher is a thoughtful present for anyone who deserves some rest and relaxation this Christmas.

Festive Food & Drink

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Christmas is the perfect time to enjoy good food and drink, whether you're planning a festive get-together, treating yourself to a seasonal meal or looking for somewhere to relax after a day exploring Sidmouth.

From Christmas menus and seasonal treats to warming drinks and festive refreshments, there are plenty of ways to enjoy a taste of the season during your visit.

Christmas Dining in Sidmouth

Celebrate the festive season at one of Sidmouth's top restaurants. If you're looking for a comforting Italian meal, family-run restaurant Roma will be offering a special Christmas menu throughout December. If seafood is more to your taste, Myca's Seafood & Grill will also be tailoring their menu to the Christmas season, serving up fresh festive flavours for all to enjoy. Book a table now and don't miss out on the festivities! 

Book Roma here.

Book Myca's here.

Celebrate Christmas with delicious festive food, beautiful sea views and warm Devon hospitality at The Kingswood Hotel. Perfect for work parties, family gatherings and festive get-togethers for up to 75 guests. Lunch and dinner bookings are available from 1st–23rd December 2026. View the menu here.

Winter Walks

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Wrap up warm and enjoy the fresh sea air with a winter walk in Sidmouth. The town's beautiful coastal setting makes it a wonderful place to explore during the colder months, from strolls along the seafront and picturesque promenade to scenic routes along the Jurassic Coast and through the surrounding East Devon countryside. Take in the dramatic coastal views, discover the area's natural beauty and enjoy a quieter side of Sidmouth away from the summer crowds. Whether you're looking for a gentle stroll or a more challenging countryside walk, there are plenty of ways to get outdoors and make the most of winter by the sea.

Click here to view waking routes

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