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Christmas markets in Devon

24th October 2018

Categories: Visitor News

Christmas markets in Devon

There is something nostalgic and kind of magical visiting a Christmas market, perhaps it’s the smell of mulled wine being prepared of just the cold air nipping at you as you browse stalls covered in fairy lights. Either way, there are plenty of markets for you to explore when in Devon.

For traditional markets:

Head to Newton Abbot, as a traditional market town, they always put on a traditional feeling Christmas market. The pedestrianised area of the town centre is full of stalls and many of the shops stay open late. As if that wasn’t enough of a festive atmosphere, towards the end of the evening there is a lantern parade that goes through the main street!

Being in Newton Abbot means you can take advantage of staying at Gidleigh Park, which is a luxurious hotel on the edge of the Dartmoor National Park. The hotel has a gorgeous restaurant and stunning grounds perfect for relaxing in during those dark winter mornings while waiting for the market to open. Bovey Castle is also nearby and what could make the outing more magical than staying in an actual castle at Christmas? If you need to get a few more gifts before heading home, Trago Mills isn’t far and you could always see if there is a race on at Newton Abbot Racecourse and have a little flutter too.

Newton Abbot’s Christmas Market and Lantern Parade takes place on 12^th December.

Alternatively, Totnes is another town known for its quirky shops and retains much of its original charm. The Christmas Market at Totnes is one of the most popular of Devon’s markets and offers food, entertainment and market stalls starting at the bottom of the main hill and leading to the top of town. Totnes is a great place to visit if you’re looking for some unusual gifts, so make a few days of it to really get a feel of the place and the market. Beyond Escapes Devon is an ideal place to stay as it combines spa facilities, great food and interesting accommodation giving you everything you might need for a few days away before Christmas. You could always combine your Christmas shopping trip with visiting a few of Devon’s big attractions, such as Paignton Zoo, which isn’t that far from Totnes. If you don’t mind the journey, visiting the Millbrook Inn will guarantee you a great meal in beautiful surroundings.

The Totnes Christmas Market starts on 25^th November.

For inner city markets:

Sometimes you want to combine your market browsing with the high street, if so, you’ll want to visit some of Devon’s city Christmas markets. Exeter’s market is one of the larger of Devon’s markets. There are stalls and chalets offering a whole host of interesting products. Put your feet up at Amberley Bed and Breakfast, where you can find a welcoming and comforting place to stay. Or for those wanting a self-catering apartment, Riviera Apartments are easily accessible to Exeter, as well as within easy reach of Shaldon, Teignmouth, Dartmouth, Torbay and Dartmoor. To while away the hours before the market starts, you could always visit Devon’s Guild of Craftsmen. With free entry, this is a contemporary crafts venue with galleries and cafes to explore. Exeter is full of great places to eat and visit but you can always head to Home Farm Café for a spot of brunch.

Exeter’s Christmas Market is running from 15^th November to 16^th December.

Image by Exeter Christmas Market

There’s also Plymouth’s Christmas market, which is a focus on local businesses there are over 50 log cabins full of different products from great tasting food and handmade crafts and gifts. The market can be found on Plymouth’s main shopping street, so you can’t miss it. If you want a stylish and relaxing break while you visit, stay with Rooms by Bistrot Pierre which is in the historic Royal William Yard. Nearby is also the 16^th Century Manor House, Langdon Court Hotel and Restaurant where you can stay over and sample some of the most amazing menus on offer. When in Plymouth, there is no excuse not to visit Plymouth Gin for a little tipple and perhaps pick up a few Christmas gifts!

Plymouth’s Christmas Market starts on 30^th November and runs until 21^st December.

Image by Plymouth Christmas Market

These aren’t the only Christmas events going on in the county, you’ll find Christmas markets, light switch on events, festivals, fairs and more all over, from events held at RHS Rosemoor, to the return of the Polar Express.