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The top 5 places to do your Christmas shopping in Devon

16th November 2018

Categories: Visitor News

The top 5 places to do your Christmas shopping in Devon

You might think you know all the best places to grab the latest clothes and gadgets in Devon with the vast array of high streets and shopping malls, but if you’re looking for some truly special gifts that are unique and thoughtful here are our top tips.

Image - Totnes

Totnes

Totnes is easily the most interesting shopping experience Devon has to offer, its cool, creative and a little alternative, full of hand made original items from laid back independent retailers. You can stay over at one of Beyond Escape’s lodges or apartments and take advantage of their spa and restaurant facilities to keep you energised while exploring all those quirky shops. During the run up to Christmas, the shops in Totnes open late and the Christmas Market is a joy to look around. While you’re in Totnes…

Image by Shops at Dartington

Dartington

Right next to Totnes is Dartington where you’ll find the Dartington Centre which is great for anyone looking for arts, crafts and those special gifts you won’t find elsewhere. The Shops at Dartington are a great place for all the family with fifteen shops and restaurants selling locally made gifts and food. They also offer year round outdoor activities to keep the kids amused while you browse. The Dartington Centre is the home of local artists so you’ll be able to see some incredible work and listen to music compositions. Staying in Dartington is easy with Dartington Hall where you have your choice of accommodation, there are even several food options for you including the White Hart at Dartington where you’ll find seasonal a la carte menus.

Image by Trago Mills

Trago Mills

If you’re after a bargain, Trago Mills is the place to go. You’ll find lots of choice and low prices on all manner of things, where you can get everything from toys to home ware to clothes to technology. If you want somewhere to rest your head and store all your shopping before heading home, book a room at Bulleigh Barton Manor, an AA five star rated B&B in Newton Abbot. While there are plenty of opportunities to eat while at the Trago Mills store, you might want to stop off at Home Farm Café for a spot of brunch, it’s located on the edge of the Dartmoor National Park giving you fantastic views, even in the depths of winter.

Image by Princesshay

Princesshay

Sometimes the Christmas lists your given feature items you can only find in a more traditional shopping centre, the Princesshay in Exeter has over 70 stores including big brands as well as smaller independent and regional retailers. As shopping here puts you in the heart of Exeter, you’re surrounded by top attractions and eateries to help you make a real day (or weekend!) of it. Exeter Cathedral is one of the oldest and most beautiful in England, even the winter weather can’t stop it looking impressive, so be sure to search it out. You’re also near Crealy Adventure Park if you need somewhere to put the kids for a few hours while buying them treats from Santa. There are lots of food options within the Princesshay complex, but if none of that takes your fancy, treat yourself to some fine dining at the Devon Hotel, where you can sample dishes from around the world or get a carvery every day of the week!

Fleetwalk

This shopping arcade is in the heart of Torquay town centre with the harbour offering an amazing backdrop whatever the weather. You’ll find over 50 of the highstreets most popular names alongside specialist and independent retailers, giving you the very best of both worlds, as well as the opportunity to stop in one of the many eateries and cafes that line the streets. Plus, for anyone travelling by train, it is an easy walk from the rail station. Torquay is full of fun things to do if you get a bit bored and need a break from shopping, such as Living Coasts which is open every day and is home to a magnificent array of marine life from around the world. You’ll even get to get up close and personal with their family of penguins! Chill out after your busy day at the Headland Hotel and Spa, located in one of the most elegant parts of Torquay offering views across Torbay.

So, if you’ve still got lots to do in preparation for Christmas, be sure to book a trip to Devon and tick everything off your lists!