Christmas on the English Riviera

Twinkly lights reflecting on the crystal-clear waters. Brisk walks along the award-winning beaches. And cosy country and waterside pub settings with roaring log fires to cuddle up in front of. Christmas and New Year are a great time to visit the English Riviera. The wide range of tourist attractions in Torquay, Paignton and Brixham put on a glittering selection of parties, events and festivities in the lead up to the holiday season - perfect for all the family. As well as Christmas lights being switched on across the Bay, there’s a Christmas carnival in Torquay and Lanterns, Lights and ‘Luminations in Brixham. Meanwhile Santa is kept very busy at a variety of unique grottos across the Bay.

Christmas in Devon

If you’re planning to spend Christmas in Devon, you’re in for a treat. You’ll experience winter woodlands and 22 miles of stunning coastline, forming part of the South West Coast Path, for brisk and refreshing walks. You’ll find breath-taking scenery, a wealth of award-winning country pubs and fine dining restaurants, excellent high street shopping and independent traders selling splendid locally produced goods. Top quality accommodation and attractions pull out all the stops and add those little extra touches to make your Christmas in Devon extra special. Families, groups, couples and dog lovers are all catered for here.

Christmas breaks in Torquay

If you’re looking for a festive getaway during the winter season, Torquay has lots to offer. There’s an impressive range of accommodation available in the resort with first-class hotels and B&Bs, self-catering and holiday parks offering adult only, family friendly and dog friendly options, all within close proximity of the resort’s amenities and within easy access to public transport. 

The microclimate on the English Riviera means that the winters are generally mild so spending a Christmas break could even involve a stroll on the beach to walk off all those delicious festive indulgences.

Christmas breaks in Brixham

The picturesque setting of Brixham Harbour adorned with sparkling lights and ‘luminations as the locals say, creates the perfect festive break by the sea. This charming coastal town has lots going on with some award-winning B&B’s and hotels providing guest rooms with wonderful sea views of Brixham and across the Bay. After the delicious helpings of Christmas Pudding and glass or two of sherry take a refreshing walk to nearby Berry Head Nature Reserve and let the fresh Devon air blow off the cobwebs and the stunning coastal scenery stimulate your appetite for another visit to the English Riviera.

Christmas breaks in Paignton

Book a Christmas break in Paignton and you’ll find plenty of seaside seasonal treats and festive celebrations. Many hotels and B&Bs have fantastic central locations, are within easy walking distance of Paignton seafront and provide fantastic evening entertainment including yuletide quizzes, games and bingo. Pantomime season at Paignton’s Palace Theatre is a firm favourite with visitors, families and groups returning each year. Many local holiday parks also provide festive packages during the winter season. Board a steam train from Paignton station for some extra sparkle and festive fun on Dartmouth Steam Railway’s Train of Lights with some spectacular sights along the way.

Christmas at Cockington

Cockington Country Park is a beautiful place to visit over the winter months, while in the lead up to Christmas you can expect seasonal fun and activities every weekend. Enjoy pop-up family activities, Christmas trails, and resident artists and makers selling unique handmade gifts including jewellery, chocolate, slate gifts, traditional wooden toys, hand crafted leather goods, ceramics, mosaics and much more. And don't forget to enjoy some indulgent treats in the tea-rooms. 

For lots more Christmas and New Year themed events visit our events page.