Christmas & New Year on the English Riviera

The English Riviera is the perfect place to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s by the sea. Throughout December, the English Riviera glows with festive lights, Christmas markets, and charm that really makes the season special. From harbour towns like Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham to the beaches and coastal walks, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re here for a winter getaway, a family celebration, or to welcome New Year’s in style. The English Riviera offers the perfect blend of seaside and Christmas spirit.

Christmas on the English Riviera

As well as Christmas lights being switched on across the Bay, there’s the Bay of Light Illumiunation Trail in Torquay, featuring glittering surprises and a 12ft musical Christmas tree. And over in Brixham, there's the wonderful Lanterns, Lights and ‘Luminations, a wonderful festival and market celebrating the annual Christmas light switch on in the traditional fishing village. Meanwhile Santa is kept very busy at a variety of unique grottos across the Bay.

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 Events and Where to Meet Santa

You are spoilt for choice when it comes to Christmas events across Torquay, Paignton and Brixham. Every year attractions and restaurants host an array of Christmas events that will get you in the Christmas Spirit. Below you will find a list of all Christmas events happening throughout the festive season - from the Train of Lights, pantomimes, Father Christmas visits and more. 

Christmas Markets 

Throughout November and December you will find a huge array of Christmas markets across Paignton, Torquay and Brixham. Explore local stalls and gifts, try some delicious food and drink and make a start on your Christmas shopping! A new Christmas Market this year is the Quaywest Christmas Market and Festive Friday running 28th November - 20th December. In Torquay, there is the Winter Fest in the Barn which is a beautiful gift and craft fair in the Spanish Barn in Torre Abbey. As part of the Bay of Lights festival, the Christmas Market at Torre Abbey has over 30 local stalls to browse as you walk through the Trail of Lights. In Brixham, explore the Christmas Craft Fayre - Lupton House hosted over 2 weekends at the end of november and beginning of December. Discover all Christmas markets in our event list below. 

Where to Celebrate New Year’s Eve 

Come and celebrate the New Year in style with friends and family. New Year’s Eve on the English Riviera will be one to remember, bring in the new year right on the coast at one of our restaurants, bars or hotels. Known for its stunning location and charming nightlife - is there a better combination that New Year’s Eve on The English Riviera!? 

There is something suave and sophisticated about dressing up and treating yourself to a stunning dining experience at New Year. Get dressed up, enjoy some amazing food and have a dance until the clocks strike (and beyond!). There will be plenty of venues who offer such a place. Please do keep checking our website for updates on New Year’s Eve events in Torquay, Paignton or Brixham.

There are lots of stunning places to stay for New Year’s Eve in Torquay, Paignton or Brixham. Many of the hotels offer accommodation packages for the festive season so its always worth checking their own websites for the best deals.

Winter Breaks and Coastal Stays

Winter is a great time to Visit the English Riviera. The coastal scenery in winter is stunning - rolling waves, dramatic skies - nothing blows away the cobwebs more than a blustery walk followed by a fireside local pub lunch. A winters break on the English Riviera lets you slow down, relax and enjoy some much needed relaxation. Many accommodation providers do some great Winter Escapes packages so you can be sure to get a bargain. Discover our special Winter Breaks on the English Riviera.