While Devon is known for being a great summer holiday destination in the UK, the county is equally special in the winter, offering a quieter getaway that still provides plenty to do.
We take a look at just a few of the things to do in Devon in the winter.
1. Visit Dartmoor National Park
Dartmoor becomes a winter wonderland with its frosty landscapes and serene atmosphere. Enjoy winter walks along snow-dusted trails and watch for Dartmoor ponies amidst the scenic beauty. When it snows you might have the chance to go sledding on Dartmoor too!
2. Enjoy a Cosy Pub Lunch by the Fire
Warm up in one of Devon’s many traditional pubs. Enjoy a hearty meal and local ales by a roaring fireplace. This is the perfect way to recharge after an invigorating winter walk in Devon.
3. Explore Castle Drogo’s Christmas Decorations
Castle Drogo, the last castle built in England, is adorned with festive decorations in winter. Enjoy the Christmas decor as you explore the castle, and walk through the frosty gardens. Father Christmas usually pays a visit to the Castle for children to meet and share their Christmas wishes with. There are also festive-themed hunts and trails for families to follow.
4. Explore the Exeter Christmas Market
Exeter Christmas Market, set against the stunning backdrop of the cathedral, is a festive highlight. Shop for unique gifts, enjoy seasonal street food and soak up the holiday spirit.
5. Visit the RHS Garden Rosemoor’s Glow
RHS Garden Rosemoor in Great Torrington hosts the annual Glow event, featuring spectacular light displays in the gardens. Explore the illuminated trails and enjoy festive treats in the café.
6. Hike the South West Coast Path
Winter hikes on the South West Coast Path offer breathtaking views without the summer crowds. The stretch between Hope Cove and Salcombe is especially scenic, with dramatic cliffs and sea views.
7. Ride the Dartmouth Steam Railway’s Christmas Train
The Dartmouth Steam Railway offers special Christmas journeys. Experience the magic of a vintage steam train ride along the picturesque coast, complete with festive decorations and holiday treats.
8. Take a Winter Beach Walk
Devon’s beaches are tranquil in winter. Walk along the windswept shores of Woolacombe or Saunton Sands on the North Coast, where you can enjoy the crisp sea air and dramatic coastal scenery. On the South Coast, Exmouth and Dawlish Warren offer delightful walks that will be much quieter in the winter months.
9. Go Ice Skating in Plymouth’s Winter Wonderland
Plymouth City Centre hosts a Winter Wonderland with an ice rink, festive stalls, and holiday entertainment. Skate under twinkling lights and soak up the Christmas atmosphere.
10. Visit Lydford Gorge’s Winter Scenery
Lydford Gorge’s dramatic scenery is even more striking in winter. Take a walk to the Whitelady Waterfall and enjoy the beauty of nature there. If you’re lucky it may even be covered in frost and snow.
11. Attend a Pantomime
Winter in Devon is panto season! Enjoy traditional pantomimes at theatres like the Princess Theatre in Torquay or the Exeter Northcott Theatre, featuring fun for the whole family.
12. Explore Haldon Forest Park’s Wintery Trails
Haldon Forest Park is a great place for winter outdoor activities. Walk, cycle, or ride along the frosty trails, and then warm up at the visitor centre’s café.
13. Explore Powderham’s Christmas at the Castle
Powderham Castle near Exeter is transformed into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. Enjoy the dazzling Illuminated Light Walk that sees the grounds aglow with Christmas lights, experience the impressive house decorated in its festive finest and pay a visit to Santa’s Grotto. There’s also delicious food and drinks available from local traders, plus live music.
14. Go Birdwatching at Exminster Marshes
Winter is a great time for birdwatching in Devon. Visit RSPB reserves like Exminster Marshes to see a variety of wintering birds in their natural habitat.
15. Take a Cookery Class
A perfect indoor activity for the winter months, taking a cookery class is a fun way to spend the day in a warm and cosy place. Learn new culinary skills at Ashburton Cookery School, where there are themed cuisine days or classes to learn a specific cooking technique. In the run-up to Christmas, participate in a festive-themed class, such as baking seasonal treats or preparing a holiday feast.
16. Visit Buckfast Abbey
Buckfast Abbey is a serene place to visit in winter. Attend a service, explore the beautifully decorated abbey, and visit the on-site shop for unique gifts.
17. Visit the Royal Albert Memorial Museum
The Royal Albert Memorial Museum in Exeter offers fascinating exhibits that display a diverse collection in areas such as zoology, anthropology, fine art, local and foreign archaeology and geology. Spend a day inside exploring art, history, and natural sciences in this cultural gem.
18. Go Horse Riding in Dartmoor’s Winter Landscape
Experience Dartmoor’s winter landscape on horseback. Several stables offer guided rides through the frosty moors, providing a unique way to explore the area.
19. Indulge in a Devon Cream Tea
Cosy up with a traditional Devon cream tea. Enjoy freshly baked scones, clotted cream, and jam or indulge in a whole afternoon tea! Visit Mill End Hotel on Dartmoor for a delightful afternoon tea with Devon scones and enjoy it in our cosy lounge by the fire.
20. Discover Totnes Markets
Totnes transforms during the holiday season with its Christmas markets. Enjoy live music, street food, and stalls selling unique handmade gifts in this charming town known for its bohemian spirit. After Christmas, the town still holds weekly markets that are well worth a visit.
21. Visit the Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth
The Donkey Sanctuary near Sidmouth is open year-round and offers exciting winter wonderland trails from November to February. Meet the resident donkeys, enjoy winter walks, and participate in festive activities for all ages.
22. Ride the Seaton Tramway’s Polar Express
The Seaton Tramway transforms into the Polar Express during the holiday season. Take a magical tram ride through the Axe Valley, complete with festive decorations and Christmas activities.
23. Visit Saltram House’s Christmas Display
Saltram House near Plymouth is beautifully decorated for Christmas. Explore the grand rooms adorned with festive decorations, enjoy seasonal events, and take a walk in the frosty gardens.
24. Go Star Gazing in Dartmoor National Park
Dartmoor National Park is designated a Dark Sky Reserve, making it perfect for stargazing, and winter is one of the best times of year to see the night sky. Visit during a clear night to see constellations, planets, and even meteor showers.
25. Explore the Tarka Trail in Winter
The Tarka Trail offers beautiful winter walks and cycling routes across North Devon. Enjoy the frosty countryside and tranquil scenery along this historic railway line.
These are just a handful of things you can get up to when visiting Devon in the winter – the county is packed full of activities – from attractions to natural wonders! Our hotel in Chagford is an ideal base for exploration, especially if you want to spend some time amidst the winter scenery of Dartmoor National Park.