Why not make 2016 different by treating yourself to a pre-Christmas break? Sometimes it’s nice to get away before the Christmas build up and spend it somewhere fresh and exciting.
 
A well-timed getaway to our cottages in East Devon could be the perfect antidote, especially if you want to treat the family to a wealth of unmissable festive events.
 
East Devon is a delight in November and December as it swaps its beach towels and suncream for baubles and baklava!
 
From Christmas markets and pantomimes to winter cruises and plenty of unique Santa experiences, here are eight of our favourite Devon Christmas events, bound to get you in the festive mood.

1 Exeter’s Christmas Markets

Set against the backdrop of the majestic cathedral, a visit to Exeter’s Christmas Market is a must. Situated in the historic setting of Cathedral Green, the market runs from November 19 to December 18. If the hog roast isn’t enough to tempt you, the 50 plus stalls serving up a variety of crafted gifts and sumptuous fare will! Elsewhere in the city the Christmas buzz continues with interesting and quality offerings from the traders at Fore Street and Castle Street markets (November 26 – December 21), the Christmas Shopping Fayre at Westpoint Exeter (November 25-27) and the Inside Outside Christmas Market on the historic Quayside (November 26-27). Exmouth events include the Winter Wonders Shopping Fair on November 17 at Exmouth Pavilion. Check here for information on all the wonderful markets.

2 Michaelmas Fair at Powderham Castle

Powderham Castle in Autumn by Ted and Jen

On November 3, Powderham Castle will form the fabulous backdrop to a unique shopping event with many things you won’t find on the High Street. The event is being run as a fundraiser for the Soldiers charity ABF (Army Benevolent Fund) so you can shop and be inspired all for a good cause. Guaranteed to get you in a Christmassy mood and tick those presents off your list for friends or family – or even yourself!

3 Santa Encounters

Image courtesy of Crealy Adventure Park

No Christmas is complete without a visit to see Santa Claus! Treat the kids to a magical moment with the man himself at Otter Nurseries in Ottery St Mary (selected dates from November 19-December 24), or join him in his warm and cosy grotto for Santa’s Interactive Storytime at Crealy Adventure Park(December 3-23). Bicton Park Botanical Gardens also has a host of pre-Christmas activities for the whole family from December 10-17, including opportunities to take Breakfast or Afternoon Tea with Santa. Please check the individual websites for opening times and booking details.

4 Christmas at Killerton

This year, the National Trust’s Killerton estate is celebrating Christmas by transforming the beautiful house into a whole new ‘Grimm’ light. From November 19 – January 5 you can journey through rooms inspired by some traditional fairytales by the Brothers Grimm. Continue the magic outdoors with a magical Grimm-themed activity trail under twinkling lights. Check their website for information on timed tickets available this year and their packed programme of festive events.

5 Christmas Fair at The Donkey Sanctuary

Image courtesy of The Donkey Sanctuary

Make a friend for life by supporting The Donkey Sanctuary‘s fabulously festive Christmas Fair weekend event on November 26-27. Raising money for its incredible work worldwide, kick-start your Christmas shopping or simply treat yourself with a wide range of crafts, gifts and delicious edible treats on sale. This great day out for all the family has the added bonus of meeting some very cute donkeys! Santa and his reindeer (donkeys!) will be on hand to meet your little ones who’ll receive a lovely gift.
 
The Donkey Sanctuary by Candlelight on December 9 has a wonderful cosy atmosphere and quite literally glows. Donkeys quietly rest in their stables whilst people mill around the grounds walking through candlelit pathways and displays. The carol service in the main barn adds an exciting and special Christmas feel to the event.

6 Sail with Santa

Image courtesy of Stuart Line Cruises

For something different, try Stuart Line’s ‘Sail with Santa’ trips from Exmouth between November 28 – January 1. Meet Santa on a festively decorated boat with tinselled crew! During the hour-long cruise on the River Exe, mums and dads can witness the look of delight on their children’s faces as they visit Santa in his on-board grotto. Parents can also enjoy mulled wine, mince pies and an informative commentary while children are treated to some great activities including magic, music, face painting and balloon modelling, all topped off with refreshments. With Festive Special River Cruises on offer too, you’re spoilt for choice. Please visit their website for sailing dates and times.

7 The Polar Express by Tram

Image courtesy of Seaton Tramway

For a memorable experience for your little’uns, the Polar Express Tram Ride on the Seaton Tramway is a must. Just like everyone’s favourite Christmas movie, you are welcome to turn up for your trip to the North Pole in your jim jams! During the trip, sing along with all the songs and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies served by the dancing chefs. Santa and his happy elves are there to dish out a special gift for each child. On selected dates between December 2-24; find out more by clicking this link.

8 Entertainment

Laugh, sing, boo and hiss at the family pantomimes in Exeter this festive season. Escape to Neverland with Exeter Northcott Theatre and the boy who never grew up in their production of Peter Pan between December 2 – January 1. Or head to Exeter Corn Exchange to see Beauty and the Beast from December 10 – January 1. The classic fairytale romance is filled with unmissable magic and hilarious comedy. Alternatively, follow the Yellow Brick Road to Exmouth Pavilion for their wizardly wonderful take on The Wizard of Oz between December 24 – January 2.

Need a place to stay?

Apple Mill

A few days away from your daily routine at our East Devon cottages will leave you with a spring in your step, ready to tackle the tangled Christmas-tree lights and piles of presents to wrap. Our gorgeous cottages are within 30 minutes’ drive of all these exciting Devon Christmas events.