The best Christmas events in the South West

The festive season is one of the most magical times to explore the South West. From sparkling Christmas markets and illuminated gardens to festive train rides and family-friendly attractions, there's no shortage of seasonal events taking place across Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset.

Whether you're planning a festive family day out, looking for the perfect Christmas market, or hoping to find a new holiday tradition, the South West offers something for everyone.

Pack up your Mercedes-Benz, gather your loved ones, and discover some of the region's most anticipated Christmas events and attractions.

Christmas Events in Devon

Devon comes alive during the festive period, with Christmas lights, seasonal markets, and winter attractions appearing across the county.

Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market

One of the South West's most popular festive destinations, Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market typically fills the city centre with traditional wooden chalets, artisan gifts, festive food, and seasonal entertainment. Set against the stunning backdrop of Exeter Cathedral, it's the perfect place to soak up the Christmas atmosphere.

Visitors can browse a wide range of independent traders selling handcrafted gifts, jewellery, decorations, local produce and Christmas treats. The surrounding city centre also offers excellent shopping, festive lights and plenty of cosy cafés, making Exeter an ideal destination for a full festive day out. Whether you're looking for unique Christmas presents or simply want to enjoy a mulled wine while admiring the cathedral, this market is a must-visit.

Pennywell Farm Christmas Experience

Located near Buckfastleigh, Pennywell Farm's Christmas event has become a favourite with families. Visitors can usually enjoy festive entertainment, animal experiences, Christmas-themed activities, and opportunities to meet Father Christmas.

A highlight of the season is Pennywell's immersive Christmas experience, where children can enjoy festive storytelling, seasonal shows and hands-on animal encounters. From meeting the farm's famous miniature pigs to discovering festive surprises around every corner, there's plenty to keep younger visitors entertained. The combination of Christmas magic and a traditional farm experience makes Pennywell one of Devon's most memorable festive attractions.

RHS Garden Rosemoor Glow

RHS Garden Rosemoor regularly transforms into a winter wonderland with illuminated trails, seasonal displays, and festive shopping opportunities, making it an excellent evening experience during the run-up to Christmas.

As darkness falls, visitors can wander through beautifully lit pathways featuring colourful light installations that bring the gardens to life. Seasonal food and drink add to the atmosphere, while the garden centre and gift shop offer plenty of Christmas shopping inspiration. It's a fantastic option for couples, families and anyone looking to enjoy a festive evening surrounded by nature.

Christmas Events in Cornwall

Cornwall's picturesque towns and coastal settings provide a unique backdrop for festive celebrations.

Truro Christmas Festival

Truro is renowned for its festive atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy Christmas shopping, seasonal events, festive entertainment, and beautifully decorated streets throughout December at Truro Christmas Market.

Set in the heart of Cornwall's only city, the market showcases a variety of local makers, artisan food producers and independent retailers. Live music, festive performances and twinkling lights help create a magical atmosphere for visitors of all ages. Combine your visit with a stroll through Truro's historic streets and you'll discover why it's one of Cornwall's favourite Christmas destinations.

Eden Project Christmas Experience

The Eden Project offers a packed programme of festive activities, including seasonal displays, family entertainment, and immersive winter experiences. It remains one of Cornwall's most popular attractions during the festive period.

The iconic biomes provide a unique backdrop for Christmas celebrations, with festive decorations, family activities and special seasonal events often taking place throughout December. Visitors can explore tropical environments while experiencing a completely different take on Christmas, making it an ideal choice for families looking for something beyond the traditional market experience.

Mousehole Harbour Lights

A beloved Cornish tradition, Mousehole Harbour Lights attracts visitors from across the UK each year. Thousands of lights illuminate the harbour, creating one of the most photographed Christmas displays in the region.

The picturesque fishing village becomes even more enchanting after dark as colourful festive displays reflect across the water. The narrow streets, independent shops and charming waterfront setting make Mousehole the perfect place to embrace the festive spirit. Arriving early allows visitors to enjoy the village before the lights switch on and the harbour comes alive with colour.

Bodmin & Wenford Railway

Step back in time with a festive railway experience through the Cornish countryside. Christmas train journeys are often available throughout December and are especially popular with families looking to meet Father Christmas.

Travelling aboard heritage carriages adds a nostalgic touch to the festive season, offering families the chance to enjoy spectacular rural views while creating lasting memories. Special seasonal departures often include festive entertainment, gifts for children and opportunities to meet Santa during the journey. It's a magical experience that captures the charm of traditional Christmas celebrations.

Christmas Events in Somerset

From festive shopping to magical family experiences, Somerset offers plenty to enjoy during the holiday season.

Bath Christmas Market

Just on the edge of the South West region, Bath Christmas Market remains one of the UK's most iconic festive destinations. Visitors can browse hundreds of independent traders while enjoying seasonal food, drink, and entertainment throughout the city.

The historic Georgian streets provide a stunning backdrop for festive shopping, with stalls selling everything from artisan crafts and handmade gifts to gourmet food and festive decorations. Combined with Bath's famous attractions, restaurants and beautiful architecture, it's easy to turn a market visit into a memorable Christmas weekend away.

Taunton Christmas Lights & Festive Events

Somerset Winter Wonderland includes festive markets, entertainment, family attractions, and seasonal shopping opportunities in the town centre.

This popular festive attraction offers something for all ages, from Christmas shopping and festive food stalls to family-friendly entertainment and seasonal activities. Visitors can enjoy a lively festive atmosphere while exploring the various attractions on offer, making it a great place to kick-start the Christmas celebrations or enjoy a festive day out with friends and family.

Wookey Hole Christmas Experience

Wookey Hole's festive event is a popular choice for families, featuring seasonal activities, festive shows, and opportunities to meet Father Christmas in a magical cave setting.

The famous caves become a festive wonderland during the Christmas season, creating a unique backdrop for holiday adventures. Families can enjoy seasonal entertainment, interactive experiences and festive surprises throughout the attraction. The combination of Christmas magic and one of Somerset's most famous visitor attractions makes this a truly unforgettable day out.

Longleat Festival of Light

A short drive from Somerset, Longleat's Festival of Lighthas become one of the UK's most impressive Christmas events, featuring spectacular illuminated displays, themed attractions, and festive family entertainment.

Known for its large-scale lantern displays and immersive light installations, the festival transforms the Longleat estate into a dazzling festive experience. Visitors can often combine the event with a visit to the safari park, seasonal performances and festive food offerings, making it one of the most complete Christmas days out available in the South West. Families travelling from across Devon, Cornwall and Somerset frequently make Longleat a highlight of their festive calendar.

Tips for Visiting Christmas Events in the South West

Before setting off on your festive adventure:

• Check event websites for confirmed dates and ticket availability.
• Book popular attractions early to avoid disappointment.
• Allow extra travel time during weekends and school holidays.
• Charge your electric vehicle in advance and plan charging stops if travelling longer distances.
• Consider weekday visits for a quieter experience.

Explore the South West This Christmas

The South West truly shines during the festive season. Whether you're wandering through Christmas markets in Exeter, admiring harbour lights in Cornwall, or enjoying festive family days out in Somerset, there are endless opportunities to create memorable moments with family and friends.

At Mercedes-Benz South West, we're proud to be part of the communities that make this region so special. Wherever your Christmas adventures take you this year, we wish you a safe, happy, and magical festive season.