Best Christmas Markets in Devon: The Ultimate 2025 Guide

From Exeter Cathedral Green to the seaside promenades of Plymouth and the historic lanes of Totnes, Devon knows how to celebrate Christmas. As November arrives, towns and cities across the county transform into twinkling winter scenes, with stalls, lights, music and the scent of mulled wine in the air.

This guide brings together the main Christmas markets and festive fairs across Devon for 2025, with venues, dates and a summary of what to expect at each. It’s perfect for planning a festive day out, a winter weekend away, or simply browsing for locally made gifts and treats.

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Dates and programmes are subject to change. Always confirm before you travel.

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Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market 2025

Venue: Cathedral Green, Exeter
Dates: Thursday 20 November – Friday 19 December 2025

The Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market remains Devon’s largest and best-known festive event. Set beneath the cathedral’s illuminated towers, it combines old-world atmosphere with a modern mix of artisan stalls and international street food. Around 100 wooden chalets line Cathedral Green, selling gifts, decorations, handmade crafts and local produce from across the West Country.

The setting makes it special, the lights reflecting off the cathedral stone, carols in the background, and the aroma of festive food drifting through the air. Visitors can sample everything from Devon cheeses and charcuterie to sweet pastries and spiced drinks.

Exeter’s market runs daily until 7pm (Sundays 5pm), with longer hours from Thursday to Saturday (9pm), making it easy to visit after work. The central location means easy access by train, bus, or park-and-ride. Weekday mornings are quieter, while Friday and Saturday evenings bring the best atmosphere.

If you are planning a full day, combine the market with a walk through Exeter’s historic quarter or a visit to the cathedral. For routes, sights and places to eat, see our Exeter travel guide and our full seasonal feature, Things to Do in Exeter at Christmas 2025.

This is the Devon market that captures the scale and sparkle of a traditional European Christmas fair, right in the heart of the city.

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Plymouth Christmas Market 2025

Venue: Armada Way and New George Street, Plymouth
Dates: Thursday 27 November – Sunday 21 December 2025

Plymouth’s Christmas Market fills the city centre with more than 60 traditional chalets, a big wheel, rides and a lively festive soundtrack. It’s a sociable market with a relaxed, family-friendly feel and plenty of food options, from international dishes to local produce.

Armada Way becomes a corridor of light, lined with stalls selling crafts, clothing, decorations, and unique gifts. Families will find vintage rides, festive games and the scent of roasting nuts in the air. In the evening, the market glows against the city lights and is an ideal stop after a day’s Christmas shopping.

Plymouth’s coastal location means you can combine the market with a visit to the Barbican or Hoe for views across the Sound. Plymouth is one of the most family-friendly Christmas markets in Devon, thanks to its level routes, wide pedestrian areas, and plenty of food choices. For anyone visiting the city, this market is a festive must.

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Totnes Christmas Markets and Late-Night Shopping

Venue: Totnes town centre – High Street, Market Square and Rotherfold
Dates: Tuesdays 2, 9 and 16 December 2025 (3pm to 9pm)

Totnes does Christmas its own way. On three consecutive Tuesday evenings in December, the town’s High Street comes alive with music, food, and stalls selling handmade goods. The event combines the best of a community fair and a proper Christmas market, with an emphasis on independent traders and creative local businesses.

The atmosphere is lively but relaxed. Expect live bands, street performers, mulled wine, and plenty of festive cheer. Many of the town’s independent shops open late so that visitors can browse gifts inside as well as at the outdoor stalls.

Parking is limited near the centre, so arrive early or travel by train and walk up from the station. The cobbled streets can be steep in places, so wear comfortable shoes. For those looking for something smaller, more personal, and full of local character, Totnes is the perfect choice.

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Tavistock Pannier Market and Christmas Events

Venue: Tavistock Pannier Market, Butchers’ Hall and Bedford Square
Dates: Throughout December 2025, with the main Christmas Festival on Sunday, 7 December 2025

Tavistock is one of Devon’s great market towns, and at Christmas it becomes a festive hub for the western edge of Dartmoor. The historic Pannier Market, Butchers’ Hall and the surrounding Bedford Square all take part in a busy seasonal programme that runs through December.

The headline event is the Tavistock Christmas Festival, organised by Miss Ivy Events, which fills the town centre on Sunday 7 December 2025. Expect artisan stalls, street food, music, family entertainment and plenty of local crafts. The market square and indoor halls are packed with gifts, decorations and seasonal produce from across the West Country.

Alongside the main festival, the Pannier Market runs extended Christmas trading hours through the month:

• Tuesdays to Saturdays: 10 am – 4 pm
• Special Sundays: 7th, 14th and 21st December – 10 am – 3 pm
• Extra Mondays: 15th and 22 nd December – 10 am – 4 pm
• Super Saturday: 27 December – a final post-Christmas market day

Visitors will find hand-crafted gifts, festive foods, textiles, local artwork, and traditional decorations within the Victorian-roofed market hall. Butchers’ Hall, next door, hosts pop-up makers’ markets and food producers, while Bedford Square provides an outdoor backdrop of lights and music.

Tavistock’s compact layout makes it easy to explore on foot. Parking is available at Meadowlands and Bedford Car Parks, but spaces go quickly on festival days, so arrive early. There are regular buses from Plymouth and Okehampton, and the riverside walk from the Wharf car park to the market is beautiful in winter light.

The mix of indoor and outdoor spaces means the event works whatever the weather. Whether you’re visiting for a festive day out or finishing your shopping, Tavistock combines heritage, atmosphere and plenty of Devon character, all framed by the moorland hills.

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Teignmouth Christmas Market

Venue: The Triangle and Bank Street, Teignmouth
Dates: Saturday 22 November 2025

Teignmouth’s one-day Christmas Market delivers plenty of festive fun in a compact, family-friendly setting. Held in the town’s Triangle and nearby streets, it features craft and food stalls, live music, rides and a visit from Father Christmas.

It’s a great event for young families, not too big or overwhelming, yet full of atmosphere. You can browse handmade decorations and gifts, stop for hot food or sweet treats, and then enjoy a walk along the seafront or pier.

Parking is limited on event day, so consider arriving by train from Exeter or Newton Abbot. Early birds will find easier parking and quieter stalls in the morning. The event runs through the day and usually finishes with carols and festive lights at dusk.

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Buckfast Abbey Christmas Market

Venue: Buckfast Abbey, Buckfastleigh
Dates: Thursday 27 – Saturday 29 November 2025

The setting alone makes this market worth visiting. Buckfast Abbey Christmas Market, right on the edge of Dartmoor, provides an atmospheric backdrop for a smaller, high-quality Christmas market. The stalls sit around the Abbey grounds, mixing handmade crafts, festive decorations and local food producers.

Visitors can pick up traditional gifts and sample mince pies, honey and chocolates. The market atmosphere is calm and welcoming, offering an alternative to the bustle of the city events.

Because it’s smaller, it’s ideal for couples, older visitors, or anyone seeking a slower pace. Combine it with a visit to the Abbey, a walk along the River Dart or a visit to nearby Ashburton for antiques and local cafés.

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Killerton – Christmas at the Estate

Venue: Killerton, Broadclyst near Exeter (National Trust)
Dates: 29 November 2025 – 4 January 2026 (closed 25 & 26 December; final hours 10:00–14:00 on Christmas Eve)

The historic estate of Killerton transforms for the festive season, offering beautifully decorated rooms, an outdoor trail and community-led displays. Inside the house, you’ll find traditional decorations, lush greenery, sparkling trees and a feature embroidery display from the Red Dress Project.

Outside, the gardens and parkland host a seasonal trail of games and activities, while the chapel features 12 Christmas trees decorated by local community groups.

The event is ideal for a relaxed festive outing. Dogs on short leads are welcome in the grounds (not in the house). Normal admission applies, and National Trust members gain free entry. Pre-booking is not required, although ‘quiet hour’ slots may apply for specific sessions.

For visitors, it works well paired with a woodland walk, photo stop in the estate parkland or a stop at the café and shop, which features a selection of Christmas gifts and local food treats.

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South Molton Pannier Market: Christmas Craft, Food and Gift Extravaganza

Venue: Pannier Market, South Molton
Dates: Sunday 30 November 2025 (10am – 3pm)

South Molton’s covered Pannier Market is a North Devon institution, and its Christmas fair is a highlight of the local calendar. Dozens of stalls fill the hall with handmade crafts, fresh produce and festive food.

Expect chutneys, cheeses, pies, cakes, wreaths and locally made decorations. Many stalls offer tasting samples, and you can pre-order Christmas hampers or meats from nearby farms. The market is under cover, so it’s a reliable choice if the weather turns wet.

Parking is available around the square, but spaces fill quickly near the start. The hall is level and accessible, making it suitable for visitors with mobility issues or pushchairs.

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More Christmas Markets and Fairs Across Devon

Smaller towns and villages also host one-off or weekend events that bring plenty of festive atmosphere:

• Moretonhampstead Christmas Market (29 November 2025): Moorland crafts, carols and food stalls in the town centre.
• Dartmouth Flavel Theatre Christmas Fair (date to be confirmed): Craft market inside the theatre with family activities.
• Wintertide in Buckfastleigh (29 November 2025): Artisan stalls, music and street food around Devonia Sheepskins Yard.
• Barnstaple Pannier Market Late Nights: Selected evenings in December with local produce, mulled wine and gift stalls.

Each offers something a little different — smaller crowds, strong local crafts and often the chance to chat directly with the makers.

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Planning Your Visit

When to Go

The Christmas market season in Devon runs from mid-November to just before Christmas. Early visitors will find quieter stalls and better parking. Mid-December weekends bring the best atmosphere but also the biggest crowds. Weekdays are ideal for families with small children or anyone who prefers to browse in peace.

What to Wear and Bring

Devon’s winter weather is unpredictable. Layer up with warm clothing and waterproofs, and wear comfortable shoes. You may be walking or standing for hours. A small backpack keeps hands free for tasting or carrying bags. Many traders accept card payments, but bring some cash for smaller purchases or charity collections.

Getting There and Parking

Public transport is good for the larger markets in Exeter, Plymouth and Totnes. Use park-and-ride schemes where possible. Smaller town and village events often have limited parking, so arrive early or share lifts. Always check local signage, as some streets close for market days.

Accessibility

City markets are generally level and wheelchair-friendly, though can get busy at peak times. Garden and rural venues vary; check event details for ramped access and accessible toilets.

Food and Drink

One of the joys of Christmas markets is eating your way around them. Devon’s events make the most of local produce, hog roasts, pasties, churros, fudge, cider and mulled wine. Try something local and seasonal, and if you find a small producer you like, take a business card for online orders later.

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Car-free visits and sustainable travel to Devon’s Christmas Markets

Leave the car at home and still enjoy the best Christmas markets in Devon. Trains, local buses, and park-and-ride services make city and town centres easy to reach. It is calmer, greener, and you spend more time browsing than parking.

Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market
Trains to Exeter St Davids and Exeter Central put you a short walk from Cathedral Green. Use Matford, Honiton Road or Sowton park and ride for quick buses into the centre.

Plymouth Christmas Market
Direct trains from Exeter, Totnes and Cornwall arrive close to Armada Way. Coypool, The George, and Milehouse park-and-ride sites run frequent services to the market area. The Hoe and Barbican are within easy walking distance.

Totnes Christmas markets and late-night shopping
The railway station is about ten minutes from the High Street. Buses link Newton Abbot, Paignton and Dartmouth. Evening road closures create a safe, pedestrian-friendly event.

Other car-free ideas
Teignmouth is minutes from the station to The Triangle. Tavistock has regular buses from Plymouth and is a short walk from Bedford Square to the Pannier Market. For Killerton, take the train to Exeter or Broadclyst and connect by local bus to the estate.

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Suggested One-Day Itineraries and Devon Christmas Market Weekend Break Ideas

A visit to Devon’s Christmas markets doesn’t have to be a quick stop. With so many towns close to the coast, moor and countryside, it’s easy to turn a few hours of browsing into a short festive break. Here are some of the best Devon Christmas market weekend break ideas, perfect for combining Christmas shopping, local food and a touch of winter atmosphere.

Exeter:

Arrive late morning for the Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market, where you can browse handmade crafts, West Country produce and winter street food. Spend time Christmas shopping in Princesshay and Gandy Street, where independent boutiques and gift shops line the streets. After lunch, visit the cathedral or take a short walk along the city’s historic quay. Stay overnight in central Exeter for the evening carols and the Christmas lights, or make a second-day trip to nearby Christmas at Killerton for the National Trust’s Christmas displays.

Plymouth:

Spend Saturday afternoon exploring Plymouth’s Christmas Market on Armada Way, then walk to the Hoe for sunset views across the Sound. With its coastal location and easy rail connections, Plymouth makes an excellent base for a Devon Christmas shopping weekend. On Sunday, explore the independent shops and galleries around the Barbican and Sutton Harbour, or visit nearby Tavistock for its indoor Pannier Market and Christmas Festival. Choose a hotel near the waterfront to enjoy the city’s festive lights after dark.

Totnes:

Catch a train or park on the edge of town and stroll up to the High Street for the Totnes Christmas Market and late-night shopping. Browse artisan stalls, local crafts and food producers, then relax in one of the town’s independent cafés or wine bars. For a full weekend break, stay overnight and explore the River Dart the next morning, walks to Sharpham or nearby Dartington Hall make a peaceful counterpoint to the evening bustle. Totnes also works well with a day trip to Buckfast Abbey’s smaller but atmospheric Christmas market.

North Devon:

Combine the craft and food fairs at RHS Rosemoor with a walk or cycle on the Tarka Trail. Spend your first day exploring the fair and gardens, then stay overnight in Great Torrington or Bideford. On Sunday, browse the markets in Barnstaple or South Molton, both excellent for local crafts and produce. This area is quieter than the south coast and perfect for a relaxed Christmas shopping weekend in Devon surrounded by countryside and gardens.

Use these Devon Christmas market weekend break ideas to turn a quick browse into a proper festive escape — enjoy local food, artisan gifts, carols under twinkling lights, and the comfort of Devon’s winter hospitality.

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Top tips for Devon Christmas markets

• Arrive early to secure parking, beat queues and enjoy quieter browsing at the Christmas markets in Devon.
• Check dates and times before you travel, as smaller village markets occasionally change or shorten hours.
• Plan your route. Use park-and-ride for Exeter and Plymouth, take the train, park on the edge of town for Totnes or Tavistock.
• Carry both cash and cards. Most traders accept contactless payments, but the signal can drop at busy times.
• Bring a tote bag for extra purchases and maybe a small cool bag if you plan to buy cheeses or chocolate gifts.
• Dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes; winter weather can be unpredictable, and many markets are outdoors.
• Choose family-friendly venues if you have children. Exeter, Plymouth, and Teignmouth are well placed for easy access and festive entertainment.
• Check whether dogs are allowed, as some indoor or garden markets may have restrictions.
• Photograph stall signs or business cards so you can find favourite traders online later.
• Eat slightly before or after the lunchtime rush to avoid queues at food stalls.
• Turn your visit into a short festive break.

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Frequently Asked Questions — Devon Christmas Markets 2025

Do I need tickets?

Most outdoor city markets are free to enter. Indoor venues and garden sites may require standard admission or timed tickets. Check the latest guidance before you travel.

Are dogs allowed?

Dogs on short leads are welcome at many outdoor markets. Indoor halls, heritage houses and light trails often restrict dogs. Assistance dogs are permitted.

Do traders take cards?

Most traders accept contactless payments. Mobile signal can dip at peak times, so carry some cash for small purchases and charity collections.

Are the markets open if it rains?

Yes, most markets run in all but severe weather. Smaller village events may shorten hours in poor conditions. Recheck details on the day.

What about accessibility?

City markets are largely step free with level routes. Rural, garden and heritage venues vary. Check for step free access, accessible toilets and parking before you set off.

What time is best to visit?

Arrive for opening to beat queues and secure parking. Weekdays are quieter. Evenings bring the best atmosphere for lights and carols.

Is parking available?

Yes, but spaces go quickly in December. Use park and ride in Exeter and Plymouth. In Totnes and Tavistock consider parking on the edge of town and walking in.

Can I use public transport?

Exeter, Plymouth and Totnes are well served by train and bus. Smaller towns have limited services, especially on Sundays. Plan connections in advance.

Are there toilets and baby changing facilities?

City centres and managed venues provide toilets and changing areas. Provision is more limited at small community markets, so plan comfort stops.

Can I bring my own food and drink?

Yes, but many visitors choose local street food and festive treats. Some venues restrict alcohol brought from outside.

Are the markets family friendly?

Most are. Look for level routes, indoor shelters and children’s activities. Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market, Plymouth city centre and Teignmouth suit buggies.

What should I wear?

Dress for winter browsing. Warm layers, waterproofs and comfortable shoes help. A tote bag is useful for gifts and a small cool bag protects cheeses and chocolates.

Can I take photos and video?

Personal photography is fine outdoors. Do not block walkways and ask stallholders before close ups of their work. Some indoor venues restrict tripods.

Are cashpoints available?

Usually in town centres, but queues can be long. Bring a small amount of cash as a backup.

What if I have food allergies?

Ask traders about ingredients and allergens. Choose sealed and clearly labelled items if you have concerns.

Is there first aid or security on site?

Larger markets provide stewards and first aid. For emergencies call 999. For lost children or property, go to the event information point.

Can I make it a weekend break?

Yes. Exeter and Plymouth work well for short festive stays with city shopping and evening lights. North Devon pairs Rosemoor fairs with countryside walks.

Do markets run between Christmas and New Year?

Most finish before Christmas. Some town centres and pannier markets add special dates between Christmas and New Year. Recheck local listings.

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Final Thoughts

Devon’s Christmas markets offer something for everyone, from the grand Cathedral Green in Exeter to the coastal charm of Plymouth and the creative buzz of Totnes. North Devon’s fairs add craftsmanship and countryside calm, while smaller towns and villages bring the heart of a community Christmas.

Wherever you go, you’ll find warmth, creativity and a taste of the West Country. Wrap up well, bring a bag for your finds and plan to stay a little longer – because Devon in December is every bit as welcoming as its summer coastlines.

Dates and programmes are subject to change. Always confirm before you travel.

Over to you … have you recently travelled to South West England? What worked for you? What advice would you give to others? Please leave your comments below or join in the discussion in our Facebook Group.