Christmas lights and crowds around Clovelly Harbour. (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
Clovelly Village is a special place to visit year-round, but seeing this famous North Devon fishing village lit up for Christmas is something else.
We visited Clovelly’s RNLI Christmas light switch-on last year, travelling from South Somerset and arriving early enough to explore the village before the festivities began. By the time darkness fell, the harbour was packed, the cottages climbing the hillside were illuminated, and we stood on the quay just a few metres from where the evening’s fireworks launched. It was quite an event.
The Clovelly RNLI Christmas Light Switch-On returns this year on Sunday 6 December 2026.
🎄 Clovelly Christmas Lights 2026: At a Glance
Date: Sunday 6 December 2026
Arrival: Visitors can arrive from 2pm onwards
Crowds and parking: Car sharing is recommended, as is arriving early. Organisers suggest arriving before 3pm or departing after 7pm where possible to help reduce congestion.
🎶 Choir: Assembling at the top of the cobbles from around 4pm
High tide: Predicted at around 4pm, so expect little beach space and a busier harbour area
Location: Clovelly Village and Harbour, North Devon
Postcode for Visitor Centre: EX39 5TA
Parking: Visitor Centre car park
Admission: £5 per adult, under-16s free
Payment: Cash and card accepted
✨ Main event: Children’s choir and carols through the village, short carol service, Christmas light switch-on and fireworks
⚓ In aid of: Clovelly RNLI
Dogs: Dogs are normally welcome in Clovelly, but visitors are discouraged from bringing them to the Christmas lights because of the crowds and noise
Disclosure: Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you follow one and make a booking or purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support our independent guides. We also link to non-affiliate websites that we believe will be helpful. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Our Visit to Clovelly’s Christmas Lights
Clovelly cottages overlooking the sea. (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
We had a two-hour journey from South Somerset, so rather than arriving just for the switch-on, we got there as early as we could.
Access for the Christmas event began at 2 pm, and we were among the first to arrive. The large Visitor Centre car park was already open, and parking was straightforward, although we understand it gets very busy later on.
Visitors enter Clovelly through its purpose-built Visitor Centre, which has a café, shop and toilets.
This article gives you an idea of what to expect at Clovelly’s RNLI Christmas light switch-on, based on our visit and information provided for the 2026 event. Christmas event arrangements differ from a normal day’s admission, however, and details can change.
Sledges are still used to move goods through Clovelly. (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
Our first stop was to see Clovelly’s donkeys.
Donkeys have long been associated with the village. Before sledges became the main way to move goods along the cobbled street, donkeys carried baskets, luggage and other loads up and down the hill.
Today they have an easier life and are one of the village’s attractions. Part of the standard admission fee contributes towards their care.
For the 2026 Christmas light switch-on, the donkey stables will also be home to Santa’s Grotto, so families arriving early can visit before heading down through the village for the carols, lights and fireworks.
From here, instead of heading straight down into the village, we took a short detour onto Hobby Drive, where we got great views of the village and the spectacular North Devon coastline.
Take a Walk Along Hobby Drive
Coastal views from above Clovelly. (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
If the weather is reasonable and you arrive early, this is worth doing.
Hobby Drive runs through woodland high above the coast, offering a completely different perspective on Clovelly and the surrounding coastline.
There’s history here too. The drive was constructed as part of improvements to the Clovelly estate around the beginning of the 19th century. Work began during the Napoleonic Wars and, according to the estate’s history, may have involved French prisoners of war.
We only walked a short section before turning back. On a December afternoon, keep an eye on the time, especially if you want to explore the village before darkness falls.
Walking Down into Clovelly
Clovelly’s cobbled High Street leading towards the sea. (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
After our short walk along Hobby Drive, we headed back towards the village for one of the most memorable parts of any visit to Clovelly: the walk down the cobbled High Street towards the sea, past cottages, small shops and historic buildings.
Clovelly says the street has a gradient of around 20%, although that figure doesn’t quite prepare you for how steep it looks (and feels). You could probably walk down to the harbour in around 20 minutes, but we’d leave enough time to make it more of a stroll. Much of the pleasure is in taking your time, stopping for photographs, peering into the little side passages, and exploring places that tell the village’s story along the way.
We were fortunate to have a dry day and had no difficulty with the cobbles, but we were wearing walking shoes. We’d recommend something similarly sturdy. In wet weather, the steep cobbles must become slippery, making sensible footwear even more important.
We stopped at the two small museums on our way down through the village. Standard admission to Clovelly includes the Fisherman’s Cottage and Kingsley Museum, both open during our 2025 Christmas Light visit and well worth exploring.
The Fisherman’s Cottage is furnished to show how a Clovelly fishing family would have lived in the 1930s. It helps put the village around you into context, particularly Clovelly’s long relationship with fishing and the sea and the practical difficulties of everyday life on such a steep hillside.
One tradition that hasn’t disappeared is using sledges. Vehicles can’t reach the narrow, cobbled High Street, so villagers still move goods through the village on wooden sledges. Shopping, deliveries, furniture and even building materials make their way down the hill this way, while refuse is taken down to a waiting vehicle at the harbour. The sledges you’ll see outside cottages are everyday equipment, usually homemade and not relics of Clovelly’s past.
The Kingsley Museum explores the village’s association with writer and clergyman Charles Kingsley, who spent part of his childhood in Clovelly. His 1855 novel Westward Ho!, set partly in this area, helped introduce Clovelly to a much wider Victorian audience. The nearby resort was later named after the book.
Who Owns Clovelly?
Clovelly’s historic cottages lining the cobbled street. (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
Only three families have been associated with the estate since the mid-13th century. The Crown previously owned it, before the Giffard family acquired it in 1242. In 1738, Zachary Hamlyn bought the estate for £9,438, and the Hamlyns and their descendants have owned it ever since. The present owner is The Hon. John Rous, who took over management in 1983.
That private ownership extends to the cottages. Clovelly has 83 houses and around 300 residents, with full-time occupation required by the tenancy and no holiday homes.
It also helps explain why visitors are charged to enter. The estate maintains the village using traditional materials, and admission charges have been in place since 1926.
You can see evidence of this history as you walk downhill. We spotted cottages bearing the initials CH and FH, for Christine and Frederick Hamlyn, alongside dates recording restoration work carried out around the turn of the 20th century.
The museums are worth visiting as you make your way down, particularly if you want to understand a little more about Clovelly’s history and the way the village has developed.
Neither takes long to explore, but together they help explain why Clovelly looks and functions as it does today. Despite attracting large numbers of visitors, particularly in summer, it remains a living village behind the historic façades, with homes, businesses, a thriving community, and a working harbour.
St Peter’s Chapel
Inside St Peter’s Chapel, Clovelly. (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
We also stopped at St Peter’s Chapel, tucked into the village on the way down towards the harbour. It is easy to walk past, but it’s worth going inside if the door is open.
The small chapel dates from 1846 and was built for a practical reason. Clovelly’s parish church, All Saints, is some distance from the village, near Clovelly Court. St Peter’s provided a place of worship within the village for those unable to make the journey to the parish church.
That makes complete sense once you’ve experienced Clovelly’s steep hillside. Even today, walking from the harbour back to the top is quite a climb. In the 19th century, when fishing families lived and worked around the harbour, reaching a church outside the village would have been even more difficult.
Inside, St Peter’s is simple and intimate rather than grand, with wooden pews, a small altar and stained-glass windows. It only takes a few minutes to look around, but like the museums, it offers another glimpse of Clovelly as a living and working community.
All Saints Church and Clovelly Court
Clovelly’s main All Saints Church is considerably older. Much of the current building dates from the 15th and early 16th centuries, though parts are older, including a Norman doorway and an ancient font. It stands close to Clovelly Court, the historic manor house at the heart of the privately owned estate.
The nearby Clovelly Court Gardens are another estate attraction and can be visited when open. The church also contains memorials to the Cary family, who owned Clovelly for centuries before the estate passed to the Hamlyns in 1738.
For our Christmas visit, St Peter’s was a natural stop as we headed towards the harbour, before the focus changed from exploring Clovelly to the RNLI Christmas celebrations.
That’s why we’d recommend arriving early, especially if you’ve never visited before. Clovelly is worth exploring in its own right, even in winter.
Pubs and Places to Eat in Clovelly
Cottage Tea Rooms in Clovelly. (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
There are several opportunities to stop for food and drink as you make your way through the village.
The New Inn is halfway down the hill, while the Red Lion Hotel is right beside the harbour. You’ll also pass the Cottage Tea Rooms and the village shop, although these are independently run and may have more limited winter opening hours.
For the Christmas event, you’ll also find street food stalls and other refreshments around the harbour and Lifeboat Station.
During our visit, we stopped at the Red Lion for a Christmas grog and a mince pie. After spending much of the afternoon outside, including some time standing around the harbour, both were very welcome.
The Red Lion and New Inn will be open for the Christmas event, and both offer a welcoming place to rest. Stopping for a while after the festivities can also be a pleasant way to let the worst of the crowds disperse before heading back up through the village.
Don’t expect every village business to be open, though. Many are independently run and set their own winter opening hours.
This isn’t really a Christmas shopping occasion. Think pubs, warming drinks, seasonal food, mince pies and a village Christmas atmosphere.
One highlight of our afternoon was visiting Clovelly Lifeboat Station, which felt particularly appropriate since the Christmas event raises money for the RNLI.
The Lifeboat Station is also planned to be open to visitors during the 2026 event.
The station has quite a history. A lifeboat house was built here in 1870, and Clovelly’s crews have been saving lives along this difficult stretch of coastline for generations. The RNLI station closed in 1988, but the village’s lifeboat service didn’t end there. For the next ten years, a locally funded independent lifeboat, Pride of Clovelly, continued operating from the harbour.
The RNLI returned in 1998 and reopened Clovelly as an inshore lifeboat station. The independent Clovelly Lifeboat Trust refurbished the historic boathouse, and the Spirit of Clovelly entered service.
Today Clovelly is home to the Atlantic 85 lifeboat Toby Rundle, B-872, which entered service here in May 2014.
During our visit, we took a guided tour of the Lifeboat Station and lifeboat. As a former boat owner and someone who’s always loved being around the water, we feel strongly about supporting the RNLI, and after the tour we signed up to make a small monthly donation.
Spend enough time around the coast, and it’s difficult not to appreciate the work the RNLI’s volunteer crews do. Our own family has had reason to be particularly grateful for that work, and you never quite know when you, or someone close to you, might need them.
Clovelly Christmas Light Switch-On 2026: What Happens?
Clovelly harbour and village. (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
Clovelly opens for the Christmas Light Switch-On from 2 pm onwards, so arrive early, as the event is popular and the village and car park can get very busy. The organisers recommend arriving before 3 pm and encourage car-sharing to reduce congestion later in the afternoon. This also gives you time to explore Clovelly before the main celebrations begin and find a good viewpoint before the village gets busy.
At around 4pm, the children’s choir assembles at the top of the cobbles, then makes its way down through the village, stopping to sing carols along the way. At the bottom of the village, a short carol service takes place before the Christmas light switch-on and fireworks display.
We were there for the carol service last year and by this point Clovelly felt very different from the quiet village we’d explored earlier in the afternoon. The harbour was filling up, with families and other visitors finding places around the quay, on the paths overlooking the water and, on our visit, along the beach. A real sense of anticipation hung in the air as everyone waited for the lights to come on.
It’s worth finding a good viewpoint before the harbour gets too busy. We chose a spot on the quay and ended up surprisingly close to where the fireworks were launched, with just the very end sectioned off behind a barrier.
When the Christmas Lights Come On
Christmas lights illuminate Clovelly after dark. (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
After the carol service, the Christmas lights came on. It was a wonderful culmination to an afternoon and evening exploring Clovelly and enjoying the Christmas celebrations. The lights are spectacular, and with the harbour, historic cottages and steep hillside as their setting, they make for an amazing sight.
The illuminated cottages seem to climb the hillside above the harbour. Clovelly is beautiful in summer, when flowers and plants surround many of the cottages, but at Christmas it has a completely different character.
What makes the switch-on particularly special is the setting. Instead of a town centre or shopping streets, you’re surrounded by the old harbour, cobbled lanes and historic cottages, with the dark North Devon coast beyond. It feels much more like a traditional village gathering than a conventional town-centre Christmas lights event.
Fireworks over Clovelly Harbour
Fireworks over Clovelly harbour. (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
The evening ended in a fireworks display over the harbour which, from memory, lasted for around ten minutes. We stood on the quay surprisingly close to where they were launched, and with the Christmas tree illuminated, lights climbing the hillside, and fireworks almost overhead, the atmosphere was terrific.
The fireworks are loud, especially this close, so do keep that in mind if you’re visiting with very young children.
Don’t Rush Back Up the Hill
Once the fireworks finished, a large proportion of the crowd naturally began making their way back to the car park.
We found the climb back up easier than we expected, although progress was fairly slow because so many people were heading up the narrow cobbled street at the same time. Our advice is: don’t rush it.
The walk back was actually one of the nicest parts of the evening. You can now properly see the Christmas lights, including decorations on individual cottages you passed in daylight a few hours earlier.
Take your time, enjoy the atmosphere and let the crowds gradually disperse.
On our visit, the Visitor Centre itself was closed by the time we reached the top, and we exited directly into the car park. For 2026, Clovelly has confirmed that the Visitor Centre and toilets will remain open until approximately 6 pm, while other visitor attractions, including the museums, will close at the normal winter time of 4 pm.
If you’re staying for the lights and fireworks, keep this in mind when planning your evening.
Getting out of the car park was busy but, with patience, straightforward enough and well organised.
Christmas decorations outside a cottage in Clovelly. (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
What Should You Wear?
Clovelly isn’t somewhere we’d choose delicate footwear, even at the best of times, and for the Christmas lights we recommend sturdy shoes with decent grip. The cobbles were dry when we visited and caused us no problems, but they can be slippery in wet weather, so bring waterproofs or other suitable wet-weather gear if rain is forecast.
Wrap up warmly too. It felt relatively mild while we walked around in the afternoon, but standing still beside the harbour waiting for the switch-on soon felt much colder. Warm socks, gloves, a scarf, and a hat are definitely worth bringing. Even on a decent day, it soon gets cold beside the sea and after dark in December.
Is Clovelly Accessible?
This is one area where visitors need to plan carefully. Clovelly is extremely steep, and the estate specifically states that it is not suitable for wheelchairs. Visitors with pushchairs and buggies will also find the cobbled street difficult.
The Visitor Centre, donkey stables, craft workshops and Mount Pleasant are accessible. Land Rovers will be on duty during the Christmas light switch-on to help visitors who need assistance getting back to the top, but the event gets extremely busy and long queues can form, so the service cannot be guaranteed.
Can You Take Dogs to Clovelly?
Dogs are normally welcome in Clovelly on leads, but they are discouraged at the Christmas light switch-on because of the crowds and noise. With steep cobbles, large crowds, and fireworks, it’s probably not the best environment for most dogs.
Visiting Clovelly in Winter
Clovelly feels very different in winter. We’ve visited in both seasons, and while summer brings longer days, flowers around the cottages, and more businesses open, winter is quieter and has its own atmosphere.
From 2 November to 31 December 2026, the published opening hours are 10 am to 4 pm, although closing times can vary and the village is closed on Christmas Day. Some independently run shops and businesses also set their own winter hours, so don’t expect everything you’d find open during the summer.
Family ticket for two adults and two children: £27
Parking is included. Standard admission also includes the village, Fisherman’s Cottage, Kingsley Museum, Clovelly Court Gardens (when open), the audio-visual experience, and general facilities.
The RNLI Christmas light switch-on has separate admission arrangements.
For the 2026 event, admission is £5 per adult, with under-16s free. Both cash and card are accepted, and proceeds go towards the lifesaving work of Clovelly RNLI.
Getting to Clovelly
Clovelly is on a relatively remote stretch of the North Devon coast, just off the A39 and around 10 miles west of Bideford. If you’re coming from the motorway network, the usual route leaves the M5 at Junction 27.
Don’t underestimate the journey.
You still have a fair drive across Devon once you leave the M5, so allow plenty of time. We travelled from South Somerset and made a day of it, arriving early enough to explore Clovelly before the Christmas celebrations began.
The nearest railway station is Barnstaple, around 23 miles away, but we wouldn’t recommend relying on public transport for the Christmas light switch-on. The Stagecoach 319 normally connects Barnstaple and Hartland via Bideford and Clovelly, but at the time of writing there is no regular Sunday winter service.
For this event, travelling by car is likely to be the most practical option. The Visitor Centre has a large car park, but the event is popular and can get busy. The organisers therefore encourage visitors to car-share wherever possible and arrive early to help reduce congestion.
Make a North Devon Short Break of It
If you live relatively close, Clovelly’s Christmas lights make a great day out, but if you’re travelling any distance, we’d be tempted to make a weekend of it.
Because the event is on a Sunday, staying Saturday night gives you a relaxed start to the day, with plenty of time to explore Clovelly before the Christmas celebrations begin. If you can stay Sunday night as well, you can enjoy the evening without a long drive home afterwards.
Clovelly itself has accommodation, including the Red Lion Hotel, an 18th-century inn right on the harbour, while Bideford and the surrounding North Devon coast offer plenty more choice.
Christmas celebrations around Clovelly harbour. (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
We travelled from South Somerset specifically for the event and would happily make the journey again. Once the lights come on, Clovelly looks wonderful, with the illuminated cottages climbing the hillside above the harbour and fireworks bringing the evening to a close.
What we particularly enjoyed, though, was the atmosphere. This isn’t a big town-centre Christmas event surrounded by shops. It feels much more like a village celebration, with the RNLI at its heart, carols around the harbour, the pubs open, warming food and drinks, and families gathering as darkness falls.
We’d recommend arriving early and making a day of it. Explore Clovelly while it’s still light, visit the museums and harbour, stop for something to eat or drink and then watch the village gradually change as the Christmas crowds arrive and daylight fades.
By the time the lights come on, the quiet village you explored earlier in the day feels completely different. For us, that’s what makes Clovelly’s RNLI Christmas light switch-on well worth the journey.
Clovelly Christmas Lights 2026 FAQs
When are the Clovelly Christmas lights switched on in 2026?
Clovelly’s RNLI Christmas Light Switch On takes place on Sunday 6 December 2026. Visitors can arrive from 2pm onwards, with the children’s choir gathering at the top of the cobbles at around 4pm before making its way down through the village. A short carol service, the light switch-on and fireworks follow later.
Where are the Clovelly Christmas lights?
The celebrations take place through Clovelly village and around the harbour and Lifeboat Station in North Devon, with the Christmas lights illuminating the cottages and hillside above the harbour.
How much is admission to Clovelly Christmas lights?
Admission for the 2026 event is £5 per adult, with under-16s free. Cash and card are accepted, and proceeds go towards the lifesaving work of Clovelly RNLI.
Is Clovelly open in winter?
Yes. Clovelly is open during the winter, with normal published opening hours of 10am to 4pm from 2 November to 31 December 2026, although closing times can vary. The village is closed on Christmas Day. Different arrangements apply for the RNLI Christmas light switch-on.
Are dogs allowed at Clovelly Christmas lights?
Dogs are normally welcome in Clovelly on leads, but the organisers discourage bringing them to the Christmas light switch-on because of the crowds and noise. The event becomes very busy and includes fireworks.
Is Clovelly suitable for wheelchairs?
Clovelly’s steep, cobbled High Street isn’t suitable for wheelchairs, although the Visitor Centre and some areas at the top of the village are accessible. Land Rovers will be on duty for the Christmas event, but it can become extremely busy, and the service cannot be guaranteed. Anyone who struggles with mobility may prefer to visit Clovelly at a quieter time.
What should I wear to Clovelly Christmas lights?
We recommend sturdy footwear with good grip, warm layers, warm socks, gloves and a hat. The cobbles can become slippery in wet weather, so it’s worth bringing waterproofs or other suitable wet-weather clothing if rain is forecast.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The event takes place on the North Devon coast in December, so it’s worth checking the forecast before travelling. If poor or severe weather is expected, check directly with the event organisers before setting off, as arrangements may change.
Should I arrive early?
Yes. Visitors can arrive from 2pm, and the organisers recommend arriving before 3pm where possible. Arriving early gives you time to explore Clovelly before the celebrations, helps spread parking demand, and gives you a better chance of finding a good viewpoint before the harbour gets busy. Car-sharing is also encouraged.
Are there fireworks at Clovelly Christmas lights?
Yes. A fireworks display will follow the carol service and Christmas light switch-on.
Will the Visitor Centre and toilets be open?
For the 2026 event, the Visitor Centre and toilets are expected to remain open until approximately 6pm. Other visitor attractions, including the museums, close at the normal winter time of 4pm.
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.
New to South West England or returning after a while? Start with our ‘Travel Basics’ – quick guides packed with tips to help you plan your trip.
Looking for Halloween events in South West England in 2026?
There is a huge choice of Halloween events across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, Dorset and Bristol, from pumpkin trails and family days out to ghost trains, historic houses after dark and genuinely frightening scare attractions.
There are now simply too many Halloween events, spread across too many days, for us to cover properly in our regularly updated What’s On in South West England calendar. Halloween week also largely coincides with the October school half term across the South West, so we thought a dedicated guide would be useful.
We will keep adding events as we hear about them, from major attractions to small community events. Organisers can submit events to us for free. This creates an individual event page and, where we can, we will also include it in this Halloween guide, our main What’s On guide, or both.
We think Halloween events can also be a great organised alternative to traditional trick-or-treating, particularly for families with younger children who might otherwise need to be accompanied from house to house on a cold October evening. Plenty of gentler family activities are available, while older children and adults can choose from ghost tours, after-dark experiences and some altogether scarier attractions.
We have brought together confirmed events across the region, from heritage railways and castles to National Trust properties and town centre celebrations, while also keeping an eye out for free and more unusual local events.
Halloween falls on Saturday 31 October 2026, which means there will be plenty to do during the October half-term holiday. Popular evening events, scare attractions and special train services can sell out, so it is worth booking ahead where tickets are required.
Halloween Events 2026 at a Glance
Planning Halloween in South West England? Here are the key dates, ideas and quick links to help you find an event.
🎃 Halloween: Saturday 31 October 2026
📅 Main event period: Early October to Sunday 1 November 2026
👨👩👧👦 Good for families: Crealy Spook-Fest, Halloweden, The BIG Sheep, Wookey Hole, Ascarium at SEA LIFE Weymouth and Corfe Castle
👻 For bigger scares: FEAR at Avon Valley, Bodmin Jail, Scare Asylum, Horror in the Caves and Kents Cavern Ghost Walks
🚂 Something different: Ghost trains, the Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway after dark, illuminated gardens, castles, caves and historic houses
🆓 Free events: Spooky Newquay, Southbourne Pumpkin Fest and selected town centre and community Halloween activities
Before you go: ThisIsSouthWest is an independent travel guide and is not connected with or endorsed by any of the events, attractions or organisations listed on this page. We make every effort to keep this guide accurate and up to date, but dates, opening times, activities, age restrictions, prices and ticket availability can change. Check organisers’ official websites for the latest information before booking or travelling.
Disclosure:Some of the outbound links on this page are affiliate links to sites that we use and would genuinely recommend. Using them doesn’t cost you extra, but it does help support this free guide. We also link to other sites we think you’ll find helpful.
That makes 2026 a particularly good year for a Halloween weekend away, with Halloween falling right at the end of the October half-term week.
There will, of course, be plenty of non-Halloween events across South West England during half term too, but many of the biggest Halloween attractions run throughout the week from 24 October to 1 November.
Halloween Events in Devon 2026
Halloween events take place across Devon throughout October, from theme parks, farms and visitor attractions to events organised by towns and local community groups. Some of the best choices are smaller local events, often free to attend, alongside the bigger ticketed attractions and heritage railways.
Families have plenty of less scary choices, while evening events and darker experiences suit those hunting for something a little more frightening. For events taking place over the coming weekend, see our separate guide to what’s on in Devon.
Crealy’s Spook-Fest is one of Devon’s biggest Halloween events, combining the theme park’s rides and attractions with Halloween entertainment.
In 2026, the park offers live scare mazes, Halloween shows and character appearances, and some rides with a Halloween twist. Every child visiting during Spook-Fest also receives a pumpkin.
Enough is going on to make this a full day out, not just a Halloween trail, with activities for younger children and bigger scares for older visitors.
The BIG Sheep near Bideford celebrates Halloween throughout October half term with its family-friendly Monster Glow Party.
Activities include Halloween games, fancy dress competitions and monster discos, alongside pumpkins to pick, carve and take home for an additional charge.
The park’s usual rides, indoor play areas and live animal shows are also running, making this more of a full family day out than a standalone Halloween trail.
24 to 25 October and 27 October to 1 November 2026
Devon Railway Centre at Bickleigh is running its Halloween Special across most of October half term.
Children can explore the attraction while following a pumpkin trail in search of Halloween treasure, and receive a Halloween gift (for children aged three and over).
The centre’s trains and railway attractions make this a particularly good option for younger children.
Babbacombe Model Village in Torquay takes on a different appearance after dark for Frightlights: A Halloween Adventure.
The illuminated miniature scenes are joined by a new 2026 Behind the Screams: Halloween Unleashed trail.
It is a good option for families looking for an evening Halloween event in Torbay. If you are spending longer in the area, our Torquay visitor guide covers Babbacombe, the harbour, beaches, and other attractions, while our wider guide to things to do in Torbay also includes Paignton and Brixham.
Kents Cavern in Torquay has a varied Halloween programme, ranging from family-friendly activities to after-dark experiences for older visitors.
From 17 October to 1 November, families can follow a Trick or Treat Trail through the prehistoric caves, complete Halloween challenges, and collect a treat at the end.
For something darker, Go Darker cave tours explore folklore, ancient rites and stories of witches, while evening Ghost Walks run on selected dates and are suitable for ages 12 and over.
Halloween silent discos are also planned underground on 30 and 31 October.
Greenway, Agatha Christie’s former holiday home near Brixham, takes on an autumn theme for October half term with a family trail through the garden.
Follow the pumpkins to discover poisonous plants, unusual wildlife and other seasonal surprises, with Halloween games along the route. The trail is included with normal admission to Greenway.
A Spooky Circus Skills day is also planned for 29 October, with performances and a drop-in workshop in the South Walled Garden.
31 October 2026 The Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway takes on a spooky new look for Halloween, with candlelight, eerie smoke, haunting sounds, live actors and zombie drivers. The experience runs from 6 pm to 9 pm and is designed for all ages, with no booking required.
Devon’s events are spread across the county, but useful clusters are around Torbay and South Devon. If you are combining an event with a short break, search for accommodation in South Devon.
Halloween Events in Cornwall 2026
Cornwall has one of the biggest Halloween programmes in South West England in 2026.
Events range from the family-friendly Halloweden and town-centre celebrations in Newquay to Bodmin Jail, historic houses, and dedicated scare attractions.
Few places are more appropriate for Halloween than Bodmin Jail.
The historic prison offers an extensive October programme, including Go Darker guided tours, the Haunted Gallery, Ghost Walks, ghost-hunting experiences, and special Halloween events.
Some activities suit general visitors, while the later paranormal events are aimed much more firmly at adults. Check the age restrictions carefully before booking.
Healeys Cornish Cyder Farm near Truro combines pumpkin picking with a suitably spooky journey through the farm during October.
The Halloween experience begins with a haunted vintage tractor ride through the orchard, then visitors head to the pumpkin patch to choose their own pumpkin.
The return journey leads to pumpkin carving at the Rattler Bar, with equipment provided and, importantly, someone else cleaning up afterwards.
Adults can swap their pumpkin for a pint of Rattler or Rattler Zero. Booking is recommended.
Pendennis Castle in Falmouth provides one of the best settings for a historical Halloween event.
English Heritage’s Great Pumpkin Party brings Halloween games, interactive storytelling and a themed trail to the Tudor fortress during October half term.
Trerice also has a special Halloween evening experience on 31 October.
As darkness falls, the house’s history and memories become part of an atmospheric after-hours event with low lighting, eerie encounters and occasional jump scares.
The National Trust recommends the experience for ages 11 and over, and booking is required.
Carnglaze Caverns near Liskeard hosts an underground Halloween party deep inside its former slate mine on Halloween night.
The Monster Mash combines live music from Land of the Giants with a fancy dress competition, DJ, Halloween lighting and an underground party atmosphere.
This is one of Cornwall’s more unusual adult Halloween events, with the cavern setting providing a suitably atmospheric location for the night.
The Cornish Fun Farm and Maize Maze near Saltash combines autumn pumpkin picking with a much darker Halloween experience.
Pumpkin picking takes place on selected October dates, while Halloween itself brings the Maze of Horrors on 31 October, complete with live scare actors and performers.
You can easily combine several Cornwall events around Newquay and central Cornwall if you are making a weekend of it.
Halloween Events in Somerset 2026
Somerset’s caves, railways, and historic properties offer excellent settings for Halloween in 2026.
Wookey Hole runs one of the region’s longest Halloween programmes, while heritage railways and National Trust properties offer gentler alternatives.
Wookey Hole describes itself as the Home of Halloween, and its 2026 programme runs for almost a month.
The caves feature projections telling the story of the Witch of Wookey Hole, while elsewhere there is a pumpkin trail, Monster’s Ball Circus Show, Monster Golf and opportunities to meet the Witch.
It is aimed primarily at families, and most Halloween activities are included with a visit.
Heritage railways feature prominently among South West Halloween events, and the West Somerset Railway has seasonal activities throughout October half term.
Visitors can join Brunel on a secret quest by purchasing a Halloween trail sheet.
Check the railway timetable before travelling as operating days and services vary.
The Somerset & Dorset Railway Heritage Trust at Midsomer Norton is also getting into the Halloween spirit over the Halloween weekend.
Saturday features scarier services running into twilight, while Sunday is a gentler experience with the return of the Haunted DMU.
Halloween Events in Dorset 2026
Dorset has an unusually varied choice of Halloween events in 2026.
You can ride a ghost train, explore a ruined castle, follow an illuminated forest trail or choose from several family attractions during October half term.
SEA LIFE Weymouth becomes Ascarium for October, adding a family-friendly Halloween trail to the aquarium.
Children can help Serafina the Sea Witch protect her ocean home by completing magical challenges and activities as they explore the aquarium, with a reward for completing the trail.
The Halloween activities are included with normal SEA LIFE admission, making this an easy option for families looking for something less frightening during October half term.
10–11, 17–18 & 24–31 October 2026 Pick your own pumpkins at Bincombe Bumps near Weymouth, with outdoor play areas, a haunted house, a bouncy castle, axe throwing, trick-or-treating, and seasonal food and drink. The pumpkin patch is free to enter and opens from 10 am to 4 pm, with dogs on leads welcome.
Few places in Dorset suit Halloween better than the ruins of Corfe Castle.
The National Trust’s October half-term programme includes a family quest exploring folklore, mystery, and superstition, plus the return of the teddy bear zip wire and the castle’s seasonal pumpkin display.
24–31 October 2026 Explore Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens after dark during October half term, when the gardens are illuminated to create an atmospheric evening experience among the exotic plants, trees and winding pathways. The event runs for eight nights from 24 to 31 October.
Corfe Castle also hosts storytelling during the second half of the week, with suitably gruesome tales inspired by history and the castle’s atmospheric surroundings.
31 October 2026 Southbourne’s free Halloween street party returns with a Pumpkin Trail, a trader pumpkin-carving competition, fancy dress, and family entertainment. The event runs from 10 am to 4 pm, with more Halloween activities to be announced closer to the date.
Swanage Railway is also running Steam & Screams on Halloween itself, adding another option for railway enthusiasts looking for something unusual on 31 October.
Moors Valley Country Park and Forest is running an illuminated Halloween experience throughout the half-term.
The family-friendly after-dark trail transforms the woodland with illuminated installations, giant skeletons, creepy characters and immersive Halloween scenes.
Sessions run into the evening, and booking is required.
Weymouth’s Victorian Nothe Fort hardly needs help becoming atmospheric at Halloween.
Halloween activities take place during half term, with the fort’s tunnels, passageways and military history providing an excellent setting.
The fort also has a separate, scarier Nothe of the Living Dead event on 30 and 31 October.
Corfe Castle and Swanage Railway work particularly well as part of a short break in Purbeck, particularly if you are attending one of the evening trains.
31 October 2026 A family-friendly indoor Halloween event in Poole, designed especially for children aged 2 to 10. Spook Fest features an interactive Trick or Treat Street, Halloween trail, bouncy castles, giant games, crafts, photo opportunities and a spooky disco party. The day includes three 90-minute sessions, with costumes encouraged and prizes for the best dressed.
Halloween Events in Bristol 2026
Looking for Halloween events in Bristol in 2026? There are strong options for adults and older teenagers, from FEAR at Avon Valley to horror films screened underground in Redcliffe Caves.
Family-friendly alternatives also include FEARless at Avon Valley.
FEAR is one of the biggest dedicated scare events in South West England.
For 2026, it runs on 9, 10, 16, 17, 18, 22, 23, 24, 25, 28, 29, 30 and 31 October.
Avon Valley transforms after dark with five scare attractions, live performers, fire and laser shows, thrill rides, and street entertainment designed for visitors who actively want to be frightened.
This is very different from the family Halloween trails elsewhere in this guide. The event is 16+; a responsible adult must accompany anyone under 18.
Clifton Observatory adds a Halloween twist to a visit during October half term, with a family trail running through to 1 November.
The trail takes visitors through the historic Camera Obscura and down into the atmospheric Giant’s Cave, with Halloween-themed questions to answer along the way.
It’s a good option for families who want to combine a seasonal activity with views across the Avon Gorge and a visit to one of Bristol’s more unusual attractions.
Families who like the idea of Avon Valley but not the full FEAR experience can look instead at FEARless.
Created for 11 to 16-year-olds and their families, it uses four scare attractions in a toned-down format, alongside street performers, a fire show, and fairground rides.
Bristol’s Halloween film programme also includes The Big Scream from Forbidden Worlds Film Festival.
The festival focuses on repertory fantasy, action, science fiction, and horror cinema. It provides another option for adults looking for a Halloween event in Bristol rather than a family attraction.
29 October 2026 Bristol Aquarium becomes a haunted ghost ship for an adults-only Halloween evening, with roaming actors, darkened corridors, eerie sounds and sharks swimming through the shadows. R.I.P Tide runs from 6 pm to 9 pm, with last entry at 8 pm, and is strictly for over 18s. The event regularly sells out, so we recommend booking in advance.
Explore Bristol’s darker side on a walking tour that delves into the city’s ghost stories, haunted buildings, strange history, and film and television locations.
The long-running tour normally departs from Bristol Cathedral on College Green. Booking is recommended, particularly around Halloween.
Best Family Halloween Events in South West England 2026
Halloween 2026 offers plenty for families.
For a full day out, Crealy Spook-Fest, Wookey Hole and Halloweden at the Eden Project are among the largest events. All three combine Halloween activities with established visitor attractions, so there is plenty to do beyond the seasonal programme.
Other good family choices include The BIG Sheep in North Devon, Kents Cavern in Torquay, Ascarium at SEA LIFE Weymouth and Halloween Haunt at The Blue Pool in Dorset.
For something different, we particularly like the idea of Swanage Railway’s Halloween Ghost Trains. The event is deliberately fun rather than frightening, and the stop at Corfe Castle station adds much more than simply decorating a train for Halloween. Corfe is a particularly atmospheric village, and we have visited it several times.
Some great places to eat are close to the station, particularly around The Square and East and West Street. We particularly enjoyed lunch at the Greyhound Inn overlooking the castle ruins, although we would recommend booking at busy times.
Families with younger children might also consider Devon Railway Centre, Abbotsbury Swannery, Farmer Palmer’s or one of the pumpkin events.
For a free option, Southbourne Pumpkin Fest in Dorset brings Halloween into the town centre with a pumpkin trail, fancy dress and family entertainment on 31 October.
For more ideas beyond Halloween, our guide to the best things to do in South West England covers attractions, historic places, walks, and days out across the region.
If children plan to dress up, remember that many of these are outdoor events, and late October can be cold and wet. A costume that works over warm clothes is generally more practical than elaborate fancy dress.
Halloween Events for Adults in South West England
Plenty of Halloween events for adults offer something more intense than a pumpkin trail.
At the scarier end of the scale is FEAR at Avon Valley Scream Park, one of the region’s major dedicated scare attractions.
Bodmin Jail is another obvious choice. Unlike a purpose-built scare attraction, much of its atmosphere comes from the building and its history.
Bodmin itself is a little underrated, but worth allowing an hour or two to explore. We visited last summer while walking the Camel Trail from Bodmin towards Padstow and stayed at a local campsite. Away from the jail, you could visit the Bodmin Keep military museum, explore the town centre and St Petroc’s Church, or, weather permitting, combine your visit with a walk or cycle along the Camel Trail.
Cornwall also has Scare Asylum and The Monster Mash at Carnglaze Caverns, an underground Halloween party held inside a former slate mine. In Devon, Kents Cavern runs evening Ghost Walks for older visitors, while Bristol offers the unusual experience of watching horror films underground during Horror in the Caves.
Always check age restrictions before booking. Some Halloween events use live actors, darkness, confined spaces, loud noises and deliberate jump scares.
Halloween Ghost Trains, Castles and Unusual Events
Corfe Castle, Dorset (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
Some of the most interesting Halloween events in South West England take place in unusual locations.
Heritage railway fans have several choices in 2026, including Swanage Railway, Devon Railway Centre, East Somerset Railway and seasonal activities on the West Somerset Railway.
For castles, Corfe Castle and Pendennis Castle in Falmouth both offer October half-term programmes. We particularly recommend Pendennis as part of any visit to Falmouth. Its position high above the coast offers superb views across the Carrick Roads and towards the mouth of the Fal, which is likely why Henry VIII chose the site for a fortress protecting this important anchorage.
The ruins of Corfe are particularly atmospheric in autumn, while Pendennis adds Halloween activities to one of Cornwall’s great coastal fortresses.
Historic houses, including Trerice, Trelissick and Lytes Cary Manor, offer another option, often drawing on folklore, history and storytelling rather than conventional Halloween scares.
Caves offer some of the most unusual settings. Kents Cavern in Torquay offers Ghost Walks, darker guided tours, and underground Halloween silent discos, while Carnglaze Caverns in Cornwall hosts The Monster Mash inside its former slate mine. Bristol’s Horror in the Caves takes a different approach, screening horror films beneath the city in Redcliffe Caves.
Do Halloween Events Need to Be Booked in Advance?
It depends on the event. Many free events organised by towns, community groups and even some local attractions simply require you to turn up and join in, while we recommend booking ahead for anything with a fixed entry time.
Ghost trains, scare attractions, film screenings, after-dark experiences and special tours have limited capacity and can sell out, particularly on Friday 30 and Saturday 31 October.
Daytime trails at larger attractions may offer more flexibility, although buying tickets online in advance can sometimes be cheaper than paying at the gate.
Always check the organiser’s latest information before setting out. Dates, times, ticket availability and individual activities can change.
Planning an October Half Term Break
Halloween falling on a Saturday makes 2026 a particularly good year to turn an event into an autumn weekend away.
Clusters of events around Torbay and South Devon, Newquay and central Cornwall, the Mendips, Purbeck and Bristol make it possible to combine a Halloween event with a couple of days exploring the surrounding area.
If you are travelling specifically for an evening event, staying locally also avoids a long drive home after dark.
If you are planning an October half term break around one of the events above, search for places to stay across South West England.
If you are visiting the region for the first time, our South West England travel guide brings together practical planning information for Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset.
For more ideas throughout October, see our What’s On in South West England guide, which covers festivals, shows, markets, family events and other things happening across the region.
What Comes After Halloween?
Halloween is only the start of a busy run of autumn and winter events across the South West.
Just a few days later, the Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels 2026 take place in East Devon on 5 November, combining huge crowds, fire, a traditional bonfire and the famous burning barrels carried through the town.
Christmas events then begin appearing across the region. Our Exeter Christmas Market 2026 guide covers the market on Cathedral Green from 13 November, while the Bay of Lights Torquay 2026 brings more than five weeks of illuminations and festive events to the English Riviera from 28 November.
Planning Halloween in South West England? Here are answers to some of the most useful questions about Halloween events in 2026.
What are the best Halloween events in South West England in 2026?
Some of the biggest Halloween events in South West England in 2026 include Crealy Spook-Fest in Devon, Halloweden at the Eden Project, Wookey Hole’s Home of Halloween, FEAR at Avon Valley and Halloween at Bodmin Jail. Other options range from ghost trains and castles after dark to cave experiences, pumpkin trails and family Halloween events.
Where are the best Halloween events in Devon in 2026?
Devon’s Halloween events include Crealy Spook-Fest, Pennywell Farm Pumpkin Nights, Halloween at Kents Cavern, The BIG Sheep’s Halloween Half Term, Pumpkins at Watermouth Castle, Devon Railway Centre’s Halloween Special and Frightlights at Babbacombe Model Village.
What Halloween events are taking place in Cornwall in 2026?
Cornwall’s Halloween programme includes Halloweden at the Eden Project, Halloween at Bodmin Jail, Spooky Newquay, the Newquay Zombie Crawl, Halloween at Healeys Cornish Cyder Farm, Pendennis Castle, Trerice, Trelissick, Scare Asylum and The Monster Mash at Carnglaze Caverns.
Where can families find Halloween events in South West England?
Families have plenty of choices across the region. Crealy, Wookey Hole and Halloweden offer full days out, while The BIG Sheep, Kents Cavern, Ascarium at SEA LIFE Weymouth, The Blue Pool, Devon Railway Centre and Swanage Railway’s Halloween Ghost Trains provide more family-friendly options.
Are there Halloween events for adults in South West England?
Yes. FEAR at Avon Valley is one of the region’s biggest dedicated scare attractions, while Bodmin Jail and Scare Asylum offer darker Halloween experiences. Kents Cavern has evening Ghost Walks, Bristol’s Horror in the Caves screens horror films underground, and Carnglaze Caverns hosts The Monster Mash on Halloween night.
Do Halloween events need to be booked in advance?
Many do. It is particularly sensible to book ghost trains, scare attractions, after-dark experiences, film screenings and special tours in advance because popular dates can sell out around October half term and Halloween weekend.
Are Halloween events only held on 31 October?
No. Many Halloween events in South West England run throughout October half term, while some begin much earlier in October. In 2026, Halloween falls on a Saturday, with many attractions running seasonal events during the weekends leading up to it and into Sunday 1 November.
What day is Halloween in 2026?
Halloween falls on Saturday 31 October 2026. This makes the final weekend of October particularly convenient for Halloween days out, but it is also likely to be one of the busiest periods, so advance booking is advisable for popular ticketed events.
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.
New to South West England or returning after a while? Start with our ‘Travel Basics’ – quick guides packed with tips to help you plan your trip.
Britannia Royal Naval College above the River Dart. (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
Dartmouth Regatta 2026 takes place from Wednesday 26 to Saturday 29 August 2026, following Community Day on Saturday 22 August. The programme includes rowing, sailing, river events and fireworks at 9 pm on Saturday 29 August. The Red Arrows will not appear at Dartmouth Regatta in 2026.
Officially known as the Port of Dartmouth Royal Regatta, the event has been running for more than 200 years and is one of the biggest dates in Dartmouth’s calendar. Sailing and rowing begin before the main Regatta, so there is activity on and around the river from Saturday 22 August.
One important change for 2026 is that the Red Arrows will not be displaying at Dartmouth Regatta. Once among the most anticipated parts of the event, they are no longer included due to changes to the flying displays. Anyone hoping to see the team in Devon can instead read our guide to the Sidmouth Airshow 2026, where the Red Arrows are currently scheduled to appear on Friday 28 August.
There is still an enormous amount happening, including competitive rowing and sailing, the Opening Ceremony, River Parade, live music, family competitions, shoreside entertainment and the traditional Dartmouth Regatta fireworks at 9 pm on Saturday 29 August.
We know Dartmouth well and last visited in June 2026, travelling by train to Paignton, bus to Kingswear and then across the River Dart by passenger ferry. In this independent guide, we cover the Dartmouth Regatta 2026 dates and programme, Red Arrows, fireworks, parking, road closures, public transport, places to stay and practical advice for planning your visit.
Disclosure:Some of the outbound links on this page are affiliate links to sites that we use and would genuinely recommend. Using them doesn’t cost you extra, but it does help support this free guide. We also provide links to other sites that we believe may be helpful to you.
The main Port of Dartmouth Royal Regatta runs from Wednesday 26 August until Saturday 29 August 2026, although some sporting events begin earlier.
Rowing runs from Saturday 22 to Saturday 29 August, while Dartmouth Royal Regatta Sailing Week extends from Saturday 22 to Sunday 30 August.
The official Opening Ceremony takes place on Wednesday 26 August, with the main Regatta concluding with fireworks at 9 pm on Saturday 29 August.
Dartmouth will be noticeably busier throughout Regatta Week and the August Bank Holiday weekend.
Dartmouth Regatta 2026 Programme: What’s On?
The Esplanade and Dartmouth Harbour. (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
The programme combines competitive events on the water with entertainment, competitions and activities throughout Dartmouth.
The official souvenir programme costs £7 and contains the complete schedule and event timings. Copies are available from the Regatta Information Hut, Dartmouth Visitor Centre, Townstal Filling Station and Kingswear Post Office. See the official programme information or order online through Yard Park Dartmouth.
Below are some of the main confirmed highlights. For the complete daily schedule, individual event timings and competition information, buy the official souvenir programme. You can also follow the organisers on the official Dartmouth Regatta Facebook page for the latest announcements and updates.
Saturday 22 to Tuesday 25 August
Regatta Week begins with a free Community Day in Royal Avenue Gardens on Saturday 22 August. Running from 11 am until 8 pm, it brings together local organisations, charities, environmental groups and community projects alongside family activities and entertainment. See the official Dartmouth Regatta Community Day information for further details.
Rowing and sailing also begin ahead of the main Regatta. Dartmouth Royal Regatta Sailing Week includes dinghy and junior sailing, with racing continuing throughout the opening part of the week.
The Regatta Information Hut opens on Saturday 22 August and remains available until Saturday 29 August.
Wednesday 26 August: Opening Day
Wednesday marks the official beginning of the main Port of Dartmouth Royal Regatta.
The Dragon Boat Race returns after being introduced in 2025. It is provisionally scheduled for 10 am, with crews racing in pilot gigs on a course between the Ship in Dock Inn and Dartmouth Yacht Club.
The Dartmouth Regatta Dog Show begins at 3 pm.
The Savills Passage Race brings yachts from Brixham towards Dartmouth ahead of the main yacht racing later in the week.
The Official Opening Ceremony takes place at the bandstand in Royal Avenue Gardens at 7.30 pm.
A ceremonial Beat the Retreat and Sunset performance is also part of the Regatta tradition.
Thursday 27 August
Thursday brings some of the most important competitive action on the River Dart and in Start Bay.
The West of England Amateur Rowing Association (WEARA) Regatta takes place on a six-lane, 1,000-metre course between the Higher and Lower Ferries. Racing includes single and double sculls, coxed fours, quadruple sculls and eights, with open, women’s, masters, junior and mixed crews. The Embankment provides an excellent place to watch because the course passes directly in front of the town.
Dartmouth Sailing Week also gathers pace in Start Bay. The 2026 event is particularly significant because Dartmouth is hosting both the GBR IRC National Championship and the J109 National Championship. Racing takes place from Thursday to Sunday alongside the Yacht and Dayboat Series. See the official Dartmouth Sailing Week website for further information.
Friday 28 August
Friday brings more rowing and sailing alongside some of the Regatta’s most popular family events.
The Junior Crabbing Competition takes place on South Embankment, with registration from 9 am and lines in the water between 10 am and 11 am. Entry costs £1, with children competing in three age groups. Entrants are encouraged to use plastic-free crabbing lines to help reduce discarded plastic in the River Dart.
Another family favourite is the free Pavement Artist Competition, with registration at the bandstand from midday ahead of a 1 pm start.
Entertainment continues around town and along the waterfront into the evening. Professional flyboarder James Prestwood is scheduled to perform on the River Dart beside South Embankment at 5.30 pm and 8.45 pm, while a model boat display begins at 5.30 pm.
Saturday 29 August: Regatta Saturday
Saturday is the final day of the main Regatta and one of the busiest.
The Kon-Tiki Raft Race gets Saturday off to a lively start, with final assembly of the rafts on Boat Float Bridge from 8.30 am and launching from the Boat Float Slipway at 10 am. The event includes children’s, family and adult categories.
Further sporting events include Bungee Rowing and paddleboarding, while the Dartmouth Regatta Road Race starts at 3 pm. The 5.5-mile race returns to the original Redlap loop for 2026, starting and finishing at the Boat Float and heading through Dartmouth before climbing Weeke Hill and returning via Redlap Lane.
Sailing and rowing continue throughout the day, while the traditional River Parade brings a colourful variety of local boats, working vessels, yachts and visiting craft onto the Dart. The parade also incorporates the Regatta’s Steam Boat Rally and best-dressed vessel competition.
Other highlights include an RNLI search-and-rescue demonstration, the arrival of Paddle Steamer Waverley, sporting events, live music and family entertainment throughout the town.
The Regatta reaches its finale at 9 pm, when the Dartmouth Regatta fireworks illuminate the River Dart.
Sunday 30 August
Although the main Regatta finishes on Saturday night, Dartmouth Royal Regatta Sailing Week continues on Sunday 30 August, with further racing on the water.
Other Dartmouth Regatta Events
The Flavel Arts Centre in Dartmouth. (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
There is considerably more happening than we can sensibly include here.
The wider Regatta includes live music, family entertainment, crabbing, waiter races, barrel rolling, the trolley grand prix and numerous sporting and community events.
There is also a Regatta fair in Mayor’s Avenue, adding traditional fairground attractions to the shoreside entertainment. Mayor’s Avenue Car Park will be closed from 4 pm on Tuesday 25 August until midday on Sunday 30 August to accommodate the fair.
The Regatta Shopping Village runs along North Embankment from Wednesday 26 to Saturday 29 August. It brings together local and regional traders alongside food and drink stalls, opening daily from 10 am. Further details are available on the official Regatta onshore events page.
Regatta Family Film Festival
The Flavel Arts Centre hosts a free Regatta Family Film Festival from Wednesday 26 to Friday 28 August.
Screenings include Swallows and Amazons, Ocean with David Attenborough and Finding Nemo. Booking is recommended through The Flavel website, where you can also check screening times.
Are the Red Arrows at Dartmouth Regatta in 2026?
The Red Arrows. (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
No. The Red Arrows are not displaying at Dartmouth Regatta in 2026.
The Red Arrows were associated with the Dartmouth Royal Regatta for many years, but there will be no display in 2026. The organisers say they are “no longer part of Regatta due to changes in legislation.”
Flying display requirements tightened after the Shoreham Airshow accident in 2015. Dartmouth’s steep terrain and the large numbers of people and boats around the River Dart make safely positioning an air display particularly challenging. Sadly, the Red Arrows remain much missed by many visitors and local people.
If seeing the Red Arrows is part of your August Bank Holiday plans, they are scheduled to headline the Sidmouth Regatta Airshow in Devon on Friday 28 August 2026. See our complete Sidmouth Airshow 2026 guide for the confirmed line-up, viewing locations, parking and travel advice.
Royal Navy Guardships at Dartmouth Regatta 2026
The Royal Navy is scheduled to send three vessels to the 2026 Dartmouth Regatta.
HMS Brocklesby, a Hunt-class minehunter, will be joined by two Archer-class P2000 patrol boats. Together, they are expected to act as the Regatta guardships and provide a prominent Royal Navy presence on the River Dart.
Guardships are a longstanding Dartmouth Regatta tradition, reflecting the town’s close relationship with the Royal Navy and the presence of Britannia Royal Naval College above the river.
The attendance of naval vessels is always subject to operational commitments. We have not yet seen confirmation of public boarding arrangements, so check the official Dartmouth Regatta Facebook page for updates during Regatta Week.
Dartmouth Regatta Fireworks 2026
Fireworks provide the traditional Dartmouth Regatta finale. (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
The Dartmouth Regatta fireworks take place at 9 pm on Saturday 29 August 2026.
They are the traditional finale to the main Regatta and one of the biggest spectator events of the week.
The setting is difficult to beat. Dartmouth rises steeply from one side of the River Dart, with Kingswear opposite and boats filling the river between them.
The waterfront is likely to become extremely busy well before 9 pm, so choose your viewing area early rather than arriving immediately before the display.
As with any outdoor fireworks display, arrangements can be affected by weather and safety considerations.
Watching Dartmouth Regatta From the Water
Dart Explorer on the River Dart in Dartmouth. (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
Dartmouth Regatta is fundamentally a maritime event, so one of the most interesting ways to experience it is from the River Dart itself.
Regular passenger boats and sightseeing cruises operate from Dartmouth during the summer, providing a different perspective on the town, harbour and Regatta activity. Our first-hand River Dart boat trip from Dartmouth to Totnes explains the full route and what you can see along the way.
Private cruises and charters are another possibility if you are visiting as a family or group.
Can You Watch the Dartmouth Regatta Fireworks From a Boat?
Yes. The Regatta organisers specifically mention spectators watching the Saturday night fireworks from boats on the River Dart.
At the time of writing, we haven’t found a scheduled public Dartmouth Regatta fireworks cruise for 2026, so check directly with local River Dart operators rather than assuming a dedicated cruise will be available.
Dartmouth River Boats, part of Dartmouth Steam Railway & River Boat Company, operates scheduled River Dart cruises, including services towards Totnes. This is the main option for a conventional sightseeing cruise.
Greenway & Dittisham Ferry Service, operated by Greenway Ferry, runs river cruises and seasonal services linking Dartmouth with Dittisham and Greenway.
The Fizz Boat offers skippered private cruises on the River Dart and is worth contacting directly about availability for the Regatta evening.
The Banquet Boat offers private cruises and dining trips from Dartmouth and is another operator worth asking about Regatta Saturday.
Dartmouth Boat Hire provides self-drive boat hire from the North Embankment. This is a different proposition from a skippered fireworks cruise, and anyone considering being afloat during Regatta should check Dart Harbour restrictions and safety information first.
Dartmouth Castle Ferry operates the short trip between Dartmouth and Dartmouth Castle. It is not a Regatta cruise, but it is an inexpensive way to get onto the river and see Dartmouth from the water.
Visiting Dartmouth Regatta by Boat
Darthaven Marina and the Dartmouth Steam Railway at Kingswear. (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
If you have your own boat, check the latest Dart Harbour Local Notices to Mariners before arriving. Dartmouth Regatta brings exceptionally heavy river traffic, and temporary navigational restrictions can be in place around individual events.
Marinas are also likely to be extremely busy during Regatta Week, with visitor berths and moorings in high demand. If you are planning to stay overnight, contact your preferred marina or check visitor mooring availability well in advance rather than relying on finding space when you arrive.
Where to Watch Dartmouth Regatta From Shore
The Esplanade and Dartmouth Harbour. (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
Dartmouth Embankment
The Embankment is the obvious place to start, particularly as many of the rowing races take place between the Lower and Higher Ferries. It runs directly beside the River Dart and offers excellent views of the action, although it is also one of the busiest parts of town.
Royal Avenue Gardens
Close by, Royal Avenue Gardens sits between the town centre and the waterfront. Its bandstand is a key focus for entertainment and the Opening Ceremony, with shops, cafés, the Boat Float and the river all within a short walk.
South Embankment and Bayard’s Cove
Walking south along the Embankment gives you a different perspective on the Dart and takes you towards historic Bayard’s Cove.
Bayard’s Cove is a good place to watch river activity, but we would also recommend continuing towards Warfleet. The route between Bayard’s Cove and Warfleet has several places where you can stop and look across the Dart, including benches overlooking the water. We particularly enjoyed this stretch when we walked it on our last visit.
Warfleet and Dartmouth Castle
Continue beyond Warfleet towards Dartmouth Castle for another excellent area from which to watch activity on the lower Dart.
There are several viewpoints as you approach the castle, with increasingly open views towards Kingswear and the mouth of the river. Dartmouth Castle itself occupies a particularly impressive position at the entrance to the Dart and is worth considering if you want to get away from the busiest parts of the town centre.
Kingswear
Don’t overlook Kingswear, which offers excellent views across the Dart towards Dartmouth. The South West Coast Path climbs towards Kingswear Castle and the river mouth, while an easier riverside path runs between the Lower and Higher Ferries alongside the railway. This mile-long path is narrow in places but provides another good viewpoint for rowing and river events.
We approached Dartmouth through Kingswear on our most recent visit and particularly enjoyed the five-minute passenger ferry crossing and views of the town.
Kingswear is also practical for visitors staying in Torbay. Buses connect it with Paignton and Brixham, while the Dartmouth Steam Railway provides an enjoyable alternative to Paignton.
Dartmouth Regatta Parking
Buses connect Dartmouth Park and Ride with the town centre. (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
Parking is something we would consider before travelling to the Dartmouth Regatta.
Dartmouth is compact, with steep surrounding hills and limited town-centre parking, even during an ordinary summer visit.
The official Dartmouth Regatta car park is at Coronation Park, TQ6 9RR, and is scheduled to open from 8 am to 11 pm each day during Regatta Week. Booking is available and recommended. Booking is available and recommended.
Dartmouth Park and Ride is likely to be one of the easiest options if you are driving to the Regatta, avoiding the need to find a space or negotiate temporary traffic arrangements in the town centre.
The Park and Ride is on the outskirts of Dartmouth, close to the junction of the A3122 and A379 at Townstal, near Lidl and Sainsbury’s. Use TQ6 0JL for navigation.
The dedicated Stagecoach 91 links the Park and Ride with central Dartmouth. During the peak summer period covering Regatta Week, buses are scheduled to run every 10 minutes. South Hams District Council lists a specific Dartmouth Regatta service from Wednesday 26 to Saturday 29 August 2026.
Additional Park and Ride buses normally operate during the busiest periods of Regatta Week, but temporary road closures may affect stops and journey times.
The normal Park and Ride service finishes during the early evening, so check your return arrangements carefully if you intend to stay for the Saturday night fireworks.
Personally, we would not take a car into Dartmouth during Regatta Week unless we had to. The organisers encourage visitors to arrive by public transport, ferry, or boat, and we certainly would not plan a visit around finding an ordinary town-centre parking space.
Dartmouth Regatta Road Closures 2026
There are some important changes to the traffic arrangements for 2026.
There will be no traffic lights in Fairfax Place, while Mayor’s Avenue and The Quay remain two-way.
Vehicles will instead travel up Spithead on a temporarily reversed one-way system before continuing along South Embankment.
Smith Street and Raleigh Street remain open, while Hauley Road is unchanged.
Sections of North and South Embankment close to traffic for the Regatta shopping area, and Market Street closes from Wednesday to Saturday afternoons. Access to businesses remains available through traffic operatives.
Blue Badge parking has moved closer to the main event area and is provided on South Embankment between Spithead and Hauley Road.
The road closures also affect some bus stops. Once South Embankment closes on Monday evening, Service 90 starts and finishes at Victoria Road, near Spar. Services 91, 92, and 93 use Rue de Courcelles-sur-Mer instead.
The Marks & Spencer bus stop is not served during this period, while bus services on the Kingswear side of the Dart remain unaffected.
Check the latest arrangements before travelling and allow additional time, as temporary traffic measures may change during Regatta Week.
Getting to Dartmouth Regatta Without a Car
The Higher Ferry crossing the River Dart. (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
Dartmouth is a particularly good destination to visit without a car, with regular bus, ferry and boat connections from the surrounding area.
There are two useful National Rail gateways: Totnes and Paignton. Both are served by Great Western Railway, while CrossCountry also provides longer-distance connections.
Totnes offers the most straightforward train and bus journey. Paignton offers a more scenic route via Kingswear, followed by a short passenger ferry crossing.
On our most recent trip in June 2026, we travelled by train to Paignton, by bus to Kingswear, and by passenger ferry into Dartmouth. We would be happy to use the same approach again during the Regatta.
Getting to Dartmouth Regatta via Totnes
Totnes is a convenient rail gateway for Dartmouth. (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
Totnes is one of the most convenient National Rail stations for Dartmouth, with direct connections from Exeter, Plymouth and Bristol, as well as longer-distance services.
From Totnes, Stagecoach Services 7 and 92 provide direct buses to Dartmouth. Service 7 also provides through connections from Exeter and Newton Abbot. We travelled from Dartmouth to Totnes on Service 7 in August 2026, so it is worth checking both routes when planning your journey.
This avoids taking a car into Dartmouth and also makes Totnes worth considering as a base for accommodation during Regatta Week.
During the Regatta road closures, Service 92 uses the temporary stop at Rue de Courcelles sur Mer rather than the usual waterfront stops.
Getting to Dartmouth Regatta via Paignton and Kingswear
Paignton provides one of the most enjoyable approaches to Dartmouth.
Travel to Paignton by National Rail and continue to Kingswear on Stagecoach Service 120, or take the Dartmouth Steam Railway from Paignton to Kingswear.
From Kingswear, cross the River Dart by passenger ferry. The crossing takes about five minutes and offers excellent views of Dartmouth as you approach.
The passenger ferry runs regularly throughout the day, with additional sailings often provided during busy Regatta periods.
During Regatta, the Dartmouth to Kingswear Passenger Ferry is scheduled to start from Dartmouth at 7.30 am Monday to Saturday and 9 am on Sunday, with advertised last crossings at 6.50 pm from Dartmouth and 6.55 pm from Kingswear. Additional passenger ferry crossings may operate later, depending on demand.
If you need to cross the Dart later in the evening, both the Higher Ferry and Lower Ferry also carry foot passengers as well as vehicles and operate much later. The Higher Ferry is scheduled to run until 10.45 pm from Dartmouth and 10.50 pm from Kingswear, while the Lower Ferry runs until 10.55 pm from Dartmouth and 10.45 pm from Kingswear.
Kingswear station beside the River Dart. (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
Late Ferries Between Dartmouth and Kingswear
If you are staying for the Dartmouth Regatta fireworks, check the ferry times before deciding which side of the river to watch from.
For Dartmouth Regatta, the Higher Ferry’s published final crossings are at 10.45 pm from Dartmouth and 10.50 pm from Kingswear. The Lower Ferry runs until 10.55 pm from Dartmouth and 10.45 pm from Kingswear.
The Dartmouth to Kingswear Passenger Ferry normally finishes much earlier, with published last crossings at 6.50 pm from Dartmouth and 6.55 pm from Kingswear, although additional crossings may operate according to demand.
These later vehicle ferry times provide useful alternatives for pedestrians returning across the river after the 9 pm Saturday fireworks. However, services are likely to be exceptionally busy, and operating arrangements can change, so check the latest information directly with the ferry operators before travelling.
Staying for the Saturday Night Fireworks
Paignton is particularly worth considering if you want to remain in Dartmouth for the Saturday night fireworks.
Dartmouth Steam Railway has announced additional trains for Regatta Saturday, including a late return from Kingswear intended to give visitors time to watch the 9 pm fireworks and cross back by ferry before returning to Paignton.
If you plan to take the late steam train back to Paignton after the fireworks, we would recommend watching from the Kingswear side of the Dart. You avoid joining the large number of people trying to cross the river immediately after the display and are already on the correct side for Kingswear station.
If you watch the fireworks from Dartmouth and need to return to Kingswear afterwards, the Higher and Lower Ferries both carry foot passengers and operate late into the evening. The Higher Ferry is scheduled to leave Dartmouth until 10.45 pm, while the Lower Ferry runs from Dartmouth until 10.55 pm. The dedicated Passenger Ferry normally finishes much earlier, although additional crossings may operate according to demand. Queues are likely after the fireworks, so allow plenty of time and check the latest ferry and onward travel arrangements before setting out.
If you need to continue beyond Paignton by National Rail, check your final connection separately. The special steam railway service gets you back to Paignton, but this does not guarantee a late onward train to Torquay, Newton Abbot or elsewhere.
Where to Stay for Dartmouth Regatta
Dart Marina Hotel in Dartmouth. (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
Dartmouth would be our first choice for accommodation during Regatta Week, placing you close to the waterfront, rowing and evening entertainment. Kingswear is a close second, with attractive views and a short passenger ferry journey into Dartmouth.
Hotels in Dartmouth and Kingswear can book well ahead, so compare availability and prices on Booking.com and check recent guest reviews on Tripadvisor before reserving.
Totnes
Totnes is our next choice and one of the most practical places to stay for Dartmouth Regatta. It has hotels, guesthouses, restaurants and direct trains from Exeter, Plymouth and Bristol. Regular buses continue to Dartmouth, although anyone staying for the Saturday fireworks should check the final return service.
Torbay
Paignton and Brixham offer a wider choice of accommodation and potentially better value. Both connect with Kingswear, where the passenger ferry crosses to Dartmouth.
Paignton is particularly convenient for visitors arriving by train. You can continue by bus or Dartmouth Steam Railway, with additional late railway services planned after the Saturday fireworks. See our Things to Do in Paignton guide.
Brixham combines useful bus connections with the atmosphere of a traditional fishing town. See our Things to Do in Brixham guide.
Torquay has the greatest choice of hotels and holiday accommodation in Torbay but involves a longer journey. Our Things to Do in Torbay guide covers the wider area.
For us, the choice is Dartmouth or Kingswear for the full Regatta atmosphere, Totnes for rail and bus convenience, or Paignton and Brixham for more accommodation options and potentially lower prices.
Is Dartmouth Regatta Free?
Yes. Dartmouth Regatta itself is free to attend, although some individual competitions and activities have entry charges.
There is no conventional showground entrance. Sailing, rowing and much of the river activity can be watched from public areas, while entertainment takes place throughout the town.
Dartmouth and the Lower Car Ferry from Dartmouth to Kingswear passenger ferry. (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
You don’t need to spend the entire visit following the Regatta programme. Alongside Brixham and Salcombe, Dartmouth is one of our favourite Devon harbour towns and easily justifies a full day.
Dartmouth occupies the steep sides of the River Dart, with Kingswear opposite and Britannia Royal Naval College overlooking the town. Ferries, boats, historic streets and waterfront walks all add to its appeal.
It isn’t the cheapest place to visit and will be exceptionally busy during Regatta, but enjoying Dartmouth need not cost a fortune. The passenger ferry to Kingswear and Dartmouth Castle Ferry are inexpensive ways to get onto the water, while plenty of places offer picnic views across the Dart.
Explore the harbour and independent shops before walking through Bayard’s Cove towards Warfleet and Dartmouth Castle. On our last visit, we took the ferry to Dartmouth Castle and walked back through Warfleet and Bayard’s Cove, a combination we would happily recommend.
Longer cruises are available, but walking, using the ferries and watching river activity can easily fill several hours.
The latest Met Office forecast for Dartmouth, checked on Friday 28 August, suggests mixed conditions for the final two days of Dartmouth Regatta.
Friday should bring sunny intervals for much of the day, with temperatures reaching around 21°C. Showers become more likely during the afternoon, while winds will strengthen from around 7 to 10 mph during the morning to 15 to 17 mph during the afternoon. Gusts could reach around 34 mph at their strongest, before winds ease again during the evening.
Saturday looks more unsettled. Heavy rain is forecast during the morning, with a 95% or higher chance of rain from 5am to 7am. Showers are then likely to continue into the afternoon, although brighter intervals are forecast towards the evening.
Saturday will also be noticeably windy. Average wind speeds are forecast to increase from around 13 to 16 mph during the early morning to approximately 18 to 20 mph during the afternoon, with gusts potentially reaching around 40 mph. Winds should begin to ease during the evening, with average speeds falling to around 15 mph by the time of the 9pm fireworks. Temperatures should reach around 21°C.
Visitors should bring waterproof clothing as well as sun protection, as conditions may vary considerably through the day. An extra layer will also be useful for anyone staying beside the river for the Saturday evening entertainment and fireworks.
Dinghy racing is part of Dartmouth Regatta Sailing Week. (Credit: Clanctot/Pixabay)
Absolutely. Dartmouth Regatta is steeped in tradition and remains one of the highlights of Devon’s summer calendar.
Its beautiful setting is a large part of its attraction. Events unfold on the River Dart, with the town rising from the water and Britannia Royal Naval College overlooking the scene. Rowers compete close to the waterfront, yachts fill the surrounding waters, and ferries weave between Dartmouth and Kingswear.
More than two centuries of tradition lie behind an event that still means a great deal to Dartmouth, its organisers, competitors and returning visitors.
The absence of the Red Arrows will disappoint some, but Dartmouth Regatta is fundamentally a maritime celebration rather than an airshow. Even without an interest in competitive sailing or rowing, there is plenty to enjoy around the town.
The trade-off is that Dartmouth becomes exceptionally busy. If you prefer the town at its quietest, this is not the week to visit. However, if you enjoy boats, maritime tradition and a lively atmosphere, we think the Regatta is well worth experiencing.
Our Verdict
The Dartmouth Regatta 2026 programme is too extensive to see everything. Choose a few priorities, such as the Opening Ceremony, rowing, River Parade, Kon-Tiki Raft Race or Saturday fireworks, while leaving time to enjoy Dartmouth and the River Dart.
Our main practical recommendation is to decide how you are getting there before the day. Parking is limited, and Regatta Week brings road closures and thousands of additional visitors.
Fortunately, Dartmouth is easy to visit without a car. Totnes offers a straightforward train and bus journey, while Paignton provides the more scenic route via Kingswear by bus or Dartmouth Steam Railway, followed by the passenger ferry.
Additional late steam trains are planned from Kingswear after the Saturday fireworks. We would consider watching from the Kingswear side to avoid the rush to cross the river afterwards.
For accommodation, Dartmouth or Kingswear puts you closest to the celebrations. Totnes is a convenient alternative, while Paignton and Brixham offer more choice and potentially better value.
Whichever route you choose, allow plenty of time. During Regatta Week, the journey along the Dart can become part of the experience.
Although we make every effort to keep this independent guide up to date, event timings, river activities, visiting vessels, road closures, parking and public transport arrangements may change at short notice. Events can also be affected by weather, tides and operational requirements. We recommend checking the official Port of Dartmouth Royal Regatta website and social media pages before travelling.
Dartmouth Regatta 2026 FAQs
When is Dartmouth Regatta 2026?
The main Port of Dartmouth Royal Regatta takes place from Wednesday 26 to Saturday 29 August 2026. Rowing and sailing begin on Saturday 22 August, while Sailing Week continues until Sunday 30 August.
What time is the Dartmouth Regatta Opening Ceremony?
The Dartmouth Regatta Opening Ceremony takes place at 7.30 pm on Wednesday 26 August 2026 at the bandstand in Royal Avenue Gardens.
What time are the Dartmouth Regatta 2026 fireworks?
The Dartmouth Regatta fireworks are scheduled for 9 pm on Saturday 29 August 2026. The waterfront is likely to become busy well before the display begins.
Are the Red Arrows at Dartmouth Regatta 2026?
No. The Red Arrows are not displaying at Dartmouth Regatta in 2026.
Which Royal Navy guardships are attending Dartmouth Regatta?
HMS Brocklesby, a Hunt-class minehunter, and two Archer-class P2000 patrol boats are scheduled to attend as the 2026 Regatta guardships. Naval visits remain subject to operational requirements.
Do you need tickets for Dartmouth Regatta 2026?
No general admission ticket is required. Dartmouth Regatta is free to attend, although some competitions and activities have entry charges. There is no conventional showground entrance or general admission ticket.
Where can I buy the Dartmouth Regatta 2026 programme?
The official souvenir programme costs £7 and includes the complete schedule and event timings. It is available from the Regatta Information Hut and selected outlets in Dartmouth and Kingswear.
Where can I park for Dartmouth Regatta 2026?
The official Regatta car park is at Coronation Park, TQ6 9RR, with advance booking recommended. Dartmouth Park and Ride at Townstal is another useful option for visitors arriving by car.
Can I travel to Dartmouth Regatta by train?
Dartmouth does not have a National Rail station. Totnes and Paignton are the most useful rail gateways. From Totnes, continue by bus to Dartmouth. From Paignton, travel to Kingswear by bus or steam railway and cross the River Dart by passenger ferry.
Which buses run between Totnes and Dartmouth?
Stagecoach Services 7 and 92 provide direct journeys between Totnes and Dartmouth. Service 7 also provides through connections from Newton Abbot and Exeter. Check the latest timetable before travelling.
Are there road closures during Dartmouth Regatta?
Yes. Temporary restrictions affect parts of Dartmouth, including sections of North and South Embankment and Market Street. Some bus services use temporary stops during Regatta Week.
Can I watch the Dartmouth Regatta fireworks from a boat?
Yes, boats can watch the fireworks from the River Dart, subject to harbour restrictions and safety requirements. Check with local cruise operators and read the latest Dart Harbour Local Notices to Mariners before making plans.
Where should I stay for Dartmouth Regatta?
Dartmouth and Kingswear offer the closest accommodation but can fill quickly. Totnes, Paignton and Brixham are useful alternatives with public transport connections to Dartmouth.
Helpful Links for the Dartmouth Regatta 2026
These trusted resources can help you plan and book your trip, from transport and accommodation to weather and local information.
Booking.com – for most accommodation needs. Look out for options that include free cancellation.
Easy Tide – Free UK tidal prediction service, providing tidal data and tide times for the current day and 6 days into the future.
Red Arrows over Charmouth Beach (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
Update (08/08/26): Red Arrows Lyme Regis display cancelled
The Red Arrows display planned for 11.30 am on Sunday 16 August 2026 has unfortunately been cancelled after poor weather in north-eastern Canada delayed the team’s return from its North American tour. It is a major disappointment for Lyme Regis, the organisers and the many visitors who had hoped to see the display.
Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week will still go ahead from 15 to 23 August 2026, with its wider programme of RNLI fundraising, family activities and entertainment continuing as planned. Subject to weather and operational conditions, there will also still be flying activity during the week.
In its update of 8 August, the RAF announced Battle of Britain Memorial Flight flypasts over Lyme Regis on 21 and 22 August. The aircraft and timings have not yet been specified, and all flying remains subject to weather, aircraft availability and operational requirements.
These BBMF flypasts are separate from the display by two privately owned Supermarine Spitfires scheduled for 6 pm on Wednesday 19 August as part of Lifeboat Week.
The RAF expects the Red Arrows to resume their multi-stage Atlantic crossing during the week beginning 10 August, subject to suitable weather and operational conditions. The team’s safe return will determine when its 2026 display season can recommence.
Sidmouth Regatta Airshow is currently planned to go ahead on Friday 28 August 2026. The Red Arrows remain scheduled to appear, but their participation will depend on the team’s safe return from Canada, aircraft serviceability, weather and operational requirements. See our
Sidmouth Airshow visitor guide
for the latest programme and travel information.
The Red Arrows display planned for Lyme Regis on Sunday 16 August 2026 has unfortunately been cancelled after poor weather delayed the team’s return from North America. It is a major disappointment for the town, organisers and the many visitors who had hoped to see the display, but Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week will still go ahead from 15 to 23 August. The wider programme of family activities and fundraising events continues as planned, and, subject to weather and operational conditions, other flying displays are also still expected to take place.
Red Arrows Lyme Regis 2026 at a glance
Status:Cancelled
Original date: Sunday 16 August 2026
Original display time: 11.30 am
Location: Lyme Regis seafront, Dorset
Planned display team: RAF Red Arrows
Reason for cancellation: Poor weather in north-eastern Canada delayed the team’s return from its North American tour.
Occasion: The 200th anniversary of a lifeboat in Lyme Regis
Lifeboat Week: Continuing from 15 to 23 August 2026
Spitfire display: Two privately owned Supermarine Spitfires are scheduled for 6 pm on Wednesday 19 August.
BBMF flypasts: Planned for 21 and 22 August. Aircraft and timings have not yet been specified.
Please note: The Red Arrows cancellation does not cancel Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week. All remaining events and flying appearances remain subject to weather, aircraft availability and operational requirements. Check the latest organiser information before travelling.
Disclosure:Some of the outbound links on this page are affiliate links to sites that we use and would genuinely recommend. Using them doesn’t cost you extra, but it does help support this free guide. We also provide links to other sites that we believe may be helpful to you.
Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week runs from Saturday 15 to Sunday 23 August 2026, celebrating the 200th anniversary of a lifeboat being stationed in the town. The programme combines fundraising activities, emergency service demonstrations, music, family entertainment, and beach events.
Opening day includes the official ceremony at noon and the Bathtub Race at 7 pm. Other highlights include a chip pan fire demonstration and a fire and rescue exercise on Monday, Damsels in Distress and a lifeguard display on Tuesday, and military vehicles, the Greasy Pole, and two Spitfires on Wednesday.
Thursday includes model boats, crab fishing, Conger Cuddling and birds of prey. The final weekend features a sandcastle competition, swimming challenge, beach tug of war, duck race and fun run.
Many activities are free to watch, although donations are encouraged. Some competitive events require registration or booking through the official RNLI event page.
The official Lifeboat Week programme can be viewed online. Printed copies cost £3 and can be purchased from the Lyme Regis and Beer RNLI shops and participating businesses around the area. Buying one is an excellent way to support the RNLI.
Some earlier Lifeboat Week publicity may still show the Red Arrows display, but the appearance on 16 August 2026 has been cancelled.
Poco Pizza on Marine Parade serves freshly prepared pizzas overlooking the beach. Nearby, SWIM opens for breakfast and continues throughout the day with burgers, crab sandwiches and other informal meals, accompanied by views across Lyme Bay.
The Harbour Inn on Marine Parade serves seafood, pub meals and drinks close to the main viewing area. The Royal Standard, near the harbour, is a family-run pub serving food from noon until 9 pm, including Palmers ales and traditional pub dishes.
Waffle Lyme provides a more casual option for waffles, drinks and lighter refreshments. Strawberry Tree specialises in Spanish tapas, while the Alexandra Hotel offers locally influenced dining in a more formal setting above the seafront.
Lyme Regis will be busy during lifeboat week. Reserve a table wherever possible and check Sunday opening times directly with the business before travelling.
Bringing water and a small amount of food may also be sensible, especially for families arriving early. Please use the bins provided or take litter home.
Where to stay in Lyme Regis for Lifeboat Week
Accommodation in Lyme Regis is likely to fill quickly because Lifeboat Week takes place during the school summer holidays. Staying within walking distance of the seafront avoids the pressure of parking and traffic. Compare hotels, guesthouses and self-catering accommodation in Lyme Regis and look for flexible cancellation options where available.
The Alexandra Hotel is a family-owned boutique hotel set in gardens above Lyme Bay, within a short walk of the town centre and seafront. Its elevated position, sea views and central location make it particularly convenient for the weekend.
The Royal Standard is a family-run pub beside the Cobb with three bed and breakfast rooms. It is one of the closest accommodation options to the harbour and central viewing areas, although its location means the busiest parts of town will surround it.
For self-catering accommodation, Toad Hall Cottages represents cottages in Lyme Regis and surrounding coastal communities. A property with private parking and pedestrian access to the town would be particularly useful.
Newlands Holiday Park in nearby Charmouth provides lodges, caravans, apartments, rooms, touring pitches and camping. It also has leisure facilities, a restaurant and family play areas, making it a practical option for longer stays during Lifeboat Week. Travel into Lyme Regis will still require planning because roads are expected to be exceptionally busy.
Other possible bases include Charmouth, Axminster, Bridport, Seaton and Beer.
Book as soon as possible and look for flexible cancellation terms.
Red Arrows Lyme Regis 2026 FAQs
Has the Red Arrows display at Lyme Regis been cancelled?
Yes. The Red Arrows display planned for 11.30 am on Sunday 16 August 2026 has been cancelled. The team will not appear at Lyme Regis on that date.
Why was the Red Arrows Lyme Regis display cancelled?
Poor weather in north-eastern Canada delayed the Red Arrows’ return from their North American tour. The revised journey means the team cannot return to the UK in time for the Lyme Regis display.
Will the Red Arrows display be rescheduled?
No replacement date for a Red Arrows display at Lyme Regis has been announced. The RAF is concentrating on returning the team safely to the UK and recommencing the wider 2026 display season when conditions permit.
Is Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week still going ahead?
Yes. Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week continues from Saturday 15 to Sunday 23 August 2026. Its programme includes RNLI fundraising, family activities, music, demonstrations, beach competitions and community events.
Are the Spitfires still displaying at Lyme Regis?
Two privately owned Supermarine Spitfires are scheduled to display at 6 pm on Wednesday 19 August 2026. This is separate from the cancelled Red Arrows appearance and remains subject to weather, aircraft availability and operational requirements.
Is the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight visiting Lyme Regis?
The RAF has announced Battle of Britain Memorial Flight flypasts over Lyme Regis on 21 and 22 August 2026. The aircraft and flypast times have not yet been specified, and all appearances remain subject to change.
Are the Spitfire display and BBMF flypasts the same event?
No. The two privately owned Spitfires are scheduled for Wednesday 19 August. The separately announced Battle of Britain Memorial Flight flypasts are planned for Friday 21 and Saturday 22 August.
Is Sidmouth Regatta Airshow still going ahead?
Sidmouth Regatta Airshow is currently planned to take place on Friday 28 August 2026. The Red Arrows remain scheduled to appear, but their participation depends on the team’s safe return from Canada, aircraft serviceability, weather and operational requirements.
Where can I find the latest official information?
Check the official RAF announcement and the RNLI Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week information before travelling. Flying displays and flypasts can change because of weather, aircraft availability or operational requirements.
Although we make every effort to keep this guide accurate, display times, Lifeboat Week events, parking arrangements and travel information may change at short notice. Flying displays are subject to weather, operational requirements and aircraft availability. Check the official Lyme Regis Town Council, RNLI and RAF Red Arrows websites before travelling for the latest announcements.
Helpful Links for Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week 2026
These trusted resources can help you plan and book your trip, from transport and accommodation to weather and local information.
Booking.com – for most accommodation needs. Look out for options that include free cancellation.
Easy Tide – Free UK tidal prediction service, providing tidal data and tide times for the current day and 6 days into the future.
The RAF Red Arrows are scheduled to make three flypasts over Sidmouth at 6.40 pm. (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
The Sidmouth Airshow 2026 takes place on Friday 28 August 2026 and opens the annual Sidmouth Regatta, which continues across the Bank Holiday weekend.
The updated programme features the Stampe Display Team, a three-aircraft Navy Wings formation, Aerosuperbatics Wing Walkers and Rich Goodwin’s Jet Pitts, followed by three RAF Red Arrows flypasts at 6.40 pm. Sidmouth Town Council has announced that the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Dakota has been withdrawn because it is unavailable.
This independent guide covers the Sidmouth Airshow 2026 flying programme, aircraft line-up, best places to watch, parking, travel information, accommodation and everything you need to plan your visit. Updated regularly as new information is announced.
Sidmouth Airshow 2026 at a Glance
Important update: 28 August 2026
The planned full RAF Red Arrows aerobatic display has been replaced by three flypasts at 6.40 pm.
Read the full Red Arrows update.
Parking update: 28 August 2026 Sidmouth Rugby Club is no longer available for airshow parking because of the possibility of rain showers.
🎆 Sidmouth Regatta continues this weekend
The wider Sidmouth Regatta continues on Saturday and Sunday, with watersports, family events, live music and fireworks planned for 9.15 pm on Saturday.
Activities start: 3 pm with Road Arrows bicycle displays at Bedford Lawn and Port Royal
Water displays: 4 pm with Sidmouth and Exmouth lifeboats and Sidmouth Lifeguards
Flying displays start: 4.50 pm with the Stampe Display Team
Red Arrows update: Three flypasts are scheduled for 6.40 pm, replacing the previously planned full aerobatic display.
Updated programme: Road Arrows bicycle displays, Sidmouth and Exmouth lifeboats, Sidmouth Lifeguards, Stampe Display Team, Navy Wings Swordfish, Chipmunk and Bulldog, Aerosuperbatics Wing Walkers, Rich Goodwin Jet Pitts and three RAF Red Arrows flypasts.
Navy Wings display: Formation flight by the Swordfish, Chipmunk and Bulldog from 5.15 pm, followed by a Chipmunk and Bulldog tail chase and individual Chipmunk and Swordfish displays.
Latest aircraft update: The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Dakota has been withdrawn because the aircraft is unavailable.
Food and drink: Food court and Branscombe Brewery bar at The Ham
Also available: Red Arrows merchandise and a Red Arrows flight simulator
Best viewing: The Esplanade, Sidmouth Beach, Jacob’s Ladder Beach and the surrounding coastal viewpoints
Part of: Sidmouth Regatta 2026 weekend, with Saturday events and fireworks at 9.15 pm
📢 Live airshow day updates
For any last-minute official changes to the programme, timings or visitor information we recommend checking Sidmouth Town Council’s Facebook page.
Please note: Timings and aircraft appearances remain subject to weather, serviceability and operational requirements. Further changes may be announced at short notice. A temporary water safety exclusion zone will operate offshore during the airshow.
Disclosure:Some of the outbound links on this page are affiliate links to sites that we use and would genuinely recommend. Using them doesn’t cost you extra, but it does help support this free guide. We also provide links to other sites that we believe may be helpful to you.
The Sidmouth Regatta Airshow takes place on Friday 28 August 2026, opening the annual Sidmouth Regatta weekend.
The air display opens a Bank Holiday weekend of entertainment, including sailing and gig races, family activities, the raft race, the Three-Legged Race and a fireworks display at 9.15 pm on Saturday evening.
What is the Sidmouth Regatta Airshow?
The Sidmouth Regatta Airshow is one of East Devon’s most popular annual events, attracting thousands of visitors to the town each August Bank Holiday.
Unlike larger commercial airshows, Sidmouth combines military flying displays with a traditional seaside regatta, creating a unique family atmosphere against the backdrop of the Jurassic Coast.
Sidmouth Town Council organises the event, which remains free to attend thanks to sponsorship, fundraising and public donations. Volunteers carry out bucket and contactless collections throughout the day to help secure the future of this much-loved annual event, and visitors are encouraged to support it if they can.
Supporters can also contribute by purchasing tickets for the Sidmouth Regatta Airshow Grand Draw. Tickets are available from Sidmouth Tourist Information Centre and Sidmouth Cricket Club, and will also be sold on Airshow day.
Sidmouth Airshow 2026 Aircraft Line-up
Navy Wings Swordfish, Chipmunk and Bulldog over Sidmouth. (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
The 2026 Sidmouth Regatta Airshow promises an impressive afternoon of aerial entertainment over the Jurassic Coast, featuring a mix of military, historic, and civilian display aircraft.
The provisional Sidmouth Airshow 2026 aircraft line-up includes:
RAF Red Arrows Flypasts
The RAF Red Arrows are the Royal Air Force’s world-famous aerobatic display team. Their planned full display at Sidmouth Airshow 2026 has been replaced by three flypasts, scheduled for 6.40 pm on Friday 28 August.
Sidmouth Town Council says the change is due to forecast weather and operational constraints affecting which airfields the team can use. Operating from farther away limits the time the aircraft can spend over Sidmouth.
The flypasts remain subject to weather, aircraft serviceability and operational requirements and may change at short notice.
Navy Wings Swordfish, Chipmunk and Bulldog
The updated Navy Wings display begins with the Fairey Swordfish, de Havilland Chipmunk and Scottish Aviation Bulldog flying together in formation. The Chipmunk and Bulldog will then perform a tail chase, followed by individual displays from the Chipmunk and Swordfish.
The formation brings together three aircraft associated with different periods of British military aviation. The Swordfish represents the Fleet Air Arm of the Second World War, while the Chipmunk and Bulldog became familiar postwar training aircraft.
Aerosuperbatics Wing Walkers Duo
The Aerosuperbatics Wing Walkers combine precision flying with breathtaking wing walking displays as performers stand on the upper wings of two Boeing Stearman biplanes during loops, rolls and close formation manoeuvres. It remains one of the most popular civilian displays on the UK airshow circuit.
Rich Goodwin Jet Pitts Muscle Plane
Rich Goodwin’s Jet Pitts Muscle Plane is one of the most powerful and exciting aerobatic aircraft in Britain, combining a highly modified Pitts Special with jet-assisted performance. Its dramatic climbs, tumbles, torque rolls and low-level passes make it a crowd favourite at airshows across the country.
The Stampe Display Team
The Stampe Display Team flies beautifully restored Stampe SV.4 biplanes, a classic training aircraft design developed during the 1930s, recreating the golden age of aviation with graceful formation flying and classic aerobatics. Their elegant display provides a striking contrast to the high-speed modern aircraft appearing elsewhere in the programme.
Sidmouth Independent Lifeboat and Exmouth RNLI Lifeboat Display
The Sidmouth Independent Lifeboat and Exmouth RNLI Lifeboat Display showcases the vital work carried out by volunteer lifeboat crews along the East Devon coast. Demonstrations typically highlight search-and-rescue techniques, seamanship skills, and the close partnership between the RNLI and other emergency services.
Sidmouth Airshow 2026 Flying Times
Sidmouth Town Council has announced an updated programme for the Sidmouth Regatta Airshow on Friday 28 August 2026:
3 pm: Road Arrows at Bedford Lawn
Road Arrows then perform a second display at Port Royal
4 pm: Sidmouth and Exmouth lifeboats, with Sidmouth Lifeguards
4.50 pm: Stampe Display Team
5.15 pm: Navy Wings formation with the Swordfish, Chipmunk and Bulldog
Navy Wings Chipmunk and Bulldog tail chase
Navy Wings Chipmunk display
Navy Wings Swordfish display
6 pm: Aerosuperbatics Wing Walkers
6.20 pm: Rich Goodwin Jet Pitts Muscle Plane
6.40 pm: Three RAF Red Arrows flypasts
7.30 pm: Regatta Airshow Grand Draw
The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Dakota has been withdrawn because the 82-year-old aircraft is unavailable. Its former 5.40 pm slot has been replaced by an expanded Navy Wings sequence featuring the Swordfish, Chipmunk and Bulldog.
Sidmouth Red Arrows Display Replaced by Three Flypasts
The planned full RAF Red Arrows aerobatic display at Sidmouth Airshow has been replaced by three flypasts at 6.40 pm on Friday 28 August 2026.
Sidmouth Town Council says the change is due to the forecast weather and operational constraints affecting which airfields the Red Arrows can use. The team will be operating from farther away than originally planned, reducing the time the aircraft can spend over Sidmouth.
Sidmouth date: Friday 28 August 2026
Scheduled time: 6.40 pm
Revised appearance: Three Red Arrows flypasts rather than a full aerobatic display
The separately planned Red Arrows flypast over Lyme Regis has also changed. It is now scheduled for 6.30 pm on Friday 28 August, shortly before the Sidmouth flypasts. It was previously due to take place at 12.33 pm on Saturday 29 August but has been brought forward because of the poor Saturday weather forecast.
This announcement concerns the Red Arrows element of the programme. Visitors should continue to check for any further changes to the remaining Sidmouth Airshow timetable.
Please note: All flying remains subject to weather, aircraft serviceability and operational requirements. Timings and appearances may change at short notice.
Best Places to Watch the Sidmouth Regatta and Airshow
Sidmouth, Devon – Home to the Sidmouth Regatta and Airshow (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
The display takes place over Lyme Bay, parallel to the Sidmouth seafront. Aircraft can enter the display area from different directions, so listen for the commentary and watch across the wider bay as each display begins.
Sidmouth Esplanade
The main viewing area has uninterrupted views across Lyme Bay.
Sidmouth Beach
Excellent central viewing close to cafés, shops and facilities.
Peak Hill
Higher viewpoints offering dramatic photography opportunities overlooking the display area.
Jacob’s Ladder Beach
Usually quieter than the main seafront while still offering excellent views.
Connaught Gardens
A beautiful elevated location with panoramic views across Sidmouth and the display line.
Salcombe Hill
Salcombe Hill provides sweeping views across Sidmouth, its Esplanade and Lyme Bay. (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
Viewed from the South West Coast Path below Salcombe Hill, overlooking the town.
Coastal paths and clifftop viewpoints may become busy, and some sections have steep drops or uneven ground. Keep well back from cliff edges and follow any temporary restrictions or safety instructions.
By early afternoon, the Esplanade becomes extremely busy, so arriving before 2 pm is usually the best choice for viewing locations.
Have time before the Sidmouth Airshow flying programme begins?
See our guide to things to do in Sidmouth, including the seafront,
Connaught Gardens and walks along the Jurassic Coast.
Peak Hill offers spectacular elevated views across Lyme Bay, while Jacob’s Ladder and the western end of the Esplanade are excellent for photographing the Red Arrows against the cliffs. Salcombe Hill offers wider landscape shots that combine the aircraft with the Jurassic Coast.
Watch Sidmouth Airshow from the Water
Stuart Line Cruises seen at Exmouth (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
For one of the most memorable ways to experience the Sidmouth Airshow, Stuart Line Cruises operates a special airshow sailing from Exmouth Marina, allowing passengers to watch the displays from Lyme Bay with uninterrupted views of the action.
After cruising along the Jurassic Coast, the vessel takes up a position offshore in front of Sidmouth, providing an unobstructed view of the display area. Away from the busy Esplanade and crowded beaches, it offers a unique perspective on the aerial displays, with participating aircraft overhead against the backdrop of the Devon coastline, and the RAF Red Arrows scheduled to make three flypasts at 6.40 pm.
The cruise lasts around 5 hours 15 minutes, with refreshments, snacks and a fully licensed bar available on board throughout the trip. Tickets for 2026 start from £25 per person, although places are limited and advance booking is recommended.
Cruise departure and return times should be checked directly with Stuart Line Cruises, as the published airshow timetable remains provisional. Weather and sea conditions can occasionally affect the cruise’s operation. The sailing will normally proceed even if individual aircraft are unable to display due to operational reasons or weather restrictions.
Important for boat owners and paddlers: A temporary Air Display Water Safety Zone will operate offshore from 3.30 pm until the display finishes at approximately 7.05 pm. Boats, jet skis, kayaks and paddleboards must remain outside the buoyed exclusion area and follow instructions from Sidmouth Lifeboat and the event safety vessels. The organisers are encouraging spectators to watch from shore. They have also advised that young children and pets may require suitable protection from loud aircraft and jet noise.
The Sidmouth Regatta Airshow opens three days of events over the August Bank Holiday weekend and forms the centrepiece of the wider Sidmouth Regatta.
Throughout Friday and Saturday, a food court showcasing local producers and a bar operated by Branscombe Brewery will be open at The Ham. Visitors will also be able to buy Red Arrows merchandise and experience a Red Arrows flight simulator.
Saturday 29 August 2026
Saturday brings a full programme of watersports, races, family entertainment, live music and fireworks:
9.30 am to 11 am: Sidmouth Surf Lifesaving
10.30 am: Sailing races
11 am to 4 pm: Family Fun Treasure Hunt
12.45 pm: Three-Legged Race
3 pm: Tug of War on The Ham
5.30 pm: Raft Race fancy dress judging
6 pm: Rotary Raft Race
7 pm: Live music from the Blue Honey Combo on The Ham
9.15 pm: Spectacular Firework Display
Food and drink will be available on The Ham throughout the day, while Saturday is also Sidmouth Lifeboat Flag Day.
Sunday 30 August 2026
The final day has a nautical theme, beginning with the Sidmouth Gig Club Regatta at 10am. Sailing events follow from 11am, accompanied by sea shanty singers and food and drink at the Watersports Hub.
Bringing together aviation, sailing, lifesaving, traditional races and seaside entertainment, Sidmouth Regatta remains one of East Devon’s major annual celebrations. Check the official Sidmouth Regatta programme for any last-minute changes.
Getting to Sidmouth Airshow
Sidmouth, Devon (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
By Car
Sidmouth is easily reached from across the South West and beyond. The town lies approximately 10 miles from Junction 30 of the M5 via the A3052 and around 9 miles from Honiton via the A375.
Typical journey times are:
Exeter: around 40 minutes
Bristol: around 2 hours
Birmingham: around 3 hours
London: around 3½ to 4 hours
For satellite navigation, the Sidmouth Information Centre postcode is EX10 8XR.
Heavy traffic and delays are common on the approach roads before the flying displays begin, while queues should also be expected when leaving Sidmouth after the airshow and evening fireworks. Where possible, visitors are encouraged to car share or use public transport to help reduce congestion.
Where Can I Park for the Sidmouth Airshow and Regatta?
Additional Airshow parking will be available on Friday 28 August at:
• Sidmouth Cricket Club: £12 from 10 am • Knowle Arena: £10 from midday
East Devon District Council car parks will also be available. Sidmouth is expected to be extremely busy during the Airshow and Regatta, so arrive early and allow extra time for your journey. Once parked, the town centre, Esplanade and main viewing areas are all within walking distance.
Sidmouth Airshow Road Closures
Port Royal will be closed from midday on Friday 28 August until 9 pm on Monday 31 August.
The Esplanade and Peak Hill will be closed from midday until 9 pm on Friday for the airshow, with diversions in place.
The Esplanade between Ham Lane and Fore Street will also close from 8.45 pm until 9.45 pm on Saturday for the fireworks.
Temporary parking restrictions will apply on several nearby roads on Friday, including Manor Road, parts of Station Road, All Saints Road, Radway, Vicarage Road, Temple Street, Arcot Road, The Triangle and Redwood Road.
Getting to Sidmouth Airshow and Regatta by Bus
Sidmouth is well served by Stagecoach South West bus services, making it one of the easiest ways to visit the Airshow and Regatta without the hassle of parking.
Route 9 operates between Exeter, Sidmouth and Honiton, with buses running up to every 30 minutes during the daytime when combined with Route 9A.
Route 9A links Exeter, Sidmouth, Beer and Seaton along the Jurassic Coast, providing additional services and one of Devon’s most scenic bus journeys.
Route 157 connects Exmouth, Budleigh Salterton and Sidmouth, generally operating hourly throughout the day via Otterton and Newton Poppleford.
Together, these routes provide convenient public transport links from Exeter, Honiton, Exmouth, Budleigh Salterton, Beer and Seaton, with buses stopping close to the town centre and seafront. Services are likely to be busy, particularly after the Red Arrows flypasts, so check the Stagecoach app for live departures and any event-related changes before travelling.
We’re big fans of the Stagecoach South West app, which allows you to purchase tickets, check live departure times and track your bus in real time. Timetables and service updates are also available on the Stagecoach South West website.
Travelling by bus is one of the easiest ways to reach the Sidmouth Airshow, avoiding traffic queues and parking difficulties. From Sidmouth Triangle and All Saints Church bus stops, the Esplanade and main viewing areas are only a short walk away.
Getting to Sidmouth by Train
Sidmouth no longer has its own railway station, so the easiest way to reach the Airshow by rail is to travel to Honiton, which is served by South Western Railway services from London Waterloo, Basingstoke, Salisbury, Yeovil Junction and Exeter St Davids.
From Honiton Railway Station, the Stagecoach South West Route 9 bus departs from the station forecourt and provides a direct connection to Sidmouth, with the journey taking around 25-35 minutes. Buses generally run hourly throughout the day, making the transfer straightforward and convenient.
Alternatively, visitors can travel by train to Exmouth before catching the Stagecoach 157 bus via Budleigh Salterton to Sidmouth, although this takes longer than travelling via Honiton. Axminster is another option, but getting to Sidmouth from there usually requires a bus change in Seaton, which makes it less convenient.
Getting to the Sidmouth Airshow on Foot
If you enjoy walking, reaching the Sidmouth Airshow on foot can become part of the day’s adventure. Some of East Devon’s finest scenery surrounds the town, and several excellent walking routes lead directly to the seafront and main viewing areas.
Our favourite approach is from Budleigh Salterton, following the South West Coast Path for around 6½ miles (10.5 km). Allow 3 to 3½ hours for the walk, which passes dramatic red-sandstone cliffs, the Jurassic Coast, and Ladram Bay, making it one of Devon’s most beautiful coastal walks. Parking is easier in Budleigh Salterton than in Sidmouth, making this an excellent option for Airshow day.
For those looking for an easier walk, Sidford provides another excellent starting point. From the village, the Byes follows the River Sid through attractive parkland and meadows for approximately 2 miles (2.4 km) into Sidmouth, taking around 30 to 40 minutes. The route is almost entirely level, traffic-free and suitable for most abilities, emerging just a short walk from the Esplanade.
Another pleasant option is to start in Otterton and walk around 3½ miles (5.5 km) to Sidmouth via quiet country lanes and footpaths in about 1½ hours.
More experienced walkers may prefer to arrive via the South West Coast Path from Beer, a spectacular but more demanding 8-mile (13 km) route that takes around 4 hours and involves several steep climbs. A shorter alternative is to begin from Branscombe or the National Trust car parks on Salcombe Hill, both of which offer excellent coastal views before descending into Sidmouth.
If we were choosing, we’d probably opt for Sidford or Budleigh Salterton. Both provide enjoyable walks into the town, parking is generally easier than in Sidmouth itself, and arriving on foot adds an extra sense of occasion before the Red Arrows appear overhead.
By Bike
Cycling is becoming increasingly popular, particularly among visitors staying elsewhere in East Devon. Sidmouth can be reached via a network of quiet lanes and cycle routes, and many festivalgoers combine the event with a cycling holiday exploring the Jurassic Coast, the Byes, Budleigh Salterton, Exmouth and the wider East Devon countryside.
For those staying locally, travelling by bike can often be one of the easiest ways to avoid festival traffic and parking pressures.
Where to Stay for the Sidmouth Airshow and Regatta
Accommodation is one of the first things to sell out for the Sidmouth Airshow and Regatta, with hotels, guesthouses, holiday cottages and holiday parks across Sidmouth often fully booked well before the August Bank Holiday weekend. Properties close to the Esplanade, The Ham and the town centre are particularly popular thanks to their easy access to the main viewing areas.
Demand is high across East Devon during the August Bank Holiday weekend, so book early. Booking.com and TripAdvisor provide a wider selection, with flexible cancellation available at some properties.
Things to Do While Visiting Sidmouth Regatta and Airshow
The East Devon Coast (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
One of the advantages of attending Sidmouth Regatta is that it works perfectly as part of a longer East Devon holiday. Many visitors spend extra time exploring the Jurassic Coast, nearby beaches and some of Devon’s most attractive seaside towns before or after the festival.
Sidmouth itself is worth exploring beyond the festival venues. Highlights include Connaught Gardens, Jacob’s Ladder Beach, The Byes riverside walk, the South West Coast Path and the town’s distinctive Regency architecture. For more ideas, see our guide to Things to Do in Sidmouth.
The surrounding coastline is home to some of the finest beaches in Devon. Popular spots include Exmouth Beach, Budleigh Salterton, Beer Beach, Branscombe, Weston Mouth and Seaton Beach. See our guide to East Devon Beaches for more inspiration.
Budleigh Salterton, just west of Sidmouth, offers a quieter seaside location with a pebble beach, an attractive high street and the nearby River Otter Estuary. Read our guide to Things to Do in Budleigh Salterton.
To the east, Beer and Branscombe offer a different side of the Jurassic Coast, combining a fishing heritage, coastal walks, historic cottages, and spectacular scenery. See our guide to Things to Do in Beer and Branscombe.
Nearby Seaton is another excellent day trip, with attractions including Seaton Wetlands, the Seaton Tramway and coastal walks towards Beer and Lyme Regis. For more information, see our guide to Things to Do in Seaton.
If you are planning a longer stay, our Things to Do in East Devon guide highlights more beaches, walks, wildlife reserves, market towns and attractions across this beautiful part of Devon.
Making a day of it?
Discover more of Sidmouth with our guide to things to do in Sidmouth, or explore Beer and Branscombe further along the East Devon coast.
Sidmouth Folk Festival is the town’s biggest annual event, but it is only one part of a packed events calendar. Throughout the year, Sidmouth hosts festivals, sporting events and cultural celebrations that help make it one of Devon’s most popular seaside destinations.
The season begins in May with Sidmouth Sea Fest, celebrating marine life, local food, sustainability and live music in Connaught Gardens. Later in the month, the Sidmouth Jazz & Blues Festival brings internationally known musicians and emerging artists to venues across the town.
June sees the Sidmouth Secluded Gardens event, opening some of Sidmouth’s most attractive private and public gardens to visitors. In July, SidyFest adds another weekend of live music before the arrival of Sidmouth Folk Festival at the end of the month.
After Folk Festival week, attention turns to the Sidmouth Regatta Airshow on Friday 28 August, followed by Regatta events across the Bank Holiday weekend. The programme combines watersports, family entertainment and air displays over Lyme Bay, with three Red Arrows flypasts scheduled for 6.40 pm on Friday.
September brings the Sidmouth and East Devon Walking Festival, offering guided and self-guided walks across the Jurassic Coast and surrounding countryside. Later in the year, the Sidmouth Science Festival helps extend the events season into autumn with talks, exhibitions and family activities.
Yes. I’d keep the destination as your broader South West page, but work the “what’s on in Devon this weekend” keyphrase naturally into the copy:
If you are looking for what’s on in Devon this weekend, our regularly updated What’s On in South West Englandguide includes festivals, airshows, food events, live music, family days out and seasonal events across Devon, alongside events in Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset.
Sidmouth Airshow 2026 and Regatta Weather Forecast
The Sidmouth Regatta continues today, Saturday 29 August, with watersports, family events, live music and the firework display scheduled for 9.15 pm tonight.
The latest Met Office forecast suggests a wet and unsettled start to Saturday, with heavy rain and showers possible through the morning and afternoon. Conditions may become brighter later, although strong and squally winds remain possible near the coast. Temperatures should reach around 21-22°C.
For anyone planning to stay for the fireworks, the outlook improves somewhat into the evening, with showers becoming more scattered and some clearer spells possible. However, the fireworks and watersports remain weather dependent, so check the latest organiser updates before travelling.
Sunday should start brighter, but further showers are expected to develop, potentially becoming heavy with thunder or hail during the afternoon and evening. The Regatta continues with the Sidmouth Gig Club Regatta, sailing and sea shanty entertainment.
Visitors should bring a waterproof jacket and suitable footwear, particularly around the seafront and The Ham.
Bring a waterproof jacket, an extra layer, water and sun protection. Keep an eye on the organisers’ latest announcements before travelling.
The Sidmouth Airshow 2026 takes place on Friday 28 August 2026, opening the wider Sidmouth Regatta weekend.
Has the Sidmouth Airshow 2026 been cancelled?
No. The Sidmouth Airshow has not been cancelled. All flying assets are still planning to attend. The only change is that the Red Arrows, which are scheduled to finish the flying programme, will now perform three flypasts rather than a full aerobatic display.
Is Sidmouth Airshow free?
Yes. Sidmouth Airshow is free to attend, although visitors are encouraged to donate towards the cost of staging the event.
What time does Sidmouth Airshow start?
Activities begin at 3 pm with Road Arrows bicycle displays at Bedford Lawn and Port Royal. Sidmouth and Exmouth lifeboats and Sidmouth Lifeguards are scheduled from 4 pm, followed by the first flying display at 4.50 pm.
What time are the Red Arrows at Sidmouth Airshow 2026?
Three RAF Red Arrows flypasts are scheduled for 6.40 pm on Friday 28 August. These replace the previously planned full aerobatic display because weather and operational constraints mean the team must operate from an airfield farther away from Sidmouth.
Are the Red Arrows still appearing at Sidmouth Airshow?
Yes. The Red Arrows are still scheduled to appear and will finish the flying programme with three flypasts at 6.40 pm rather than a full aerobatic display. Their appearance remains subject to weather, aircraft serviceability and operational requirements.
Where is the best place to watch Sidmouth Airshow?
The Esplanade and Sidmouth Beach offer the most central views. Peak Hill, Jacob’s Ladder Beach, Connaught Gardens and Salcombe Hill provide alternative viewpoints, although elevated coastal areas may have uneven ground and steep drops.
Where can I park for Sidmouth Airshow and Regatta?
Parking is available in East Devon District Council car parks across Sidmouth. Additional Airshow parking on Friday 28 August will be available at Sidmouth Cricket Club from 10 am for £12 and Knowle Arena from midday for £10. Sidmouth Rugby Club is no longer available for Airshow parking. Arrive early and allow extra time for traffic.
Can I get to Sidmouth Airshow by public transport?
Yes. Stagecoach South West routes 9, 9A and 157 connect Sidmouth with Exeter, Honiton, Seaton, Beer, Exmouth and Budleigh Salterton. Honiton is usually the most convenient railway station, with onward buses to Sidmouth. Check live departures and service updates before travelling.
What time are the Sidmouth Regatta fireworks?
The Sidmouth Regatta firework display is scheduled for 9.15 pm on Saturday 29 August 2026.
Can I watch Sidmouth Airshow from a boat or paddleboard?
Spectators are encouraged to watch the Airshow from shore. A temporary Air Display Water Safety Zone will operate offshore from 3.30 pm until approximately 7.05 pm. Boats, jet skis, kayaks and paddleboards must remain outside the marked exclusion area and follow instructions from event safety vessels.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Flying displays and flypasts may be delayed, changed or cancelled when weather conditions affect safety. The timetable and aircraft appearances can also change for operational reasons, so check the latest official updates before travelling.
Final Tips
Arrive early, bring sunscreen, and expect large crowds along the Esplanade. Higher viewpoints, such as Peak Hill, can provide excellent photography opportunities and a little more space away from the busiest parts of the seafront.
Whether you’re visiting for the Red Arrows, the Regatta or simply to enjoy one of Devon’s best seaside events, the Sidmouth Airshow 2026 promises an unforgettable day on the Jurassic Coast.
Although we make every effort to keep this guide up to date, display times, aircraft line-ups, Regatta events, parking arrangements and travel information may change at short notice. Flying displays are always subject to weather conditions, operational requirements and aircraft availability. We recommend checking the official Sidmouth Regatta and Airshow website before travelling for the latest information and announcements.
Helpful Links for the Sidmouth Regatta and Airshow 2026
These trusted resources can help you plan and book your trip, from transport and accommodation to weather and local information.
Booking.com – for most accommodation needs. Look out for options that include free cancellation.
Easy Tide – Free UK tidal prediction service, providing tidal data and tide times for the current day and 6 days into the future.
The Torbay Airshow 2027, officially known as the English Riviera Airshow, takes place from Friday 4 June to Sunday 6 June in Paignton. The free three-day event will feature an opening night on Friday, followed by two days of flying displays over Torbay on Saturday and Sunday.
The 2027 aircraft line-up and flying times have not yet been announced. Organisers say the line-up is expected in March 2027. We will update this guide as display teams, parking arrangements, road closures and detailed timings are confirmed.
This independent guide covers the latest Torbay Airshow 2027 information, including where to watch, how to get there, accommodation and practical advice for planning your weekend.
See the Red Arrows in South West England
Discover two more opportunities to see the Red Arrows over the South West coast in 2026.
Returning to South Devon for three days, the event brings together aerial displays, seafront entertainment, food stalls, fairground rides and family attractions across Paignton Green and the Torbay seafront. Originally known as the Torbay Airshow, it is now officially the English Riviera Airshow and has become one of Devon’s largest free events.
This is a comprehensive guide to the Torbay Airshow 2027. Use the table of contents to jump directly to the flying programme, accommodation, travel information, viewing locations or FAQs. If you are viewing on mobile, use the arrow in the bottom right corner of the page to quickly return to the contents menu at any time.
Disclosure:Some of the outbound links on this page are affiliate links to sites that we use and would genuinely recommend. Using them doesn’t cost you extra, but it does help support this free guide. We also provide links to other sites that we believe may be helpful to you.
When is the Torbay Airshow 2027?
The official dates are:
Friday 4 June 2027 Saturday 5 June 2027 Sunday 6 June 2027
The event is centred around Paignton Green, Paignton Beach and the Esplanade, with viewing areas stretching across Torbay.
What is the Torbay Airshow (English Riviera Airshow)?
The English Riviera Airshow combines military and civilian flying displays with a seafront event village, family entertainment and food stalls. The main event site is on Paignton Green, with flying displays taking place over Torbay.
Alongside the aircraft displays, visitors can expect:
Seafront entertainment zones
Fairground rides
Aviation exhibits
Trade stands
Local food and drink vendors
Live music and performances
Family attractions and activities
STEM and RAF-related displays
Paignton Green becomes the centre of the event, while Torquay and Goodrington also provide excellent viewing points across the bay.
Torbay Airshow 2027 Schedule and Flying Timetable
This is an independent visitor guide to the English Riviera Airshow 2027 and is not the official organiser’s website. Event details and flying times can change, so always check official sources before travelling.
Friday 4 June 2027 Opening Night
Friday will open the English Riviera Airshow weekend with entertainment on Paignton seafront. Details of the evening programme, flying displays and any fireworks have not yet been confirmed.
Flying times and participating aircraft will be added when announced by the organisers. All displays will remain subject to weather, aircraft availability and operational requirements.
Friday Flying Line-up
The Friday flying line-up has not yet been announced. Organisers expect to begin announcing aircraft in March 2027.
Saturday 5 June 2027 Main Flying Display
Saturday will be the first full day of flying displays over Torbay. Paignton Green and the main seafront viewing areas are likely to become busy well before flying begins.
The flying timetable has not yet been published. Arriving early is recommended, particularly if you plan to watch from Paignton Green or Paignton Beach.
Saturday Flying Line-up
The Saturday flying line-up has not yet been confirmed. Details will be added as participating military and civilian display teams are announced.
Sunday 6 June 2027 Main Flying Display
Sunday will bring a second day of flying displays over Torbay. The programme is expected to run during the afternoon, although official flying times have not yet been announced.
Paignton seafront is likely to remain busy, particularly around the main display period. All timings and appearances will be subject to weather and operational requirements.
Sunday Flying Line-up
The Sunday flying line-up has not yet been confirmed. This section will be updated when the organisers publish the 2027 programme.
Best Places to Watch the Torbay Airshow
One of the best things about the Torbay Airshow is its setting. Torbay forms a natural amphitheatre, meaning there are excellent viewing spots all around the bay, not just at the main event site.
Whether you want to be in the heart of the action or prefer a quieter viewpoint, there are plenty of options for watching the Torbay Airshow from Paignton, Torquay and Brixham.
Paignton Green & Paignton Beach
Paignton Pier and Beach (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
Paignton Green and the adjoining beach form the main hub for the Torbay Airshow, with commentary, stalls, fairground attractions and direct views across the display area. They provide some of the closest views of the flying displays, with Paignton Pier acting as the central reference point for the display line. The area is widely regarded as one of the best places to watch the airshow, although it is also usually the busiest.
Paignton Harbour and Fairy Cove
Paignton Harbour and nearby Fairy Cove offer a different perspective on the Torbay Airshow, slightly away from the busiest parts of Paignton Green yet still close to the main display area. The harbour walls, shoreline and rocky coastline can create attractive foregrounds for photography, particularly during arrivals and lower passes across the bay. Fairy Cove is smaller and more sheltered than the main beach, but it can offer good views of the display line and aircraft manoeuvring offshore.
Preston Sands and Hollicombe Beach
Preston Sands is a short walk from Paignton Beach and offers slightly quieter surroundings while still providing good views of the Torbay Airshow across Torbay. For a higher viewing position, continue around half a mile towards Torquay to the headland above Hollicombe Beach, which is itself another excellent place to watch the flying displays.
Goodrington Sands
Goodrington Sands is usually less crowded than Paignton Green, while still offering some views of the Torbay Airshow. It can feel a little more relaxed during the airshow weekend and may provide a different angle for photography, with aircraft often appearing more head-on as they approach across the bay. If viewing from here, the southern end of the beach and the coast path climbing towards Oyster Cove are likely to offer the best viewpoints.
Broadsands
Broadsands lies between Paignton and Brixham and offers a slightly quieter place to watch the Torbay Airshow. It is less crowded than Paignton Green, with good views across the bay, although aircraft will generally be further away. The southern end of the beach will provide better viewing angles, and some visitors may prefer the headland and park between Broadsands and Elberry Cove for a more elevated perspective across Torbay.
Torquay Seafront
Torquay offers wide panoramic views across Torbay, making it one of the best places to watch the Torbay Airshow away from the main event area. Good viewing locations include Livermead Sands, Corbyn Head and the harbour area around Princess Pier and Haldon Pier.
Beacon Cove, Meadfoot and Thatcher Point
For higher, more dramatic viewing angles, several excellent viewpoints can be found on the western side of Torbay during the Torbay Airshow. Beacon Cove, the coast path between Beacon Cove and Meadfoot Beach, Daddyhole Plain and the headlands towards Thatcher Point all provide elevated perspectives across the bay.
These locations are popular with photographers and aviation enthusiasts seeking wider coastal views and varied angles of the flying displays. Depending on the aircraft’s routing and display plan, some arrivals and repositioning manoeuvres may be visible from the higher viewpoints around Torquay.
Brixham and Berry Head
Higher viewpoints around Berry Head near Brixham offer wide coastal views across Torbay during the Torbay Airshow. These locations can provide an interesting perspective for photography, particularly as aircraft are likely to turn south across the bay while repositioning between displays. Viewing here is a little more weather-dependent, given the distance south of the main display area, but on clear days, the elevated headlands can offer some dramatic views across the coastline and sea.
Torbay Airshow 2027 Live Stream and Online Coverage
Details of any official livestream for the Torbay Airshow 2027 have not yet been announced. AeroView.tv has provided live coverage of previous events, but its involvement in 2027 has not been confirmed.
If coverage is announced, the livestream is likely to include flying displays, commentary and programme updates. It may also be useful for people watching from locations away from the main commentary area, including Torquay, Berry Head and Broadsands.
This section will be updated when official online coverage is confirmed.
Weather Forecast for the English Riviera Airshow 2027
It is too early for a reliable weather forecast for the English Riviera Airshow, which takes place from Friday 4 to Sunday 6 June 2027. A detailed forecast will be added during the week before the event.
The 2026 airshow took place during a particularly hot and sunny weekend. However, early June weather in Torbay can vary considerably, bringing anything from warm sunshine to cloud, showers and changing coastal winds.
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses and plenty of water if hot weather is forecast. A light waterproof layer is also sensible, as conditions can feel cooler along the seafront. Weather can affect the flying programme, so check the latest forecast and official airshow updates before travelling.
Weekend Weather Outlook
Friday 4 June: Forecast available closer to the event Saturday 5 June: Forecast available closer to the event Sunday 6 June: Forecast available closer to the event
Torbay Airshow Food, Drink and Fairground Attractions
The English Riviera Airshow is as much a seafront festival as an aviation event, with Paignton Green turning into a busy event village throughout the weekend. Alongside the flying displays, there is plenty to see and do on the ground, making it a full day out for families and aviation enthusiasts alike.
Visitors can expect a wide mix of food stalls and refreshments, from street food vendors and fish-and-chips to ice cream kiosks, bars, and local produce stands. Paignton’s cafés, pubs and restaurants are also just a short walk from the main event area, giving plenty of options away from the busiest spots.
Across the event village, attractions typically include a fun fair with rides, children’s activities, and live entertainment on stage. There are also dedicated areas such as the Military Village and Emergency Services Village, where you can meet crews, see equipment up close and learn more about the aircraft and teams taking part in the airshow.
Previous events have included flight simulators, craft and trader stalls, charity stands and aviation merchandise. Live music and performances are expected across the weekend, adding to the atmosphere between flying displays. Details of the 2027 ground programme will be added when confirmed.
Overall, the ground attractions play a big part in the English Riviera Airshow, turning it into one of the most complete South West events rather than just an afternoon of flying.
Torbay Airshow Road Closures 2027
Road closures are expected across Paignton seafront and surrounding streets during the English Riviera Airshow weekend. The arrangements are likely to be similar to those used in 2026, although the 2027 restrictions and closure times have not yet been confirmed.
Closures are expected to affect Esplanade Road, with further restrictions possible on Marine Parade, Lower Polsham Road, Torbay Road and Sands Road. These measures help manage traffic, maintain emergency access and protect people attending the event.
Expected Road Closure Times
Friday 4 June 2027: Times to be confirmed Saturday 5 June 2027: Times to be confirmed Sunday 6 June 2027: Times to be confirmed
Access and Local Traffic
Access restrictions are also likely around Sands Road and other streets near the seafront. Arrangements for residents, hotel and B&B guests, Paignton Harbour and Victoria Car Park will be confirmed nearer the event.
Full details of the 2027 road closures will be added once published by the organisers and Torbay Council. Anyone travelling by car should check the latest information before setting out.
Train passing Dawlish on the South Devon coast, a popular route to the English Riviera Airshow (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
Getting to the Torbay Airshow by Car
Paignton is easily reached by road, found just off the A380 from the east and the A385 from the west. These routes connect with the A30, A38 and M5, making the English Riviera Airshow accessible from across the South West and beyond.
Typical journey times are around 2½ hours from Bristol or Bournemouth, 3½ hours from the Midlands and Portsmouth, and approximately 4½ hours from central London, depending on traffic.
If using sat nav, follow postcode TQ4 6AG until you approach Paignton, then follow official event signage, which will direct you to the correct parking areas and road closures.
Entry to the English Riviera Airshow is free, but parking must be planned. Official parking is expected to require advance booking, although the locations, prices and booking arrangements for 2027 have not yet been announced.
Torbay Airshow Free Parking: What You Need to Know
There is no official free parking for the English Riviera Airshow in Paignton. With tens of thousands of visitors expected, nearby residential streets are heavily monitored, and parking is limited.
You may find parking on the outskirts and walk in, but expect to walk a reasonable distance. If doing so, please park considerately and respect residents.
Car parks across Torquay, Paignton and Brixham will operate as usual but are likely to fill up quickly during the event. Visitors are strongly advised to use designated airshow parking where available, book in advance, or travel by train, bus or other public transport.
Official parking arrangements for the Torbay Airshow 2027 have not yet been announced. Previous events have provided pre-bookable parking at several locations in Paignton, including options closer to the event and park-and-stride sites farther from the seafront.
The locations, prices, opening times, height restrictions and booking arrangements may change for 2027. This section will be updated when parking goes on sale.
Parking and Travel Advice
Parking is one of the main challenges during the airshow weekend. Expect congestion on routes into Paignton and allow additional time for your journey.
Arriving early can help you avoid the busiest period. However, do not travel directly to a previous airshow car park without checking that it is operating in 2027.
For many people, travelling by train or bus will be more convenient than driving into central Paignton.
Getting to the Torbay Airshow by Train
Travelling by rail is often the easiest way to reach the English Riviera Airshow, especially during the busiest periods when road closures and parking can slow traffic across Torbay.
Paignton railway station is the closest station to the event and is around a 6- to 10-minute walk from Paignton Green and the main seafront viewing areas. The Airshow Village is within easy walking distance, making train travel one of the most convenient options.
Paignton is well connected to the wider rail network, with regular services linking Exeter St Davids and Newton Abbot to Paignton approximately every 30 minutes during the day. Most visitors travel via Exeter, Newton Abbot, Torquay or Plymouth, with onward connections from London Paddington, Bristol, Birmingham and Reading.
Services are operated by Great Western Railway, with a range of advance tickets and railcards available for those planning. It can also be worth comparing prices and routes on platforms such as Trip.com and Omio, which let you compare different train options in one place.
After the flying displays finish, trains can become extremely busy, particularly on Saturday evening, so it is worth allowing extra time or considering a slightly later departure where possible.
Getting to the Torbay Airshow by Bus
Local buses operate throughout Torbay during the English Riviera Airshow weekend, providing a straightforward way to reach Paignton without the need to drive.
Frequent services run into Paignton from across Torbay and surrounding areas, including Torquay, Brixham, Newton Abbot and Totnes. One of the main routes is Service 12, which offers a direct connection between Newton Abbot, Torquay, Paignton and Brixham. Open-top double-decker buses also run along the seafront on Service 122, adding a more scenic option during the event.
Paignton bus station is located close to the seafront and within easy walking distance of Paignton Green and the Airshow Village, making bus travel a practical choice for visitors staying locally.
As with rail travel, buses can become very busy after the flying displays finish, particularly on Saturday afternoon and early evening, so allow extra time for your return journey.
Getting to the English Riviera Airshow by Ferry
Travelling by ferry is one of the most scenic ways to reach the English Riviera Airshow, offering views across Torbay as you approach Paignton seafront.
Seasonal ferry services operate between Torquay, Paignton and Brixham during the airshow weekend, with crossings typically taking around 30 minutes.
Ferries arrive close to the seafront, within walking distance of Paignton Green and the Airshow Village, making them a practical option for visitors staying elsewhere in Torbay.
Taking the ferry not only avoids parking and traffic but also offers a different perspective on the airshow, with some of the best views from the water itself.
Getting to the English Riviera Airshow by Bike
Cycling to the English Riviera Airshow is a practical option for visitors staying locally in Torbay, with dedicated facilities available during the event weekend.
Free supervised bicycle parking has been provided at Parkfield, 38 Esplanade Road, during previous airshows. The 2027 arrangements have not yet been confirmed, so check the official travel information before relying on this facility.
Cycling can also be a good way to avoid road closures and traffic delays, especially if you are travelling from nearby areas such as Torquay, Goodrington or Brixham.
Accessibility
Accessible viewing areas and facilities are provided around the event village and Paignton Green. Visitors with accessibility requirements should check official event guidance closer to the weekend for the latest arrangements and parking information.
Where to stay for the Torbay Airshow
Accommodation across Torbay books quickly for the English Riviera Airshow weekend, particularly seafront hotels and family-friendly holiday apartments close to Paignton and Torquay.
Popular places to stay include Paignton for easy access to the airshow, Torquay for a wider choice of hotels and nightlife, and quieter bases such as Goodrington, Preston Sands and Brixham, all within easy reach of the seafront.
You might also consider staying slightly further afield in places such as Dawlish, Exeter or Totnes, all of which are easily accessible by train and bus. These can be good options if accommodation in Torbay is limited or more expensive during the event weekend.
Staying locally makes a big difference during the airshow, allowing you to avoid heavy traffic, skip the parking queues and enjoy the atmosphere after the flying displays finish.
For the best availability and prices, it is worth checking platforms such as Booking.com, Trip.com and Tripadvisor, or using the interactive map to compare hotels, apartments and last-minute deals across Torbay.
Booking early is recommended as accommodation across Torbay fills quickly for the airshow weekend, particularly close to Paignton seafront.
Things to Do Near the Torbay Airshow
The airshow works well as part of a wider South Devon break, with plenty of attractions nearby. You can also explore more ideas in our What’s On in South West England guide.
Paignton Pier
Paignton Zoo
Goodrington Sands
Brixham Harbour
Dartmouth
Berry Head Nature Reserve
The South West Coast Path
Torre Abbey
Kents Cavern
Top Tips for Visiting the Torbay Airshow
Arrive early
The busiest viewing areas fill well before flying starts.
Bring layers
Weather conditions along the South Devon coast can change quickly, even in early June.
Bring a Picnic
Queues for food stalls can be long, so it is worth bringing a picnic, snacks and something to drink. A rug or folding chairs can also make things more comfortable.
Expect queues
Transport, parking and food stalls become busiest immediately after flying finishes.
Consider public transport
Rail and bus travel can reduce much of the stress associated with road closures and parking.
Stay overnight if possible.
Torbay is usually much quieter early in the morning before day visitors arrive.
Is the English Riviera Airshow Free?
Yes. The English Riviera Airshow is free to attend. Charges apply for parking, fairground rides, food and optional hospitality or premium viewing areas.
Official English Riviera Airshow Information & Guides
For the latest announcements, flying programme updates, parking details and road closure information, visit:
The Torbay Airshow 2027, officially known as the English Riviera Airshow, takes place from Friday 4 June to Sunday 6 June 2027. Friday will feature an opening night, followed by two days of flying displays over Torbay on Saturday and Sunday. The main event village will be on Paignton Green.
What time are the Torbay Airshow flying displays?
Flying times for the Torbay Airshow 2027 have not yet been announced. The timetable will be added when it is published by the organisers. Timings may change because of weather, operational requirements or aircraft availability.
What time do the Red Arrows fly at the Torbay Airshow?
The RAF Red Arrows have not yet been confirmed for the Torbay Airshow 2027. Their display times will be added if an appearance is announced. The 2027 aircraft line up is expected to be announced from March 2027.
Is the Torbay Airshow free?
Yes, the Torbay Airshow is free to attend. There is no charge for entry, although costs may apply for parking, food, fairground rides and optional premium seating.
Is there free parking at the Torbay Airshow?
There is usually no official free parking for the Torbay Airshow in Paignton. Large crowds are expected and surrounding residential streets have limited parking. You may find parking further from the seafront and walk to the event, but always park considerately and check local restrictions.
Where is the best place to watch the Torbay Airshow?
Paignton Green and Paignton Beach provide the closest views and are at the centre of the event. Other viewing locations include Preston Sands, Goodrington Sands, Torquay seafront, Brixham and Berry Head, although aircraft will appear more distant from some parts of the bay.
What aircraft are appearing at the Torbay Airshow 2027?
No aircraft have yet been confirmed for the Torbay Airshow 2027. Organisers expect to begin announcing the line up in March 2027. Previous events have included the RAF Red Arrows, RAF Typhoon, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and several military and civilian display teams.
How do I get to the Torbay Airshow by train?
Paignton railway station is the closest station and is around a 6 to 10 minute walk from Paignton Green and the Airshow Village. Regular services connect Paignton with Torquay, Newton Abbot and Exeter St Davids, with onward connections from London Paddington, Bristol, Birmingham and Reading.
Can I park at the Torbay Airshow?
Official parking is expected to be available at selected locations in Paignton, although the 2027 parking sites, prices and booking arrangements have not yet been announced. Pre-booking is likely to be recommended when spaces become available.
Are there road closures for the Torbay Airshow?
Road closures are expected around Paignton seafront during the event, including Esplanade Road and nearby streets. Arrangements are likely to be similar to those used in 2026, but the 2027 roads and closure times have not yet been confirmed.
Where should I stay for the Torbay Airshow?
Paignton is the most convenient base, particularly around the seafront and town centre. Torquay, Goodrington, Preston and Brixham are also useful options. Dawlish, Exeter and Totnes have public transport connections into Torbay for those staying farther away.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Flying displays may be delayed, changed or cancelled if weather conditions affect safety. Check the official airshow channels and the latest Met Office forecast before travelling. Ground entertainment may continue even when the flying programme is disrupted.
Helpful Links for the Torbay Airshow 2027
These trusted resources can help you plan and book your trip, from transport and accommodation to weather and local information.
Booking.com – for most accommodation needs. Look out for options that include free cancellation.
Easy Tide – Free UK tidal prediction service, providing tidal data and tide times for the current day and 6 days into the future.
What’s On in South West England This Weekend & 2026–2027 Events
Looking for what’s on in South West England this weekend? Find festivals, live music, food events and days out across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset, plus major events throughout 2026 and 2027.
Updated regularly with more than 180 South West England events, including what’s on this weekend, what’s on this month and events near you.
Looking for what’s on in South West England this weekend? Halloween falls on Saturday 31 October, making this one of the busiest weekends of the autumn across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, Dorset and Bristol. Alongside pumpkin trails, ghost trains and after-dark attractions, there is live music, autumn family fun, fireworks, film, art and the final weekend of October half term.
These are selected highlights. The main calendar below remains in date order with more events and visitor information.
🌊 What’s on in Devon this weekend
Autumnfest Family Fun Day at Arlington Court: 30 October. Celebrate autumn with seasonal harvest displays, family crafts, whittling and marshmallow roasting in the garden, plus a Community Scarecrow Trail. The event runs from 11am to 3pm.
Halloween Spook-Fest at Crealy: until 31 October. Live scare mazes, Halloween shows and more than 60 rides and attractions continue near Exeter, with gentler spooky entertainment for younger children and a free pumpkin for every child.
Halloween Cliff ‘Wail’ Way, Lynton & Lynmouth: 31 October. The famous Cliff Railway gets a Halloween makeover with candlelight, eerie smoke, haunting sounds, live actors and zombie drivers from 6pm to 9pm.
Artober at Royal William Yard, Plymouth: until 1 November. Contemporary art exhibitions, workshops, pop-up shows and creative events continue across Royal William Yard for the final weekend of Artober.
Exmoor Dark Skies Festival: until 1 November. The festival reaches its final weekend with astronomy, wildlife and night-sky events across Exmoor, including stargazing, planetarium experiences and family activities.
Fisherman’s Friends, Hall for Cornwall: 31 October. The Port Isaac folk group bring their mix of traditional sea shanties, folk songs and humour to Truro as part of their 2026 UK tour.
The Monster Mash at Carnglaze Caverns: 31 October. Head underground near Liskeard for a Halloween party inside the former slate mine, with live music, a DJ, fancy dress and Halloween lighting.
Halloweden at the Eden Project: until 1 November. Eden’s gardens and Biomes host seasonal family activities throughout the final weekend of October half term.
The House Remembers at Trerice: 31 October. The historic house near Newquay opens after dark for an atmospheric Halloween experience with low lighting, eerie encounters and occasional jump scares.
The Story Behind the Lens, Truro Cathedral: throughout the weekend. See shortlisted images from Cornwall Wildlife Trust’s 2026 Wild Cornwall Photography Competition, with free entry during normal cathedral opening hours.
🍎 What’s on in Somerset this weekend
Dan Whitehouse – Only Love Tour, South Petherton: 30 October. Award-winning singer-songwriter Dan Whitehouse is joined by Gustaf Ljunggren and Molly Rymer for an intimate evening of songs, stories and live music at The David Hall.
Bath Oktoberfest: 30 to 31 October. Royal Victoria Park hosts a Bavarian-style celebration with live Oompah bands, German-style food and drink, dancing, karaoke and Oktoberfest games.
Shaun Ryder, Bridgwater Arts Centre: 31 October. The Happy Mondays and Black Grape frontman brings his new spoken-word tour to Bridgwater, sharing stories from his life and the height of the Madchester era.
Wookey Hole: The Home of Halloween: until 1 November. Halloween activities continue in and around the caves, including projections telling the story of the Witch of Wookey Hole, a pumpkin trail, Monster’s Ball Circus Show and Monster Golf.
East Somerset Railway Spooky Specials: 31 October to 1 November. Halloween comes to the heritage railway with spooky seasonal train journeys over the weekend.
🎭 What’s on in Dorset this weekend
Flying Scotsman at Swanage Railway: 30 October to 1 November. See Flying Scotsman on static display at Swanage on Friday and Saturday, or travel behind the famous locomotive through the Purbeck countryside on Sunday.
Swanage Railway Halloween Ghost Trains: 30 and 31 October. The family-friendly Halloween experience combines a heritage railway journey with Halloween characters, crafts and activities at Corfe Castle station.
Bonfire by the Beach, West Bay: 31 October. A free seafront event with a large bonfire, fairground attractions, family games, live music and food, followed by a professional fireworks display from the Jurassic Pier at 8pm.
Radiohead Reimagined, Poole: 31 October. London Concertante reimagines Radiohead’s music with strings, harp, woodwind and percussion in the atmospheric setting of St Peter’s Church.
Southbourne Pumpkin Fest: 31 October. This free Halloween street party includes a Pumpkin Trail, fancy dress, pumpkin carving and family entertainment from 10am to 4pm.
October Illuminate at Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens: until 31 October. Explore the exotic gardens after dark as atmospheric lighting transforms the trees, plants and winding pathways.
Purbeck Film Festival: until 1 November. The festival celebrates its 30th anniversary with its final weekend of screenings at venues across the Isle of Purbeck.
⚓ What’s on in Bristol this weekend
FEAR Scream Park, Avon Valley: 30 and 31 October. The award-winning Halloween festival reaches its final two nights with five immersive scare attractions, street theatre, fire shows, rides and food. The event is for visitors aged 16 and over.
FEARless at Avon Valley: 30 and 31 October. A toned-down alternative to FEAR for 11 to 16-year-olds and their families, with four scare attractions, street performers, a fire show and fairground rides.
Halloween Trail at Clifton Observatory: until 1 November. Follow a family Halloween trail through the historic Camera Obscura and down into Giant’s Cave, with seasonal questions to answer along the way.
🎃 Halloween falls on Saturday 31 October this year. There are pumpkin trails, ghost trains, castles after dark, family activities and some much scarier experiences taking place across the region throughout the weekend. See our full guide to
Halloween events in South West England 2026.
Find more events, booking information and visitor details in the full listings below. Check organisers’ websites for the latest times, ticket availability, travel information and any changes before setting out.
Planning to attend one of these events? Accommodation and transport can be in high demand during major festivals, school holidays and summer weekends, so it is worth making arrangements early.
Disclosure:Some of the outbound links on this page are affiliate links to sites that we use and would genuinely recommend. Using them doesn’t cost you extra, but it does help support this free guide. We also provide links to other sites that we believe may be helpful to you.
Looking for what’s on in South West England in October 2026? The month brings food festivals, harvest celebrations, live entertainment, cultural events and autumn days out across the region.
Our chronological guide covers what’s on in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset throughout October, including Halloween attractions, October half-term activities, local festivals and family-friendly events. With changing colours and quieter destinations, October is an appealing time to explore South West England.
Find events by area
Planning to visit an October event?
Festivals and events in South West England can increase demand for accommodation and transport, particularly during the October half term. Compare places to stay, event tickets and travel options before you visit.
28 September – 19 December 2026 A collaborative textile exhibition led by artist Elaine Foster-Gandey with young people from Torpoint Community College and Wave Academy Liskeard. Inspired by Cornwall’s working heritage, the exhibition explores work, care, equality and aspirations for the future through decorated aprons, photography and historic objects.
2 October–1 November 2026 Artober returns to Royal William Yard in Plymouth for its third year, with contemporary art exhibitions, workshops, pop-up shows and creative events. Highlights include the Affordable Art Market, Plymouth Art Weekender from 16–18 October and the main Artober Exhibition from 23 October–1 November.
9, 10, 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25, 28, 29, 30 and 31 October 2026 This award-winning Halloween festival returns to Avon Valley for 12 nights of immersive scare attractions, street theatre and fire shows. Visitors can explore five scare attractions, with thrill rides, stalls, food and drinks available at an additional cost. FEAR Scream Park is for visitors aged 16 and over. Anyone under 18 must remain accompanied by an adult. Advance booking is recommended.
10 October – 6 November 2026 A free contemporary art exhibition bringing together painting, textiles, jewellery, print and ceramics, exploring line, surface, texture and form. Open daily from 10 am to 4 pm at Elaine Foster-Gandey Art in Lostwithiel. A private view takes place on 9 October from 5 pm to 7 pm. lostwithiel.org.uk
🎃 Halloween Events in South West England 2026
Halloween falls during the October half-term period this year, with events taking place across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, Dorset and Bristol. From free community events and pumpkin trails to ghost trains, castles and full-scale scare attractions, see our dedicated guide to
Halloween events in South West England 2026.
13–31 October 2026 Kids go free on self-guided entry at Bodmin Jail this October, with one free child aged 15 or under for each paying adult. Halloween activities include the Haunted Gallery, while the Trick or Treat Trail runs from 17 October. Subject to availability.
16 October to 1 November 2026 Explore Exmoor after dark during the festival’s tenth edition, with more than 70 events celebrating astronomy, wildlife and the night sky. The programme includes stargazing, planetarium experiences, ultraviolet rock pooling, night rides and bioluminescence walks, alongside activities for families. Highlights include Space Odyssey planetarium sessions in Minehead and Lynton, and Wonders of our Universe at Minehead’s Regal Theatre. Events take place across the National Park, with advance booking recommended.
16 October–1 November 2026 The Purbeck Film Festival celebrates its 30th anniversary, screening more than 100 films at venues across the Isle of Purbeck, including the Rex Cinema in Wareham, Durlston Castle, The Mowlem in Swanage, and local village halls. This year’s programme includes special guests, Q&As, premieres and a celebration of French filmmaker Jacques Tati.
20 to 22 and 27 to 29 October 2026 Pecorama returns for six special opening days during the October half-term, giving visitors another opportunity to ride the Beer Heights Light Railway, explore the landscaped gardens and visit the PECO Model Railway Exhibition. The Harburn Hobbies Model Shop will also be open, while the hillside setting offers sweeping views across the East Devon coast. Pecorama is open from 10 am to 4 pm, and tickets go on sale on 1 September.
23–31 October 2026 Halloween Spook-Fest returns to Crealy Theme Park near Exeter with live scare mazes, Halloween shows and more than 60 rides and attractions. Highlights include the Creakier Hotel and Scarecrow scare mazes, a gentler Buddy’s Spook Maze for younger children, a special Halloween Sooty Show and two rides given a Halloween twist. Every child also receives a free pumpkin during Spook-Fest.
23 October to 1 November 2026 Flying Scotsman returns to Swanage Railway, with opportunities to travel behind the famous locomotive through the Purbeck countryside or see it up close at Swanage station. Passenger journeys operate on 24, 25, 28 and 29 October and 1 November, with static displays on 23, 26, 27, 30 and 31 October. Travel tickets include a reserved return journey between Swanage and Norden, plus travel on the railway’s other participating steam service that day. Advance booking is recommended.
24–31 October 2026 See Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens after dark as atmospheric lighting transforms its exotic plants, pathways and trees. October Illuminate runs throughout half term, offering an unusual way to explore the gardens as night falls.
27 October 2026 Westlands Yeovil, Yeovil An evening of exhibition snooker with former world champions Ken Doherty and Shaun Murphy, hosted and refereed by Dennis Taylor. The night also includes a trick shot masterclass and audience Q&A.
28 October–22 November 2026 See the shortlisted images from Cornwall Wildlife Trust’s 2026 Wild Cornwall Photography Competition at Truro Cathedral. The exhibition opens with a special launch evening on 28 October, featuring photographer talks, stories from the judging panel, and this year’s awards. The exhibition then continues with free entry during normal cathedral opening hours until 22 November.
Thursday 29 October 2026, 7.30 pm Ashburton Arts Centre, Ashburton Singer-songwriter Dan Whitehouse is joined by Swedish multi-instrumentalist Gustaf Ljunggren for an intimate evening of songs, stories and spontaneous musical collaboration, featuring music from Only Love and their wider work. Tickets from £8 plus booking fee. wegottickets.com
30 October 2026, 8pm Award-winning singer-songwriter Dan Whitehouse comes to The David Hall with Swedish multi-instrumentalist Gustaf Ljunggren and Molly Rymer for an intimate evening of songs, stories and live music. Expect music from Whitehouse’s forthcoming album Only Love alongside songs from his wider catalogue, with piano, guitar, lap steel, keyboards and ukulele.
30 October 2026 Celebrate autumn at Arlington Court with seasonal harvest displays, family crafts, whittling and marshmallow roasting in the garden. The grounds also feature a Community Scarecrow Trail with animal-inspired creations. The event runs from 11 am to 3 pm and is free, although normal admission charges apply.
30–31 October 2026 Bath Oktoberfest brings a Bavarian-style celebration to Royal Victoria Park, with live Oompah bands, German-style beer and food, dancing, karaoke, Oktoberfest games and axe throwing. Fancy dress is encouraged, with lederhosen and dirndls likely to be in full force.
31 October 2026 Folk group Fisherman’s Friends bring their mix of traditional sea shanties, folk songs and humour to Hall for Cornwall as part of their 2026 UK tour. Formed in Port Isaac on the North Cornwall coast, the group became nationally known through their chart success and the Fisherman’s Friends films inspired by their story.
31 October 2026 West Bay’s free Bonfire by the Beach returns to East Beach with a large bonfire, fairground attractions, family games, live music, food stalls, BBQ and an outside bar. The event opens at 4 pm, with live music from 5 pm and a professional fireworks display from the Jurassic Pier at 8 pm. Free local shuttle buses will also operate for the event.
31 October 2026 London Concertante reimagines Radiohead’s music in an atmospheric orchestral performance at St Peter’s Church in Poole. Strings, harp, woodwind and percussion bring a new sound to songs spanning The Bends, OK Computer, Kid A and In Rainbows, with the programme set to include favourites such as No Surprises, Fake Plastic Trees, Everything in Its Right Place, Reckoner and True Love Waits.
31 October 2026 Happy Mondays and Black Grape frontman Shaun Ryder brings his new spoken word tour to Bridgwater Arts Centre. Supporting his book Happy Mondays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, the show promises extraordinary stories, rock-and-roll excess, and improbable truths from the height of the Madchester era and beyond. The evening begins at 7.30 pm. Standard tickets cost £30, premium seats with a goody bag cost £45, and the £80 package includes front-row seating, a goody bag, a photograph, an autograph, and a pre-show meet-and-greet.
Looking for what’s on in South West England in November 2026? The month brings Bonfire Night displays, illuminated carnivals, festive markets, seasonal celebrations, and late-autumn days out across the region.
Our chronological guide covers what’s on in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset throughout November, including Bridgwater Carnival, the Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels, Christmas light switch-ons and family-friendly events. With dramatic traditions and the festive season beginning, November offers some of South West England’s most unusual annual celebrations.
Find events by area
✨🎆✨
Planning to visit a November event?
November brings firework displays, illuminated carnivals, bonfire celebrations and seasonal events to South West England. Popular dates can increase demand for accommodation and transport, so consider planning your journey and stay in advance.
5 November 2026 A distinctive and intense Bonfire Night tradition in Ottery St Mary, where flaming tar barrels are carried on the shoulders of local barrel rollers through crowded streets. Junior barrels begin at around 4 pm, followed by the women’s, men’s and youth barrels from 7 pm. The evening builds towards the final and largest barrel, known as the “Gurt Big Un”, at around midnight. The main event is unsuitable for young children and dogs, while the crowded streets can be challenging for visitors with limited mobility. Visitors should read the official safety guidance and plan their journey in advance.
5 November 2026 A large Bonfire Night celebration at The BIG Sheep near Bideford, featuring a spectacular fireworks display, a huge bonfire, indoor fire shows and music from the attraction’s resident DJ. Food and drink are available throughout the evening, with indoor entertainment offering an option to continue the celebrations away from the November weather.
5 November 2026 A free Bonfire Night fireworks display held on Weymouth seafront, with the fireworks launched from a barge in Weymouth Bay. Organised by Weymouth Town Council, the display offers views from the beach and Esplanade, creating a spectacular seasonal event beside the Dorset coast.
5 November 2026 A free Bonfire Night celebration held around Poole Quay, culminating in a fireworks display over Poole Harbour. Visitors can enjoy the lively waterfront atmosphere and nearby restaurants and bars, with dedicated fireworks cruises also offering views of the display from the water.
5 November 2026 A large Bonfire Night celebration at the Bath & West Showground near Shepton Mallet, featuring a fireworks display, immersive laser shows, funfair and live entertainment. The evening also includes street food, bars, LED robots, fire breathers and roaming characters, with entertainment aimed at families and visitors of all ages. The event runs from 4 pm to 10 pm, with advance tickets available.
6 November 2026 Exmouth RNLI hosts its annual fireworks night at Exmouth Rugby Football Club on the Imperial Recreation Ground. Gates open at 5.30 pm, with fairground rides and a range of food and drink stalls before the fireworks display at around 7 pm. Tickets are required, with under-threes admitted free.
6 November 2026 One of the highlights of Exeter Racecourse’s National Hunt season, the Haldon Gold Cup brings top-class jump racing to Haldon Hill. Some of the biggest names in racing have won the Grade 2 feature chase, including Best Mate, Cue Card, Politologue and Greaneteen. Gates open at 10.40 am, with the first race at 12.40 pm and the Haldon Gold Cup scheduled for 2.25 pm. The day also includes live music, with The Shrine performing after the final race.
6 November 2026 A performance of sacred and choral music by Exeter-based vocal ensemble Dumnonii Consort at St Michael & All Angels, Mount Dinham. The programme includes works by Taverner, MacMillan, Victoria and Philip Moore, performed by professional singers associated with Exeter’s cathedral music scene.
Shepton Mallet Antiques, Vintage & Collectors Fair, Somerset 6 to 8 November 2026 Held at the Royal Bath & West Showground near Shepton Mallet, this large antiques fair features up to 600 stands across multiple halls, offering everything from furniture and decorative pieces to vintage clothing, collectables and restoration items.
6 to 9 November 2026 A three-night dance music weekender held at Butlin’s Minehead, curated by Fatboy Slim and featuring headline DJ sets alongside a wide lineup of electronic artists. It combines live performances with pool parties, daytime activities and themed entertainment, creating a full weekend of music and nightlife within the resort setting.
6 November to 23 December 2026 Bristol Christmas Market returns to Broadmead with more than 40 festive stalls selling gifts, crafts, seasonal food and drinks. Visitors can enjoy live entertainment, the Jäger Barn Bar and beer garden, or book a private ski gondola or igloo pod. The market is open daily, with retail stalls generally closing earlier than its food stalls and bars.
7 November 2026 The South Devon Players bring a steampunk drama to Brixham Theatre, exploring the theories and mysteries surrounding Jack the Ripper. Set in Victorian London, the production follows detective Frederick Abberline as he investigates the Whitechapel murders and encounters suspects, victims and members of the local community. Performances begin at 2.30 pm and 7.30 pm. Suitable for teenagers and adults, the show contains violence and mature themes.
7 November 2026 Golden Coast Holiday Park in Woolacombe hosts a free Bonfire Night alternative as 150 synchronised drones create illuminated formations and animations in the night sky.
The park opens from 4pm with live entertainment, food and drink, before the drone display begins at around 7pm. The event is open to everyone, with no tickets or advance booking required, and offers a quieter, pet-friendly alternative to a traditional fireworks display.
7 November 2026 Simple Things returns for its twelfth edition, bringing boundary-pushing music and contemporary culture to venues across Bristol. The citywide festival will feature The Avalanches, Squid, Shabaka, Cobrah, Hannah Diamond, Moor Mother, Nathan Fake and many more. Venues include Bristol Beacon, Strange Brew, Rough Trade and Shredenhams. The festival is suitable for ages 14 and over, although age restrictions vary between venues.
Saturday 7 November 2026, 10am–3pm Pen Selwood Village Hall, Pen Selwood, Somerset. A Christmas craft market with stalls selling handmade jewellery, art, wood turning, pottery, fabrics, bags and cushions, photography, greeting cards, felting, macramé and scented waxes. Teas, coffee and homemade cakes will also be available. Admission is free.
Charity Firework Display, Westpoint Exeter, Clyst St Mary, Devon 7 November 2026 One of the standout South West events for Bonfire Night, this large-scale charity fireworks display at Westpoint Exeter features a professionally choreographed show with gates open from 5:30 pm through the evening. Organised by Exeter Round Table, it typically includes fairground rides, food stalls and a lively atmosphere, with proceeds supporting local charities.
7 November 2026 A pre-Christmas mind, body and spirit fair at Chacewater Village Hall near Truro, bringing together card readers, mediums, healers and pampering treatments alongside local crafts, wellbeing products, spiritual stalls and Christmas gift ideas. The fair runs from 10 am to 4 pm, with free entry and tea and coffee available.
7 November 2026 One of the largest illuminated carnival processions in Europe, the Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival fills the streets with spectacular floats, marching bands, dancers, and carnival clubs, stretching more than a mile through the town centre. The evening concludes with the famous Squibbing display, when around 150 giant hand-held fireworks are ignited simultaneously along the High Street, creating a breathtaking spectacle found nowhere else in the world. If you’re planning to watch the carnival, consider booking accommodation early. Hotels in Bridgwater and nearby Taunton are popular on carnival weekend.
7 November 2026 Newton Abbot Firework Night returns to Newton Abbot Rugby Club for an evening of family entertainment, live music and one of the area’s award-winning fireworks displays. Gates open at 4.30 pm, with children’s entertainment, food and drink stalls and live performances creating a festive atmosphere before the fireworks light up the night sky.
Bridport Literary Festival, Bridport, Dorset 7 to 14 November 2026 A well-established literary festival held across venues in Bridport, bringing together authors, speakers and audiences for a week of talks, discussions and events. Covering fiction, non-fiction, politics, history and culture, it offers a varied programme in an accessible and engaging setting in West Dorset.
28 November 2026 to 3 January 2027 The Bay of Lights Illumination Trail returns to Torquay for five weeks of festive displays along the English Riviera. The free 1.5-mile Christmas light trail features illuminated installations, projections, music and interactive displays around the seafront and waterfront. The wider celebrations will also include the return of the Torre Abbey Christmas Market and a covered real ice rink at Abbey Park, although dates and booking details for these additional attractions are still to be announced. With so much taking place around the bay, why not make a weekend of it and find somewhere to stay in Torquay?
9 November 2026 Part of the famous Somerset carnival circuit, this evening procession brings large illuminated carts, performers and music through the town centre and seafront route. The carnival builds across the weekend, with carts arriving in advance and going on public display, alongside a seafront fireworks show ahead of the main parade.
12 November 2026 Plymouth begins its Christmas celebrations with the annual City Centre Christmas Lights Switch-On on the Piazza. The free event traditionally combines family entertainment and live performances with the countdown to the city centre illuminations, marking the start of Plymouth’s festive season and late-night Christmas shopping. Full details of the 2026 programme are still to be announced.
Friday 13 November 2026, 7 pm–9.30 pm Northover Manor Hotel, Ilchester A quirky, adults-only evening that combines a shared spicy audiobook through wireless headphones with a book-themed craft session. Tickets include headphones, all materials to create a doormat and access to finish the audiobook at home. No advance reading or craft experience is needed. Adults only. Tickets £25 plus booking fee.
Weston-super-Mare Carnival, Weston-super-Mare, Somerset 13 November 2026 A large illuminated procession along the seafront route, with detailed carnival carts, walking entries and live music drawing sizeable crowds. One of the biggest nights in the Somerset carnival calendar.
13 November to 13 December 2026 Set on Cathedral Green in Exeter, beneath the illuminated Exeter Cathedral, this popular Christmas market features festive chalets, artisan gifts, and seasonal food and drink. It offers a classic West Country Christmas atmosphere, with local traders, mulled wine and a picturesque historic setting.
Shiiine On Weekender, Butlin’s Minehead, Somerset 13 to 15 November 2026 One of the most distinctive South West events, this three-day indoor music festival celebrates indie and dance from the late 80s and 90s, with live bands and DJs across multiple stages. Held entirely within the Butlin’s resort, it combines accommodation, entertainment and headline performances in one place, creating a lively, nostalgia-driven weekend with a strong festival atmosphere.
13 to 16 November 2026 A multi-day literary festival set in the small Exmoor town of Dulverton, bringing together authors, speakers and cultural events in an intimate countryside setting. Held across local venues in the heart of Exmoor, the programme combines talks, discussions, readings and community events celebrating books, writing, landscape and rural life.
Live at the Mile: 90s & 00s Weekend, Lady’s Mile Holiday Park, Dawlish, Devon 13 to 16 November 2026 A high-energy themed music weekend celebrating 90s and 00s hits, featuring live acts, DJs and a full programme of nostalgic entertainment across the holiday park. Designed as an immersive festival-style experience, it combines tribute performances, late-night parties and on-site facilities, with tickets and accommodation typically required for the full weekend stay.
13 to 21 November 2026 Bath Mozartfest returns for nine days of classical music at venues across the city. The programme features 16 concerts performed by internationally acclaimed ensembles, orchestras and soloists, with Mozart’s music at its heart. Artists include the Nash Ensemble, Paul Lewis, Imogen Cooper, the Modigliani Quartet and the London Philharmonic Orchestra. Advance booking is recommended.
Saturday 14 November 2026, 10 am to 4 pm Newton Abbot Library hosts its fourth Model Railway Show at the Passmore Edwards Centre, with layouts in a range of gauges, including HO, OO, narrow gauge and electric garden gauge. Traders will also sell railway models, memorabilia, books and hobby supplies, plus families can enjoy hands-on railway activities. Admission is £3 for adults and free for under 16s
14 to 15 November 2026 The Tank Museum gets a festive makeover for a two-day Christmas event featuring more than 100 stalls from local makers and independent businesses, selling crafts, gifts, food and Dorset produce. Father Christmas and his elf make a suitably unusual entrance in an armoured vehicle at midday, before meeting families around the museum. Children can also follow the “Frank on a Tank” festive trail, while live entertainment and seasonal food and drink are on offer throughout the weekend. The event is open from 10 am to 4 pm each day, with museum admission required.
14 to 15, 21 to 22 and 28 to 29 November 2026 Crealy’s Winter Twilight Fest returns for three weekends in November, with the theme park staying open later on selected dates for rides after dark. The 2026 event promises expanded winter light displays throughout the park, colourful illuminations and the chance to experience two of Crealy’s newest rides lit up at night alongside family attractions. Full timings and ticket details are still to be announced.
Antiques Fair, Westpoint Exeter, Clyst St Mary, Devon 14 to 15 November 2026 A well-established South West events listing, this two-day antiques fair brings together specialist dealers offering a wide mix of antiques, vintage items and collectables in a large indoor setting. Expect hundreds of stands with everything from furniture and jewellery to smaller curios and decorative pieces, attracting collectors and browsers from across the region.
South West Homebuilding & Renovating Show, Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset 14 to 15 November 2026 One of the key South West events for anyone planning a home project, bringing together expert advice, seminars and more than 100 exhibitors under one roof. A popular exhibition near you for self-build, renovation and home improvement ideas, with free tickets often available and a full programme of talks and demonstrations across the weekend.
14 November 2026 Browse artisan products, distinctive gifts and tempting food and drink from talented local traders at Tavistock’s historic Butchers’ Hall. Organised by Miss Ivy Events, this popular indoor market celebrates local creativity and independent businesses, making it a timely place to begin Christmas shopping or find a treat for yourself.
North Petherton Carnival, North Petherton, Somerset 14 November 2026 A traditional illuminated procession through the village, featuring decorated carts, local groups and a strong link to the wider Somerset carnival circuit.
Illuminate the Night, Taunton, Somerset 14 November 2026 An evening of fireworks and light display at Taunton Racecourse, featuring a large-scale fireworks show, food stalls and a lively family-friendly atmosphere. Gates open in the late afternoon, with entertainment building towards the main display after dark, creating a classic Bonfire Night-style event.
Clovelly Herring Festival, Devon 15 November 2026 A traditional fishing heritage event celebrating herring, with food, demonstrations and music.
Shepton Mallet Carnival, Shepton Mallet, Somerset 18 November 2026 An evening parade through the town centre with illuminated carts, performers and music, forming part of the midweek Somerset circuit schedule.
18 to 19 November 2026 A festive two-day Christmas fair held at the Eden Project in Cornwall, featuring independent stalls, artisan gifts, food and drink producers, homeware, fashion and seasonal entertainment within the setting of the famous biomes. One of Cornwall’s best-known Christmas shopping events, it attracts visitors from across the South West while raising funds for community projects and local charities through the Cornwall Community Foundation.
Wells Carnival, Wells, Somerset 20 November 2026 A city-based carnival with a procession passing through the historic streets of Wells, combining large carts with smaller local entries.
Friday 20 November 2026, 7.30 pm London Concertante brings a candlelit evening of Baroque music to Bath Abbey, featuring Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons alongside Handel’s Messiah Overture, Corelli and Torelli Christmas concertos and Bach’s Violin Concerto in A minor. Doors open at 6.45 pm and the concert lasts around two hours, including an interval.
20 and 21 November 2026 Brixham welcomes the festive season with its popular Lanterns, Lights and ‘Luminations celebration. Events across the harbour town include a colourful lantern parade, Christmas lights switch-on, street market, live music and family entertainment, followed by a fireworks display over the harbour. The market is scheduled to run from 4 pm to 7 pm on Friday and from 10 am to 7 pm on Saturday. With events taking place across both days, why not make a weekend of it and find somewhere to stay in Brixham?
20 November–24 December 2026 Cooper Associates County Ground, Taunton
Somerset Winter Wonderland returns for Christmas 2026 with a bigger undercover real ice rink, more funfair rides, Santa’s Grotto, festive food and drink and a new indoor Après Winter Bar.
Selected dates from 20 November 2026 to 2 January 2027 Christmas at the Eden Project brings an all-new after-dark lights experience to the famous Biomes, combining colour, music and illuminated displays with ice skating, a traditional carousel, fire pits and festive food and drink. Father Christmas and his elves also feature in a new 45-minute theatrical family experience on selected dates. The Christmas Lights Experience runs from 4 pm to 8.30 pm on event evenings, with advance booking recommended. A valid Eden admission is required, and additional tickets are needed for some Christmas activities.
20 November to 31 December 2026 North Devon Christmas Ice Rink brings outdoor skating, festive music and twinkling lights to Ashford Garden Centre near Barnstaple. The real ice rink is open daily from 10 am to 9 pm, with 45-minute sessions and skate hire included. Special events include Friday evening ice discos, Tuesday morning toddler sessions, Sunday family sessions and Santa’s Grotto skating. Tickets cost from £10 for children and £14.50 for adults, with family and group discounts available.
Selected dates from 20 November to 31 December 2026 Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens are transformed after dark for Illuminate, an immersive winter light trail through the gardens and woodland valley. The 2026 event features its longest route yet, with colourful installations, illuminated plants and pathways, and shapes and textures that create a very different way to explore the gardens. Designed for all ages, family tickets are available, with free parking and no booking fee.
21 November 2026 South Molton begins its festive season with Christmas celebrations around The Square, Broad Street and the Pannier Market. The event starts at 5 pm, with stalls and food in the market and the Christmas lights switched on at 7 pm.
21 November 2026 Lyme Regis welcomes the festive season with its annual Christmas lights switch-on in Broad Street. The community-funded display is officially due to be illuminated at 5 pm, with the celebrations traditionally including a lantern-making workshop, entertainment, a lantern parade and Father Christmas joining the countdown. The organisers have confirmed the 2026 switch-on date, with the detailed programme still to be announced.
21 November 2026 Sidmouth begins its Christmas celebrations with the town’s Christmas lights switch-on and late-night shopping evening in Market Place. The lights will be switched on at 5.30 pm, with shops staying open late as part of an evening organised with Sidmouth Chamber of Commerce. The event runs from 5.30 pm to 8 pm, with a second late-night shopping evening planned for 4 December.
21 November 2026, 12 noon to 6 pm Newton Abbot kicks off its Christmas celebrations with a day of entertainment, street food, craft stalls, and free activities for children in the town centre. The festivities culminate at St Leonard’s Clock Tower, where Father Christmas will switch on the town’s Christmas lights. The event runs from midday until 6 pm and is free to attend.
Glastonbury Carnival, Glastonbury, Somerset 21 November 2026 A final weekend procession through the town, featuring illuminated carts, music and walking groups, closes this part of the Somerset carnival run.
Wells Soup, Wells, Somerset 21 November 2026 Held at Wells Cathedral, Wells Soup brings together the local community for an afternoon of fundraising, conversation and live charity pitches. Four local causes will present their ideas for a share of £700, with tickets available on the day for a minimum suggested donation of £7.
21 November 2026 Wintertide returns to Buckfastleigh for a festive celebration of creativity, community and craft. This carefully curated market brings together artists, designers, makers and creators from across the South West, with original gifts, food and drink and activities for families.
Saturday 21 November 2026 A late-season outdoor flea market at Newton Abbot Racecourse, bringing together traders from across Devon and the South West for a day of antiques, second-hand goods, vintage pieces and collectables. The event combines indoor and outdoor selling areas with on-site food and drink facilities, making it one of the area’s regular markets for browsing and bargain hunting.
21 November 2026 Rudolph takes to the skies above Bath Racecourse in a new Christmas drone show featuring 600 illuminated drones, cinematic sound and lighting. The event also includes fairground rides, face painting and food stalls. Tickets start from £14.99 for children and £18.99 for adults, plus booking fees. Parking should be booked in advance.
Saturday 21 November 2026 Create a seasonal table arrangement at the British Academy of Floral Art’s rural studio at Dunchideock, near Exeter. Using autumn textures, foliage, candles and natural materials, you’ll learn how to make a versatile arrangement that can later be adapted with Christmas details for the festive season. The 2½ hour workshop runs from 10am to 12.30pm, with all materials and tools provided, plus tea, coffee and cakes or biscuits. Tickets cost £75 and places are limited.
Weekends from 21 November to 20 December and daily 27 to 31 December 2026 Agatha Christie’s former holiday home steps back into the 1940s for Christmas, inspired by the true story of children evacuated from London to Greenway during the Second World War. The house is decorated in a “make do and mend” style, with handmade decorations, period inspired presents and twinkling Christmas trees. Families can also follow a teddy bear trail through the winter garden.
Greenway is open from 11 am to 4 pm on event days, and normal admission charges apply. Visitors travelling by car must book a parking space in advance. Make a break of it and find places to stay around Torquay and the English Riviera.
Saturday 21 November to Sunday 20 December 2026, selected dates Swanage’s colourful Shore Road beach huts become miniature festive shops for Artisans on the Beach, with local makers selling Christmas gifts, handmade crafts and artwork beside the seafront. The huts are due to open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, generally from 10 am until around 3.30 pm or 4 pm, weather permitting. The organisers advise that full details for 2026 are still to be confirmed, so check opening times before travelling.
21 November to 24 December 2026 A large festive Christmas market held across Lemon Quay and central Truro, featuring artisan gifts, local crafts, seasonal food and drink, entertainment and late-night shopping throughout the city. One of Cornwall’s best-known Christmas events, it attracts visitors from across the South West, creating a lively festive atmosphere with market cabins, music, street entertainment and independent traders across the city centre.
Selected dates from 21 November to 24 December 2026 Wookey Hole’s reimagined Winter Wonderland features an enchanted forest, the immersive Wookey Express adventure and a visit to Father Christmas and his toy factory, where every child can choose a gift. Tickets also include festive lights and projections inside the caves, a Christmas circus show, a seasonal 4D film and access to the wider attraction. Advance booking is recommended.
Selected dates, 21 November–24 December 2026 Christmas comes to Cheddar Gorge & Caves as Gough’s Cave is transformed into Father Christmas’s top-secret South West Workshop. Families can explore the elves’ workshop before joining a pre-booked Grotto Experience to meet Father Christmas, sing festive songs, hear a Christmas story and receive a gift. Sessions run at selected times between 10.30am and 4.15pm, with the experience lasting around 30 minutes. Advance booking is recommended.
21 November 2026 to 3 January 2027, selected dates Babbacombe Model Village gets a festive makeover with miniature Christmas scenes, seasonal music and thousands of lights illuminating the gardens after dark. Children can follow a Christmas character trail to search for miniature Santas and elves, while admission also includes access to the indoor attractions and nine-hole crazy golf. Illuminations begin from 3.30 pm on selected days, and the Model Village recommends arriving while it is still light to enjoy both the miniature details by day and the illuminated displays after dark. The attraction is closed on 25 and 26 December and 1 January.
21 November 2026 to 3 January 2027, selected dates Kingston Lacy near Wimborne is transformed for a Starlit Christmas Ball, with the historic house decorated with sparkling costumes, twinkling decorations and displays inspired by the night sky and Christmas magic. Outside, the Fernery is illuminated with lanterns and lights, while visitors can explore the winter gardens. The Christmas displays in the house are open from 10.30 am to 3 pm, with the house closed on 25 and 26 December. The event itself is free, although normal National Trust admission charges apply, and advance booking is not required.
21 November 2026 South Devon Players bring their steampunk drama Jack the Ripper to The Muse Theatre at Lipson Co-operative Academy in Plymouth. The production follows detective Frederick Abberline as he investigates the Whitechapel murders, meeting members of the local community, suspects and victims as the mystery unfolds. The show is aimed at teens and adults and includes scenes of violence, mild strong language, drug use and references to prostitution.
21 November 2026 Honiton welcomes the festive season with its Christmas lights switch-on, Santa and entertainment in the town centre from 4 pm to 7 pm. A Christmas Market will also take place in the Mackarness Hall from 10 am to 7 pm, giving visitors plenty of time to browse stalls before the evening celebrations.
22 November 2026 Ilminster’s Christmas lights celebrations move to a Sunday for 2026, with a Christmas market in Silver Street, food, drink and puppet shows accompanying the festivities. Thousands of lights will illuminate the town centre, including Market Square, West Street and Silver Street, with the switch-on scheduled for 7 pm. This free community event offers a festive evening for families and an opportunity to browse the Christmas market.
22 November 2026, 10am–8pm Taunton Winterfest returns to the town centre for a full day of festive entertainment, Christmas shopping and family activities. Expect market stalls, live music and performances, funfair rides and festive characters, building up to the switching on of Taunton’s Christmas lights at 6pm.
22 November 2026 Enjoy a Sunday afternoon of National Hunt racing at Exeter Racecourse, with a full card of jump racing on Haldon Hill. Under-18s can attend free when accompanied by a paying adult, making it an accessible autumn day out for families and regular racegoers.
26 November 2026 Classical soprano and The Voice UK star Nadia Eide brings Christmas at the Musicals to Exeter Cathedral. The concert features festive favourites and songs from stage and screen, including music from The Phantom of the Opera, The Sound of Music, Matilda, Home Alone and The Wizard of Oz, with special guests. Suitable for all ages, with advance booking required.
26 to 28 November 2026 Buckfast Abbey hosts a three-day Christmas market with decorated stalls showcasing handcrafted gifts, artisan products, winter clothing, festive decorations and seasonal food and treats. Festive entertainment adds to the atmosphere within the Abbey grounds, with the market open from 10 am to 5 pm each day. Entry and visitor parking are free
26 November to 13 December 2026 A large festive Christmas market takes over the historic streets and squares of Bath city centre, featuring hundreds of decorated chalets selling artisan gifts, crafts, food, and seasonal drinks, alongside entertainment, light displays, and late-night shopping. One of the UK’s best-known Christmas markets, it attracts visitors from across Britain and beyond, creating a lively festive atmosphere around Bath Abbey, the Roman Baths and the city’s Georgian streets. Make a weekend of it – find places to stay in Bath during the Christmas Market.
26 November to 20 December 2026 Plymouth Christmas Market returns to the city centre with up to 50 twinkling wooden chalets offering artisan crafts, unique gifts, seasonal treats and international street food. Visitors can browse handcrafted knitwear, jewellery and decorations, enjoy crêpes, Dutch pancakes and bratwurst, or stop at the German Bar for mulled wine and other festive drinks.
27 November 2026 Minehead welcomes the festive season with its Christmas lights celebrations and an Eat & Drink Arts Festival along The Avenue. Running from 3.30 pm to 9 pm, the event brings together food, drink, arts and craft stalls in the town centre. A seasonal highlight of what’s on in Somerset, it offers visitors the chance to enjoy festive shopping, local produce and the atmosphere around Minehead’s Christmas lights.
27 November 2026 Ottery St Mary welcomes the festive season with late-night shopping, entertainment and stalls in the grounds of St Mary’s Church. The annual celebration traditionally includes a steam engine, live bands and choirs, followed by a torchlit parade and the switching on of the town’s Christmas lights. Many independent shops remain open late, while the event coincides with the Christmas Tree Festival inside the church.
27 November 2026 Ivybridge town centre comes alive for an evening of Christmas markets, festive food, live music, entertainment and late-night shopping. Events take place around Fore Street, Erme Court, The Watermark and Glanvilles Mill, with indoor and outdoor market stalls and the Christmas lights switched on at 6 pm.
27 November 2026 Ilfracombe welcomes the festive season with Combe Christmas and the annual Lighting of the Lights celebration. The event brings the community together for the town’s Christmas lights switch-on, with further details of the 2026 programme still to be announced.
27 to 28 November 2026 Candlelit Dartmouth brings festive celebrations to the town, with a lantern procession, live music and a seasonal market in Royal Avenue Gardens. Father Christmas is also set to arrive by fire engine, adding to the family entertainment. A lovely opportunity to enjoy Dartmouth’s Christmas atmosphere and browse the stalls for seasonal gifts. Make a weekend of it and find a cosy stay in Dartmouth.
27 to 29 November 2026 A large festive weekend held across Newquay town centre, featuring Christmas markets, live music, seasonal entertainment, food stalls and the town’s Christmas lights switch-on, followed by fireworks. One of Cornwall’s best-known coastal Christmas events, it brings together festive shopping, family activities and seaside celebrations, creating a lively seasonal atmosphere across the town.
Christmas Shopping Fayre, Westpoint Exeter, Clyst St Mary, Devon 27 to 29 November 2026 One of the most popular South West events in the run-up to Christmas, this three-day indoor fair brings together hundreds of exhibitors offering gifts, crafts, decorations and festive food. Expect a wide mix of traders, free parking and a busy seasonal atmosphere, making it a well-established festive shopping event in Devon.
27 to 29 November 2026 Cary Comes Home Festival celebrates Bristol-born Hollywood star Cary Grant with three days of film screenings, talks, live music and special events across the city. The biennial festival explores Grant’s life, films and enduring legacy while highlighting Bristol as his birthplace.
Selected dates, 27 November–23 December 2026 The Polar Express returns to the South Devon Railway for an immersive Christmas train ride inspired by the much-loved story and film. Passengers meet characters including the Conductor and singing Chefs, enjoy hot chocolate and a cookie, and join in with music and storytelling during the approximately one-hour journey. Father Christmas joins the train to greet passengers and present each with a silver sleigh bell. Advance booking is essential.
Selected dates from 27 November to 24 December 2026 Board a specially decorated tram for a magical journey from Seaton to the North Pole, with storytelling, entertainment, hot chocolate and a cookie along the way. Families can meet Santa, explore the festive North Pole and join in with Christmas carols on the return journey. Every passenger receives a silver sleigh bell from Santa. The experience lasts approximately two and a half hours, and advance booking is essential.
Selected dates from 27 November to 30 December 2026 Nutley Farm Christmas returns to the Dorset countryside with an illuminated woodland light trail featuring glowing tunnels, festive displays and music. Visitors can meet and feed the farm’s reindeer, explore the Christmas Courtyard and enjoy seasonal food and drink, family rides and live entertainment on selected evenings. Father Christmas is also available in his traditional grotto on selected dates in the run-up to Christmas. The event takes place at Nutley Farm, Winfrith Heath near Dorchester, with on-site parking, and popular dates can sell out in advance.
27 November to 30 December 2026 The multi-award-winning Christmas Train of Lights returns to the Dartmouth Steam Railway for another festive season of illuminated steam train journeys between Paignton and Kingswear. Widely regarded as one of the South West’s most popular Christmas attractions, the experience combines thousands of lights, animated displays, festive scenes, music and onboard entertainment along the railway’s spectacular coastal route overlooking Torbay and the River Dart. Departing from Queen’s Park Station in Paignton, the event can only be fully experienced from aboard the train, with booking strongly recommended as many departures sell out well before Christmas.
Selected dates from 27 November to 30 December 2026 RHS Garden Rosemoor near Great Torrington comes alive after dark with a festive trail of colourful illuminations, music and glowing garden displays. RHS Glow runs from 4.30 pm to 8.30 pm, with timed arrivals and last entry to the trail at 7.15 pm. Christmas craft fairs will also take place from 27 to 29 November and on 5 and 6 December, followed by silent disco evenings on 11 and 12 December. Advance booking is required, and only registered assistance dogs are permitted.
28 November 2026 Chard welcomes the festive season with its Christmas lights switch-on and a Christmas street market along Holyrood Street. Running from 12 noon to 7.30 pm, the event will feature local stalls, festive food, unusual gifts, and family entertainment near Chard Guildhall. Further programme details, including the exact lights switch-on time, are expected closer to the date.
28 November 2026 Crediton welcomes the festive season with its annual Christmas lights switch-on in the Town Square. The 2026 event is confirmed for Saturday 28 November, with activities beginning at 1 pm. Further programme details are still to be announced.
28 November 2026 Cullompton begins its Christmas celebrations with the town’s festive lights switch-on at the Higher Bullring. The free town-centre event runs from 4 pm to 6 pm, marking the start of the festive season in Cullompton.
28 November 2026, 2 pm to 6 pm Fore Street hosts Bovey Tracey’s traditional Christmas market and light switch-on, with stalls selling crafts and gifts alongside food and drink. Local schoolchildren will lead the carol singing before the countdown to the town’s Christmas lights switch-on.
28 November 2026 Salcombe’s new festive Lantern Parade brings light, music and community spirit to the town, starting at the Young Salcombe Centre at 4pm.
The parade follows a route along Island Street and Fore Street before finishing at Cliff House, where the celebrations continue with festive food and drink and prizes for the best lanterns. The event finishes at 6pm.
28 November 2026, 2 pm to 6 pm Moretonhampstead’s free Christmas celebration brings festive stalls, seasonal gifts, community groups and entertainment to The Square. Browse products from local traders, makers, charities and small businesses before the town’s Christmas lights are switched on at 5.30 pm.
28 November 2026 Exmouth welcomes the festive season with its annual Winter Festival on The Strand. The free community celebration runs from 3 pm to 7.30 pm, with local choirs, festive entertainment, walkabout characters and a colourful lantern parade through the town. Shops and cafés stay open late, while stalls offer seasonal food, drinks and Christmas crafts. The evening culminates in the switching on of Exmouth’s Christmas tree lights.
28 November 2026 Teignmouth celebrates the start of the festive season with its annual Christmas market and town-centre celebrations. Visitors can browse stalls from local traders and enjoy a seasonal atmosphere as the community gathers for Christmas in Teignmouth.
Saturday 28 November 2026, 3 pm to 4.30 pm (TBC) Swanage begins its festive season with the town’s Christmas lights switch-on outside The Mowlem. The afternoon includes live entertainment, festive songs and a formal countdown before the lights are illuminated, with Father Christmas arriving on his sleigh to join the celebrations. Grab a mulled wine and enjoy the atmosphere as Swanage gets ready for Christmas.
28 November 2026 The Seaton Christmas Market opens in the town centre from 12.00 pm, with festive entertainment and the official Christmas lights switch-on beginning at 4.00 pm. Visitors can enjoy Father Christmas, family activities, carol singing, late-night shopping and an independent Christmas market.
Saturday 28 November 2026 The South Devon Players bring their steampunk drama Jack the Ripper to Longdown Village Hall near Exeter. The production explores the theories and mysteries surrounding the Victorian murders through the investigation of detective Frederick Abberline. Doors open at 6.30pm, with the performance starting at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £10 for adults and £8 concessions. Suitable for teenagers and adults.
Weekends from 28 November to 13 December, then daily from 19 December 2026 to 3 January 2027 Follow a new family trail through Prior Park Landscape Garden as the much-loved story of The Nutcracker comes to life through magical displays and activities. Visitors can also enjoy a winter walk, see the Palladian Bridge dressed for Christmas and stop for mince pies, hot chocolate and festive treats. The trail is open from 10 am to 4 pm and is closed on 24 and 25 December.
28 to 29 November 2026 Lupton House near Brixham hosts a two-day Christmas fayre with festive stalls, seasonal food and drink, cakes and activities for families. Father Christmas will be visiting throughout the weekend, while the house café will also be open for refreshments. The fayre runs from 10 am to 4 pm each day, with £1 cash admission and free on-site parking.
Saturday 28 to Sunday 29 November 2026 A new Christmas food festival comes to Kingston Country Courtyard in Purbeck, showcasing local Dorset producers, along with tasting sessions and demonstrations. Further details are still to be announced, making this one to watch for anyone planning a festive weekend stay around Swanage and the Isle of Purbeck.
Selected dates, 28 November–24 December 2026 Christmas at Lappa Valley combines a festive train journey through the Cornish countryside with a special family visit to Father Christmas and his elves. Every child receives an age-appropriate present, festive treat and drink, while adults receive a mince pie and hot drink. The experience also includes admission to Lappa Valley, unlimited rides on the Christmas-themed Lakeside Railway, indoor soft play, Adventure Golf and outdoor play areas. Advance booking is recommended.
28 November 2026–3 January 2027, 10am–3pm Enjoy Christmas by the sea at Studland Bay with the free Quizmas Trail, a self-led family walk along the beach and through the dunes at Knoll Beach. Follow the festive questions and answers while exploring the coast and looking out for winter wildlife. The trail can be followed at any time, with a sticker available from the Visitor Reception between 10am and 3pm for those who complete it.
Christmas Lights Switch On, Somerton, Somerset 29 November 2026 An annual festive event held in Somerton town centre, bringing live music, entertainment and seasonal stalls to the market square. It marks the start of the Christmas period with a strong community feel and a mix of performances, food and festive activities.
29 November 2026 A brand new festive celebration arrives on Bideford Quay as the town officially launches the Christmas season with its 2026 Christmas Lights Switch On. Expect festive entertainment, live music, seasonal food and drink, family activities, Christmas market stalls and the magical moment when the town’s Christmas lights are illuminated, creating a sparkling start to the festive season in North Devon.
Looking for what’s on in South West England in December 2026? The month brings Christmas markets, illuminated trails, festive performances, winter festivals and seasonal days out across the region.
Our chronological guide covers what’s on in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset throughout December, including Christmas light displays, pantomimes, traditional celebrations and family-friendly events. From atmospheric harbour festivities to decorated historic houses, December is a magical time to enjoy Christmas events across South West England.
Find events by area
✨🎄🎁⭐🎅⭐🎁🎄✨
Planning a Christmas event or festive break?
December brings Christmas markets, illuminated trails, pantomimes, festive concerts and seasonal celebrations to South West England. Tickets, accommodation and transport can become limited around popular events, weekends and the Christmas holidays, so booking ahead is recommended.
2, 6, 9, 13, 16 and 20 December 2026 More than 60 stalls will fill Royal William Yard with festive gifts, crafts and artisan produce from across the South West. Visitors can shop for ceramics, candles, art, cheese, chutney, cakes and fudge while enjoying hot food, seasonal drinks and twinkling illuminations around the historic waterfront. Wednesday markets run from 5 pm to 9 pm, with Plymouth City Brass performing from 6.30 pm, while Sunday markets run from 10 am to 3 pm. A life-sized polar bear puppet will roam the Yard during the market on 6 December.
3 to 6 December 2026 Cornwall Gold hosts a four-day Christmas market with more than 50 local stalls selling handmade gifts, crafts, Christmas decorations, art, clothing and Cornish food and drink. Visitors can also explore the historic Grade II-listed Tolgus Mill and stop for seasonal food at the Cornish Pantry. The market runs from 10 am to 4 pm each day, with late-night shopping until 7.30 pm on Friday 4 December. Entry and parking are free.
4 December 2026 South Molton Pannier Market and Drovers Yard host a festive Winter Wonderland from 6 pm to 9 pm. The evening includes Christmas stalls, live choirs and real reindeer, adding another festive event to South Molton’s Christmas programme.
4 December 2026 Tavistock steps back in time for its atmospheric Dickensian Evening, when shopkeepers dress in Victorian costume and independent shops remain open late. The town comes alive with choirs, bands, stilt walkers and street entertainers, while craft, food, drink and gift stalls fill the streets and Butchers’ Hall. Families can also enjoy an old-fashioned merry-go-round, seasonal treats and festive displays inside St Eustachius’ Church.
Cinderella, Theatre Royal Plymouth, Devon 4 December 2026 to 3 January 2027 A large-scale Christmas pantomime bringing the classic Cinderella story to life with comedy, music, costumes and family-friendly entertainment. Running throughout the festive season, it is one of the South West’s most popular Christmas shows.
4 to 6 December 2026 A festive Christmas event held across the medieval village of Dunster, featuring candlelit streets, market stalls, late-night shopping, entertainment, music and seasonal food and drink throughout the village. One of Somerset’s best-known Christmas events, it attracts thousands of visitors each year, creating a distinctive festive atmosphere with traditional decorations, lantern processions and historic buildings illuminated by candlelight.
4 to 5 December 2026 Set within the historic surroundings of Hestercombe House and Gardens near Taunton, the Hestercombe Christmas Market brings together around 60 carefully selected independent makers, artists and food producers from Somerset and the South West. Visitors can browse handmade gifts, artisan food, homewares and festive treats while enjoying the beautifully decorated house and gardens, making it one of Somerset’s most atmospheric Christmas shopping events.
4, 5, 8 & 9 December 2026 Get into the festive spirit with a Christmas door wreath making workshop at the British Academy of Floral Art, near Exeter. Using a traditional hay and wire base rather than floral foam, you’ll create your own wreath using seasonal foliage, berries, pinecones and decorations, with expert guidance throughout. All materials are included, along with tea, coffee, festive treats and a glass of fizz on arrival. Workshops cost £65 per person, with several morning and afternoon sessions available. Places are limited, so advance booking is recommended.
5 December 2026 The UK tribute production celebrates the music of Richard and Karen Carpenter, featuring vocalist Maggie Nestor and eight accomplished musicians. The show recreates the Carpenters’ distinctive harmonies and arrangements, with favourites including Close to You, We’ve Only Just Begun, Top of the World, Rainy Days and Mondays, Goodbye to Love, Please Mr Postman and Only Yesterday. Doors open at 6.30 pm and the performance begins at 7.30 pm. Tickets cost £23, and advance booking is recommended.
5 December 2026 Kingsbridge celebrates Christmas with a full day of festive activities around the town centre, including Christmas stalls, a farmers’ market, crafts, family entertainment and a free ice rink in the Town Square. Father Christmas arrives during the morning, with the Christmas lights switched on at 4.30 pm.
5 December 2026 The South Devon Players bring their touring production of Jack the Ripper to Budleigh Salterton Public Hall. The steampunk drama explores theories and mysteries surrounding the Victorian serial killer, following detective Frederick Abberline as he investigates the Whitechapel murders. Aimed at teenagers and adults, the production runs for around three hours including the interval. The performance starts at 7.30 pm, with doors opening an hour beforehand.
5 December 2026, 12 pm to 8 pm North Devon Christmas Market returns to Braunton with a large selection of craft stalls offering handmade jewellery, bespoke clothing, sweet treats and original Christmas gifts. International street food includes Thai dishes, curries, hog roasts and churros, while choirs, dance groups and acoustic musicians provide entertainment throughout the day. Children can also enjoy inflatables and fairground rides. Entry is free.
Saturday 5 December 2026, 10 am to 4 pm Swanage Christmas Market returns with more than 80 festive stalls along Station Road and Institute Road, bringing together local makers, producers, seasonal food and Christmas gifts. Families can visit Father Christmas in his grotto and enjoy children’s rides, while a small stage hosts festive entertainment throughout the day. Mulled wine, cider, hot food and locally made bakes are also available.
5 to 6 December 2026 A festive Christmas market held at Symondsbury Estate near Bridport, bringing together local makers, artisan food producers, craft stalls and seasonal entertainment in the Dorset countryside. Set around the estate’s Tithe Barn and Manor Yard, the event is expected to feature Christmas shopping, festive food and drink, workshops, music and family activities, continuing one of the area’s best-known Christmas market weekends near the Jurassic Coast.
Westpoint Equestrian Fair, Westpoint Exeter, Clyst St Mary, Devon 5 to 6 December 2026 One of the more specialist South West events, this two-day equestrian fair brings together trade stands, demonstrations and a wide range of products linked to horse riding and country life. Expect shopping, displays and a mix of exhibitors, making it a well-established event for riders, owners and anyone interested in equestrian culture.
Giant Flea Market, Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset 6 December 2026 One of the most popular South West events, this large indoor and outdoor flea market features more than 200 stalls selling vintage furniture, clothing, collectables and retro items. A well-established market in Somerset, it runs throughout the day with a wide mix of traders and plenty to browse, making it a strong choice for a relaxed pre-Christmas day out.
6 December 2026 Clovelly’s Christmas lights celebration runs from 4 pm to 10 pm, with a brass band leading a procession down to the harbour accompanied by festive carols. Food, warming drinks and a visit from Father Christmas add to the celebrations around the harbour and lifeboat station. A carol service precedes the illumination of the village and harbour, with all proceeds supporting the lifesaving work of Clovelly RNLI.
9 December 2026 Cullompton continues its festive programme with an evening of Christmas late-night shopping. The event runs from 5 pm to 9 pm, giving visitors an opportunity to shop locally and enjoy the town centre in the run-up to Christmas.
9 December 2026 One of St Ives’ best-loved Christmas traditions returns as Santa makes his arrival by RNLI lifeboat at the harbour, marking the start of the town’s festive celebrations.
Santa is due to arrive at The Wharf between 6pm and 7pm, with families and visitors invited to gather around the harbour for the spectacle. The exact lifeboat launch time may change as final arrangements are made with the Harbour Master and RNLI crew.
10 December 2026 to 3 January 2027 Mousehole’s famous Christmas lights illuminate the harbour and surrounding village with around 60 displays and 7,000 bulbs and LEDs. First established in 1963, the volunteer-run spectacle includes festive figures, boats, sea creatures and the enormous Santa and his reindeer display overlooking the water, creating one of Cornwall’s most distinctive Christmas traditions. Planning an evening at the lights? Find places to stay around Mousehole and Penzance.
11 December 2026, 12 midday–4pm Drop into The Crafty Cwtch Cafe in Brixham to meet the South Devon Players and discover more about the theatre company as it begins its 21st year. Find out about its productions, TV work and community projects, as well as opportunities in performing, backstage work, crafting, education and welcoming audiences. Open to anyone interested in getting involved, from age 16 upwards.
11 to 13 December 2026 A large festive market held at the Royal Cornwall Showground near Wadebridge, bringing together independent traders from Cornwall and beyond. Visitors can browse stalls selling handmade gifts, crafts, homeware, decorations, and local food and drink, with seasonal entertainment in a spacious indoor setting.
11 to 23 December 2026, selected dates A family Christmas experience designed especially for younger children at Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park. Daytime visits combine the farm’s animals and play areas with an optional journey through the Magical Christmas Barn to meet Farmer Christmas, while selected Twilight evenings feature twinkling lights, festive entertainment, seasonal food and Christmas surprises after dark.
Saturday 12 December 2026 The South Devon Players present a steampunk drama exploring theories and mysteries surrounding the identity and motives of Victorian serial killer Jack the Ripper. The performance takes place at Torquay Royal Lyceum Theatre, with doors opening at 6.30pm and the show beginning at 7.30pm. The production contains adult themes and is not suitable for younger children.
A festive screening of the classic 1951 film Scrooge, starring Alastair Sim, accompanied by a newly orchestrated live score performed by the three-piece FB Pocket Orchestra. The ensemble combines music and atmospheric sound effects with the film, bringing Charles Dickens’ Christmas story to life for families, couples and groups of friends
Doors open at 6.30 pm, the performance begins at 7.30 pm, and tickets cost £18.
Saturday 12–Sunday 13 December 2026 Wells city centre, Somerset
A two-day Christmas Market with more than 200 artisan stalls across the city centre, alongside live music and entertainment, new Christmas lights and a family festive trail.
13 December 2026 One of the UK’s largest collectors’ fairs, bringing more than 300 stalls to the Bath & West Showground near Shepton Mallet. Thousands of collectable toys and models include Hornby trains, Dinky and Corgi vehicles, Scalextric, Matchbox, Meccano, comics, dolls and teddy bears. The fair runs from 10.30 am to 2.30 pm, with free parking and free entry for under-16s accompanied by a paying adult.
17 December 2026 Get into the festive spirit with an afternoon of jump racing at Exeter Racecourse. Christmas Cup Raceday combines competitive racing with a lively seasonal atmosphere, festive celebrations and live music. Visitors are encouraged to dress for the occasion in their favourite winter wear, making this one of Exeter’s main festive racedays before Christmas. Under-18s go free, and advance adult tickets are available from £20.
19 December 2026–3 January 2027 (closed 24–26 December) Enjoy festive family fun at The Tank Museum, with interactive games throughout the museum, Christmas-themed activities, tours and free soft play. Follow the Operation Christmas Trail to help find Santa’s missing presents and win a prize. Standard tickets include an annual pass, with a 20% saving when booking online.
20 December 2026 Festive Feast returns to Hatherleigh Market for a Christmas food and shopping event from 10 am to 3 pm. Visitors can browse indoor and outdoor stalls for last-minute Christmas treats and essentials, alongside a selection of festive food and street food.
21 December 2026 A distinctive community festival celebrating the winter solstice through Penzance’s reimagined midwinter traditions. The revels feature guisdancing, masks, musicians, mummers, morris dancers, fire performers, and strange costumed beasts, culminating in the Ceremony of the Sun and the burning of the Mock, Montol’s Yule log.
31 December 2026 One of Cornwall’s largest New Year’s Eve celebrations, drawing crowds in fancy dress to the streets and harbourfront of St Ives. The festivities build throughout the evening, culminating in a midnight fireworks display over the harbour that welcomes the arrival of 2027. Staying for New Year’s Eve? Find accommodation in St Ives.
What’s on in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset in January 2027? Discover winter walks, seasonal events, coastal days out and quieter attractions across South West England, making it a great time for peaceful breaks after the festive season.
8 to 11 January 2027 A mod and ska-themed adult music weekend held at Butlin’s Minehead, celebrating classic mod culture, live music and scooter scene entertainment across three days on the Somerset coast. Part of the Butlin’s Big Weekenders programme, the event features live bands, DJs, film screenings, Q&As and themed entertainment inspired by mod, ska and Northern soul culture, creating a nostalgic seaside festival atmosphere for fans of the scene.
22 to 25 January 2027 A live music weekend held at Lady’s Mile Holiday Park, celebrating classic soul and Motown music with tribute acts, live bands and themed entertainment across three days. The event features performances inspired by artists including Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross and Lionel Richie, creating a lively weekend of nostalgic live music and dance in a coastal Devon holiday park setting.
24 January 2027 Designed especially for families with children under three, this special event at The Tank Museum features guest talks, baby and toddler-friendly activities and access to the museum’s soft play area. Guest speakers include Dorset mum and Motherkind founder Zoe Blaskey. Entry is 50% off standard prices, with all tickets including an Annual Pass.
What’s on in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset in February 2027? Discover seasonal events, half-term activities, winter days out and early spring festivals across South West England.
Tuesday 2 to Friday 5 February 2027 Students from Richard Huish College bring one of the world’s best-known musicals to the stage in Taunton. This specially adapted school edition follows Jean Valjean’s story of redemption against the backdrop of revolutionary France, featuring memorable songs including I Dreamed a Dream, On My Own and One Day More. Performances take place at Richard Huish College.
What’s on in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset in March 2027? Discover early spring events, seasonal festivals, outdoor days out and coastal walks across South West England as the region moves out of winter.
What’s on in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset in April 2027? Discover spring festivals, Easter events, outdoor days out and coastal breaks across South West England as the season comes into full swing.
3 April 2027 The Bath & West Food and Drink Festival returns to the Bath & West Showground with the British & Irish Cheese Awards at the centre of the event. Visitors can taste award-winning cheeses, browse regional food, drink and artisan stalls, and enjoy expert talks and food pairings on the Farmhouse Kitchen Stage. The programme also includes live music, free children’s cookery workshops and rides on the Bath & West Steam Railway.
23 to 25 April 2027 A three-day music weekend celebrating ska and mod culture at Tencreek Holiday Park near Looe. Expect live bands, tribute acts, and DJs playing ska, 2-Tone, mod, Northern Soul, and Britpop favourites. Weekend tickets are available, while caravan, touring and camping packages allow visitors to stay on site throughout the event.
30 April to 1 May 2027 Hosted by Toby Buckland at Powderham Castle, Toby’s Garden Festival returns for two days of gardening inspiration, specialist plant nurseries, expert talks, garden displays, shopping, food and live entertainment. Set within the grounds of the historic castle near Exeter, the festival brings together leading horticultural speakers, growers and West Country exhibitors in a relaxed outdoor setting. Visitors can expect plant sales, demonstrations, family-friendly attractions and a strong focus on gardening, growing and the South West countryside. Early Bird tickets for 2027 are already on sale.
30 April to 2 May 2027 Teddy Rocks Festival returns to Charisworth Farm near Blandford Forum for a weekend of live music, camping, family entertainment and fundraising. Founded in memory of Ted Newton, the Dorset festival supports children’s cancer charities while bringing together a varied line-up of bands, performers, food vendors and activities across multiple stages. Tickets for 2027 are already on sale.
30 April to 3 May 2027 Abbey Hill Steam Rally returns to Yeovil Showground over the May Day Bank Holiday weekend, bringing together steam engines, vintage tractors, classic cars, motorcycles, military vehicles, fairground attractions, live entertainment, trade stands and family activities.
30 April to 2 May 2027 One of the Isles of Scilly’s largest annual events, bringing pilot gig crews from Britain and overseas together for three days of competitive rowing. Racing takes place across the waters around St Mary’s, beginning with veteran events on Friday before the main women’s and open competitions continue through Saturday and Sunday. The championships create a lively atmosphere around Hugh Town and the harbour, with boats, crews and spectators gathering across the islands. Travel and accommodation are often booked well in advance, so visitors planning to attend should make arrangements early.
Planning a trip to the Isles of Scilly?
Travel and accommodation for the World Pilot Gig Championships are often booked well in advance. Arrange your journey and somewhere to stay as early as possible.
Looking for what’s on in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset in May 2027? Discover festivals, live music, food events, family days out and seasonal highlights near you across South West England this month.
1 May 2027 A traditional village celebration held in Lustleigh on Dartmoor, featuring a procession, maypole dancing and the crowning of the May Queen in the Town Orchard. The custom was revived by local resident Cecil Torr in 1905 and remains one of Devon’s best-known May Day traditions. The programme typically includes Morris dancing, live music, games, stalls and Devon cream teas, creating a colourful family day out in one of Dartmoor’s prettiest villages.
1 to 2 May 2027 Held at the Royal Cornwall Events Centre near Wadebridge, this large spring exhibition brings together home improvement specialists, garden suppliers and self-build professionals from across Cornwall. Visitors can explore products and advice covering kitchens, bathrooms, interiors, landscaping, renewable energy, architecture, planning and construction. The show also includes plant nurseries, a homeware market and a Cornish food and drink area with refreshments and local produce. It is open from 10 am to 4 pm on Saturday and Sunday, with advance tickets available from the organiser.
2 May 2027 One of the leading food events in Devon, Salcombe Crabfest is a free one-day festival celebrating the town’s fishing heritage and locally landed brown crab. Events take place from the Fish Quay to Whitestrand, with live cookery demonstrations by local and award-winning chefs, seafood stalls, family workshops, music and entertainment. Organised by the Rotary Club of Salcombe, the festival raises money for local charities and community projects. It is a popular choice for visitors searching for what’s on in South West England over the early May bank holiday weekend. Expect Salcombe to be busy and arrange travel or accommodation in advance.
2 May 2027 One of the largest food events in Dorset, Shaftesbury Food Festival fills the town centre with more than 100 food, drink and craft stalls. Highlights include live cookery demonstrations, local producers, music and the Gold Hill Cheese Race, where competitors carry a 23kg cheese up the famous cobbled street. It is a popular choice for visitors looking for what’s on in South West England over the early May bank holiday, so expect the town to be busy.
3 May 2027 The 167th North Somerset Show brings livestock competitions, horse showing, showjumping and countryside displays to the showground near Wraxall. Attractions include tractor pulling, rural crafts, sheep shearing, blacksmithing, main ring entertainment and more than 260 trade stands. It is one of the leading agricultural events for visitors looking for what’s on in Somerset over the early May bank holiday. Gates open at 8.30 am, parking is free, and dogs are permitted on fixed-length leads, with some restrictions.
7 to 8 May 2027 An adults-only festival celebrating Cornish Rattler cider with two days of live music and entertainment at Healeys Cornish Cyder Farm near Newquay. The programme includes performances on the Rattler Main Stage, lodge sessions, comedy, a silent disco, karaoke, competitions and the popular Rattler Olympics. Weekend camping, campervan and motorhome pitches are available with the appropriate tickets. Rattler Fest is strictly for visitors aged 18 and over, and advance ticket booking is required. The full 2027 music line-up will be announced separately.
7 to 15 May 2027 The du Maurier Fowey Literary Festival returns to the Cornish harbour town for nine days of author talks, interviews, workshops, performances, discussions and cultural events inspired by the legacy of Daphne du Maurier. Held across venues including churches, halls and waterfront locations around Fowey, the festival attracts leading writers, broadcasters, historians and performers while celebrating Cornwall’s literary heritage and one of its most famous former residents.
8 May 2027 Helston Flora Day returns to the Cornish market town for one of Cornwall’s oldest and most distinctive traditional celebrations. Held each spring, the event sees the streets filled with flowers, greenery, music and the famous Furry Dance, as hundreds of dancers move through the town accompanied by the Helston Town Band. Visitors can also experience the historic Hal-an-Tow pageant, community celebrations and a unique atmosphere that transforms Helston for the day.
22 May 2027 Following a successful launch in 2026, the Seaton Pirate Festival returns for a swashbuckling day of free family entertainment in the town centre and along the seafront. Expect pirate parades, live music, street entertainment, market stalls, children’s activities, themed performances and plenty of costumed pirates, creating a fun-filled celebration for all ages on Devon’s Jurassic Coast.
27 to 31 May 2027 The Sidmouth International Jazz & Blues Festival returns over the late May Bank Holiday weekend with four days of live jazz, blues, soul and funk performances in venues across the town. The festival combines ticketed headline concerts at Blackmore Gardens with free fringe performances, workshops and community events, attracting music lovers from across the UK.
28 to 30 May 2027 Fisherman’s Friends Festival returns to Stithians Showground near Penryn for a Bank Holiday weekend celebrating live music, Cornwall’s cultural heritage and festival entertainment. Created by the internationally known Cornish sea shanty group Fisherman’s Friends, alongside the team behind Beautiful Days, the family-friendly festival combines headline concerts, folk, roots, and traditional music, camping, local food and drink, Cornish performers, and community events.
28 to 30 May 2027 Bournemouth 7s Festival returns to Chapel Gate near Christchurch for its 20th anniversary edition, combining competitive sport, live music, camping and festival entertainment across the Spring Bank Holiday weekend. Known as one of the UK’s largest sport and music festivals, the event brings together rugby, netball, hockey, dodgeball, fitness competitions, DJs, live acts, themed arenas, street food, fairground attractions and thousands of participants from across the country.
28 to 30 May 2027 Devon Truck Show returns to Smeatharpe Airfield near Honiton for its 10th anniversary edition, bringing together hundreds of show trucks, monster truck displays, live music, arena entertainment, camping, trade stands, family attractions and festival-style evening events. One of the South West’s largest truck gatherings, the event attracts vehicles and exhibitors from across the UK and Europe, with weekend camping, stunt shows, funfair rides, food vendors and live entertainment throughout the Bank Holiday weekend.
28 to 31 May 2027 Sidmouth International Jazz and Blues Festival returns for four days of live music over the late May bank holiday weekend. The festival brings internationally acclaimed artists to Sidmouth alongside free performances, emerging musicians and local talent. Super Early Bird festival passes and camping packages are now available.
What’s on in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset in June 2027? Discover summer festivals, outdoor events, live music and coastal days out across South West England, as the early summer season brings some of the region’s most popular events.
3 to 5 June 2027 One of the largest agricultural events in South West England, the Royal Bath & West Show celebrates farming, food and countryside life over three days. Visitors can expect livestock competitions, equestrian displays, vintage machinery, rural demonstrations, local food and drink, live music, family entertainment and hundreds of trade stands at the Bath & West Showground near Shepton Mallet.
4 to 6 June 2027 The English Riviera Airshow returns to Paignton for three days of spectacular flying displays over Tor Bay, alongside a packed programme of entertainment on the ground. Free to attend, the event features military and civilian aircraft, interactive exhibits, food and drink stalls, family activities and a lively seafront atmosphere, making it one of the South West’s biggest annual events. Many people make a weekend of the airshow by staying in Paignton, Torquay, Brixham or nearby towns along the English Riviera. Accommodation is often booked well ahead of the event.
The English Riviera Airshow returns to Paignton for three days of flying displays over Tor Bay and entertainment on the ground. Free to attend, it features military and civilian aircraft, interactive exhibits, food stalls and family activities. Many visitors make a weekend of the airshow by staying in Paignton, Torquay, Brixham or elsewhere on the English Riviera. Accommodation is often booked well ahead of this major event in South West England.
10 to 12 June 2027 The Royal Cornwall Show returns to the Royal Cornwall Events Centre near Wadebridge for three days celebrating agriculture, food and rural life. The programme traditionally includes livestock and equestrian competitions, main-ring entertainment, countryside displays, local food and drink, crafts, and hundreds of trade stands. Established in 1793, it remains one of Cornwall’s largest annual events. Full programme and ticket details for 2027 will be announced closer to the show.
11 to 13 June 2027 Discovery Festival returns to Central Park in Plymouth from 11 to 13 June 2027 for three days of live music, food and drink vendors, VIP experiences and festival entertainment. Previous line-ups have featured major chart, rock and pop artists, helping establish the event as one of Plymouth’s most ambitious outdoor music festivals. Tickets are on sale now, with the full 2027 line-up to be announced.
Saturday 12 June 2027 Plymouth Yacht Haven, Plymouth, Devon. A celebration of Plymouth’s maritime sector, with boats, marine technology and services, on-water demonstrations, hands-on activities and family entertainment, alongside local food and drink. Ticket information is due in early 2027.
18 to 20 June 2027 Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival returns with more than 90 groups performing maritime songs at around 30 venues across the town. Free performances take place in pubs, hotels, historic courtyards, public spaces and along the quays, attracting more than 65,000 visitors over the weekend. A special seated Gala Concert will also be held at the Princess Pavilion, with tickets due to be released in March 2027.
23 to 27 June 2027 Following its traditional fallow year in 2026, Glastonbury Festival returns to Worthy Farm for five days of world-class music, performing arts and culture. As one of the world’s most famous festivals, it brings together hundreds of stages featuring international headline acts alongside theatre, circus, comedy, cabaret, dance, spoken word, healing fields and family entertainment, creating an unforgettable experience in the Somerset countryside. The 2027 festival dates have been confirmed as Wednesday 23 to Sunday 27 June.
24 to 27 June 2027 Devon’s biggest concert series returns to Powderham Castle for four days of live music following its hugely successful 2026 debut, which attracted around 140,000 people across four sold-out shows. Early bird four-day passes are already on sale, with the 2027 artists still to be announced. Further information about individual concerts, tickets, parking and transport will be released as the festival approaches.
9 to 10 July 2027 Somerstock returns to Somerton Recreation Ground for a weekend of live bands, DJs and family entertainment. The community-run festival combines live music with street food, bars, stalls and a free children’s zone featuring crafts, circus skills and other activities. Children under 12 receive free festival admission, while onsite camping is available for tents and campervans.
9 to 11 July 2027 A three-day music festival bringing jazz, blues, funk and soul to Vivary Park in the centre of Taunton. BlueTone Festival returns with more than 20 acts performing across two stages, although the 2027 line-up and individual headliners have yet to be announced. Friday runs from 5 pm to 10.30 pm, with music from 11.30 am to 10.30 pm on Saturday and Sunday. Early bird weekend passes go on sale on 10 August 2026. Visitors travelling from farther afield may wish to book accommodation in Taunton early.
22 to 25 July 2027 A four-day celebration of adventure travel held in the scenic grounds of Mount Edgcumbe Country Park. The festival brings together explorers, travellers and outdoor enthusiasts for inspirational talks, adventurous activities and live music. Previous programmes have included paddleboarding, wellness sessions, workshops and stories from prominent adventurers, with camping and other accommodation options available at the festival site.
29 July to 1 August 2027 Camp Bestival returns to the grounds of Lulworth Castle for four days of live music, comedy, theatre and family entertainment. Combining a music festival with a family camping holiday, the programme traditionally includes headline artists, DJs, circus performances, workshops, play areas and activities for children of all ages.
30 July to 1 August 2027 Bandamonium Devon brings brass bands from across the country together for a lively weekend of music in and around Hatherleigh. The festival features individual band performances, youth and training bands and an impressive massed bands concert, with hundreds of musicians playing together.
30 July to 6 August 2027 The 73rd Sidmouth Folk Festival brings eight days of folk music, song and dance to venues and public spaces across Sidmouth. The programme traditionally includes more than 800 events, ranging from major concerts and ceilidhs to workshops, dance displays, family activities, pub sessions and late-night performances. Free entertainment takes place throughout the town and along the seafront alongside ticketed shows, with season tickets already available.
20 to 22 August 2027 Beautiful Days is an independent family music festival organised by the Levellers at Escot Park in East Devon. The festival features six stages, children’s entertainment, walkabout theatre, wellbeing activities, family camping, real ale bars and a wide selection of food and craft stalls.
21 to 28 August 2027 The Port of Dartmouth Royal Regatta returns with rowing and sailing races, live music, family activities, competitions and entertainment around Dartmouth. Events begin on Saturday 21 August, with the official opening ceremony on Wednesday 25 August and the closing fireworks at 9 pm on Saturday 28 August. Rowing continues throughout the main Regatta period, while the sailing programme runs until Sunday 29 August.
22 August 2027 Simply Red will headline the inaugural Somerset Sounds at the Cooper Associates County Ground in Taunton, marking the band’s only South West performance of 2027. They will be joined by special guests Heather Small and Soul II Soul. Gates open at 5 pm, with the concert beginning at 6.15 pm. Tickets go on general sale at 10 am on 24 September 2026.
3 to 4 September 2027 Sheb Fest returns to Allacott Farm near Shebbear for two days of live music and family entertainment in the North Devon countryside. The independent festival usually features well-known headliners, local food and drink, children’s activities, fairground rides, camping and a Saturday evening fireworks display. Super Early Bird tickets will be released shortly, with the 2027 line-up to be announced.
10 to 12 September 2027 The Little Orchard Cider and Music Festival returns to Healeys Cyder Farm near Penhallow for an end-of-summer celebration featuring live bands across four stages. Visitors can enjoy Cornish cider, street food, a woodland silent disco, Club Fromage and a programme of quirky activities. Weekend camping and glamping options are also available, with advance booking recommended.
15 to 18 September 2027 The four-day Bude Jazz Festival brings local and national musicians to venues across the North Cornwall seaside town. Visitors can enjoy a varied programme of traditional, swing and mainstream jazz, alongside the popular street parade, outdoor performances and morning busking sessions. Festival passes and tickets for individual performances will be available.
Have you got a South West event you would like to share?
We are always looking to feature great events across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset, from local festivals and markets to seasonal highlights and community days out.
If you are organising something and would like it included, feel free to get in touch with the key details. Dates, location, booking information, and a short description all help us ensure listings are accurate and useful for readers.
At This Is South West, we aim to keep this guide up to date and genuinely helpful for people planning days out in the region. Hearing directly from organisers makes a real difference.
What is included in this South West England events guide?
This guide brings together festivals, shows, live music, food events, performances, family activities and seasonal days out across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, Dorset and Bristol.
Can I use this page to find what’s on this weekend?
Yes. The weekend section near the top highlights selected events taking place across South West England. The monthly listings provide more ideas arranged in chronological order.
Are there free events in South West England?
Many towns and coastal resorts host free markets, carnivals, regattas, community festivals and outdoor performances. Some events are free to enter but may charge for parking, rides, activities or selected attractions.
Where can I find outdoor events in Devon and Cornwall?
Outdoor events take place in town centres, parks, gardens, harbours, showgrounds and coastal locations throughout Devon and Cornwall. They include food festivals, agricultural shows, live music, theatre, regattas and family activities.
What events are suitable for families?
Family events include country shows, heritage fairs, children’s theatre, museum activities, wildlife events, festivals and community celebrations. Check age guidance, facilities and ticket requirements before visiting.
What events are available for adults?
Events for adults include concerts, comedy, theatre, exhibitions, food and drink festivals, heritage events and evening entertainment. Some venues and performances have age restrictions, so check before booking.
Does the guide cover Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset?
Yes. The guide covers events throughout Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset, together with selected events in Bristol and other nearby parts of South West England.
How can I find out what is on today or tomorrow?
Check the current weekend and monthly sections, where events are listed by date. For a same-day visit, confirm opening times, ticket availability and any programme changes with the organiser before setting out.
How often is the South West England events guide updated?
The guide is updated regularly as dates are announced and new events are confirmed. The weekend section is refreshed more frequently to keep it useful for short-notice days out.
Can I browse South West England events by month?
Yes. Use the month navigation near the top of the page to jump directly to the relevant section. Events within each month are presented in chronological order.
Are all event details confirmed before publication?
Listings are normally based on information published by organisers and venues. Dates, times, locations, tickets and programmes can still change, so always check the latest information before travelling.
Do popular events need to be booked in advance?
Popular concerts, festivals, performances and family attractions can sell out, particularly during weekends and school holidays. Booking tickets, transport and accommodation in advance is advisable for major events.
Can outdoor events be cancelled because of the weather?
Yes. Outdoor performances, balloon launches, air displays, boat trips and other activities may be changed, postponed or cancelled because of weather or operational conditions. Check for updates before travelling.
Can event organisers submit an event?
Yes. Organisers can submit events for consideration through our event submission page. Inclusion is not guaranteed, and sufficient information should be provided to allow the event details to be checked.
Other Helpful Links
Booking.com – for most accommodation needs. Look out for options that include free cancellation.
Easy Tide – Free UK tidal prediction service, providing tidal data and tide times for the current day and 6 days into the future.
Traveline SW – Comprehensive public transport information from A to B by bus, coach, train, ferry in South West England and Great Britain.
TripAdvisor – for reviews of… pretty much everything. Our go-to before booking anything.
Vrbo – Great for self-catering and vacation holiday home rentals.
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.
New to South West England or returning after a while? Start with our ‘Travel Basics’ – quick guides packed with tips to help you plan your trip.
