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This year, the English Riviera will play host to an exciting event: The Bay of Lights! Taking place throughout Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, the whole Bay will come alive with a flurry of illuminated events.

From lantern parades, to a steam train covered in lights, to carols by candlelight, the English Riviera will have a truly magical feel this winter, so it’s worth indulging in a few nights away from home to take it all in.

The Illumination Trail has been made possible after the council successfully secured funding through its Towns Deal Funding bid, with additional support provided by SWISCo and the English Riviera BID Company. Created by local company Future Technical Solutions (FTS) using low-energy LED bulbs, the trail will allow people to stop and enjoy impressive light and sound displays.

Torre Abbey comes alive with light!  - Celebrate 800 years of Christmas this immersive projection experience! 

This winter, Torre Abbey will transform into a breathtaking canvas of light and history with an innovative projection event, celebrating the rich heritage of the abbey and the festive spirit of Christmas. This spectacular display will be designed by renowned artists Ross Ashton and Karen Monid from The Projection Studio.

The projection will take attendees on a visual journey through Torre Abbey's storied past, from its establishment by the Premonstratensians in the 12th century to the present day. Spectators will witness the evolution of Christmas celebrations across the ages, accompanied by a carefully curated soundtrack featuring music from the Medieval, Tudor, Georgian, and Victorian periods.  Beautifully mapping images inspired by the different eras will be projected onto the abbey's historic architecture.

This event promises to engage audiences of all ages, offering a unique opportunity to experience the holiday season in a captivating and immersive way.

More widely across Torbay, the council has awarded Brixham £5,000, Paignton £10,000 and St. Marychurch £5,000 to support Christmas lights and events.

The Illumination Trail forms part of the Bay of Lights initiative that incorporates everything from the Brixham Lanterns, Lights & ‘Iuminations, the Christmas Train of Lights from Paignton as well as seasonal events at local attractions including Torre Abbey, Kents Cavern, Cockington Court the Model Village, and local theatres.