Bay of Lights

During winter Christmas period, the English Riviera plays 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. And don't forget the star of the show: The Illumination Trail along Torquay seafront! From 29th November 2024 to 2nd January 2025 you can enjoy a 1.5-mile route along Torquay seafront with glittering and unexpected surprises along the way. 

In Torquay's town centre, festive lighting will be put up through Union Street and Fleet Street, courtesy of the Torquay Town Centre Partnership. In Paignton along the seafront, and at Brixham harbour, residents and visitors will get to enjoy a magnificent 8-meter-high pixel Christmas Tree, that offers a digital light show.

There's plenty going on in 2024, here's a taster:

The Illumination Trail, Torquay

This year's Bay of Lights Illumination Trail has more installations than ever before. New for 2024 include an LED light fountain, 1,000 colour changing hand placed flowers, pixel pads and a giant walk-through Christmas present, as well as some of the original favourites. The 1.5-mile accessible trail will have 18 large light installations, offering stunning digital light shows, Christmas music, interactive fun and memory making photographic opportunities. There will also be pixel tree installations in Paignton and Brixham.

Christmas Market at Torre Abbey

New for 2024! Christmas Market in the grounds of historic Torre Abbey. The market will form the perfect space for visitors to do some Christmas shopping or to start or end the Bay of Lights Illumination Trail with plenty of food traders serving delicious food. Expect great local food traders, fun family activities and two atmospheric bars offering the best of the South West.  

Torre Abbey comes alive with light! 

New for 2024! Celebrate 800 years of Christmas 

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. Scheduled for December 2024, 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.

Train of Lights

TICKET CHARGE APPLIES - Most famously of all, is the Train of Lights! The vintage Steam Train carriages await you - decorated with thousands of lights, both inside and out! Once you're on board, the journey begins as the steam whistle blows and you are surrounded by thousands of twinkly lights. You'll continue on through the Greenway tunnel and onto the enchanted forest, filled with magical illuminated beasts. The stunning show ends as you leave the forest only to be greeted by the twinkling lights of Dartmouth reflected on the river Dart. This multi-award-winning event sells out each year, so we advise getting your tickets early for a train journey you'll remember forever.

Lanterns Lights and 'Lluminations in Brixham

FREE EVENT - Every year, Brixham comes alight with Lanterns, Lights and 'Lluminations! Lanterns, Lights & ‘Luminations was first launched in 2007 and has grown in popularity in recent years. The event includes a magical lantern parade, an incredible firework display held in the Harbour Bowl, live music, street entertainment, and a street market. It has a real community feel, with many locals venturing out to take part in the magical festivities. It's definitely not one to miss, and is sure to get you feeling festive as the picturesque fishing town lights up with twinkly Christmas lights.

Santa in the Caves at Kents Cavern

ADMISSION FEE APPLIES - For a true family-friendly illuminated event where you can also meet Santa, visit Kents Cavern. The popular “Santa in the Caves” returns with a new story and even more illuminations. An interactive pantomime guided by festive-themed actors, you’ll go on a quest through the caves to discover the ‘true meaning of Christmas’.

At the beginning of the journey, the children will be given a light wand which magically switches on Christmas lights throughout the grotto. The adventure finishes with meeting Santa where each child will receive a wrapped gift, and adults can enjoy mulled wine and festive treats. As an added bonus, adults will also receive a complimentary return ticket to see the caves in January 2025.

Christmas at Coleton Fishacre

ADMISSION FEE APPLIES - Inspired by the coastline in winter, gather loved ones and wrap up warm to explore the ground floor of the House as it's dressed for 'Winter Tide and Time' during Christmas at Coleton Fishacre.

With the sparkle of lights, interactive elements and seasonal selfie stations, there are moments of magic everywhere you look. For rosy cheeks and cheerful soles, winter walks around the coastal garden provide show-stopping sea views and a great way to stretch the legs. 

A Very Miniature Christmas - Babbacombe Model Village Christmas Illuminations

ADMISSION FEE APPLIES - The Babbacombe Model Village Christmas Illuminations is the perfect family day out this Winter. Enjoy some delightful miniature seasonal scenes as the little folk celebrate Christmas. A Christmas character spotter sheet will add some extra fun during daylight.