Winter on the English Riviera: Events & Activities

The English Riviera is a magical place during the winter months. As the summer crowds disappear, get outdoors and enjoy our almost uninhabited award-winning beaches, magical woodland walks, beautifully landscaped parks, rugged cliffs and striking coastline which form part of the South West Coast Path. Winter is also a perfect time to visit and experience the festive activities and events surrounding winter and Christmas. There are loads of festive family friendly events to get you in that holiday spirit.

Outdoor Winter Activites

The English Riviera has designated UNESCO Global Geopark status, one of only eight in the UK and 140 in the whole world. The area’s extraordinary landscape and unique natural habitat attracts a colourful variety of protected wildlife and rare plants and is the perfect setting for stunning walks, nature spotting and cycling. The English Riviera is the perfect spot to take in the blustery coastal air, to stretch your legs and reconnect with nature.

Christmas Markets, Fairs and Shows

At Christmas time, the english riviera comes alive with lights, festive fairs, performances, shows and Christmas markets. Make sure you book in advance to experience one of the many magical christmas attractions - from santa on the train, to visiting elves, magical light trails and so much more. Discover one of our magical Christmas Events perfect to get you in the holiday spirit.

Mild Microclimate

The shelter provided by towering Dartmoor to the northwest means that this part of South Devon benefits from a milder microclimate. That’s why we can grow the palm trees that the English Riviera is so well known for! As well as being great for tender plants, it also makes it uniquely appealing to us humans all year round as generally you can expect better weather on the English Riviera than in the rest of the UK.

Seasonal Dining Experiences

The English Riviera is a food lover's dream destination. As one of the UK’s top year-round holiday resorts there’s been a renaissance in the number of world class places to eat and drink in recent years. The English Riviera is also known as England’s Seafood Coast for the finest quality seafood landed locally in the fishing town of Brixham. A fleet of 70 fishing boats land over 40 varieties of world-class fresh fish and seafood. The fish is caught early in the morning and served on your plate the very same day – you can’t get any fresher than that!

Winter Escape in Devon

Escape the Everyday with your visit to the English Riviera. Many of our award-winning accommodation options, from five star luxury hotels to traditional Devon cottages can be booked at great value for money prices during the winter months. Search our website for more details on availability and booking details and experience for yourself a winter break you’ll never forget!

Explore Our

Winter Wonderland

Featured

Bay of Lights

During winter, 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.
The Christmas Train of Lights

The Devon Train of Lights is an illuminated festive spectacle guaranteed to wow new and returning visitors of all ages.
What's On at Christmas

Christmas and New Year are a great time to visit the English Riviera. The attractions in Torquay, Paignton and Brixham put on a glittering selection…
Winter Accommodation

Snuggling up in front of a roaring log fire with a loved one. Exploring the stunning, wild winter landscape. Or Christmas shopping in the vibrant…
Christmas Breaks

Sometimes it’s nice to get away for the festive period and spend Christmas and New Year with family and friends by the sea! Whether you’re looking…
Fireworks & Bonfire Night

There are bonfire and firework displays all year round on The English Riviera. Your short trip or holiday in Torbay, Devon is sure to go off with a…