Festive Holidays in Woolacombe & Mortehoe
When the waves shimmer in winter sunlight and the coastline quietens, Woolacombe and Mortehoe become the perfect setting for a truly special festive holiday. Whether you’re gathering family for Christmas, planning a New Year celebration with friends, or sneaking away for a pre-Christmas recharge, this stretch of North Devon offers a blend of coastal charm, luxury comfort, and winter magic you won’t find anywhere else.
Why Woolacombe & Mortehoe make the perfect festive destination
North Devon has a unique way of embracing the festive season. In Woolacombe and Mortehoe, golden beaches meet dramatic coastal walks, local pubs glow with open fires, and the air feels fresh and rejuvenating.
Peaceful coastal beauty
Crisp beach walks and scenic coastal paths offer the perfect escape from festive busyness, letting you slow down and savour the season by the sea.
Cosy village atmosphere
Woolacombe’s cafés and bars and Mortehoe’s cosy pubs offer a warm, welcoming community feel, capturing the true spirit of a North Devon Christmas.
Luxurious accommodation
From cosy cottages and sea-view apartments to spacious modern homes for large family gatherings, there’s a festive retreat to suit every celebration.
Find Your Perfect Festive Stay
From cosy cottages made for two to modern apartments with panoramic sea views and large family homes perfect for group gatherings, our handpicked collection makes festive planning effortless.
Whether it’s an early December treat, a Christmas celebration, or a New Year escape, we can help you find the perfect place to stay in Woolacombe or Mortehoe.
Check availability for our key festive periods below, use our property search or call us on 01271 870846 for more flexible breaks.
Early Festive Escapes
Before the rush of Christmas truly begins, a short break in Woolacombe can be just the tonic. Think brisk beach walks, Christmas shopping in nearby Barnstaple or Ilfracombe, and evenings spent watching the sunset from a sea-view apartment or soaking in a private hot tub.
It’s the perfect time to unwind and soak up the sparkle before the festive season begins in earnest.
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Christmas by the Sea
There’s something unforgettable about waking up on Christmas morning to the sound of the ocean. Many of our holiday homes are perfectly equipped for festive celebrations, large dining spaces, fully fitted kitchens, and plenty of room for everyone to gather around the tree.
After lunch, swap the sofa for the sand and take a stroll along Woolacombe Beach or around Morte Point, a tradition our returning guests never miss.
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Twixmas – The Calm Between Christmas and New Year
That quiet stretch between Christmas and New Year, known as Twixmas, is one of the best times to visit North Devon. The pace slows, the beaches are near empty, and there’s space to recharge after the Christmas rush.
It’s a time for fireside reading, coastal walks, and hot chocolate overlooking the waves. Whether you’re looking for a family base or a romantic coastal escape, our Twixmas availability offers the perfect excuse for a spontaneous break.
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Sat 27th – Tues 30th
December 2025
New Year’s Eve by the Coast
Ring in the New Year in style with a stay by the sea. Woolacombe and Mortehoe offer a relaxed but vibrant atmosphere, think dinner with a view, fireworks over the water, or an intimate celebration with friends in a luxury coastal home.
Our larger properties are ideal for group get-togethers, with spacious living areas and kitchens made for entertaining. Toast midnight on a balcony with ocean views, or enjoy a cosy evening indoors with music, food, and the sound of waves in the distance.
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What’s On in North Devon This Christmas
The festive season in North Devon is full of sparkle, family fun, and coastal charm. From Christmas markets to magical light trails and Santa visits, there’s plenty to enjoy during your Woolacombe or Mortehoe stay this December.
Braunton Christmas Market
6th December
Enjoy an evening of festive stalls, local produce, street food and community spirit in the heart of Braunton, a great chance to pick up handmade gifts and seasonal treats.
The Big Sheep Christmas Markets
6th, 13th & 20th December
Browse local crafts, food, and gifts at this much-loved indoor market. With festive music, mulled wine, and a warm atmosphere, it’s the perfect way to start your Christmas shopping.
Affinity Devon Christmas Markets
8th & 9th November
Head to Bideford’s Affinity Devon for a traditional Christmas market with over 70 festive stalls, live music and street food. Enjoy a joyful atmosphere filled with plenty of seasonal cheer.
Family Fun & Santa Experiences
The Milky Way – The Magic of Christmas
6th, 7th, 13th, 14th, 20th–23rd December
Step into a festive wonderland at The Milky Way Adventure Park. Meet Santa in his cosy cottage, make Christmas crafts, and ride the magical festive train for a joyful family day out.
Arlington Court – Father Christmas Storytelling
13th & 14th December
Gather around the fire as Father Christmas brings the season to life with enchanting stories inside this beautiful National Trust house. A truly magical experience for little ones.
RHS Garden Rosemoor – Glow
Selected dates between 21st November & 30th December
Stroll through illuminated gardens and tunnels of light at Rosemoor’s famous Glow event. A sparkling evening of wonder, perfect for families and festive photo moments.
Christmas Events at Affinity Bideford
Just a short drive from Woolacombe, Affinity Devon Outlet Shopping Centre in Bideford transforms into a festive hub each winter, packed with family-friendly entertainment, shopping, and seasonal magic. From ice skating to elf workshops, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the run-up to Christmas.
Ice Rink
11th – 21st December
Christmas Market & Late Night Shopping
4th, 11th & 18th December
Elf Workshop
22nd November
Character Meet & Greets
23rd November & 7th December
Indoor Snow Globe
6th December
Festive Food & Drink
After a wintery beach walk or a day exploring North Devon’s festive markets, there’s nothing better than relaxing with great food, a glass of something seasonal, and a warm coastal welcome. Woolacombe’s local restaurants and pubs are the perfect places to eat, drink, and be merry this Christmas. Here are a couple of our favourites.
The Barn, Woolacombe
Open throughout Christmas, including Christmas Day
Celebrate the season in style at The Barn, offering a festive atmosphere and a special Christmas Day menu. Enjoy hearty local dishes, friendly service, and a toasty spot to unwind after a coastal stroll.
The Jube, Woolacombe
Open throughout December
Cosy and welcoming, The Jube is the perfect place for festive drinks and classic pub favourites. With twinkling lights, local ales, and a lively atmosphere, it’s a must-visit for a true Woolacombe Christmas.
As the lights twinkle across North Devon and the scent of mulled wine fills the air, there’s no better time to experience Woolacombe and Mortehoe at their most magical. Whether you’re here for Christmas markets, coastal walks, or simply the joy of time together, our collection of cottages and apartments offers the perfect place to relax, celebrate, and make new festive memories by the sea.