Welcome to our What’s on guide to North Devon!
Whether you’re staying in one of our beautiful Woolacombe Cottages or exploring the wider region, there’s always something to see and do. From stunning coastal walks and charming local markets to exciting festivals and family-friendly attractions, North Devon offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure all year round
Plan your stay
Dive into our guide to discover the best events, hidden gems, and seasonal activities happening throughout the area—making your stay in North Devon truly unforgettable.
Woolacombe Dunes Park Run
Every Saturday 9am
Marine Drive- Woolacombe
Renowned as one of the toughest Park Run’s in the UK
Woody Bay Christmas Train
Selected dates between 15th – 24th December
A magical experience with Santa and his friends, who will be welcoming all the children! Each child will receive a special present and a sticker from Santa, which includes an Eric Leslie colouring book, pencils, and a small surprise gift.
Enjoy a festive train ride in carriages beautifully decorated for the season, taking a delightful 2-mile return journey (approximately 20 minutes).
Don’t miss our popular Dear Santa Christmas activity sheet, where kids can post their letters to Santa using our Santa’s Workshop Post Box!
Milky Way, Magic of Christmas
7th – 23rd December (weekends)
Treat your family to an unforgettable Christmas experience this December! Embark on a journey through the enchanting snowy forest to Buzzlewick’s Elf Emporium, where you can meet Buzzlewick the Elf and his friends. Enjoy gingerbread decorating, write a letter to Santa, and create some special reindeer food.
For those with special tickets, you’ll have the chance to visit Santa in his cosy Christmas Cottage for a cheerful chat and choose a fabulous festive gift from Buzzlewick’s Toy Shop. It’s a magical day filled with Christmas cheer!
The Big Sheep, Christmas Toddler take over
13th – 16th December
A day filled with crafts, dancing, singing, woodland walks, sensory Christmas themed workshops and much much more! The perfect place for festive fun dedicated to toddlers and babies.
Woolacombe Beach Clean, Mill Rock
24th December 10am
Join the Plastic Free North Devon group & National Trust on Christmas Eve at Mill Rock to get some fresh air while cleaning the beach – all equipment is provided.
Pantomimes
Queens Theatre
Beauty & The Beast
12th—31st December
Barnstaple’s biggest and brightest pantomime returns in 2024!
Step into the enchanting world of Pantopia, where laughter fills the air and every moment is a dazzling delight.
This production is a sensory extravaganza, celebrating love and guaranteed to take you on an emotional rollercoaster, packed with hilarious moments and heartwarming surprises for the whole family
Landmark Theatre
Santa’s Christmas Wish
24th December
Christmas is a time of joy, love, and sharing—a magical season when Santa delivers presents around the globe. But have you ever wondered what Santa would like for Christmas?
Dasher the Reindeer has a thought, Pompom the Penguin thinks he knows, and Snowy the Snowman might just have the solution!
Mrs. Claus needs their help—and yours—to uncover the perfect gift for Santa!
The Big Sheep
Beauty & The Beast
14th December
A Tale As Old As Time… IKProductions is thrilled to present Disney’s beloved and enchanting musical, Beauty and the Beast—one of the most popular romantic stories ever told!
Get ready for a delightful mix of catchy songs, light-hearted fun, and a sprinkle of festive magic in this classic pantomime for audiences of all ages!
Christmas Markets
Braunton Christmas Market
7th December
The North Devon Christmas Market is back for its 9th year and is the largest event of its kind in the region! Each year, talented crafters go above and beyond to create the ultimate shopping experience. Visitors can explore a variety of handmade treasures, from exquisite jewellery and delightful sweet treats to bespoke clothing and unique gifts at the craft stalls.
The street food offerings are exceptional, featuring a diverse array of cuisines from around the globe, including Thai, hog roast, curry, churros, and more! Plus, enjoy live entertainment throughout the day, with choirs, dance performances, and acoustic music, alongside fun inflatables and rides for the kids.
The Big Sheep
7th, 14th & 21st December
The Big Sheep Christmas market is a great place to pick up some handmade gifts perfect for a Christmas present for a loved one. Along with offering fresh produce including turkeys, organic meats, sprouts on storks, cheeses, cakes, fresh fish & Christmas trees The Big Sheep Christmas market has something for everyone.
RHS Rosemoor, Magic of Christmas Craft & Food Fair
30th November – 1st December
Get into the Christmas spirit at this special festive event at RHS Rosemoor! Discover a wealth of gift inspiration and delicious treats to share with your loved ones during the holidays. Whether you’re seeking a hand-carved gift for a friend, a cosy scarf to ward off the winter chill, or some delightful delicacies to indulge everyone, RHS Rosemoor Garden Room has something for you.
Combe Christmas
29th November
Fantastic Street Market featuring a Lantern Parade, stalls, food vendors, live music, and entertainment throughout the High Street, with Santa himself making an appearance on his sleigh! The festivities kick off on Friday at 6:00 PM.
The celebration continues over the weekend with an indoor Christmas Market on November 30 and December 1 at the Landmark, open from 10 AM to 4 PM. Explore a wonderful selection of craft and gift stalls, perfect for holiday shopping!
The following day on the 2nd December enjoy A festive evening of late night shopping, carols, eating & drinking around Ilfracombe Harbour including St James & Fore Street.
Christmas Lights
Ilfracombe 29th November
Barnstaple 28th November
Lynton 1st December
Clovelly 8th December
RHS Rosemoor Glow 15th – 28th December
Clovelly Court Garden Lights Select dates between 16th November & 15th December
Theatre Shows
So this is Christmas – Queens Theatre
17th November
Get into the festive spirit with That’ll Be The Day’s Christmas Show, So This is Christmas!
An unforgettable evening filled with music and laughter, where hilarious comedy sketches blend seamlessly with heartwarming renditions of all your favorite Christmas songs.
Enjoy a delightful mix of classic festive tunes alongside hits from Christmases past and present, taking you on a unique musical journey. With a hugely talented cast, you’ll be singing, dancing, and laughing the night away—it’s the perfect way to celebrate this wonderful time of year.
The Rat Pack, Christmas in Vegas – Landmark Theatre
13th December
The Official UK No: 1 Tribute show as voted by The Agents Association of Great Britain featuring the acclaimed David Alacey as Frank Sinatra, Paul Drakeley as Dean Martin, and Des Coleman as Sammy Davis Jr.
Experience the magic of Christmas at The Sands, where this sensational performance brings the glamour of Las Vegas to life. Enjoy hits like “My Way,” “New York, New York,” and seasonal favourites like “White Christmas” and “Let It Snow.”
The Royal Ballet, Cinderella Landmark Theatre
15th December
Stuck at home and burdened by her spoiled step-sisters, Cinderella’s life is dreary. Everything changes when she helps a mysterious woman. With a touch of magic, she’s transported to an enchanting new world filled with fairies, transforming pumpkins, and the promise of true love.
Christmas by candlelight – Landmark Theatre
20th December
Experience the enchantment of Christmas in an unforgettable candlelit musical celebration!
Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit as a talented cast of singers, dancers and live musicians bring a fresh twist to your favourite classic Christmas songs, all performed live.
The Royal Ballet, Nutcracker – Landmark Theatre
22nd December
Join Clara at a charming Christmas Eve party that transforms into a magical adventure once everyone else is asleep. Delight in Tchaikovsky’s brilliant score as Clara and her enchanted Nutcracker battle the Mouse King and visit the Sugar Plum Fairy in the dazzling Kingdom of Sweets.
National Trust
Knightshayes
Knightshayes is a breathtaking Victorian Gothic mansion situated near Tiverton in Devon, England. Managed by the National Trust, this architectural gem was designed by William Burges and constructed in the 1860s for the Heathcoat-Amory family. The mansion is celebrated for its intricate architecture, exquisite interiors, and expansive gardens.
The grounds of Knightshayes feature diverse landscaped areas, woodlands, and formal gardens, displaying a vibrant array of plants and flowers throughout the seasons. Visitors can wander through the estate, take scenic nature walks, and appreciate the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Meet Father Christmas – select dates through December
Knightshayes by light – weekends between 29th November & 22nd December
Magical Victorian Christmas – 16th November – 5th January (Excl 24th – 26th December)
Arlington Court
Arlington Court is a stunning estate managed by the National Trust. It features an elegant Georgian mansion surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland. Built in the late 18th century, the house showcases a blend of architectural styles and is home to an intriguing collection of decorative arts and antiques.
The estate also houses the National Trust’s Carriage Museum, which displays a remarkable array of carriages and vehicles, highlighting the region’s transportation history.
Visitors to Arlington Court can explore extensive grounds that include formal gardens, woodlands, and scenic trails through the Devon countryside. With various activities such as nature walks and seasonal events, it’s a wonderful destination for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Christmas at Arlington – select dates between 16th November & 5th January
Late night openings – 5th, 12th & 19th December
Meet Father Christmas – 21st – 23rd December
Christmas / New Year’s Day Dips
Ilfracombe Harbour – 25th December 11am
Hele Bay – 1st January 10 am
Woolacombe Beach – 11am