Christmas in Devon…

With Visit South Devon

South Devon is bursting with Christmas and New Year events and activities. Whether you want to meet Santa or finish your Christmas shopping, watch the magic of the Christmas Light switch on, enjoy a crisp winter stroll or celebrate in style- there is plenty going on in South Devon to entertain everyone.

With lots of locations in South Devon giving you the chance to meet Santa this Christmas, and the many other festive activities going on, you’ll be spoilt for choice. We’re sure that Christmas in South Devon will give you and your family some wonderful memories.

If you still have your shopping to finish South Devon has the answer. Throughout the region you’ll also find an array of Christmas markets and late night shopping evenings. Here you can enjoy an assortment of craft stalls and local food and drink and entertainment, all of which is bound to get you in the festive mood.

New Year is a time for celebrating and relaxing, so whether you want to party the night away or enjoy a refreshing seaside or hill top walk to welcome in the New Year, South Devon is your perfect destination.

If you want some Christmas fun and ideas on things to do with the whole family, inspiration on the best markets or last minute shopping locations, or want to start planning the perfect New Years break check out the below events taking place in South Devon.

Honiton Present Makers | 5 minutes from Otter Valley Park

A leading event in the South West crafts calendar, Present Makers 2018 celebrates the talent of contemporary crafts people and designer-makers.  The exhibited work in a diverse range of materials includes amongst others : glass, wood, paper, textiles, prints, ceramics, furniture and jewellery. All of the work is for sale.  Looking for the ideal Christmas gift this year? Why not buy unique hand-made and locally-designed gifts and support local makers and independent businesses from the South West.

Exeter Christmas Market | 30 minutes from Otter Valley Park

This year’s Christmas Market will run from Thursday 15th November until Sunday 16th December organised by Exeter Cathedral.  The market support local businesses and performers, with an exciting mix of continental and local, independent traders, showcasing the best of festive food, crafts and gifts. The west front bandstand showcases local bands, carol singers and choirs able to bid for free slots to entertain traders and customers.  This year promises to be better than ever with great entertainment on stage, more stalls for local businesses and another drinks outlet where visitors can buy mulled wine, mulled cider and last year’s popular mulled apple gin.

Walter’s Winter Trail | 16 minutes from Otter Valley Park

Do you know what special treatment Walter, one of the sanctuary’s adoption heroes, and the rest of their donkeys need during winter to keep them happy and healthy?

Help the donkeys get winter ready by making sure they have had all their health checks and are warm and comfortable now the temperature is starting to drop. Follow the trail around the sanctuary and record the items you find, on Walter’s Winter Checklist, before claiming your prize and certificate. Just £3 per trail.   So wrap-up warm this winter and get the family outdoors for a meet and greet with some of the hundreds of friendly donkeys who are cared for in Sidmouth, including the gentle giant Poitou donkeys, the lovable adoption donkeys and ever-so cute miniature donkeys.

The sanctuary regularly update its programme of things to do and see, so make the most of your visit with one of the fascinating tours, talks and demonstrations delivered by knowledgeable staff – just head to the main entrance on arrival for all the details.  Or escape the elements in their exciting new indoor attractions, where you’ll discover just why donkeys are so special through fun, interactive displays in the new Exhibition Barn, Understanding Donkeys Zone and Dr Svendsen’s Hut.

Get cosy in The Kitchen restaurant with freshly-prepared, wholesome dishes using local, ethically sourced produce, alongside stunning views over the donkeys’ paddocks and Jurassic Coast. Hearty breakfasts, luscious lunches and tempting treats are served daily from 9am to 4pm, as well as super Sunday roasts each week from 12pm to 2pm – but don’t forget to book! And before heading home, a visit to the brand new Gift Shop is a must for all those unique donkey-design items to suit every pocket.

Entry and parking at the sanctuary is FREE. Dogs on leads are welcome.

Further information
01395 578222 | enquiries@thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk

All proceeds help fund the work of The Donkey Sanctuary Worldwide.

Check out www.visitsouthdevon.co.uk for more fantastic events to enjoy this winter, just a short hop from Otter Valley Park!