The holiday season is upon us, and there's no better place to get into the festive spirit than in Devon. The region offers a unique and enchanting experience for Christmas shopping, emphasising the importance of supporting small and local businesses, exploring charming Christmas markets, and visiting some of the most delightful towns and cities in the region.
Shopping Small & Local: The Heart of Devon's Christmas Spirit
One of the most heart-warming aspects of Christmas shopping in Devon is the emphasis on supporting small and local businesses. Devonians take pride in their community and strive to keep their high streets thriving during the holiday season. When you shop small and local, you not only find one-of-a-kind, handcrafted gifts but also contribute to the sustainability and growth of the local economy. From artisanal shops and boutiques to quaint family-owned stores, Devon offers a delightful variety of places to explore.
Here are some key areas in Devon where you can shop small and local:
Exeter: The capital city of Devon boasts a charming array of independent shops along Gandy Street, Fore Street and Magdalen Road. Discover unique gifts, speciality foods, and handcrafted products in this historic city.
Totnes: This historic market town is renowned for its thriving local community and a wealth of independent shops. You can find everything from vintage clothing to handmade crafts.
Tavistock: This historic gem is home to an array of boutiques and artisan shops throughout its picturesque town. Don't miss the Tavistock Dickensian Evening for an authentic holiday shopping and festive experience.
Christmas Markets in Devon: A Festive Wonderland
Christmas markets are a staple of the holiday season in Devon. These markets are the perfect places to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, sip on mulled wine, and find unique gifts and treats. Here are a few of the top Christmas markets in Devon:
Exeter Christmas Market: Located on the city's Cathedral Green, this market features over 50 stalls selling everything from handmade gifts to delicious food and drink. The backdrop of the stunning Exeter Cathedral adds to the festive ambiance.
Plymouth Winter Wonderland: Set within the stunning Central Park, this brand new market and Christmas event claims to be one of the best in Devon. Enjoy ice skating, browse festive stalls, meet Father Christmas and savour local treats.
Totnes Christmas Market: The Totnes Christmas market is a vibrant affair, with a focus on handcrafted and artisanal products. The historic town square transforms into a festive paradise, making it a must-visit destination.
Best Towns and Cities for Christmas Shopping in Devon
While Devon offers numerous options for Christmas shopping, some towns and cities stand out for their unique offerings and holiday spirit. Here are a few must-visit places:
Exeter: The capital city of Devon combines the charm of a historic city with a modern shopping scene. The city's Christmas lights, festive decorations, and market make it an ideal destination for holiday shopping.
Plymouth: Plymouth's city centre and waterfront are transformed into a winter wonderland during the holidays. Explore Drake Circus and Royal Parade for high-street shopping, and don't miss the stunning lights display on Royal William Yard.
Dartmouth: This coastal town is not only a great place to shop but also offers stunning views and a relaxed atmosphere. You'll find plenty of unique gifts, and the town's festive decorations are a sight to behold.
Totnes: As mentioned earlier, Totnes is a charming market town with a strong sense of community and a thriving local economy. The festive ambiance during the holidays makes it a must-visit.
Sidmouth: This picturesque coastal town along the Jurassic Coast is a lovely spot for holiday shopping. Explore the town's independent boutiques and artisanal shops for gifts with a seaside touch. The annual Sidmouth Christmas Festival adds a dose of festive cheer with its local food and craft stalls.
Barnstaple: North Devon's largest town, Barnstaple, is known for its Pannier Market and shopping opportunities. The town's Christmas lights and decorations add a festive touch to the shopping experience, and the market is an ideal place to discover handmade crafts and local produce.
Axminster: Located in East Devon, Axminster is another hidden gem for holiday shopping. Explore the town's independent shops, including those specializing in fine local foods, wines, and artisanal goods. The town's cosy and welcoming atmosphere adds to the festive spirit.
Devon's Christmas shopping experience is a unique blend of supporting small and local businesses, exploring enchanting Christmas markets, and visiting charming towns and cities. Whether you're looking for handcrafted gifts, delicious treats, or a festive atmosphere, Devon has it all. This holiday season, make a trip to Devon and discover the magic of Christmas shopping in this picturesque county. You'll not only find the perfect gifts but also create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
If you’re staying in Devon over the festive period, we hope you have a Heavenly Devon Christmas! If you haven’t booked your getaway yet, check out our range of fantastic hotels to stay in here. Be sure to stay connected via Facebook, X (Twitter) and Instagram and share your favourite festive pics with us using @DevonHotels!