If you want to know what’s going on at Christmas in Plymouth 2024, then you’ve come to the right place.
The festive fun is going to be awesome in 2024 – and we CANNOT WAIT.
Whether you’re looking for where to meet Santa in Plymouth, which Christmas trains are running in 2024, or what festive shows are on, this is the place to be.
People are being super organised this year and some events are booking up fast or are almost sold out. So if you’ve not got anything planned yet, have a read through this blogpost and see what takes your fancy. Make sure to keep up to date with cancellations or new tickets being released if you’ve not been lucky to bag what you want straightaway.
So buckle up and let’s get planning what we’ll take our kids to during Christmas in Plymouth 2024 in this wonderful city of ours. Be warned, this list is LONG. But once you’ve finished, feel free to save it, then share it with your friends. And also come back a bit closer to Christmas to see even more updates.
SEEING SANTA
The Box Plymouth
If your little ones like eating out, then why not book in to have Breakfast with Santa at The Box Plymouth this year. The event in The Box Kitchen & Bar will run on Saturday and Sundays from December 7 to 22. Father Christmas will be there to greet the children as they arrive and tuck into a yummy breakfast. Then you can spend a few hours exploring the museum. There is so much the kids will enjoy in this awesome place.
There’s also a Local Makers Christmas Market on December 5, and on December 15 there is a festive spectacular called Around The World In 80 Sleighs. It’s a celebration concert incorporating the traditions of a range of different countries through music and song. There’s a Tell Me A Story Special for young ones and babies on December 20 where children’s poet and author Jane Newberry and her puppets will run a fun session based on Big Red Dragon. And in the evening of December 20, there’s a Starry, Starry Night event where families can explore the galleries after hours, listen to some star filled stories, enjoy some night sky themed crafts and dance along to some Christmas hits. Santa will also be popping into say hello.
Boringdon Hall Hotel
If you fancy something a bit different for your older children that is still magical, head to Santa’s Grotto at Boringdon Hall Hotel. Visitors will be dazzled by a dance performance and then enjoy a festive afternoon tea before getting creative with Christmas activities including gingerbread decorating. They then get to meet Santa Claus himself and receive a present. It runs at 1pm and 4pm on December 1, 8 and 15. Tickets are already almost gone, so be quick!
Chaplins Superstore
The Plympton store is renowned for its Christmas Grotto – with festive scenes to walk through before meeting the big man, my boys always loved this one. Santa is arriving on Saturday November 16 to open his grotto, with lots of entertainment going on. You can also have breakfast with Santa and his Elves in the Bowlers Cafe on selected dates.
Woodlands Theme Park
The Grotto at Woodlands Theme Park opens on Saturday November 23, and will run every weekend until December 23. If it’s anything like previous years it will be AWESOME. After meeting your Elf guides, you’ll venture through the magical forest meeting all of Santa’s festive friends along the way. You’ll then arrive at his Elf Toy Factory where you’ll get a sneak peek of where magical Christmas toys and gifts are made. There are also 8 special Magical Christmas Nights events on various dates in December where visitors are able to see the theme park’s lights experience as well as meet Father Christmas in his grotto from 4pm to 8pm. The theme park is closed during this time but you’ll still be in for a treat.
Endsleigh Garden Centre
Another popular choice for Plymouth folk, is the grotto at Endsleigh Garden Centre. But there’s more than one chance to meet Santa – as well as the grotto you can also have breakfast or tea with him. It’s loads of fun! Tickets are on sale now, but they always fly out the door so be sure to get in there quick.
Tamar View Nurseries
Tamar View Nurseries in Carkeel is always a given on our calendar for Christmas in Plymouth and nearby. The Santa’s Winter Wonderland Grotto is open on various dates from November 23 to Christmas Eve and 30 minute slots will be available to book. The nursery’s usual collection of over 50 animations will be back out on show including huge Humphrey Bear and his furry friends, singing reindeer and much more.
The Eden Project
Father Christmas at The Eden Project is always one of the most popular festive experiences for kids and this year will be no different. Children will love meeting the Big Man himself and leaving with a lovely treat at the brand new theatrical experience from November 22. Whilst you’re at Eden, you could also book an ice skating session from now until to February 23, 2025. We went last year and it was great fun! Or check out the Immersive Christmas Lights Experience on selected evenings from November 22 – with more lights than ever before, you can explore the biomes as they are transformed into a twinkling night-time wonderland.
Bedruthan Hotel
A bit further out but apparently well worth a visit is the A Day Before Christmas experience at the Bedruthan Hotel in Cornwall. The event is a chance to meet Santa before a spot of lunch or dinner at the hotel. There aren’t many slots left, although the website does say they have plenty of availability and that they’ll release more if need be, so hurry.
Otter Garden Centre
Okay, so there’s not strictly a grotto here, but if you need ideas of somewhere to take the pre-schoolers on a miserable December morning, Otter Nurseries is well worth a visit. The Christmas section has loads for the children to see, and previous years I’ve spent pretty much a whole morning watching my boys mesmerised by singing reindeer/snowmen or dancing Christmas trees. And there’s a cafe for that all-important coffee, so what’s not to like? Way better than a morning of soft play hell.
China Fleet Country Club Santa’s Grotto
Tickets are pretty much sold out to meet Santa at China Fleet Club in Saltash this Christmas, but it’s still worth checking for the carvery or breakfast events just in case. If you don’t get lucky, why not book the Santa’s Elves Christmas Workshop instead? Run by High 5, it’s on various dates in December and will offer kids the chance to design tree baubles, create Buddy the Elf’s delicious hot chocolate mix, and prepare Rudolph’s magical reindeer food. Children can also write their wish lists for Father Christmas and drop them into High 5’s express Santa mailbox ensuring a direct route to the North Pole.
Pennywell Farm
If you’ve not taken your children to Pennywell Farm at Christmas you really should. It’s such a lovely experience. We went a few years ago and their new look Christmas experience was so good they’ve stuck to it since Covid. Fun starts on November 22, and be prepared for a fabulous Christmassy experience. In small groups you’ll arrive at the North Pole to be greeted by the friendly elves and collect your Christmas passport to be stamped throughout the 2 – 2.5 hour session. The Christmas Nativity story will come to life in the cosy main barn with Pennywell animals looking on.
There will then be mince pies, biscuits and drinks in Noah’s Barn before a visit to the Elves Sweetshop, and then the the tractor and trailer ride to see if you can spot the gingerbread men hiding along the way. Children will be able to experience Christmas close encounters with the Pennywell miniature piglets, pygmy goat kids and other furry friends. Then enter the sparkly enchanted forest where Father Christmas will be waiting with a special gift for every child. We had an absolute blast when we went and this has got to be one of the highlights for Christmas in Plymouth 2024 and nearby. I mean, Twin One’s face below says it all… Hurry up and book though as tickets are available now and will sell fast.
House of Marbles
Father Christmas will be popping into the House of Marbles to spread his festive cheer again this year. Children will venture through the magical winter wonderland where Santa and his Elves will be waiting in his Grotto. Children will receive a gift and goody bag from Santa. Book tickets on their website now.
Kents Cavern
Families can join Santa and his friends in a magical underground adventure at Kents Cavern this year. Santa In The Caves event will see families enjoy an interactive pantomime experience where they’ll meet a host of colourful characters as they journey through the decorated caves. Along the way, enjoy festive storytelling, sing-alongs, and surprises that will delight both children and adults before meeting Santa in the final chamber. Each child will receive a gift, whilst the adults will get mulled wine and mince pies! Santa in the Caves is on December 7 to 24.
Santa visits Sherford
Santa will be riding his sleigh around the streets of Sherford, accompanied by his elves on Sunday December 15 from 3pm. He will stop to say hello and pose for pictures at several stops along the way. Catch a glimpse of Santa on the following route (Santa route map in Sherford)
- Starting at Sherford Vale Primary, he will travel along Hercules Road to the play park
- Play park / Aquarius Drive
- Boundary Park
- Country Park
- Strawberry Lane Park
- Finishing at Ursa Gardens/Capricorn Green/Tucana
CHRISTMAS TRAINS
Plym Valley Railway
Catch the Plym Valley Railway’s Christmas Express from Coypool to Plym Bridge on weekends from November 30 to December 22. Meet Father Christmas and his elves on the steam train journey to the Arctic, then play in the snow when you get to Plym Bridge. So get your tickets now and prepare to embark on a magical journey.
Trago Mills
Children will be able to ride the North Pole Express at Trago Mills Newton Abbot to visit Father Christmas and his Elves. The North Pole Express will be running again this year from Riverside Station and will take families on a journey to Santa’s Grotto to meet the Big Man. The train will then whisk you away to your next destination, Trago Central Station where you’ll alight for the Trago Mills Model Railway. Children will receive a gift and soft drink, and adults will get a hot drink. There will also be lots of entertainment to get you into the festive spirit during the first three weekends of December. Check their website for details.
South Devon Railway
If you’re looking for something extra magical this Christmas, what about the Polar Express Devon train ride on South Devon Railway at Buckfastleigh? It’s based on the 2004 animated movie starring Tom Hanks and tells the story of a young boy, who on Christmas Eve, sees a mysterious train bound for the North Pole stop outside his window and is invited aboard by its conductor. The boy joins several other kids on their journey to visit Santa Claus.
And that’s exactly what will happen when you join the Polar Express train and watch the story be theatrically recreated in real life. We took our boys and it was EXCELLENT! Seats are like hot cakes as usual so be QUICK, and you might be in luck. It’s on from November 29 and some journeys are already sold out unsurprisingly. Read more about it here and book tickets here. And remember if you don’t wear Christmas pyjamas, you will look TOTALLY out of place!
Seaton Tramway
If you can’t get tickets for the Polar Express at Buckfastleigh, then it’s also running at Seaton Tramway. The same magic is expected to take place on selected dates from November 23.
Bodmin and Wenford Railway
Santa Specials at Bodmin and Wenford Railway looks set to be popular. Join the steam train at Bodmin General where you’ll be greeted by Santa’s Elves, before travelling to Bodmin Parkway. Whilst aboard the train, children will have the chance to write their list to Santa and meet him as he walks through the train, gifting each child with a present with the help of his elves. Upon arrival back to Bodmin General, head over to Santa’s Victorian Carriage and enjoy a couple of family photos before taking part in Christmas themed arts and crafts activities. Santa Specials will be running on selected dates starting from November 30.
Dartmouth Steam Railway
A little further out, but absolutely worth it is the Christmas Train of Lights at Dartmouth Steam Railway, and according to its website this year is going to be even bigger and better. From November 27 to December 30 board a steam train decked with thousands of fairy lights for the festive illuminated journey at Queen’s Park Station, Paignton. It goes to Churston Station where the show begins and passengers are then propelled through the 450-metre Greenway tunnel that leads to an enchanted forest transformed by a multitude of lights. You can use the turnaround at Kingswear to disembark and take photos of the magnificent train before heading back to Paignton. There is also an option to meet Santa but there are only very few tickets left for that so book in QUICK!
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ONS
Plymouth City Centre
Always one for the calendar, Plymouth City Centre’s Christmas Lights switch on will take place on Thursday November 14 from 4pm. The lights will be switched on between 6.20pm and 6.30pm. There will be an exciting programme of free family-friendly friendly entertainment to enjoy on stage in the Piazza including live music with performances of carols and popular Christmas songs from local groups and choirs. It also marks the start of festive late night shopping every Thursday in the lead up to Christmas. Go to the Visit Plymouth website to find out more.
The Barbican
Another great event is the Barbican and Sutton Harbour Christmas Lights Switch-On. It’s taking place on Saturday November 16 and has a packed programme of Christmas fun, festive entertainment and activities for all the family. Organised by the Plymouth Waterfront Partnership, read my blogpost to find out more about what’s going on.
Saltash Christmas Lights Switch On and Festival
Thousands are expected at the Saltash Christmas Festival 2024 event on Saturday December 7. The event, by the Saltash Chamber of Commerce, will see Fore Street transformed from 1pm to 7pm, into a pedestrian haven with snow in the air, community groups showcasing their activities and shopkeepers taking their wares out into the street showing off their ranges of Christmas gifts. Sounds awesome! The lights are due to be switched on by town mayor in Victoria Gardens on Friday November 16 at 6pm. Local school choirs will sing carols, and Father Christmas will be putting in an appearance on the Saltash Rotary Club’s sleigh.
Plymstock Broadway Lights Switch On
The giant Christmas Tree will be lit up and the lights switched on at Plymstock Broadway on Saturday November 30. Santa and his friends will switch on the lights at 5pm, with plenty of free family fun to be had. Throughout the day there will be live music, activities and market traders selling artisan food and unique quirky gifts. Choirs from Sherford Vale Primary and
Plympton Lights Switch On
Light Up Plympton will take place on The Ridgeway on Sunday November 17. Thousands of people are expected to attend the event to see the lights turned on, enjoy entertainment and browse the stalls. It will be a family-filled afternoon of festive events, stalls, fairground rides, performances and more. And with it being on a Sunday this year, there’s more time to enjoy it! The event takes place from midday, with the lights being switched on at 5.15pm.
CHRISTMAS EVENTS
Plymouth Winter Wonderland
Central Park will be transformed into a Plymouth Winter Wonderland this year from Friday November 15 until Monday January 1. There will be a huge undercover ice rink, Santa’s Enchanted Forest Grotto, a heated Big Top with live music, rides, attractions and props, a Christmas bar, and festive food stalls. Tickets for the event are out now.
Santa Fun Run
Fancy dressing up as Father Christmas and joining up to 1,000 others on Plymouth’s Santa Fun Run? The event is taking place on the city’s waterfront with the 2.5km or 5km route going from the Barbican up to the Hoe. You can either walk, jog or run either route so families are more than welcome to take part. It is on Sunday December 8 and will raise money for two local charities – Jeremiah’s Journey and Shekinah. Read more about it in this blogpost of mine.
Dartmoor Zoo
Santa Claus is coming to Dartmoor Zoo! Children can visit the zoo at Sparkwell for a morning of festive banqueting, Christmassy Crafts, access around the zoo before it opens to the public, and a chance to meet and recieve a gift from the Big Jolly Man himself. Breakfast With Santa events are taking place on weekends in December and then December 21 and 22.
And the last couple of years’ of Dartmoor Zooluminate proved so popular it’ll be on again for 2024 bigger and better than ever. The evening event, from December 13 to January 4, will see the zoo lit up after dark in the most enchanting way. The stunning light installations will be brought to the zoo by the people behind the Royal William Yard’s Illuminate spectacular in previous years. There are installation spaces all the way around the zoo, and some of the enclosures are lit up so you might even get to see some animals snuggled up for the night. How cool is that!
NSPCC Festival of Trees
The NSPCC Festival Trees is taking place from Saturday November 16. This festive favourite will see Christmas trees displayed in three venues across the waterfront at the National Marine Aquarium, Plymouth Pavilions and Ocean Studios. Local businesses are being invited to sponsor the trees to support NSPCC.
Royal William Yard
Christmas at the Royal William Yard is always a cracker, with bustling Christmas markets under the stars with tempting treats aplenty, gifts galore from the South West’s best artisans and makers, and festive tunes from local choirs.
The Royal William Yard will be transformed into a winter wonderland this Christmas, with festive markets, places to shop and socialise and seasonal entertainment. There will be a stunning range of magical gifts at the Festive Good Food and Craft Markets every Wednesday 5pm to 9pm and Sunday 10am to 3pm in the run up to Christmas. There will also be a Festive Family Fun Day at the yard on Saturday December 14. There will be free festive crafting for children between 10am and 2pm, to create some suitably seasonal works of art and mementos to take home. Enjoy carols and Christmas tunes from a Barbershop Choir from 1pm, whose performances throughout the afternoon will delight and deliver plenty of cheer. Take a look here for more information.
Tavistock Christmas Tree Festival
If you want to see how they’re really supposed to look, take a trip to Tavistock Christmas Tree Festival in Tavistock Parish Church from November 29 to December 8. The town’s popular Dickensian Evening will also be taking place on Friday December 6.
Santa’s Christmas Party Cruise
If you fancy something a bit different, ready your sea legs and head for Santa’s Christmas Party Cruise on December 7/8 and 14/15. The 1.5 hour long boat trip is offering festive fun for all the family including tea/coffee and mince pie for the adults, and a soft drink and selection box for each child. There will also be festive music, face painting and a visit from Santa onboard. Children’s Entertainer, Zig Zag, will be amusing the children with magic and wacky balloon modelling on the Saturday December 14 cruise.
CHRISTMAS AT THE NATIONAL TRUST
Saltram House
If you follow my blog or social media channels you’ll know Saltram has always been my favourite go-to place, especially before the boys all started school. So obviously I’ll be heading there this Christmas! The National Trust are putting on ‘Twas The Night Before Christmas’ from November 22 to January 1. Explore festive trails, grand interiors, and a captivating portrayal of the famous ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas poem. This year fun in the garden is back – with a festive, fun-filled children’s trail for everyone to enjoy.
The magical festive trail will take visitors through the house and garden. Collect your special family trail sheet from the Welcome Centre and set off on a merry adventure. Explore enchanting rooms and discover hidden surprises along the way. Kids can explore Saltram’s garden to tick jobs of Santa’s list. There are seven games to find and festive fun that can’t be missed. Then claim your festive sticker at the Bookshop or Welcome Centre once you’ve completed your journey. Or if you just want to soak up the atmosphere without looking for clues, wrap up warm for a magial winter walk around the beautiful gardens. Wander through frosty paths, breathe in the crisp winter air, and enjoy festive touches at every turn. Stop by the Orangery and Castle Folly for displays created by Saltram’s talented garden team, bringing even more seasonal magic to your stroll.
There is also a Santa’s Grotto and Songs and Stories with Father Christmas sessions, but as expected these sold out super quickly. There are still some quiet, and British Sign Language festive storytime and grotto sessions left to book.
Buckland Abbey
Visitors to Buckland Abbey are being invited to get into the festive spirit with seasonal shopping, treats, music, storytelling and a beautiful historical display in the Great Barn and Abbey. Santa won’t be at the Abbey this year, but his Elves are putting on storytelling sessions instead. There will be mini markets each weekend of December and a Viking Yule Display throught the month. Dates for the Elves Storytelling haven’t been released yet, but there is no need to book.
Cotehele
Celebrate Christmas with a festive day out to Cotehele. Step into the hall to adore this year’s Garland, grab a festive hot drink and enjoy the lights along the path to the mill, join in with a festive sing song by the tree and visit Cotehele Mill for crafts for all the family. Families will be able to see Cotehele’s famous 60-foot Christmas garland, a tradition since 1956, from Saturday November 23 until Sunday January 5. Local choirs will also be singing carols by the Christmas tree on November 30, December 7 and 14, and a Wassail will take place on December 21.
THEATRE AND CONCERTS
Theatre Royal Plymouth
This year’s children’s show in The Drum at the Theatre Royal Plymouth will see the return of Raymond Brigg’s Father Christmas. Join Santa as he awakes from a dream of sun, sea and sand only to find it is the busiest day of the year: Christmas Eve. Watch as he prepares for his Christmas deliveries, feeds his reindeer and finally takes flight into the snowy night. The show is only an hour long and aimed at children aged 3 to 7. It looks lovely! It’s on from November 28 to December 28.
This year’s pantomime at the Theatre Royal Plymouth is Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs from December 13 to January 11. The story is set to be spectacularly brought to life with an abundance of comedy, sensational song and dance numbers, fabulous costumes and stunning scenery. Throw in a magical mirror, the magnificent seven and plenty of audience participation and you have the perfect recipe to outwit the Wicked Queen and let love prevail in this glittering festive treat for all ages. It stars Birds of a Feather actress Lesley Joseph as The Wicked Queen, broadcaster and barrister Rob Rinder as The Man In the Mirror, comedian Andy Ford as Muddles, West End stars Samuel Holmes and Scott Maurice as The Governess and The Prince, and The Artist’s Briana Craig as Snow White. You’ll remember home-grown Plymouth performer Samuel Holmes from last year and I personally can’t wait for him to steal the show again!
Soapbox Children’s Theatre
If your children would enjoy a more intimate theatre experience take them to the Soapbox Children’s Theatre in Devonport Park. The Stiltskin Theatre Company’s festive winter show for little people is called The Elf Who Lost Christmas, with colourful characters, beautifully crafted puppets and songs, it’s ideal for little ones and their families.
Stiltskin Theatre Company are also putting on Guardian of the Golden Gryphon. Join Jade, the unlikely hero, as they race against time to fulfil an ancient prophecy. Can Jade reach the Altai Mountains on the frozen Ukok plains to return the Golden Gryphon before the mighty whale swallows the sun and the ruthless pirate captain catches up? With Christmas looming, the clock ticks down—will Jade make it home to save the orphans from the wicked Nanny? And, will the sun rise before winter’s icy grip takes hold? Filled with fantastical puppets, vibrant characters, mystery, and snowball battles, this epic journey will have you cheering from start to finish! It’s suitable for children aged 6 and over.
Bubblicious Raves
The Soapbox Theatre at Devonport Park are also hosting Bubblicious Baby and Family New Year Raves on December 31. There is one suitable for babies from 1pm to 3pm, and another for kids aged four and above from 4pm to 6pm. Organisers promise bubbles, UV, old skool, to new skool, uv face painting, bubbles, walkabout performers, arts and crafts chill-out area and lots more to keep everyone entertained. Tickets have just been released but they sell out super quick.
CHRISTMAS FESTIVALS, MARKETS, WORKSHOPS AND FAIRS
Lots of local markets and Christmas fairs haven’t been announced yet, so check back again soon and I’ll keep this post updated. Here are a few that are already planned:
Plymouth City Centre Christmas Market
There’s a chance to buy some unique gifts at the Plymouth Christmas Market from November 28 to December 15. Traders from across the South West and beyond will be selling their wares. These are from seasonal stalls and log cabins, with the chance to pick up anything from handmade jewellery and clothing to artwork and homewares. Then you may as well have a sneaky tipple from the Bavarian Bar too! There will also be entertainment from bands, choirs and performing arts companies throughout the 2.5 weeks. Read more about it here. This is set to be a real highlight of Christmas in Plymouth 2024.
Royal William Yard
The countdown to Christmas is on at Plymouth’s historic Royal William Yard, as it transforms into a winter wonderland with festive markets, places to shop and socialise, and illuminations throughout the site. Shop under the stars or have a leisurely weekend wander, with a series of seven Festive Good Food and Craft Markets on Wednesday and Sunday daytimes through December in the lead up to Christmas – with an extra date just added on the Sunday before Christmas for last minute seasonal supplies. Over 70 stalls will showcase the South West’s best artisans and makers. Taking place inside the Grade I Melville building and outside in its courtyard, sip a mulled wine, buy a real Christmas tree, and stock up on gifts. A free shuttle bus will run during each market, making it even easier to visit. There will be a free shuttle bus service from Plymouth city centre.
The Festive Good Food and Craft Market will be on the following dates:
- 1st December (10am–3pm)
- 4th December (5-9pm)
- 8th December (10am-3pm)
- 11th December (5-9pm)
- 15th December (10am–3pm)
- 18th December (5-9pm)
- New date: 22nd December (10am-3pm)
Hugs Christmas Fair
Children will be able to see Santa in his Grotto at the Hugs Children’s Cancer Charity Christmas Extravaganza on Sunday December 1. The popular charity is joining forces with YMCA Plymouth to co-host the event at the YMCA from 10am to 3pm with the fun including local stalls, bouncy castle, a tombola, arts and crafts and a raffle.
Sherford Christmas Market
Go along and pick up a special gift at the Sherford Christmas Market on Saturday December 14. Taking place at Sherford Vale Primary School, this event celebrates local makers and business. Expect sweet treats, homemade goods, artwork, crafts, jewellery and more. There will be Christmas activities for children and young people, next door in Sherford Community Hub between 11.30am – 3.30pm. And between 12-3.30pm, Santa will be in his grotto! From 3.30pm, there will be Carols around the tree and everyone is welcome.
Woodside Animal Welfare Christmas Fair
Woodside is holding its Christmas Fair at their Elfordleigh sanctuary on Sunday December 1. The event will take place from 10.30am and 4pm and will see stalls, local crafters and games. You can also have a look around the sanctuary at the same time.
Tavistock Christmas Festival
Tavistock Christmas Festival will be the place to buy your Christmas gifts this year, on Sunday December 8 from 10.30am. It will take place at the Butcher’s Hall and see over 70 artisan, upcycled and gift exhibitors selling their wares. Get into the festive spirit and browse a wide range of stalls from textiles to wood craft, food and drink to glass and pottery. There will also be a gnome trail for the little ones, choir, live music, festive bouncy castles and yummy food.
Elburton Village Christmas Fair
The Elburton Village Christmas Market will take place in the village hall on Saturday November 23 from 3pm to 6.30pm. There will be loads of stalls selling all sorts of Christmassy wares, as well as cakes, hot drinks and mulled wine from my favourite cafe The Lemon Tree, and a hog roast from the butchers. Kids might even be able to meet the Grinch. There will be a sing-along with local school children at 5pm and the lights will be switched on at 5.30pm. See you there!
Sherford Festive Workshops
There’s something for everyone at Sherford’s new event space, with a packed programme of seasonal arts and crafts activities taking place between now and Christmas. Take part in a free festive drop-in session for families, as well as an array of bookable workshops for adults to learn new skills from local artists and makers. Here’s what’s on offer, the first is for kids, the rest are for adults.
- Creative Club (for kids) – Saturday December 7, 10am to 2pm. Totally free Christmas craft fun for little ones. Pop in and enjoy Christmas crafting. The session will involve making winter themed crafts to take home. Booking advised to ensure enough materials are available.
- Print your own Christmas cards, gift wrap, bags & tags with Debby Mason – November 23, 10am-1pm. Discover the joy of Gelli plate printing with the talented local artist, Debby Mason. This creative and quick workshop is perfect for making your own unique cards, gift wrap, bags, and tags, an environmentally friendly alternative to your Christmas wrap this year. A starter pack of materials are supplied. Tickets can be booked here.
- Christmas calligraphy guided session with Wild Sea Calligraphy – November 24, 3-5pm. Learn the basics of the modern calligraphy alphabet and festive phrases under the tuition of Lyndsey, a professional calligrapher, tutor and author. You will receive a calligraphy kit which includes pen, nibs, ink bottle and guide sheets. Tea and cake will be served during the session. Tickets can be booked here.
- Candle making class with local Sherford business, Candles of Sherford – November 30, 2 – 3.30pm. Join Sherford residents and thriving local business, Candles of Sherford, for a masterclass in how to create your own signature scent. Yani and David will guide you through the steps, from the best wax to building a fragrance, to help you craft a candle to take home. Enjoy a glass of Christmas cheer during the afternoon.
- Handmade watercolour bookmarks & Christmas tags with Jayne Ashenbury – December 5, 7-9pm. Paint tiny pictures and larger patterns that can be crafted into bookmarks and present tags, creating unique Christmas gifts for friends and family. Artist Jayne Ashenbury will supply watercolour paper and glass dipping pens to enable you to illustrate your designs in a riot of festive colours. Refreshments will be provided. Tickets can be booked here.
CHRISTMAS – A BIT FURTHER AFIELD
If for some absolutely crazy reason there isn’t enough going on for you during Christmas in Plymouth 2023, then there are also some excellent things going on a bit further afield. Here are a few of them.
Christmas at Killerton
Our local National Trust properties aren’t doing it for you? Then maybe a drive up the A38 to experience Christmas at Killerton will do it. The house will be traditionally decorated for Christmas and full of seasonal cheer. There will also be a Christmas themed outdoor trail taking you through the garden and chapel grounds.
Powderham Castle
After the popularity of the last few years’, Christmas at the Castle is back again for Christmas 2024 from November 25 to December 31. A stunning light walk will extend over a mile through the grounds and gardens of Powderham Castle, and the castle itself will be open for visitors to explore. Kids will love the festive decorations, light features, displays and storytelling. And Santa will be waiting to see them in his grotto. There is also a magical market with traders and craftspeople in the Christmas Barn, and festive refreshments and music.
Lappa Valley
Lappa Valley in Cornwall is a perfect place to enjoy the wonder and magic of Christmas with little ones. Take a nostalgic steam train ride through the wooded valley into Lappa and find lots of festive fun. They can meet Santa in his grotto on November 30, December 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 19 – 24 . Read more about and book tickets for Christmas at Lappa Valley here.
Christmas at Crealy
There’s loads going on at Crealy this Christmas, so get booked up now to avoid disappointment. On selected dates from November 30 to December 23, visitors will be able to join in the festive celebrations and enjoy the seasonal Christmas attractions, cosy live shows and entertainment and see the theme park lit up with lights and decorations. There will be Snowflake and The Wish Realm Ice Show, Sooty’s Christmas Show, Buddy and Blossom’s Jingle Bell Show, Santa’s Farewell, twinkling light displays, and a Santa ‘Meet and Greet Experience’.
Shaldon Zoo
Young visitors to Shaldon Zoo near Teignmouth will be able to meet Santa as well as the animals in December. The Grotto will be open on the weekend of December 14/15. Each grotto visit includes time with Santa, a special gift and Christmas related activities around the zoo.
Babbacombe Model Village
A Very Miniature Christmas will be taking place at Babbacombe Model Village near Torquay this year. The magical minitaure wonderland will see the village illuminated with lots of Christmas sparkle and festive lighting, as well as some delightful seasonal scenes. Get the kids to take part in the Christmas character spotter sheet to add some extra fun during the daylight and see if they can find all the mini Elves and Santas. Then go round again once it’s dark to see the full effect of the illuminations.
CHRISTMAS TREE FARMS
One thing I really wanted to do a few years ago was go to a Christmas Tree Farm to pick our real tree. I thought we could make this one of our ‘Christmassy’ things. Well let’s just say we went back to the garden centre for the last three years! It WOULD have been a fabulous festive treat – had it not been chucking down with rain, freezing and I had three whinging kids with me. But it’s a nice idea!
There are several in Devon and Cornwall to choose from, or further afield. Check out this post 200+ Christmas Tree Farms in the UK to decide where you want to go. But from now on this’ll be our family tradition. At the garden centre 5 minutes down the road…
So there you go, just a *few things for you to choose from! Hope you find something you fancy and have a great time.
If you have an event that you’d like me to include, email me the details at helen@twinstantrumsandcoldcoffee.com.
Whilst we’re on the subject of Christmas, have you started shopping yet? Have a look at these fab Gift Guides for some great ideas of things that the kids (and you!) will love.
- Christmas Gift Guide For Six Year Old Boys
- Christmas Gift Guide For Six Year Old Girls
- Christmas Gift Guide For Four Year Old Girls
- Christmas Gift Guide For Four Year Old Boys
- Christmas Gift Guide For Mums
How did I do?
Did you enjoy this post? Keep an eye out for the latest Local Stuff here. And why not check out some of these:
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Or if you’re after some more Christmassy content, then how about these blogposts?
You should check out the ‘usual’ type of stuff I write. Honest, relatable rants about parenting three boys. With a touch of swearing and a lot of sarcasm. You’ll like it! Check out my Mum Life section or head to my Travel Section for some UK family holiday and days out inspiration.
If you like a bit of social media madness, pop over to my Facebook page where you’ll be able to have a laugh at what ridiculousness goes on in my house with three boys on a daily basis. Warning – there is often sarcasm, and usually swearing. There are also great travel reviews and the odd giveaway. Feel free to join my Twins, Tantrums and Cold Coffee – Shits and Giggles Parenting Group too, where everyone shares their hilarious stories.
If you like what you see, how about you check me out on Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok too.
And if you want to work with me, feel free to give me a shout at helen@twinstantrumsandcoldcoffee.com and I’ll get back to you.