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It’s Twixmas - that magical time between Christmas and New Year when you can take a break from the hustle and bustle of the festive holiday season and embrace a little relaxation before the New Year begins.
Whether it's quality family time together, recharging the batteries, or a little escapism from the festivities, now's the perfect time to unwind, explore, and make unforgettable memories.
Panto season
Too late to catch the panto? Oh no it isn’t! Nothing beats a good old fashioned pantomime with the Wizard of Oz, Jack and the Beanstalk, and Cinderella still sprinkling lots of festive magic. A traditional family favourite for the young and young at heart, check out our panto blog for where to catch a show.
Underground Passages
Stories of wars and sieges, plague and pestilence, may not sound very festive but did you know guided tours of Exeter's Underground Passages have taken place since the 1930s. Even more impressive is that Exeter can lay claim to being the only city in the UK to have underground passages of this type. Not everyone can say they've walked beneath the streets of Exeter this Christmas!
Custom House
For a some fascinating history this festive season then look no further than Exeter's historic quayside, home to the Custom House Visitor Centre. Housing displays, illustrations and artefacts which bring the history and development of Exeter’s Quayside to life, it's free to explore and an ideal starting point for a winter stroll along the riverside.
Red Coat Guided Tours
The perfect way to discover Exeter on two feet, the free Red Coat Guided Tours explore all corners of the city and offer a true voyage of discovery for visitors and locals alike. Come rain or shine the tours take place all-year round (except Christmas Day and Boxing Day) and offer a wonderful insight into the history and sights of our fascinating city.
RAMM
Exeter’s world-class museum is home to stunning displays and galleries, fabulous exhibitions and modern amenities - and it's also free for all the family to visit! The perfect place to visit on those grey winter days, RAMM will take you take you on a voyage of discovery from pre-history to the present day and from Exeter all around the world. Don't forget to say hi to RAMM's most famous resident, Gerald the Giraffe!
St Sidwell's Point
Everyone deserves a little pampering this festive season and if you're seeking some well deserved 'you-time' over Twixmas then The Spa at St. Sidwell's Point will leave you feeling invigorated. Perfect for self-care or gifting someone who needs a moment of calm, enjoy a 3-hour Thermal Spa Experience at your leisure.
Saddles and Paddles
Open throughout the winter months, Saddles and Paddles offers fresh-air adventures right in the heart of Exeter. Hire bikes for scenic rides along the Exe Estuary or take to the water with year-round canoe, kayak, and paddleboard rentals. It’s the perfect way to stay active, explore the city, and enjoy Exeter’s great outdoors this winter. Their friendly team are always happy to chat all things bike and they stock a fantastic range of new bikes and accessories to purchase, as well as helping with any mechanicals.
Quay Climbing and Clip n Climb
Home to the South West’s largest indoor climbing wall, beat those winter and post-Christmas blues at Quay Climbing Centre. Whether you're new to the sport, and making it a new year resolution to hit new heights, or a committed outdoor sports enthusiast, there's climbing for everyone. With multiple climbing challanges for anyone aged 4 years and up, Clip n Climb offers the perfect venue for the active child - even better for the active family!
Board
Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without family gathering around the games table and bragging rights are up for grabs. If you fancy challenging your nearest and dearest to some festive family then come on down to Board, Exeter's ultimate gaming adventure. Step into a world of endless fun and games, where the real winner is creating unforgettable experiences from a huge selection of timeless classics to thrilling modern adventures.
Icescape Westpoint
Icescape Westpoint is back, with a real ice rink and festive vibes from 11 December to 4 January. Fun for all the family, there's a variety of sessions to book including parent and toddler, quiet times, 2-4-1 on Thursdays and you can even boogie along to a disco theme on Friday nights.
Crealy
No matter what the festive weather might throw your way, there's fun, fun, fun to be found at Crealy Theme Park over the Twixmas period. Select rides and attractions will be open along with oceans of undercover soft play and there's indoor interactive fun at Sooty Land. From grand kids to grand parents, everyone's welcome to come and join in and make lots of family memories.
Christmas at the Castle
Step into Christmas at the Castle, where historic rooms and peaceful grounds glow with twinkling lights, festive displays, and seasonal music. Perfect for families, friends, or a magical evening stroll, this Powderham's beautifully dressed space offers a warm and enchanting way to celebrate the spirit of the season in Exeter.
Cofton Holidays
There's always something fun and exciting going on at Cofton Holidays, and Twixmas is no exception. Cofton truly is the Christmas gift that keeps on giving with an array of family events and activities, including Little Legends Tots Time, Cofton Kids Takeover, Reddy Bear Workshop, Treetop High Ropes Sessions, Pottery Painting, Bingo, and much more.
Haldon Forest Park
The perfect place for little ones to burn off all that Christmas energy, and for parents to enjoy a little outdoor escapism, join Stick Man for his winter forest adventure at Haldon Forest Park. This interactive family trail is a great way to celebrate the festive season together with friends and family, and while you're visiting Haldon then don't miss the emotive outdoor exhibition of Earth Photo shortlisted works. Dive into a collection of images from around the world exploring issues affecting the climate and life on our planet.
Go Ape
For the adrenalin seekers in your family, and those with a head for heights, then Go Ape is the UK's No.1 Forest Adventure. An experience best shared with your tribe, fly down zip-wires, leap off our Tarzan Swing and tackle crossings whilst enjoying some of Britain’s most breathtaking scenery.
Wildwood
Set amongst 45 acres of gardens and woodland in the heart of Devon, Wildwood offers a beautiful location for a family adventure. Home to a fascinating array of British wildlife, the park features outdoor and indoor play areas where children can enjoy endless fun, while parents relax amidst nature’s splendour.
Stuart Line Cruises
Take time out of the busy festive season to sit back and relax as you cruise along the calm and sheltered waters of the River Exe. With heated lower decks and cosy blankets as well as plenty of fresh air and great views on the upper outside deck for wildlife spotting, set sail with Stuart Line Cruises this Twixmas. Their Festive Special River Cruise operates daily from 26 - 31 December.
Kents Cavern
Whether you're planning a family adventure, a couple's day out or a solo trip into the past, Kents Cavern offers an unforgettable experience for all ages. One of the most important Stone Age sites in Europe and one of Britain's best showcaves, they were once home to ancient humans and you'll be amazed by 400 million-year-old rocks and spectacular stalagmites and stalactites. After all that exploring then you'll have earned a tasty treat in their Firestone Cafe.
Seaton Tramway
If you've never ridden on Seaton Tramway then now's your chance! Sit back, relax and enjoy several miles of unspoilt countryside along the beautiful Axe Valley as you travel between Seaton and Colyton, passing through two nature reserves and soaking up unrivalled views of the abundant wading bird life along the River Axe.
South Devon Railway
Banish all those Christmas stresses and step into a world of nostalgia at the South Devon Railway. Here you'll enjoy the sights and sounds of heritage steam trains as they gently meander alongside the River Dart and through glorious Devon scenery. Kids will love the sound of the vintage engine blowning its whistle and exploring the historic carriages.
RHS Garden Rosemoor
Brighten up Twixmas with a visit to RHS Rosemoor, where the gardens come alive with the magical RHS Glow illuminations. Wander twinkling trails, enjoy dazzling light displays and experience the beauty of Rosemoor in a whole new way. Perfect for a festive family outing, RHS Glow is only open after Christmas on 27, 29, and 30 December.
Killerton
For a feel-good Christmas then Killerton extends a warm welcome, with a beautifully decorated house. Weave your way through the ground floor of Killerton house traditionally dressed with lush green garlands, sparkling trees, decorative fireplaces and fairy lights while Christmas family traditions old and new lead you through the gardens, parkland and Chapel grounds.
Go Quest Adventures
Everyone loves a little adventure in their life and you can bring the whole family together with Go Quest Adventures. Team up to unlock a hidden trail by finding clues, solving puzzles & completing challenges, earning points along the way and all self-guided through the Go Quest Adventures app. Will you complete the challenge and make it onto the leaderboard?
Rugby, football, and horse racing
For all you sports fans there's no shortage of live action to cheer on your team, and the perfect chance to sport any new kit you received for Christmas. On Sunday 28 December (3pm), Exeter Chiefs welcome Leicester Tigers to Sandy Park while over at St James Park, Exeter City FC play host to Luton Town on New Year's Day.
If you're looking to continue the celebrations then Exeter Racecourse kicks off 2026 with an unforgettable day of jump racing on New Year's Day.
Dartmouth Steam Railway
Step aboard Dartmouth Steam Railway’s magical Christmas Train of Lights, the UK’s first illuminated steam train. Thousands of lights transform tunnels, forests, and riverside views into a dazzling winter wonderland. A multi award-winning South West favourite, the 2025 journey blends past magic with brand-new displays seen only from the train for a truly unique festive experience that everyone's talking about. Departure times from Paignton are 5pm and 7pm, from 27 to 30 December.
*Please note - to avoid disappointment, we advise checking opening days and times with any attractions and events before visiting.
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The Passages were built to house the pipes that brought clean drinking water into medieval Exeter. A guided tour of Exeter's Underground Passages is a memorable event - narrow, dark, interesting and exciting.
Exeter’s world-class museum has stunning displays and galleries, fabulous exhibitions and modern amenities. The displays reveal Devon and Exeter’s rich history and global connections. Exotic animals, birds and insects delight children and the World Cultures galleries display stunning items from all over the world.
The Custom House Visitor Centre is in the centre of Exeter's historic quayside & occupies one of the most historic buildings on the waterfront.
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Bike and canoe hire from Exeter's historic quayside. Explore the old canal trail. Seven miles of flat, traffic free cycling in beautiful countryside. The canoes are great fun and easy to use for exploring this beautiful waterway.
Discover award-winning family fun at Crealy Theme Park & Resort in Devon, home to over 60 rides and attractions, with spectacular entertainment, live shows, Sooty Land and animals galore.
Based in the heart of Haldon Forest, just five miles from Exeter, adventure awaits. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking for a unique activity or simply after some quality time with friends and family, Go Ape have you covered. Boasting two high ropes activities above the forest floor, days out at Go Ape Haldon are about having fun, challenging yourself to try something new and creating unforgettable memories.
Let the kids go WILD and come gace to face with bears, wolves, lynx and more at Wildwood Devon! Nestled in the heart of the beautiful Devon countryside, Wildwood is home to an incredible collection of British wildlife. Every visit helps us protect and preserve these amazing species, so you can feel happy knowing your day out is making a real difference.
When looking for a venue for your event, you’ll want to know the facilities are first class, that the service is slick and food quality is good enough to show your mum… At Cofton we cater for a wide range of occasions such as private parties, birthdays, weddings, funerals and even business meetings. Our main function room the Warren Retreat, is generally available through the winter months and Amelia’s Pantry our cafe is our flagship for locally sourced food, handcrafted coffee and home-made cakes.
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The South Devon Railway features a wonderful 14 mile round trip along a branch line of the former Great Western Railway. Gleaming, historic GWR steam engines haul trains full of enthralled passengers of all ages between Buckfastleigh and Totnes Riverside.
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The Quay Climbing Centre – climbing for everyone Looking for a fun and exciting activity in Exeter? Whether you’re a family looking for an adventurous day out, a young person ready to try something new, or a visitor exploring the city, The Quay Climbing Centre is the perfect place to experience the thrill of climbing.
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Kents Cavern is one of Europe’s top and most exciting Stone Age caves, with an extensive labyrinth of spectacular and easily accessible caverns open daily all year. Our entertaining guides will take you on an underground adventure in this award winning attraction and Stone Age home to Britain’s earliest humans and Ice Age beasts. An English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark Key Site.
Based on the glorious South Devon coastline in South West England, enjoy your days out in Devon on our steam trains, boat trips and paddle steamer.
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