Visit Exeter by Train this Christmas

With Exeter’s Central Station conveniently located in the heart of the city, leave the car at home and enjoy a Christmas shopping break by train this festive season. It’s the perfect excuse to relax, enjoy some fantastic food and drink, and take in some of the wintry scenes that only a rail journey can bring. Here’s our themed itinerary on how to make the most of your Christmas visit.  

Day 1

Pull into Central Station by train with GWR and you’ll immediately start to soak up the festive atmosphere in the air. First stop is Gandy Street and you’ll be forgiven for thinking you’ve been transported onto a film set as this historic heart of Exeter is believed to be the inspiration for Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley – J.K. Rowling spent three years at Exeter University. Picturesque, instagram-worthy shots aside, the traffic-free cobbled street is home to an array of independent shops where you’ll find handmade jewellery and fashion nestled alongside cosy bars, cafes and restaurants.

Head to Exeter’s West Quarter, including Fore Street, North Street and South Street, and you’ll discover many of the city’s finest independent traders, including vintage and retro clothing. It is also the location for the Fore Street Festive Flea on Sunday 19th November!

Time for lunch, as all that shopping builds up an appetite, and Exeter has options for all tastes. For food and drink from around the world head to The Guildhall Shopping and Dining or for local specialties seek out one of Exeter's independent restaurants such as Eat on the Green or Sacred Grounds. 

Visit RAMM, Exeter's award winning museum for a break from shopping. This is the perfect sanctuary to avoid crowds, and is free to visit. Whilst there, don't miss the Shop at RAMM, as it's a great place to find a unique gift, inspired by RAMM’s exhibitions and collections. As well as books, cards, gifts and toys is the Artist-Maker’s cabinet, featuring contemporary designs by artists from around the UK. 

From here it’s back into the winter air and just a short stroll to Cathedral Green where Exeter’s most famous attraction provides the stunning backdrop for the Christmas Market. This wonderfully atmospheric market will fill you with festive cheer as you shop amongst unique gift ideas from local craftspeople, and enjoy festive food and drink. Shopping can be rather thirsty so take time to relax and soak up all the atmosphere in the company of a mulled wine or hot chocolate in the covered bar area.

When you’re ready for your evening meal then you don’t have to venture far as overlooking Exeter Cathedral and the Christmas Market is The Ivy. A glamourous setting to indulge on their seasonal and festive menus or perhaps just a night cap after your busy day. After dinner don’t miss the chance to join a traditional carol concert at Exeter Cathedral or alternatively, Exeter's variety of theatres provide plenty of choice when it comes to festive entertainment, from the Christmas Comedy Club to traditional pantomimes.

Day 2

All aboard as you head off from Central Station for a short 15-minute rail journey to Topsham. This historic estuary town is beautiful at Christmas time, and the large number of independent shops means it is a great place to find a unique gift. Enjoy a winter warming drink in one of the numerous pubs, then take a walk to Topsham Quayside for wonderful views across the River Exe Estuary.

Get back on the train at Topsham to continue the journey along the Exe Estuary to Exmouth. This is one of the most scenic rail journeys in the country, known as the Avocet Line - named after the bird that overwinters on the Estuary, and which you may catch a glimpse of from the train!

On arrival in Exmouth, follow the signs to the seafront for a bracing winter walk along the beach, or head to Exmouth Marina to join a festive special cruise along the River Exe Estuary with Stuart Line Cruises, the perfect way to take a breather from the busy Christmas season and enjoy views of the Estuary with a homemade mulled wine and mince pie!

Back at Exmouth Marina there are several options for dinner. If you like your seafood with a view then Rockfish Exmouth serve fresh, locally sourced fish from Brixham harbour. After dinner catch a train back to Exeter, trains run approximately every half hour until just after midnight.

For the full line up of Christmas events and activities visit our Christmas in Exeter page. 

To book your train tickets, visit GWR.