Christmas in Exeter

Experience the magic of Christmas in Exeter. There is so much to see and do you'll want to stay longer, so why not make the most of the season and treat yourself to an overnight stay at one of the city-centre hotels.

The wonderfully atmospheric Cathedral Christmas Market returns from 20^th November – 19^th December. Explore the labyrinth of winding lanes, festooned with fairy lights and laced with the seasonal sights and smells of over 100 festive chalets, plus a new area in the Cloister Garden, hosting independent traders.

While visiting the Cathedral Market you can also take advantage of Exeter Cathedral's 'Entry by donation' offer to explore its amazing architecture and discover one thousand years of wonder. Throughout the festive season the Cathedral plays host to a wonderful array of performances including popular carol services, Christmas by Candlelight and The Exeter Nativity.

Exeter’s Christmas lights will be switched on across the city from the afternoon of Friday 14th November, with an exciting new display set to twinkle in the winter nights.  

The Christmashay Village in Princesshay will offer the chance to shop for unique gifts from local traders, with refreshments in the festive chalet outdoor bar and regular live entertainment and performances throughout the festive period.

Visit the Guildhall Shopping Centre for more family fun this Christmas, with late night shopping and festive entertainment to welcome shoppers.

The perfect spot to browse for a unique Exeter gift, the Shop at RAMM opens its doors for late night Christmas shopping on Thursday 4th and 11th December and there's also Night at the Museum - Winter Wonders on 11th December.

Winter Wonderland returns to Northernhay Gardens, 21st November to 28th December, with a covered, real ice rink open daily, Santa's Grotto, Light Trail, vintage carousel, fairground rides, street food, and festive stalls

The festive fun continues in theatre land and there's lots of show stopping pantomimes to keep the whole family entertained. The Wizard of Oz, Jack and the Beanstalk, and Cinderella will all be casting a magical spell over Exeter audience.

Just four miles from Exeter, the beautiful estuary town of Topsham offers a wonderfully eclectic Christmas shopping experience. With over 50 independent shops and services across town, you’re sure to find a unique gift. Visit during their Christmas shopping evening to soak up the festive atmosphere.

The Topsham Christmas Lights Switch-On is all set for Friday 28th November. Find out more on the Love Topsham website. 

If you are stuck for the perfect gift this Christmas treat your loved ones to an independent gift card. The joy of the card is that the gifted amount can be spent across multiple independent retailers, salons, cafes and restaurants, so you really are supporting local with the card. Purchase online at www.inexetergiftcard.co.uk. 

Check out our complete What's On guide to Christmas events in Exeter this festive season.