Christmas has well and truly arrived at Fowlescombe Farm. The halls are decked, the stockings hung, and the kitchen is already stirring more than a few delicious things for the big day.

We have plenty planned for those spending Christmas at Fowlescombe: Christmas Eve cooking with the chefs and mulled cider making with Shelley, Christmas day farm tours, Boxing Day dips, live music and more. But December in Devon is something quite special beyond our gates too. The beaches and countryside are poised to welcome long strolls, and the towns and villages are full of festive charm.

With that in mind, we’ve pulled together a few of our favourite things to do in Devon this Christmas. Wrap up warm, and don’t forget your appetite. 

WALKS WORTH THE WANDER

East Portlemouth to Gara Rock

Start from East Portlemouth and follow the coast path east for a route of sea stacks, sandy coves and sea-salted air.

Dart Valley Trail: Totnes to Ashprington

A river-hugging walk of wooded trails and epic views. The route from Totnes to Ashprington delivers Devon greens at their very best. Break it up with a drink by the fire at The Durant Arms before looping back.

Bantham to Thurlestone

A coastal classic. Grab a coffee at the Gastrobus, then walk the coast path west as the waves roll in beside you. Pass the famous Thurlestone Arch and keep eyes peeled for the odd seal.

Ugborough Beacon Loop

Practically on our doorstep and one of Dartmoor’s best-kept secrets. This circular route climbs slowly up to the beacon for views that stretch right across the South Hams and out to sea.

BOXING DAY BEACHES & BRUNCH

Mothecombe

Our go-to year round and for good reason. The cove is small but beautiful, hidden away at the end of a winding country lane. Work up an appetite, then head to the School House café; they’re open for brunch on Boxing Day from 10am to 5pm, with log burners on and coffee strong.

Bigbury & The Pilchard Inn

A wide, dramatic sweep of sand. Cross the causeway on foot at low tide to Burgh Island or take the sea tractor if the tide is high. The Pilchard Inn, one of Devon’s oldest pubs and the perfect place to defrost with hot chips and cold wine, is open from 10.30am to 6pm on Boxing Day.

Blackpool Sands

A crescent of golden shingle backed by pine trees and far fewer crowds than you’d expect from a place this pretty. Tag it onto a wander in nearby Dartmouth for a full day out.

EXTRA-FESTIVE ACTIVITIES

There’s extra festive magic to be found not far from the farm…

Carols on the Cove in Dartmouth | 24 December

Christmas Eve doesn’t get much more cinematic. Bayards Cove plays host to tradition as the town gathers for carols by the harbour.

South Devon Railway’s Festive Steam | 26 to 31 December

Climb aboard a vintage carriage, tuck into a mince pie and watch Devon’s wintry hills roll past your window on this slow and scenic journey between Buckfastleigh and Totnes. Book ahead.

The Train of Lights | 27–31 December

The undisputed star of South Devon’s festive calendar, this spellbinding steam train departs from Paignton and winds along the coast to Dartmouth and back in a blaze of colour. Think tunnels transformed into light shows, illuminated riversides, and a warm glow that stays with you long after.

(Booking is a must for festive train rides!)