5 Best Christmas Markets in Devon to visit this December

From bustling city squares to seaside courtyards, Devon’s Christmas markets are back and brimming with festive cheer. Expect irresistible food, unique local makers and plenty of yuletide sparkle. Here are five magical markets worth visiting this December.

The Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market

At the top of our list is, of course, the Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market. It brings  the heart of the city to life with more than 100 stalls offering handmade gifts, global street food and cosy festive bars. It runs until 19 December, all set against the beautiful backdrop of the Cathedral.

Don’t miss: Lunchtime Carols on 16 & 18 December at 1pm - a chance to take a moment from the hustle and bustle and enjoy festive music inside the Cathedral. Free entry, no booking needed. Just turn up.

exetercathedralchristmasmarket.co.uk

Magdalen Christmas Fair

This much-loved, community-organised fair takes place on 6 December from 2–6pm and is always full of charm. Expect independent makers, delicious food stalls and bags of atmosphere.

Don’t miss: Stay after dark - once the lights come on, the whole street glows. Why not book a table at one of Magdalen Road’s fantastic restaurants and make an night of it?

slna.org.uk

Totnes Christmas Market & Late-Night Shopping

Held on Tuesdays 2, 9 and 16 December (3–9pm), the Totnes Christmas Market turns the whole town into a festive celebration. Browse more than 70 artisan stalls, enjoy live music, explore the independent shops and soak up the street entertainment. Families will love The Mansion’s food and entertainment hub, and the Elizabethan Museum will be offering seasonal fun too.

Don’t miss: The enchanting illuminated lantern parade on 16 December from 4.30pm. Starting at Rotherfold Square, it winds its way through the town before finishing at The Plains - magical! 

Visit Totnes

Exmouth Christmas Market & Christmas Village

More than just a market, Exmouth’s Christmas Village runs a full programme of festive fun throughout December. The indoor market (13–17 December) features over 80 stalls, and you can warm up in the dedicated bar, The Jingle Inn. There’s also a brilliant line-up of events - comedy nights, live music, karaoke, New Year celebrations, and even a Flash Mob Nativity and donkey-led procession.

Don’t miss: The silent discos on 18 & 19 December - guaranteed festive joy!

christmasvillageexmouth.co.uk

Royal William Yard Market, Plymouth

A little further afield, Royal William Yard transforms into a festive wonderland each winter, with sparkling lights, waterside views and plenty of places to browse, eat and explore. In the run-up to Christmas, the Festive Good Food & Craft Markets take over both the Melville Building and its courtyard on the following dates:

• 3 December – 5–9pm
• 7 December – 10am–3pm
• 10 December – 5–9pm
• 14 December – 10am–3pm
• 17 December – 5–9pm
• 21 December – 10am–3pm

Expect more than 70 stalls featuring South West artisans selling gifts, crafts and seasonal treats. Adding to the festive mood, Plymouth City Brass will perform at the Wednesday evening markets on 3rd, 10th and 18th December from 6.30pm.

Don’t miss: A life-sized polar bear puppet from Above Bounds Theatre Company will be roaming the Yard at 7pm on Wednesday 3 December!

Royal William Yard