Christmastime on Exmoor is truly magical. Amongst the rolling frosty hills nestle pretty villages and everyone gets into the festive spirit. Candles burn, lights twinkle, and Father Christmas starts making special appearances! So, whether you fancy an off-season mini-break or a full-fledged Christmas Holiday, we’ve got some ideas to inspire you. Here are our recommendations of things to do throughout the festive period on Exmoor.
Wonderful Winter Walks
Firstly, we’d like to whet your appetite with some reminders of quite how glorious Exmoor can be. The landscape makes for a magical winter wonderland and there’s nothing quite like getting on some sturdy boots, wrapping up in your favourite scarf and exploring Exmoor’s stunning spots. You can use this interactive map of walking routes across Exmoor to help you pick an area to explore!
The Santa Express
Take a trip on board the West Somerset Railway – Santa’s Winter Wonderland is a steam-powered festive journey from the Bishops Lydeard to Crowcombe (and back again). Running several times daily every weekend throughout December and on Christmas Eve. Begin the journey at the festive welcome marquee in Bishops Lydead, where you can collect refreshments to bring on board. Children can choose a cookie, fruit drink or water. Coffee, tea, hot chocolate or alcoholic beverage (and trusty mince pie) will be available for the adults. Following your festive stream ride to Crowcombe, you will disembark to an array of entertainment and attractions. Santa’s Grotto, an elves workshop, Santa’s sleigh and more.
Exmoor Christmas Craft Fair
Come along to watch local craftsmen and women demonstrate their skills. Generally held in Allerford, Selworthy or Porlock Village Hall. Free entrance, no need to book. Find more information here on the venue, date and time
Dulverton by Starlight
There will be street entertainment, a dazzling firework display and plenty of Christmas shopping opportunity at Dulverton by Starlight. Held annually, this year normally at the beginning of December.
Dunster by Candlelight
The medieval village is the perfect festive backdrop for getting you in the Christmas spirit. Come along over the weekend in early December for torchlit processions, traditional entertainers and a candlelit selection of traders ready to get your Christmas shopping underway. More on Dunster by Candlelight
A Christmas Castle
Head to Dunster Castle for a taste of the Christmas days of old. The National Trusts holds various Christmas events in Dunster castle through the festive period. Festive games, decorations and live music on the ground floor rooms of the Castle offer a glimpse into how life might have been for the inhabitants of this ancient castle.
Porlock Late Night Christmas Shopping and Santa Dash
Santa and his sleigh, carol singers and more are out for some late-night shopping in Porlock generally towards the end of November. Browse for presents with some sustenance, nibbles and tipples available. The shops will be opening their doors till late, in addition to stalls and street food. Don’t miss Santa’s Dash at 7 pm.
Festivities at Watersmeet
The National Trust will be hosting a festive opening of Watersmeet House near Lynton and Lynmouth. Eat, drink, shop or walk! Find more information here: Christmas at Watersmeet.
Holiday Cottages for the Festive Season
For self-catering accommodation over the festive season, follow the link below. There are some great value short breaks over November and December or some great cottages for the Christmas holiday period.
We hope that’s helped get you started – this is by no means an exhaustive list! For more inspiration, have a look at other posts below;