Christmas is always a busy time as there are so many great activities and festive events in Torquay and nearby. With lots to choose from, we’ve listed some of the best ones we can find, to really get the festivities started!
1. Bay of Lights – Illumination Trail
This year, the English Riviera will play host to an exciting new event: The Bay of Lights! Taking place throughout Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, the whole Bay will come alive with a flurry of illuminated events. From lantern parades, to a steam train covered in lights, to carols by candlelight, the English Riviera will have a truly magical feel this winter, so it’s worth indulging in a few nights away from home to take it all in.
And don’t forget the star of the show: the illuminated trail along Torquay seafront! From 28 Nov 2025 – 2 Jan 2026 you can enjoy a 1.5-mile route along Torquay seafront with glittering and unexpected surprises along the way. FIND OUT MORE
2. WinterFest
Saturday 30 November and Sunday 1 December 2024. Torre Abbey will be hosting their Winter Fest event. Our annual gift and craft fair returns to the stunning setting of the Spanish Barn as part of Torre Abbey’s packed programme of Christmas events.
This charming event offers visitors the chance to get Christmas all wrapped up nice and early in a traditional setting. Expect unique handmade Christmas gifts and all sorts of other festival treats on offer. And why not indulge yourself in a hot chocolate or a glass of mulled wine. FIND OUT MORE
3. Ice Skating Rink
Coming Soon – 6 December 2025 to 2 January 2026. We’re thrilled to introduce a dazzling new addition to this year’s Bay of Lights celebrations welcomes a real ice rink in the heart of Torquay! For the first time in years, visitors and locals alike can enjoy the magic of ice skating at Abbey Park, Torquay. This beautifully lit, large ice rink will be open daily from Saturday 6 December 2025 to Friday 2 January 2026, offering hourly sessions for up to 80 skaters. Skating is held under a sparkling canopy, enabling you to make this winter truly magical whatever the weather!
So whether you’re a seasoned skater or stepping onto the ice for the first time, this enchanting experience promises festive fun, laughter, and unforgettable memories. FIND OUT MORE
4. Torre Abbey: Alive with Light!
The projection will take attendees on a visual journey through Torre Abbey’s storied past, from its establishment by the Premonstratensians in the 12th century to the present day. Spectators will witness the evolution of Christmas celebrations across the ages, accompanied by a carefully curated soundtrack featuring music from the Medieval, Tudor, Georgian, and Victorian periods. Beautifully mapping images inspired by the different eras will be projected onto the abbey’s historic architecture. FIND OUT MORE
5. A Very Miniature Christmas
Come join in with their illuminations with lots of Christmas sparkle and festive lighting. Enjoy all that the Babbacombe Model Village in Torquay has to offer along with some delightful miniature seasonal scenes as their little folk celebrate Christmas. FIND OUT MORE
6. Carols in the Caves – Kents Cavern
Due to popular demand, we are delighted to announce that Carols in the Caves is coming back in 2025! Get into the festive spirit and join us for a magical Christmas concert.
Start seated in the Vestibule Chamber and hear the amazing acoustics of the choir and then take a walk around our magnificent cave system singing carols by candlelight. Finish with mulled wine/hot chocolate and festive treats in the Great Chamber!
Tuesday to Friday evenings throughout December – Each night features a different local choir performing in the caves. Line-up includes: Torbay Police Choir (Tuesdays – 2nd, 9th, 16th Dec); Red Rock Acapella (Wednesdays – 3rd, 10th, 17th Dec); Yours in Harmony (Thursdays – 4th, 11th, 18th Dec) and Rock Choir (Fridays – 5th, 12th, 19th Dec)
7. THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride at South Devon Railway
Running from Friday 28th November to Tuesday 23rd December 2025, this immersive experience brings the magic of the beloved film to life, right here in the heart of Devon. Each Adult & Child Ticket includes: A golden ticket to board The Polar Express™ Train Ride, A fully immersive theatrical performance featuring characters from the iconic film, A magical on-board light show during your journey, A delicious milk chocolate cookie, Hot chocolate served by our singing chefs, A read-along with the story of The Polar Express™, A special visit from Santa, who will present each guest with the First Gift of Christmas — a silver sleigh bell and Access to our exclusive THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride™ gift shop with official and limited-edition merchandise. FIND OUT MORE
Please note: Dates, times and events correct at time of publication. We cannot be held responsible for changes to these details.