Local Christmas Markets

There are lots of wonderful Christmas Markets popping up in South West England that are all worth a visit. We thought we’d share 4 of our favourites which are all within 2 hours of Plymouth. (In no particular order)

1. Plymouth Christmas Market

Image: Penny Cross / Plymouth Live

With over 50 local traders selling gifts and delicious hot food right in the heart of Plymouth, the Plymouth Christmas Market is the perfect place to grab yourself some unique Christmas presents. Local traders such as, Kaya Gallery, Olivia’s House, Flapjackery and Devon Rum Company will there so make sure you come on down and show your support. There is also a whole host of entertainment too with choir performances and upcoming artists. This years Christmas Market will be running from Thursday 1st to Sunday 18th of December, 10am – 6pm (Sundays 10am – 5pm) What better way to help your local economy than this festive event.

2. Totnes Christmas Market

Image: hunthalloween.com

The stylish, hippy nature of Totnes makes for an excellent Christmas Market. With over 70+ artisan stalls and street vendors as well as Totnes’ independent stores, there are a huge amount of exciting gift ideas. Kids will also love the free Totnes Gnome Trail and they are even holding craft workshops where you can make your own free pompom robins. Enjoy free music and street entertainment as well as lots of festive lights to get you in the Christmassy mood. This Christmas market and late night shopping is happening on Tuesdays 6, 13 and 20 December 3pm-9pm.

3. Padstow Christmas Festival

Image: Cornwall Live

Calling all foodies! The Padstow Christmas festival features celebrity chefs, cooking demonstrations, a Christmas market, firework display, live music, a lantern parade and so much more. You’ll be able to watch chefs such as, Rick Stein, Paul Ainsworth, Mitch Tonks, Angela Hartnett plus 26 more cook up some delicious dishes. The Christmas Market is full of the best locally-produced food and drink the West Country has to offer. As well as all of the food and drink, there are lots of artisan gifts and products such as, Atlantic Blankets, KernowSpa, Newquay Studio Art Pottery and Padstow Candle Company. The festival is running from 1st – 4th December 12pm – 5pm, tickets are £7 per day.

4. Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market

Image: Exeter-cathedral.org.uk

Located on the green beneath Exeter’s historic Cathedral lies over 100 twinkling festive chalets all featuring local gifts and produce. Exeter’s Christmas Market is the largest in Devon and promises a heap load of festive entertainment and Christmas magic. Traders include Alison Miles Pottery, Cake or Death, Cornish Cheese, Wild Wool Salcombe Distilling Co. and so much more. This market has already begun and will carry on running until the 18th December. Times and more information is available at www.exeter-cathedral.org.uk