Things to do in Devon in November 2025

The season of steaming hot chocolates, misty mornings and warm winter woollies has arrived. To accompany these autumnal vibes is my guide to things to do in Devon in November in 2025.

I’ve included lots of seasonal fun, where to find firework displays and, if you fancy getting in the festive mood early, Christmas events kicking off this month.

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What’s open in November?

With a lot of Devon attractions going into hibernation for the winter, or at least until their Christmas events kick off, you may be wondering what you can do in Devon in November.

Read my post about things to do in Devon this winter to find out which attractions are open and when.

What’s on in Devon in November

Here’s some place to find seasonal events and fun happening around Devon:

Devon firework displays in 2025

Firework displays will be back with a bang in 2025! Keep an eye on my list of bonfire nights and firework displays in Devon for information about local events.

Fireside story telling at Lorna Doone Valley in Lynton – 1 November 2025

Gather around the fire pit at Lorna Doone and listen to enchanting children’s stories under the stars.

There is a £3 charge per child and booking is essential.

Find out more about this event at Lorna Doone.

Pumpkin Festival and Pumpkin Nights at Pennywell Farm in Buckfastleigh – daily until 2 November 2025

Three children sat on a pumpkin and hay bale display at Pennywell Farm

There’s seasonal fun galore without the gore at Pennywell Farm where you’ll find all the usual activities, rides and animal encounters, plus autumn photo opportunities, a pumpkin patch and trail.

There’s prizes to be won too! Dress up as a scarecrow to receive a treat when you arrive.

But that’s not all! Visit by night for a glowing fall experience for the whole family. Pumpkin Nights take place after usual opening hours from 5.30pm to 9pm.

Visiting over half term? Book online in advance and you can get seven days admission for the price of one using our special code.

Find out more and book tickets on the Pennywell Farm website.

Cockington Court Sculpture Trail – daily until 2 November 2025

The Cockington Court sculpture trail has returned for 2025 and this year is inspired by the theme of ‘prehistoric’. This free trail features more than 30 different sculptures created by 24 local artists and sculptors.

This years theme is prehistoric! so expect to see some stunning designs and interpretations.

To take part collect a free map from inside the Manor House between 10.30am and 4.30pm daily.

You can also pick up a trail sheet in the Hub & Craft Shop for just £1 per child. This trail takes you through the grounds and studios of Cockington Court and the businesses of Cockington Village as you hunt down items.

Find out more about this free sculpture trail in Torbay.

Spiney vs Slimy at National Marine Aquarium – daily until 2 November 2025

National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth has an interactive activity trail taking place this October.

Spiny vs Slimy explores the fascinating world of spiny shellys, slimy scales and everything in between – which ties wonderfully with their latest residents, two spiny lobsters.

Explore each of the aquarium’s zones and discoverdifferent slimy and spiny animals in each of the zones.

Find out more and book tickets to the aquarium on the NMA website. Visit once and validate your ticket for a whole year of return trips.

Lydford Gorge Viking trail – daily until 2 November 2025

Did you know that in 997AD the Vikings advanced on Lydford in search of plunder. Follow in their footsteps this autumn on a family-friendly trail around the orchard.

This trail is included in the standard admission charge.

Find out more about visiting Lydford Gorge.

Autumnfest at Arlington Court near Barnstaple – daily until 2 November 2025

Display of pumpkins and seasonal gourds at Arlington Court — Picture credit: National Trust Images, Katy Anderson

Step into Autumn at Arlington Court where you’ll find a harvest table laid in the dining room and seasonal floral displays throughout.

Outside, head to the garden to see the Atlantic giant pumpkin and gourd display. Wander through the grounds and follow the fairytale-themed scarecrow trail, created by local schoolchildren, community groups, and volunteers.

For younger adventurers, there’s a special children’s spotter trail.

Plan your visit and find out more on the Arlington Court website.

Piskies vs Trolls Trail at Buckland Abbey in Yelverton – daily until 2 November 2025

Piskies caused mischeif at Buckland Abbey during the Spring and now they are back, but this time they’re squabling with the resident Buckland Trolls!

The Trolls have just woken up from their summer slumber. Come and see what these guys have been up to! Playing pranks, tricks and hoaxes on each other.

Find out more about visiting Buckland Abbey.

Magic, Mystery & Illusion at Knightshayes in Tiverton – daily until 2 November 2025

Children carrying pumpkins in the walled garden in autumn at Knightshayes, Devon. — Picture credit: National Trust Images, Chris Lacey

Visit Knightshayes for a Halloween experience full of interesting illusions and mystery.

Enter the House and find that not everything is always as it seems as you discover optical illusions of the Victorian era. Venture into the gardens to discover more mysteries.

Find out more about visiting Knightshayes.

Magic and Myths Trail at Saltram in Plymouth – daily until 9 November 2025

Dress in your spookiest outfit and follow the trail around Saltram’s garden to discover the folklore tales surrounding the superstition and magical properties of trees.

Carefully select your wand from the wand shop at the Welcome Centre (or bring your own!) and cast magical spells around the garden at each of the trail points.

This trails is included in the normal admission price for Saltram.

Find our more about visiting Saltram.

Stranger Folk interactive adventure at Kingshayes National Trust in Tiverton – until 30 November 2025

Worm charming challenge shown on a smart phone screen at a National Trust property

Step into a world of folklore, mischief and old magic this autumn, as the National Trust launches Stranger Folk, an immersive Halloween-inspired adventure game, available now on the Apple App Store and Google Play.

Using a mobile phone, players are drawn into a spirited tale of ancient folklore where sneaky goblins, cunning boggarts, and mysterious Stranger Folk as they explore the gardens and woodlands of Knighthayes in a whole new way.

Find out more about Stranger Folk.

A Forever Home trail at the Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth – daily until 9 February 2026

Donkeys in their barn at The Donkey Sanctuary Sidmouth — Picture credit: The Donkey Sanctuary Sidmouth

In this winter season’s fun family trail at the Donkey Sanctuary you are tasked with finding all the things that make their shelter a forever home. Complete the puzzle on your trail sheet as you explore and meet the sanctuary’s lucky residents.

Trail sheets cost £5 each and can be bought in the gift shop. Entry to the sanctuary is free and dogs on leads are welcome.

Find out more about what’s on at the Donkey Sanctuary this winter.

Earth Photo exhibition at Forestry England Haldon – daily until 19 March 2026

A photograph take by Kazuaki Koseki that was shortlisted for the Earth Photo competition. It shows a woodland scene with etherial lights in the twilight — Photo credit: Kazuaki Koseki. Title: Solitary tree

Forestry England’s outdoor exhibition showing images from Earth Photo shortlisted works continues daily and is free to visit.

Created in 2018 by Forestry England, the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG) and Parker Harris, Earth Photo is a world-leading programme engaging with still and moving image makers to showcase the issues affecting the climate and life on our planet.

The outdoor exhibition displays a selection of the images submitted by photographers from around the world including the melting sea ice of Greenland and the vanishing oases of Morocco.

Find out more about Earth Photo at Haldon Forest.

Argifest at Westpoint in Exeter – 5 November 2025

Winners holding their rosettes at Agrifest

This free event allows you to explore the sheep and cattle lines, watch top-tier livestock being prepped for the competition rings, or witness the crowning of champions as they receive their decorative sashes

New to Agrifest South West this year is the South West Food Village, which will feature twelve artisan producers from Devon, each offering a tempting array of locally crafted treats to sample and purchase.

Graze your way through the food village and tick off some early Christmas shopping while you’re at it.

Entry and parking are free.

Find out more about what’s on at Agrifest.

Free storytelling for toddlers at The Box, Plymouth – 7, 14, 21 and 28 November 2025

Join students from the University of Plymouth for a free storytelling and craft session under the figureheads at The Box every Friday this month.

The session takes place between 10.30am and 11am.

Find out more on The Box website.

Hatherleigh Carnival – 8 November 2025

The town of Hatherleigh in North Devon is hosting its annual carnival with a procession of floats, decorated houses and a tar barrel pull.

Find out more about the programme of events across the weekend.

Free entry for TQ postcodes at Coleton Fishacre near Kingswear – 8 to 9 and 15 to 16 November 2025

If you’re local and fancy a late autumn wander, why not wrap up warm and head to Coleton Fishacre for free? People living in a TQ postcode can visit this National Trust property free of charge as part of two Community Weekends in November.

Find out more about visiting Coleton Fishacre.

The Strange Case of Jekyll & Hyde at various locations – 8 to 29 November 2025

In a steampunk (Victorian science-fiction) re-imagining of this chilling 19th Century tale, the brilliant doctor, Dr Jekyll, becomes fascinated with researching the nature of the human psyche, and the duality of good and evil, using forbidden experiments, leading to disaster.

This show is suitable for all aged and performed by a team of professional actors aged 11 to 65 from around South Devon.

In November the show is being performed at Brixham Theatre, Kingskerswell Village Hall, The Muse Theatre in Plymouth and Torquay Royal Lyceum Theatre.

For more information and tickets visit the South Devon Players box office.

Plymouth City Centre Christmas lights switch on – 13 November 2025

The City Centre’s Christmas lights switch-on will include family-friendly entertainment on the Piazza stage. Santa may also be making an appearance.

Find out more about what’s happening during the evening.

Barbican Christmas lights – 15 November 2025

The Barbican Christmas lights sign — Picture credit: Plymouth City Council

There will be an afternoon of family fun ahead of the switching on of the Barbican Christmas lights in Plymouth.

Enjoy free entertainment and activities between midday and 6pm.

Find out more about what’s on at the Barbican.

Festive Pottery Painting at Made-well in Hatherleigh, West Devon – 15 November 2025

Unleash your festive creativity in this family-friendly Christmas Pottery Painting session with the team at Made-well CIC. !

Paint a piece of Christmas bisque ready to decorate your home, or as a gift for someone special. The session is open to all ages and abilities, on our accessible and inclusive site 🎅 Tickets are £12, which includes one piece of festive bisque and everything you will need to decorate it ready for the Big Day.

Find out more and book you place online.

Winter Twilight Trail at Crealy near Exeter – selected dates from 15 to 30 November 2025

This after-dark light experience is back on Crealy’s festive calendar for a second year.

Explore the park’s rides in the dark alongside new winter light displays, illuminated rides and an even bigger light tunnel.

Find out more about Winter Twilight Trail at Crealy.

Winter sculpture exhibition at RHS Rosemoor – 15 November 2025 to 31 January 2026

Explore the breathtaking colour, tone and texture of RHS Garden Rosemoor in winter as it provides the perfect backdrop a Winter Sculpture Exhibition.

Each year, a number of sculptors are asked to create inspirational pieces to help add to the beauty of our landscape. Pull on your woolies and enjoy some fresh air exploring at this award-winning North Devon garden.

Get more information at the RHS Rosemoor website.

A Fairytale for Christmas at Princess Theatre in Torquay – 16 November 2025

Immerse yourself in the spirit of Christmas as talented singers, musicians and dancers perform dashing renditions of Yuletide favourites including ‘Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town’, ‘Step into Christmas’, ‘O Holy Night’ and ‘The Fairytale of New York’.

Find out more and buy tickets.

Lanterns, Lights and Luminations in Brixham – 21 to 22 November 2025

This popular event in South Devon returns in 2025 with a magical lantern parade, a firework display, live music, street entertainment, and a market.

This event is free to attend.

Find out more about Lanterns, Lights and Luminations in Brixham Harbour.

Christmas Nativity at Pennywell Farm – selected dates from 21 November to 24 December 2025

Fern the Donkey in stable at Pennywell Farm

Pennywell Farm’s magical Christmas event begins with a welcome from the elves before you are transported back 2,000 years to a nativity scene starring animals from the farm.

There will be plenty of treats for young and old as well as a visit to meet Father Christmas in an enchanted forest. Every child will receive a special present.

If you are interested in going this year, read our review of Christmas at Pennywell Farm.

Find out more about Christmas at Pennywell Farm.

Exeter Winter Wonderland – 21 November to 28 December 2025

Exeter’s winter wonderland returns this winter with an ice rink, Santa’s Grotto, Christmas Market, fairground rides and live entertainment.

This year’s wonderland will also include a naughty elves workshop as part of the grotto experience. You can also meet The Grinch on the ice every Sunday at 3pm.

The Winter Wonderland is free entry with tickets available to pre-book online for Santa’s Grotto and the ice rink now.

Find out more and book tickets on the Exeter Winter Wonderland website.

Glow at RHS Rosemoor, Great Torrington – selected dates from 21 November to 30 December 2025

Glow illuminations at RHS garden Rosemoor — Picture credit: RHS Garden Rosemoor

RHS Rosemoor will be celebrating the tenth anniversary of Glow with a redesigned Winter Garden, where trees shimmer in ethereal blues and greens, and light installations create a wonderland perfect for families and festive photos.

There will also be food, drinks and gift shopping.

Find out more about Glow at RHS Rosemoor.

Plymouth Winter Wonderland – 21 November 2025 to 4 January 2026

Ariel view of the winter wonderland at night with festive lights

Plymouth, get ready to deck the halls with boughs of holly and lace up your skates, because Plymouth’s Winter Wonderland is back.

Following the resounding success of last year’s event, the magical winter festival is set to return to Central Park.

This year’s Winter Wonderland promises to be even more enchanting, with a host of festive delights for all ages. Step into a Winter Wonderland of twinkling lights, festive music, and Christmas cheer.

Find out more about Plymouth Winter Wonderland.

Christmas Baking Workshop in Exeter – 22 November 2025

Join Ground Up Cookery School in Crockernwell for a day of festive fun and learn how to make a variety of festive sweet treats.

On the menu this year is Yule log, mince pies and a chow centrepiece.

Find out more and book you place on the Ground Up Cookery School website.

Sidmouth Christmas lights switch on – 22 November 2025

Sidmouth’s lights will be turned on at 5.30pm with activities either side of the illuminations.

Find out more about Christmas in Sidmouth.

Christmas Wonderland Illuminations at Babbacombe Model Village – selected dates from 22 November 2025 to 4 January 2026

Illuminated small town models at Babbacombe Model Village — Illuminations at Babbacombe Model Village

Enter a magical miniature wonderland of festive lights at Babbacombe Model Village this Christmas.

There will be miniature seasonal scenes, a spot the elves and Santa challenge and crazy golf. The Christmas lights are on from 3.30pm. Last entry is 4.30pm but the lights continue until 6.30pm.

Find out more about Christmas at Babbacombe Model Village in Torquay.

Christmas Folk Art Printmaking with Luna North in Barnstaple – 23 November 2025

A print made with a rubber stamp. The print is a mushroom design

Join artist and printmaker Luna North for a festive and hands-on Christmas stamp-making workshop at Studio KIND at the Corn Store in the Pannier Market.

Learn how to carve your own rubber stamps and use them to create a variety of beautifully printed cards and gift tags.

All materials are included in the workshop price, so you can simply arrive ready to create and leave with a set of handmade festive prints.

Find out more and book your space on Eventbrite.

Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas at Theatre Royal Plymouth – 27 November to 28 December 2025

Poster for Raymond Briggs' Father Christmas

Join Father Christmas as he awakes from a dream of sun, sea and sand only to find it is the busiest day of the year: Christmas Eve.

Watch as he prepares for his Christmas deliveries, feeds his reindeer and finally takes flight into the snowy night.

Join Theatre Royal Plymouth for a magical, family festive adventure with a trip to see Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas.

There are relaxed performances from Wednesday 3 to Sunday 7 December (featuring BSL and AD).

Find out more and buy tickets from Theatre Royal Plymouth.

Jack & The Beanstalk at Exeter Northcott Theatre – 27 November 2025 to 4 January 2026

Following the runaway success of Dick Whittington and Cinderella, the panto dream team that is Exeter Northcott and Le Navet Bete take on the most enormous story of them all: Jack and the Beanstalk.

Laughs, thrills, spills, special effects and giant amounts of fun combine in a spectacular production for all ages. It’s the story you know and love in a version you’ll never forget.

Find out more an book tickets on the Exeter Northcott website.

Combe Christmas lights switch on in Ilfracombe – 28 November 2025

Expect music, entertainment and stalls around the War Memorial and High Street in Ilfracombe as the town prepares to turn on its Christmas lights.

Find out more on the Combe Christmas Facebook page.

Candlelit Dartmouth – 28 to 30 November 2025

Expect a spectacular procession with hundreds of beautiful, hand-made paper lanterns and Father Christmas’ boat gliding silently through the moonlit waters of the river Dart.

In 2025 an additional third day will feature carol singing around the Christmas tree.

More details are still to be released about this year’s event.

The Polar Express™ at South Devon Railway – 28 November to 23 December 2025

Santa talking to passengers onboard a train on South Devon Railway

South Devon Railway also hosts a Polar Express each year. Arrive kitted out in your best pyjamas for this magical train ride to the North Pole via the scenic Dart Valley.

The Conductor and his crew will recreate scenes from The Polar Express film as you journey between the Buckfastleigh and Totnes stations on this former Great Western Railway branch line.

Along the way you’ll have your ticket stamped just like in the film and visit Santa’s workshop to complete your Christmas adventure.

Find out more and book tickets for The Polar Express at South Devon Railway.

The Polar Express™ at Seaton Tramway – 28 November to 24 December 2025

The Polar Express returns to Seaton Tramway this November. Board a specially decorated sign deck tram for a unique ride to the North Pole. Each tram seats just 24 people, so it’s more intimate than other Polar Express steam trains with lots of carriages.

Having said that, you can still expect Polar Express style entertainment along with dancing, carols and plenty of festive cheer while you enjoy the lights of the North Pole.

Find out more and book tickets for The Polar Express at Seaton Tramway.

Bay of Lights illuminated trail, Torquay – 28 November 2025 to 2 January 2026

Family walking under tree wrapped in fairy lights at Bay of Lights illuminated trail event

The Bay of Lights free light trail is returning to Torbay this winter.

Enjoy a 1.5 mile route along Torquay seafront with 18 glittering installations. You’ll also find eight metre tall pixel trees in Paignton and Brixham. These will put on digital light shows between after dark.

Find out more about Bay of Lights in Torquay.

Crediton Christmas lights event – 29 November 2025

Expect live music and entertainment as part of Crediton’s event to kick off Christmas.

Find out more about Crediton’s Christmas lights as details are announced.

Exmouth Winter Festival – 29 November 2025

See the Christmas lights switched on alongside an afternoon of music, walkabout entertainment, mulled wine and a lantern parade on The Strand.

Find out more about what’s on in Exmouth this Christmas.

Dawlish Christmas lights switch on – 29 November 2025

Join in a two day Christmas celebration in Dawlish with a Christmas light switch on event and Christmas markets on the Lawn and Strand in Dawlish.

The lights will be turned on Saturday 29 November and the fun continues on the Sunday.

Check the Dawlish Town Council website for the latest information about this year’s Christmas lights.

Santa services on the Train of Lights – 29 November to 23 December 2025

Santa will be onboard special services of Dartmouth Steam Railway’s Train of Lights this year. Tickets are on sale now and will sell out well before Christmas.

Find out more about the Train of Lights with Santa.

Christmas at Woodlands near Dartmouth – selected dates 29 November to 23 December 2025

Woodlands’ Christmas grotto returns this winter with a 10 room walk-through experience featuring snowy forests, cozy cabins and the amazing Elf Toy Factory.

As well as combined theme park and grotto tickets there are magical Christmas nights when you can visit the park after hours to meet Santa.

For further information visit the Woodlands website.

The Gruffalo’s Child at Saltram in Plymouth – from 29 November 2025 to 2 February 2026

Saltram House in Plymouth — Saltram House

The Gruffalo’s Child will be taking over Saltram this winter. The magic of this beloved story will be brought to life within Saltram’s garden. Follow along on the journey through the deep dark wood with games, challenges and plenty of festive photo moments along the way.

Please note: the house will be closed this Christmas season while work happens to make Saltram more accessible for the future.

The parkland is open daily.

Find out more about winter opening at Saltram.

Silent disco beach cleans at Woolacombe – 30 November 2025

Join the National Trust’s Woolacombe rangers for their monthly beach clean with the added bonus of a silent disco.

All equipment is provided. Meet at Mill Rock at 10.30am.

Find out more about silent disco beach cleans at Woolacombe.

Clovelly Village Christmas lights – 30 November 2025

Head to Clovelly to see the local brass band procession down to the harbour where there will be carols, a hog roast and other festive refreshments.

Don’t miss a visit from Father Christmas himself and seeing the entire village and harbour lit up.

The grand finale is a firework display to add even more sparkle to this opening event to the Clovelly Christmas season.

Entrance fee: £5 per adult at the Visitor Centre after 2pm. All proceeds to RNLI.

Find out more about Clovelly’s Christmas Lights.

Santa’s Grotto at Boringdon Hall – 30 November 2025

Santa will be visiting Boringdon Hall on three dates in the run up to Christmas. As well as the grotto this experience includes a festive afternoon tea and Christmas activities for the whole family.

Book in advance to meet Santa at Boringdon Hall. Other dates are available in December.

Santa’s Grotto at Boringdon Hall, Plymouth

Christmas Express at Plym Valley Railway – 30 November to 22 December 2025

Board a special service at Marsh Mills Station to meet Santa. There will be a snow machine at the station to add to the festive mood.

There are gold, silver and bronze experience packages to fit all budgets.

Find out more and book tickets for the Christmas Express.

There’s even more days out and activities in my guide to Christmas events in Devon.

Know of an event I can add to my monthly guides? Submit a listing!

Christmas and Santa trains in Devon

Polar Express train travelling through snow storm at twilight

All aboard! Christmas is rolling into Devon with a series of Christmas trains and even the Polar Express starting this month.

Expect plenty of festive cheer and maybe even Santa himself in my guide to Christmas trains in Devon.

Christmas markets in Devon

Child eating sweet treat at Christmas market in Devon

Pick up the perfect gift and soak up the festive atmosphere at one of the markets starting this month. Here’s were to find Christmas markets happening in Devon this year.

Christmas light switch ons

Crowds in front of stage at Christmas light switch on in Plymouth city centre — Picture credit: Scott Grenney One Plymouth

Want to take the kids to see your nearest town of city lit up for the festive season? Take a look at my full guide to where to see Devon’s Christmas light switch ons.

You can also take a look at my round up of Christmas events, pantomimes and markets in my big guide to Christmas in Devon.