Seven jolly good Christmas markets

Ok, so we may not be ready to belt out Christmas tunes on the drive to work just yet, but with the nights drawing in and pressie lists knocking around in the backs of our minds, what we are ready for is a fabulously festive yuletide market.

As you probably already know, here in the South West we have a veritable smorgasbord of Christmas markets to choose from, all crammed with delicious eats, locally produced wares and gorgeous gift ideas; lovely! Personally, we love a bit of Bavarian-inspired grub, festoon lighting and happy faces. We also can’t think of a better way to while away a couple of hours than a good mooch around jampacked stalls whilst hugging a hot chocolate.

So, if you like to support local or if you’re simply up for a festive-inspired evening of food and drink, one of these terrific markets should do the trick, and who knows…while you’re at it you may even find that elusive present for your most difficult-to-buy-for members of the family.

Christmas markets in Cornwall

Christmas Cornish Makers at Tre, Pol & Pen Tamar Valley

Tre Pol & Pen is a thoroughly Cornish award-winning farm shop on the Devon/Cornwall border, just 4 miles from Launceston. Producers of their own honey, beef, lamb and fruit (all of which is available to sample or buy both in their restaurant and online), this working farm with its shop and restaurant is an absolute delight for anyone who enjoys exceptional food, a terrific atmosphere and gorgeous countryside location.

Their Cornish Makers Christmas market has seen two successful previous years, and their 2022 event promises art and crafts from local creators across the county as well as delicious food and drink.
Free event and ample parking.

Dates and times

Date : Saturday 3rd, 10th & 17th December
Time: 10am – 4pm

More info here

Fowey Christmas Market

Delightful at any time of year, Fowey really piles on the charm during the festive season, and if you’re after something especially magical to get you and the kids into the Christmas spirit, the town’s annual Christmas Market is the time and place for it.

Showcasing original gifts by independent makers as well as winter-warming foodie treats and a host of handmade wares, visitors can look forward to light-strewn streets and an atmosphere of festive cheer during this popular three-day event.

Dates and times

Friday 2nd December 5:30pm to 8:30pm
Saturday 3rd December 10am to 5:30pm
Sunday 4th December 10am – 4pm

Padstow Christmas Market

For some of the best locally-produced food and drink the West Country has to offer as well as exciting gifts and products from a host of artisan companies and manufacturers, this fabulous event (which has been running for 11 years now) is an absolute must-visit for the lead-up to the big day.

Forming a part of the Padstow Christmas festival you’ll also be treated to cooking demos from the likes of chef heroes Rick Stein, Paul Ainsworth, Nathan Outlaw, Emily Scott and Michael Caines to name but a few, as well as a fireworks display, lantern parade and live music. So, if you haven’t already done so, grab a pen and circle this one in your calendar.

Dates and times

1st December 12pm – 6pm
2nd December 10am – 8.30pm
3rd December 10am – 6pm
4th December 10am – 5pm

More info here

Christmas markets in Devon

Exeter Cathedral Christmas market

One of our faves, the Exeter Christmas Market sets itself up right in front of the cathedral’s green, with the building itself making for a pretty spectacular backdrop to the whole event. With over a hundred twinkling festive chalets, local gifts and produce, themed bars, global street food, seasonal entertainment and free entry this is one not to be missed, and we can’t think of many locals who won’t be hankering for another gooey treat from the family-run Brownie Bar.

Dates and times

Open from 5pm 18th November until 18th December
10am-7pm Monday- Wednesday
10am-9pm Thursday-Saturday
11am-5pm Sunday

More info here

North Devon Christmas Market, Braunton Village

It’s already delighted the public for 17 years, and now for its 18th, it’s set to hang on to its title as the biggest of its kind in North Devon. Expect an exceptional shopping experience with some of the best traders and producers from the south west making an appearance, including craftsmen and women selling handmade jewellery, sweet treats, bespoke clothing and unique gifts.

And if after all that perusing you feel a little peckish, you’ll be treated to a stunning selection of street foods from every corner of the world, including Thai, Hog Roast, Curry, Churros and more. A line up of entertainment will pepper the day with performances from choirs, dance groups and acoustic musicians, and if the kids need to burn off some energy, they’ll have bouncy castles to let loose on. Free entry.

Date and time

Saturday 3rd December 12pm – 8pm

More info here

Totnes Christmas Market

We love love love the annual event that is Totnes Christmas Market and Late Night Shopping. In fact this is one we’d say is worth the drive if you don’t live in the area. You’ll see the whole of this historic town diving into the festive spirit as it rolls out the entertainment, food and drink, artisan shopping and much more.

More than 70 craft market stalls and street food vendors will be located throughout the town as well as a covered gift market for young local entrepreneurs aged 11-17 years old in the Royal Sevens Stars ballroom. The music and street entertainment (including nail art and a Pom Pom Gnome trail) are free so there will be plenty to delight both adults and children.

Date and time

Saturday 6th, 13th and 20th December 3pm – 9pm

More info here

Christmas markets in Somerset

Hestercombe Christmas Market

The stunning Hestercombe Country Estate is a well known and much loved landmark within the Somerset countryside and makes for a terrific venue for outdoor markets. This year the estate will once again be hosting its bustling Christmas Market featuring festive stalls bursting with beautiful locally-sourced gifts, delicious treats and unique hand-crafted items.

Expect festive food and drink including wonderfully crumbly mince pies, creamy hot chocolate, and homemade mulled wine as well as free admission to the gardens and house!

Dates and time

Friday 18th, Saturday 19th & Sunday 20th November 9am – 5pm

More info here