Devon is perhaps one of the most interesting places to visit in Britain. It’s relatively unknown for how much charm it has, and it makes the perfect place for a winter break in the UK. So if you’re interested in a winter break in Devon, here are a couple of pointers to help you get started so you can ensure a picturesque holiday that you’ll remember for a long time coming.
Benefits of a Winter Break in Devon
There’s nothing quite like a tranquil break in Devon. It’s hard to beat when compared to other coastal towns around the UK and it’s surprisingly quiet during the tail end of the year. There’s no large buildings or obstructions blocking the view of the sea, and the sun is gentle even during the winter.
It also makes a fantastic location for a romantic winter break in the UK. The festive winter period is always full of surprise and you’d be surprised at how beautiful all the decorative lights and displays are. You’ll stumble across Santa’s Grottos, there are pantomimes and plenty of great places to get a traditional English meal. It’s a popular destination for holidaymakers and even locals that love the winter charm Devon offers.
Where to Stay in Devon
For the best experience in Devon, we’d definitely recommend self-catered holiday apartments. Hotels can often be packed at this time of year even though Devon isn’t necessarily too busy, but it’s only if you don’t mind taking care of everything yourself. You can come and go as you need to and you can even cook your own meals if you’re not in the mood to head out to eat.
Holiday accommodation in Devon is easy to find, just keep in mind that our holiday apartments are a great alternative to hotels and you’ll easily be able to find a place to stay that is both comfortable and convenient for sightseeing.
Paignton
Paignton is a traditional seaside in the south of Devon. It’s often referred to as the English Riviera, and the temperature is milder here than the rest of Devon. There are quite a few crowds here during the winter season, but if you visit off-season then there are plenty of great places to go shopping, there are many art galleries to visit unimpeded and delicious cream tea to try. In addition, check out the following places for entertainment:
Kents Cavern, Torquay
This is a Unesco Global GeoPark. The prehistoric caves at Kents Cavern are wonderful and fascinating, and guided tours are available that last 2 hours and will take you through an educational and entertaining journey of the area. There are beautiful stalactites and stalagmites that have been forming in these caves for well over 400 million years.
Theatres
Paignton is home to many unique theatres and cinemas. While some of them are modern cinemas, there are also a couple of traditional theatres that, throughout the winter season, will be putting on some unique entertainment for you to experience.
Coastline
Of course, there’s no point visiting Devon if you’re not going to experience the beautiful coastline that it offers. The harbour is a wonderful place to visit, and you’ll find a replica of the ship that Sir Francis Drake used when battling the Spanish Armada in 1588, The Golden Hind. The coastline is a source of inspiration as many writers have penned amazing works after experiencing the beauty of Devon’s coastline.
Brixham Lights, Lanterns and illuminations
At the end of November, the Christmas lights at Brixham are switched on and there are parades, music and lots of festive dancing. You can visit with a fancy dress, or you can watch as the dancers and performs light up the night with their song and dance.
Santa Express Steam Train
Dartmouth Steam Railway’s Yuletide Trains run throughout December and are dressed up in a unique Santa theme. You can journey from your holiday accommodation all the way to Kingswear and return while enjoying food, mulled wine and mince pies. There’s even a gift from Santa if you’re travelling with the kids! This is a charming and unique experience, but you are required to book in advance if you want to experience this winter attraction.
Pantomimes at the Palace Theatre
The Palace Theatre in Paignton has plenty of winter-themed pantomimes to view all throughout the season. There are Christmas-focused pantomimes and there’s even Aladdin, but you’ll need to book in advance at the English Riviera Visitor Information Centre at the Torquay harbour.
Contact Bedford Holiday Apartments when you are ready to book a winter break in Devon. We would love to see you.
