Ring in the New Year in Style: A South Devon Escape
Now that the festive season is behind us, it’s time to look ahead to a new year. To start the year on a high note, celebrate in style with a relaxing getaway to South Devon. Whether you’re planning a family break, a cosy escape for two or a lively New Year’s night out, South Devon’s towns have winter attractions to suit everyone. Along the way, you can expect illuminated trails, as well as family pantomimes and traditional wassailing ceremonies. In addition, bracing coastal walks along the South West Coast Path and adventurous explorations on Dartmoor offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors.
Highlights by Town
- Exeter – The region’s capital blends festive buzz with culture and heritage. Enjoy a pantomime or family show at one of the city’s theatres. Explore the historic Cathedral Green, or take a riverside walk before warming up with a meal in one of the city’s many independent eateries.
- Brixham – Celebrate New Year by the harbour, where twinkling lights reflect on the water and local celebrations bring the community together. A walk to Berry Head or along the South West Coast Path makes a refreshing start to the year, with dramatic coastal views and sea air to clear the head.
- Paignton – Enjoy Paignton’s wide sandy beaches and classic pier for a winter stroll. Meanwhile, the vibrant atmosphere of the seafront invites you to soak up the seasonal spirit adding extra sparkle and colour to evening walks along the promenade.
- Torquay – Torquay truly shines in winter, thanks to the Bay of Lights illuminations and sparkling harbour views. In addition, you can catch a pantomime or festive show at the Princess Theatre, or alternatively, simply wander the waterfront and enjoy the seasonal displays that light up the English Riviera.
- Kingswear & Dartmouth – A short ferry ride between Kingswear and Dartmouth offers one of the best views of the River Dart. Around New Year, you can often see community celebrations or fireworks reflected on the water. The river walkways and surrounding hills are ideal for peaceful winter walks with a scenic backdrop.
- Teignmouth – Teignmouth’s Arts Quarter and seafront host community events throughout the winter season. Additionally, its long beach and coastal paths are perfect for bracing New Year’s Day walks or a spot of rockpooling. Overall, you can enjoy a welcoming, laid-back seaside atmosphere that makes the town a delightful winter escape.
Bay of Lights – Torbay
Each winter, the Bay of Lights illumination trail brings the English Riviera to life, running from late November through early January. Across Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham, families can enjoy glowing light installations, festive lanterns, and lively street entertainment. In addition, an ice rink at Abbey Park, Torquay, is new for 2025, gives visitors a magical opportunity to skate under twinkling lights. Whether you choose to take an evening stroll along the promenade with hot chocolate in hand or explore the illuminated harbours, this seasonal event promises a memorable outing for all ages.
Traditional Wassailing – Stoke Gabriel & nearby
Wassailing is an ancient orchard-blessing tradition involving singing, banging pots and pans and offering cider to the trees to encourage a good harvest. It’s a noisy, theatrical and very local winter custom, great for curious families. Stoke Gabriel hosts an annual wassail with Morris dancing, lanterns and cider gatherings. Dates are typically in mid-January with the 2025 wassail listed for 18 January. If you’ve never seen wassailing before, it’s one of the most memorable local winter rituals.
Pantomimes & family theatre – Torquay & Exeter
Pantomime season is big in Devon: family panto runs through December into early January. For example, Torquay’s Princess Theatre and Exeter’s family pantomimes are staples for children and grandparents alike, perfect wet-weather New Year entertainment. Book early for popular shows.
Walks & outdoor ideas for winter
South West Coast Path – short coastal stretches around Brixham, Paignton and Torquay are accessible for winter day walks. In addition, the path has dedicated winter guidance and recommended shorter routes for families.
Dartmoor – close enough for a dramatic winter moorland walk. Short family routes and forest trails are available (Bellever, Yarner Wood, Haytor). Be prepared: winter can be cold and visibility variable – sturdy boots and maps advised.
Fireworks, parties & New Year nights out
Many pubs and community venues across the Bay host New Year parties. Firework displays happen regionally and for river communities like Dartmouth and Kingswear ferries sometimes run later to help people get home after midnight. Always check local council notices and ferry operators before travelling.
Practical tips & family friendly ideas
- Book panto and Bay of Lights attractions in advance as popular slots fill quickly.
- For coastal walks, wear layers and waterproofs: winter weather is changeable and cliff edges can be exposed. Check tide times for beach plans.
- If you want local flavour: try a warm mulled cider at a wassail or sample fresh fish in Brixham’s restaurants. Local food events pop up in the season — check venue pages for festive suppers.
Your Perfect New Year’s Getaway
South Devon is the perfect place to welcome in the New Year. A region where festive spirit meets coastal calm. Across towns like Torquay, Dartmouth and Brixham, you’ll find a lively atmosphere filled with music, fireworks and delicious food, while quieter harbours and countryside paths offer a chance to reflect and unwind.
The coastline is breathtaking at this time of year, with dramatic cliffs, wide sandy beaches and picturesque harbours bathed in winter light. Inland, you’ll discover quaint villages with cosy pubs, independent shops and friendly locals, all ready to offer a warm welcome. Despite the cooler weather, South Devon’s great outdoors invites exploration, from coastal walks and forest trails to surfing or kayaking for the more adventurous.
After a day out in the crisp sea air, retreat to the comfort of your South Devon holiday home and enjoy a peaceful evening surrounded by beautiful scenery. With its mix of vibrant celebrations, scenic landscapes and laid-back charm, South Devon is the ideal destination for a truly memorable New Year escape.
Book your dream holiday with Saltwater Escapes and experience the magic of this beautiful area. From cosy nights by the fire to exhilarating coastal walks, there’s something for everyone.
Start your new year in style. Contact us to book your South Devon escape today.
