Discover the Magic of South Devon This Autumn
As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, South Devon comes alive with a vibrant calendar of festivals, food celebrations, sporting highlights and family fun. Whether you’re planning a cosy weekend getaway or a longer stay by the sea, there’s something for everyone this autumn. From world-class rugby to festive lights and Christmas markets, here’s your guide to what’s on in South Devon this season.
Women’s Rugby World Cup at Sandy Park, Exeter
23 August – 14 September 2025.
This year, Exeter’s Sandy Park takes centre stage as the premier venue for the Women’s Rugby World Cup. It will host more matches than any other stadium, including two of the quarter-finals. The atmosphere promises to be electric, with international teams battling it out in front of passionate crowds. Whether you’re a lifelong rugby fan or simply want to soak up the buzz of a global sporting event, this is a must-see moment in Devon’s sporting history.
Heritage Open Days
13 – 22 September 2025.
South Devon’s Heritage Open Days give visitors the rare chance to explore fascinating historic buildings and cultural landmarks. In Torbay, highlights include Torre Abbey, where visitors can step behind the scenes and uncover centuries of history. Or visit Coleton Fishacre, where you can travel back to the jazz age in the decadent holiday home of the D’Oyly Carte family. It’s the perfect way to combine a love of history with a day out by the sea.
Agatha Christie Festival, Torquay
13 – 21 September 2025.
Celebrate the life and legacy of the ‘Queen of Crime’ in her birthplace of Torquay. During the Agatha Christie Festival, visitors can enjoy a week-long programme of talks, theatre, murder-mystery walks, and literary events. These activities attract fans from around the world. In addition, you can follow in Christie’s footsteps along the English Riviera. Enjoy themed performances, and immerse yourself in the world of one of the best-selling authors of all time.
Torbay Half Marathon
21 September 2025.
One of the most scenic half marathons in the UK takes runners along the stunning coastline between Paignton and Torquay. Whether you’re participating or cheering from the sidelines, it’s a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty of South Devon while celebrating endurance and community spirit.
England’s Seafood FEAST
26 September – 12 October 2025.
South Devon is renowned for its incredible seafood, and this autumn you can savour it at the annual England’s Seafood FEAST. Moreover, the celebration is spread across the English Riviera, where participating restaurants and cafés serve up mouthwatering menus, seafood trails, cooking demonstrations, and tasting events. As a result, it becomes the perfect excuse to indulge in the region’s finest catch, taken straight from the fishing boats.
Dartmouth Food Festival
17 – 19 October 2025.
Food lovers won’t want to miss the Dartmouth Food Festival, a highlight of the South Devon calendar. With celebrity chef demos, hands-on workshops, street food, artisan producers and plenty of opportunities to taste and shop, it’s a feast for all the senses. The festival also takes place against the stunning backdrop of Dartmouth’s historic streets and waterfront, making it as picturesque as it is delicious.
Festival of Arts Brixham (F.A.B)
20 – 25 October 2025.
Brixham’s inaugural Festival of Arts (F.A.B) celebrates the town’s thriving creative scene with a week-long programme of inspiring events. Taking place across Brixham’s Cultural Quarter at Bolton Cross, the festival brings together the Museum, Theatre, Library, and local arts organisations to showcase visual arts, performing arts, literary events, and interactive workshops.
Visitors can enjoy exhibitions, live music, life drawing, graffiti and urban sketching workshops, quizzes, and more, culminating in a day of exciting activities across Brixham’s cultural venues to kick off the October half-term holiday. F.A.B also highlights local artists, crafters, musicians, and makers, celebrating Brixham’s unique indie vibe and fostering connections between the community, creatives, and visitors. Whether you’re looking to create, participate, or simply soak up the artistic atmosphere, the Festival of Arts Brixham offers a vibrant taste of the town’s cultural spirit and is a perfect reason to explore South Devon’s creative heart.
Pumpkin Festival at Pennywell Farm
Autumn Half-Term, Late October 2025.
Families will love the Pumpkin Festival at Pennywell Farm, where little ones can not only choose their own pumpkins from the patch but also join in carving sessions and enjoy farmyard fun with animals, rides, and seasonal activities. Furthermore, the farm is beautifully decorated with autumn colours, so it makes a perfect photo opportunity for visitors of all ages.
Halloween in South Devon
Late October – Early November 2025.
Spooky season comes alive across South Devon with a range of family-friendly and spine-tingling events. Kents Cavern in Torquay transforms into a subterranean playground of mystery, with torchlit tours, spooky cinema nights, and even silent discos in the caves. At Babbacombe Model Village, the Spookilluminations light up miniature worlds with an eerie glow, while Bygones and Torre Abbey offer their own atmospheric “after dark” experiences. From pumpkin trails to ghostly goings-on, Halloween in South Devon offers thrills and chills for all ages.
Fireworks & Bonfire Night
Early November 2025.
Remember, remember the 5th of November! Across South Devon, towns and villages come alive as they host spectacular firework displays and traditional bonfires. In addition, visitors can enjoy family funfairs, food stalls, and community celebrations, all set against dazzling night skies. As a result, these events remain a seasonal favourite, drawing locals and visitors together for an unforgettable night of autumn magic.
Lanterns, Lights & Luminations, Brixham
Late November 2025.
Brixham’s harbourside sparkles during the Lanterns, Lights & Luminations festival, when colourful lantern parades, street entertainment, and a stunning fireworks display officially switch on the town’s Christmas lights. This much-loved community event is the perfect way to kick off the festive season.
Christmas Markets – Exeter, Totnes & Beyond
Late November – December 2025.
South Devon’s Christmas markets are the perfect place to soak up festive cheer while finding unique gifts. Exeter Cathedral’s Christmas Market is one of the largest in the South West, filled with artisan stalls and festive food. Totnes Market offers a quirkier, more eclectic vibe with street performers and local crafts. Across the region, smaller markets add to the magic with mulled wine, live music, and seasonal shopping.
Bay of Lights & Train of Lights
December 2025.
The Bay of Lights illuminates Torbay with a stunning trail of festive displays and decorations, making evening strolls extra special. Meanwhile, the Dartmouth Steam Railway’s Train of Lights takes visitors on a magical illuminated journey through the South Devon countryside, complete with sparkling carriages and trackside displays. Both events create unforgettable festive memories for families and couples alike.
Plan Your Autumn Escape with Saltwater Escapes
With so many incredible events this autumn, South Devon is the perfect destination for a seasonal getaway. Whether you’re here for the world-class rugby, cosy food festivals, spooky Halloween nights, or the magic of Christmas lights, Saltwater Escapes has a holiday home to make your stay extra special. Browse our collection of seaside cottages and coastal retreats, and start planning your unforgettable South Devon escape today.