Lyme Regis Fireworks Display

Watch the fireworks light up the sky over Lyme Regis harbour with The Cobb providing a spectacular backdrop to this free community display. Lister and Langmoor gardens offer wonderful vantage points for viewing the pyrotechnic delights, whilst the beach itself draws crowds who gather to watch the explosive night of colour and light.

The firework display is organised by the Lyme Regis Regatta & Carnival team with all profits going to local good causes. Expect cash donation collectors throughout the evening, or donate online beforehand at lymeregiscarnival.co.uk/donateonline.

Ottery Tar Barrels – The Famous November 5th Tradition

This is genuinely one of Britain’s most extraordinary events – and we mean that quite literally. Every year for reasons lost in antiquity, flaming tar barrels are carried through the streets of Ottery St Mary to the delight of thousands of spectators. This centuries-old tradition attracts up to 15,000 visitors from around the world.

The event spans the entire afternoon and evening. Children’s barrels start at 4pm with progressively larger barrels carried by women and then men as the night progresses. By midnight, the barrels weigh at least 30 kilos and the flames pour dramatically from the tar-soaked wood as “barrel rollers” – all born in Ottery or business owners – hoist them onto their shoulders and run through packed streets.

Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market

Devon’s biggest Christmas market returns with over a hundred festive chalets set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of Exeter Cathedral. This atmospheric market combines German-inspired Christmas tradition with Devon’s unique character, featuring carefully selected traders showcasing West Country produce alongside international crafts and seasonal treats.

Wander through twinkling chalets festooned with fairy lights, savour global street food and Devon specialities, sip mulled wine beneath the cathedral spires and shop from handpicked artisans. The market operates 10am-9pm throughout its month-long run, creating wonderfully atmospheric evenings when the cathedral illuminations create genuine magic.

Lyme Regis Christmas Lights Switch-On

Lyme Regis sparkles to life as the town begins its countdown to Christmas. This popular community event draws substantial crowds who gather to watch Santa arrive on his sleigh and switch on the lights that will illuminate the Georgian streets through to early January.

The cross-street lighting displays illuminate as the parade passes underneath, whilst the Christmas tree lights at Bell Cliff switch on around 5:30pm. The festive atmosphere continues throughout the evening with local groups performing and the town transforming into a twinkling coastal wonderland.

Exeter Winter Wonderland & Theatre Season

This festive event at the base of Exeter Castle offers something for everyone throughout the day and into the evening. The covered ice rink provides all-weather skating fun (10am-10pm, advance booking recommended), whilst the German-themed Alpine bar serves warming drinks and seasonal refreshments.

Santa’s Giant Grotto with Elf Workshop: 13th-24th December, Monday-Friday 12pm-7pm, weekends 11am-8pm. Family funfair with rides, carousel and mini Christmas market complete the experience.

Pantomime Season: Exeter Northcott presents Jack and the Beanstalk (27th Nov – 4th Jan 2026) whilst Exeter Corn Exchange offers The Wizard of Oz (13th Dec – 1st Jan 2026). Manor Pavilion Theatre in Sidmouth provides regular entertainment throughout November, just 3 miles from Oakdown.

Cosy November Retreats & Indoor Attractions

Beer Quarry Caves (7 miles / 15 mins): These vast man-made caverns provide brilliant wet-weather alternatives throughout November. Step into 2,000 years of history whilst escaping changeable autumn weather – the constant 11°C temperature means bringing a jumper regardless of conditions outside. The stone from these caves built 24 cathedrals including Exeter and St Paul’s.

Stuart Line Cruises (12 miles / 25 mins from Exmouth): River Exe, Exeter Canal and Jurassic Coast cruises operate year-round with November offering particularly atmospheric conditions. Heated saloons provide comfortable viewing regardless of weather.

Lyme Regis Museum (12 miles / 25 mins): Mary Anning’s fossil collection and Jurassic Coast heritage displays provide fascinating indoor entertainment. Entry: Adult £6, Child £4, family tickets available. Regular rock pooling walks with the West Dorset Forager (booking essential).

The Donkey Sanctuary (2 miles / 5 mins): The sanctuary sits literally on your doorstep with many guests walking or cycling the short distance. November brings peaceful atmosphere with fewer crowds. Entry completely free, café provides warming refreshments.