Exeter Christmas Market 2026 and Winter Wonderland

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What to Expect

Cathedral Green is the central location for Exeter’s winter market, the largest in Devon. The market features over 100 stalls, offering a mix of local and international traders selling artisan crafts, gourmet food, and West Country produce in the wooden chalets.

A key highlight is the Exeter Food & Drink Trail, which runs alongside the market and showcases local food and drink producers. Live music at the bandstand, featuring performances by the Exeter Cathedral Choir, enhances the experience.

The city also hosts the Winter Wonderland event, featuring an ice rink and Santa’s Grotto.

At the Food Stalls

• Devonshire Cream Tea: Traditional warm scone heaped with clotted cream and locally made jam.
• Pasties: A Devon classic, stuffed with beef, potatoes, swede and onions.
• Mulled Wine and Cider: Spiced hot drinks.
• International Cuisines: Spanish paella, Greek gyros, Hungarian langos and Italian stone-baked pizza, to name a few.
• Artisan Chocolates: Devon has a vibrant artisan food scene, which includes chocolate.
• Fudge: Devon is renowned for its creamy fudge, with flavours ranging from vanilla to more festive combinations like mince pie or gingerbread. Try a piece, or take home a selection box.
• Hot Roasted Chestnuts: The classic snack.
• Bratwurst: For a taste of Germany, enjoy a bratwurst sausage served in a roll.

What to Buy

• Devonshire Honey: Quality honey and honey-based gifts.
• Chocolates: Beautifully packaged boxes of chocolate.
• Pottery: Mugs, decorative pieces and more.
• Woolly Hats: Local makers make these hats using British wool in traditional Aran or Fair Isle patterns.
• Traditional Toys: Wooden toys, animals and puzzles.
• Devon Cider: Traditional brews or flavoured varieties.
• Unique Jewellery: Silver, beaded or created from local sea glass.
• Books: Showcasing books by local authors.

Things to Do in Winter

Exeter is expecting over 600,000 visitors this winter. While you’re in the area, there are several interesting attractions worth checking out.

• At the heart of the city, Exeter Cathedral stands as a focal point. Its Gothic architecture is a striking sight, especially with the market set up nearby. Inside, explore centuries-old details and join an occasional free tour led by a local guide.
• Beneath Exeter High Street, the Underground Passages is a unique experience. These medieval tunnels can be explored through guided tours that reveal the city’s hidden history.
• The Royal Albert Memorial Museum showcases the history of Exeter and Devon. The exhibits and galleries provide insight into the region’s past.
• For cinema enthusiasts, the Bill Douglas Cinema Museum is dedicated to the art and history of film. It’s a fascinating stop to learn about cinema’s impact on society.
• A short trip from the city, Powderham Castle shows a glimpse into over 600 years of history.

Sustainable Travel Tips

• Public Transportation: Utilise Exeter’s bus and train services, including Great Western Railway and Stagecoach South West, to reduce car usage.
• Eco-Friendly Hotels: Book a hotel that prioritises renewable energy and energy conservation practices.
• Farm-to-Table Dining: Dine at restaurants like The Plant Cafe, which focus on locally sourced ingredients and support sustainable agriculture.
• Reusable Shopping Bags: Bring your shopping bag to reduce plastic waste when shopping in Exeter.
• Ethical Products: Look for vendors selling ethically sourced goods to support sustainable and responsible consumption.
• Food Waste: Be mindful of only buying or ordering what you can eat.
• Cycling: Explore Exeter by bike using the city’s bike-friendly routes and rental services.

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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. While we make every effort to provide accurate information, the dates and details listed here should not be relied upon as definitive. Please consult the official website before booking your trip or planning a visit.