A festive Christmas break in Sidmouth – a 3-day winter itinerary
Christmas in Sidmouth has a charm all its own. Think twinkling lights, independent shops dressed for the season and crisp coastal walks followed by warming food and wine. This three-day itinerary captures the best of a festive break in East Devon, combining local events, Christmas markets and relaxed moments by the sea.
With The Sidmouth Collection as your base, everything from town celebrations to countryside outings is within easy reach.
Day 1 – Arrive and explore Sidmouth’s festive heart
Arrive in Sidmouth and check in to your chosen accommodation. As evening falls, take a gentle stroll through town as Christmas lights begin to glow along Fore Street and the Esplanade.
Each year, Sidmouth hosts its Christmas Light Switch-On and Late-Night Shopping event, when independent shops stay open late and the town fills with carols, hot chocolate and festive cheer. It’s a lovely way to ease into the season and get a feel for Sidmouth’s close-knit community. Keep an eye on The Sidmouth Town Council websites for this year's dates.
For dinner, head to the seafront. Enjoy festive dishes and mulled wine at Dukes Seaside Inn, or dine in at The Elizabeth or The Kingswood if dinner, bed and breakfast is more your thing. End your first evening with a quiet walk along the seafront, watching the lights shimmer across the water.
Day 2: Markets, Heritage and a Taste of Devon
Start your morning with a good breakfast before heading out to browse Sidmouth's independent shops. If you want to venture further afield, the Exeter Christmas Market (Visit South Devon) offers one of the most atmospheric festive experiences in the South West, set against the backdrop of the cathedral with traditional stalls and warming treats.
Closer to home, visit The Donkey Sanctuary’s Christmas Fair, where you can meet the resident donkeys, enjoy live music and browse local produce.
After a day exploring, warm up with coffee and mince pies from Kapes Kiosk on the Esplanade or settle in for a hearty dinner at Dukes Seaside Inn, surrounded by festive decorations and sea views.
Day 3: National Trust Christmas Magic and Coastal Calm
Spend your final morning exploring one of Devon’s grandest festive settings – Christmas at Killerton (Book here). The Georgian house is transformed with lights, trees and storytelling trails through its gardens. If you prefer something more intimate, visit A La Ronde near Exmouth, a unique 16-sided home filled with candlelight and Christmas history.
Back in Sidmouth, take a crisp coastal walk up Salcombe Hill or through The Byes before a farewell lunch at Baia Vista or an afternoon tea at The Kingswood Hotel. If you’re not ready to leave, unwind a little longer at your Self Cater Sidmouth cottages — the perfect home-from-home for a quiet festive evening.
Christmas, Sidmouth-Style
Sidmouth captures everything special about Christmas by the sea — twinkling lights, friendly faces and crisp winter walks by the water. Stay, dine and celebrate with The Sidmouth Collection, where coastal calm meets festive comfort.