What to expect in Exeter this Christmas?
Christmas in Exeter is a wonderfully atmospheric time of year. Visit the Cathedral Christmas Market on the Cathedral Green from Friday 18 November – Sunday 18 December, to explore a labyrinth of winding lanes, festooned with fairy lights and laced with the seasonal sights and smells of festive chalets.
On the evening of Saturday 26 November, the Exeter Carnival will light up the city's streets for the first time in 24 years!
Don't miss the chance to meet Santa in Princesshay, from Saturday 26 November until Christmas Eve in the Christmas Lodge on Bedford Street. The Hub launches in Princesshay Square from 17 November - 1 January, in collaboration with Margoux and Exeter City Football Club - enjoy live football coverage, Christmas workshops, family entertainment and music!
2022 sees the return of Exeter's Winter Wonderland in Northernhay Gardens, with an ice rink, winter treats and a colourful Santa’s grotto.
Exeter’s compact city centre makes it ideal for Christmas shopping. An eclectic mix of shops can be found within easy walking distance of each other, from the big names in the High Street, Princesshay, Guildhall Shopping Centre, to independent and vintage fashions, jewellery, crafts and gifts in the cobbled Gandy Street and quirky West Quarter.
Just a short train trip from Exeter, the beautiful estuary town of Topsham offers a wonderfully eclectic Christmas shopping experience. With over 50 independent shops and services across town, you’re sure to find a unique gift. Visit during their Christmas shopping evening to soak up the festive atmosphere. Find out more on the Love Topsham.
Discover more at VisitExeter.com.
When are the Exeter Christmas events?
This year you can experience Christmas happenings in Exeter until 2 January 2023.
How to get to the Exeter Christmas events
Getting to Exeter by train is easy. The closest station is Exeter Central. Mainline trains from London and Cornwall stop at Exeter St Davids. You can either change for a train to Exeter Central from here, or it’s a 20-minute walk to Exeter city centre.