What’s On This Winter In South Devon?
South Devon comes to a blissful hush in winter, but for nature-lovers, ramblers, history buffs, ocean-goers, wellness enthusiasts and foodies, this special corner of the map is still bursting with food for the soul. Here in the region we have something for everyone this winter, from wine tasting and wreath making to carol singing and wild swimming.
We have curated our own anthology of top local tips, so whether you want to escape the crowds and explore south Devon’s beautiful landscape, or gather together for a yuletide celebration like no other, re-connection, adventure, solitude or celebration, a getaway to the south coast this winter promises that you return rebalanced, rejuvinated and rewilded.
Here’s whats on this winter:
Come winter time, the South Hams is every inch a mecca for those seeking a meditative and deeply restorative dive into the natural world. If it’s R&R you’re after, we can help you find the best yoga masters, paddle boarding pros, wild swimming enthusiasts and skilful skippers for your stay. Here are a few mood-boosting and soul-soothing suggestions. Tap the links to book!
- Winter Wellness Yoga & Pilates
- Guided Wild Swimming
- Stand up paddle board yoga
- Forest Bathing
- Cold Water Immersion Therapy
- Beachside Mindfulness Meditation
- Aromatherapy Massage & Reflexology
With picture perfect countryside and stunning coastline, deserted beaches and dramatic clifftops, nature-immersion comes in bucket fulls here. Whether you take a boat tour, venture out on a kayak or simply walk the coastline with binoculars in hand, you’re likely to encounter many characters of the natural world. Here is our selection of the perfect winter activities to escape hectic schedules and get back in rhythm with nature:
- Coastal Safari Kayak Tours
- Surfing lessons at Bantham beach
- Salcombe Cruise to The Crabshell Inn
- SUP Paddle Boarding Nature Tour
- Winter Wildlife Spotting Boat tours
- Bird watching at Slapton Ley
- Seal Spotting Guided Tours
- Clay Pigeon Shooting
- Ramble the wonder-filled South West Coastal Path –map your walk
Food glorious food! One of the very best ways of getting to know an area is through its food. Here in the South Hams we’re spoilt for choice with a mouth-watering array of foodie finds. From foraging samphire and cockles on the coast to in- home private chefs and cocktail masterclasses, we’ve picked a handful of experiences to suit every appetite:
- Calancombe Estate Cheese and Wine Tour
- Local English Wine Tasting
- Salcombe Gin Distillery Tour & Tasting
- Seasonal Seafood Feasting (enquirehere)
- Devon RumCocktail Masterclass
- Seafood Cookery Course at Devon Cookery School
- Champagne picnic on the water (enquire here)
Let the countdown begin! If you’re in the South Hams on the lead up to Christmas, why not truly immerse yourself in the festive spirit and try your hand at some of these seasonal workshops. Dabble in wholesome activities from mastering the art of curating the perfect Christmas wreath to indulging in a bit of festive baking:
- Christmas Wreath Workshop
- Print Block Gift Wrap Workshop
- Chocolate Making Course
- Christmas Baking Cookery Course
- Island Artist Workshop at Burgh Island
- Festive Foodie Gifts Cookery Course
- Evening Wreath Making at Amelia’s Flower Farm
At Christmas time there’s joy in forethought and anticipation; from booking tickets to the pantomime to planning the menu for the Christmas day feast, perusing little independent shops for the most thoughtful gifts and wandering Christmas markets with mulled wine in hand. Those brimming with festive enthusiasm know that Christmas starts on the first Sunday of Advent, here’s just a handful of what’s on this Christmas:
- Agatha Christie’s Christmas at Greenway
- Christmas Train of Lights
- Meet Father Christmas at Heron Valley
- Christmas at Saltram House
- Winter Tide and Time at Coleton Fishacre
- He’s behind you! Aladdin – The Pantomine
- Songs & Stories with Father Christmas
- Visit the Chocolate Factory in Salcombe
- Totnes Christmas Market