What's On This Autumn in Devon
Posted 27th Aug 2025
If you’re wondering What’s on this Autumn, look no further than Devon. With its golden coastlines, picturesque towns, and warm community spirit, Devon is the perfect place to celebrate the season. From thrilling sporting challenges to foodie festivals and festive lights, there’s something for everyone.
What Events are on this Autumn in Devon?
Use the quick links below to skip to a particular month or read on for our full event guide to highlights of Autumn in Devon.
September
SUP Superchamps: 6–7 September
The English Riviera comes alive with paddleboards and competition energy at the Stand Up Paddle Championships. Across three days, spectators can enjoy everything from beginner-friendly sprint races to thrilling long-distance challenges. A high-energy event for athletes and families alike.
Food, Drink & Craft Festival, Bovey Tracey: 6 September
Bovey Tracey comes alive as more than 60 of the South West’s finest food and drink producers showcase their delicious creations. From artisan bites to local favourites, it’s a true celebration of regional flavours. Just a short stroll away, the Methodist Hall hosts 15 talented makers from across Gloucestershire, Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire, Devon, and Cornwall. Discover beautiful crafts, unique gifts, and handmade treasures, all crafted with care right here in the South West.
Women’s Rugby World Cup: 6, 13 & 14 September
The historic city of Exeter is set to take centre stage as a proud host of the Women’s Rugby World Cup England 2025 – the biggest celebration of women’s rugby in history. Exeter Chiefs’ iconic home ground, Sandy Park, will stage more matches than any other venue during the tournament, giving fans the chance to see some of the world’s greatest players in action, right here in Devon.
Heritage Open Days: 12-21 September
Heritage Open Days is England’s largest cultural festival, shining a spotlight on the nation’s rich history and architecture. Each year, it offers a rare chance to explore hidden gems and historic sites – all completely free of charge. Visitors can enjoy special tours, talks and events that bring local stories to life.
Nationally managed by the National Trust, with support from the People’s Postcode Lottery and Historic England, it has become the country’s most popular voluntary cultural event, attracting more than 3 million people annually.
Dart 10k: 13 & 14 September
Swimmers from across the UK – and beyond – flock to Totnes for this legendary open-water challenge. The Dart 10k follows a breathtaking route down the River Dart, passing landmarks such as Sharpham Boathouse and Greenway House. For many, it’s a true bucket-list swim.
Agatha Christie Festival: 13–21 September
Celebrate the Queen of Crime in her birthplace, Torquay. The annual Agatha Christie Festival features author talks, theatre performances, murder mystery events, guided tours, and creative workshops. Fans can explore locations that inspired her novels, including the famous Greenway House. A must for book lovers and mystery enthusiasts alike.
Torbay Half Marathon: 21 September
Lace up your trainers for one of the most scenic races in the South West. The Torbay Half Marathon takes runners along the beautiful English Riviera coastline. Whether you’re an experienced athlete or trying your first big race, the stunning views make every mile worthwhile.
England’s Seafood Feast: 26 September–12 October
Foodies rejoice! England’s Seafood Feast is a two-week celebration of the English Riviera’s world-class seafood. Top restaurants and cafes across Torbay serve up special menus, tastings, and chef demonstrations. From Brixham’s famous fish to local scallops and crab, it’s a delicious way to sample the best of Devon’s coastline.
October
Pumpkin Festival at Pennywell Farm: 27 September–2 November
Autumn at Pennywell is bursting with family fun as the Pumpkin Festival returns, bigger and better than ever.
Your ticket includes access to the pumpkin patch, a fabulously fun pumpkin trail, and plenty of seasonal games and activities. Enjoy live music and marshmallow toasting on selected dates, try your hand at Paddy the Pumpkin’s games, or get creative with colouring competitions and scarecrow dress-up challenges. Keep your eyes peeled for the golden pumpkin, spot autumnal characters on the tractor and trailer ride and look out for pumpkins along the Rainbow Railway to earn special stickers.
Dartmouth Food Festival: 24–26 October
This three-day celebration of food and drink is one of the region’s most popular events. Set against the backdrop of Dartmouth’s harbour, the Dartmouth Food Festival combines celebrity chef demos, expert talks, artisan food markets, and plenty of tastings. Expect a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere filled with local flavours and culinary inspiration.
November
The Story of Agatha Christie: 4 November–31 December
Discover one of Torbay’s top experiences with our award-winning Agatha Christie guided walking tour, running five days a week at 10am. Whether you’re a devoted fan or just curious about her life, you’ll come away amazed by the incredible story behind the world’s best-selling novelist. Many say her life was as fascinating as her mysteries!
Tar Barrel Rolling, Ottery St Mary: 5 November
An event like no other! On Bonfire Night, Ottery St Mary hosts its world-famous Tar Barrel Rolling tradition. Brave locals carry flaming barrels through the streets, lighting up the night in a fiery spectacle. A thrilling, must-see experience that captures the unique character of Devon.
Magical Christmas Experience at Pennywell Farm: 14 November–24 December
Step into the festive season with a magical journey through Pennywell Farm. Your adventure begins at the North Pole check-in, where cheerful elves welcome you and hand over your special Christmas passport, ready to be stamped at every stage of your festive experience. From there, you’ll step back in time more than 2,000 years for the live Nativity scene. Travel to Bethlehem in search of a place to stay, before finding shelter in Pennywell’s cosy main barn. Surrounded by animals in the manger, the story of the very first Christmas is brought beautifully to life.
Afterwards, the magic continues with Christmas animal cuddles, where you can get up close to some of Pennywell’s most-loved residents. From playful miniature piglets to friendly furry friends, it’s a heart-warming experience that captures the true spirit of Christmas.
Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market: 20 November-19 December
Exeter’s much-loved Cathedral Christmas Market returns to the historic Cathedral Green this winter, bringing with it a truly magical festive atmosphere. Wander through a maze of fairy-lit chalets filled with seasonal sights, sounds, and scents, as local, regional, national, and international traders showcase an array of crafts, gifts, food and drink.
Savour mouth-watering global street food from pop-up kitchens, cafés, and bars, alongside the very best West Country produce. Browse for unique hand-crafted treasures, decorations, and festive treats, all set beneath the spectacularly illuminated medieval backdrop of Exeter Cathedral. It’s the perfect place to eat, drink, shop and soak up the Christmas spirit.
The Polar Express™ Train Ride – South Devon Railway: 28 November-23 December
All aboard! The magical Polar Express™ Train Ride returns to the South Devon Railway at Buckfastleigh this Christmas, bringing the much-loved festive story to life. Step into a world of wonder as you join the journey inspired by the classic Warner Bros. film, complete with singing chefs, hot chocolate, cookies, and of course, a visit from Santa himself.
This enchanting experience has welcomed more than 1.5 million riders worldwide and is now back to spread Christmas cheer in Devon. With departures running daily between 28 November and 23 December, families can look forward to an unforgettable festive adventure.
Bay of Lights: 28 November 2025–2 January 2026
Step into a winter wonderland as the Bay of Lights transforms the English Riviera. Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham sparkle with light trails, festive markets, lantern parades, and live performances. Stroll along the seafront under dazzling installations and soak up the magic of Christmas by the coast.
Winter Fest in the Barn: 28 November-30 November
Torre Abbey’s much-loved Christmas gift and craft fair returns this year, set against the magical backdrop of the historic Spanish Barn. Brimming with festive cheer, the fair brings together a wonderful selection of handmade local treasures – from Christmas decorations and children’s toys to jewellery, crochet gifts, and more.
Christmas Train of Lights: 29 November-30 December
As autumn in Devon gives way to winter, the award-winning Christmas Train of Lights returns for 2025. This unique steam train, the UK’s first ever illuminated service, has become a must-see festive experience. Departing from Paignton, the vintage carriages sparkle with thousands of lights as you journey to Kingswear, passing dazzling displays and magical new surprises along the way. The full spectacle can only be seen from the train itself, making it an unforgettable highlight of the season.
Experience the Magic of Autumn in Devon
From seafood feasts to literary festivals, sporting challenges to festive light trails, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Autumn in Devon promises unforgettable experiences.
So, if you’re asking yourself what’s on this Autumn, the answer is simple: head to Devon and discover it all.
At Beverley Holidays, you’ll find the perfect base for your Devon adventure. Ideally located and offering a warm, welcoming atmosphere, it’s a place to relax after a day of exploring Autumn festivals, coastal walks, and local delights. Whether you’re here for a short break or an extended stay, Beverley ensures your Autumn in Devon is as comfortable as it is memorable.
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