This winter sees the English Riviera flick the switch on its biggest-ever illuminated event The Bay of Lights, taking place across Torquay, Paignton and Brixham.

When is the Bay of Lights?

The Bay of Lights run from from 28 November 2025 until 2 January 2026. The Torbay skies will light up with a flurry of colour between 4.30pm and 11pm, perfectly timed for the run-up to Christmas.

The illumination Trail

The 1.5 mile illuminated trail will launch along Torquay seafront, running from Torre Abbey and its glorious seafront gardens to Torquay town centre, with some glittering surprises along the way.

From a frozen lake aglow with a magical mist, to a 12-metre high Christmas Tree and colour-changing tunnel of light, it’s a great way to keep the winter blues at Bay.

With many of Torbay’s top seaside attractions are jumping on the illumination bandwagon with their very own dazzling displays to add some sparkle to your festive season.

Plus, get your skates on because this year there is a new addition to the trail, a brand new ice rink at Tore Abbey Park, it will be open daily from Saturday 6 December 2025 to Friday 2 January 2026, offering hourly sessions making it the ultimate winter wonderland moment with twinkling lights, surrounded by festive music and is perfect for all ages.

Train of Lights

The spectacular South Devon Train of Lights returns in all its twinkling glory from 28 November until 30 December 2025. Hop aboard a vintage carriage adorned with thousands of lights and head off on an unforgettable journey starting in Paignton to Dartmouth and back.

Lanterns, Lights & Luminations

Holidaying with us this November? On 21 – 22 November 2025, the picture-postcard setting of Brixham plays host to Lanterns, Lights and ‘Luminations.

This annual event in the fishing town’s calendar sees a pretty lantern parade wind its way through its cobbled alleyways, plus a Christmas lights switch on with Santa himself, and grand fireworks finale.

A Very Miniature Christmas

Babbacombe Model Village is also hosting its very own Bay of Lights event – the perfect festive treat for little ones with its delightful miniature seasonal scenes for its Christmas Illuminations taking place from 22 November 2024 to 4 January 2026.

Join its tiny folk as they prepare for Christmas and have fun spotting miniature Santa’s and elves using the Christmas character spotter sheet. This day and night experience will bring seasonal cheer to all the family.

Festive Breaks

Make this holiday season unforgettable with a festive break at Beverley Holidays. Enjoy cosy stays in our sea view lodges or touring pitches while exploring South Devon’s magical Christmas events and sparkling coastal lights.

From festive markets and illuminated steam train rides to wintry beach walks, there’s plenty of seasonal cheer for the whole family. Book your festive break today and celebrate Christmas by the sea!