These days getting together with family and friends is more of a challenge than ever. Many of us work hard and play less throughout the year, but with the festive period fast approaching, bringing with it the traditional panic shopping on Christmas Eve, it also brings the opportunity to make unforgettable memories with those we love where we live… Devon.
Whether its wintery afternoon walks along the coast or a cosy evening in front of a log fire listening to Christmas carols, we all have our favourite pastimes during the Christmas season and many of those things usually involve indulging in the delicious food and drink Devon has to offer at Christmas.
For me, relaxing with family in a quaint countryside pub with a glass of Bailey’s and a homemade meat pie to indulge in is the epitome of my Christmas pastime. After a long dog walk starting in Ipplepen, we like to stop off at the sleepy village of Broadhempston. The Coppa Dolla Inn, is well known for its 2 in 1 pies and calm, comfortable atmosphere, The Coppa Dolla Inn is my must visit hotspot over Christmas.
We contacted some of our clients & friends to recommend their Christmas highlights in Devon.
Chris Billing, Manager at ‘On The Waterfront’ (Exeter)
My personal favourite being the Totnes Christmas market. Christmas is also the perfect excuse to drink warmed spiced cider while wandering around one of Devon’s many Christmas markets.
“Devon is beautiful all year round, even in the winter I love a crisp stroll along the beaches of Torbay with our dog who enjoys a swim in the sea. I love being outdoors in the winter fresh air running along the coast paths, walking along the moors and taking in the Christmas excitement of Exeter.
Chocolate & pie is my favourite food to indulge in over Christmas. This festive treat is made easy with so many traditional pubs offering fantastic homemade pies.
Barry George – Cantina Goodrington
Where is your favourite place to visit in Devon at Christmas?
I like walking to Brixham along the coast path via Fishcombe and Battery Gardens
What is your favourite food to indulge in during the festive period?
As a chef, I see a lot of Turkey over Christmas so my Christmas choice is a rack of Devonshire Beef.
What is your signature Christmas tipple?
My favourite tipple is Devon Rock lager by Bays Brewery of Torbay
What do you like most about Devon at Christmas?
Christmas by the sea is always special. There is a cool calmness that is good for the soul.
Pete Goss – Goss Joinery
Where is your favourite place to visit in Devon at Christmas?
Bigbury and Bantham are wonderful any time of the year but at Christmas, it is great to get wrapped up warm and walk the dog across the wide open beach and sand dunes.
What is your favourite food to indulge in during the festive period?
Locally produced an organic selection of seasonal roast vegetables.
What is your signature Christmas tipple?
Winter and full flavour real ale go well together – so my choice is Legend by St Austell.
What do you like most about Devon at Christmas?
The Christmas break is an ideal time to enjoy the quiet wide open spaces.
Mark Green – Fruition
Where is your favourite place to visit in Devon at Christmas?
Too many to name just one but somewhere that involves being outdoors followed by a warm pub with a good selection of real ale.
What is your favourite food to indulge in during the festive period?
Christmas and curried parsnip soup are traditional in my house. My Nan used to make it each year and it is ideal after doing the boxing day dip.
What is your signature Christmas tipple?
I like full flavour real ale this time of year – Jail Ale is favourite.
What do you like most about Devon at Christmas?
I like to see families get together at Christmas. Especially those who spend most of the year living in different parts of the country. Reminds me of coming home for Christmas from London for 16 years.
Thank you for reading my blog.
Seasons greetings to you and your loved ones. Heres to a great 2019 may it be peaceful, successful and happy.