Illustration of a family gazing at houses and trees covered in string lights on a snowy street at dusk (Bay of Lights)

Bay of Lights

The English Riviera lights up across Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham with an array of seasonal displays and activities. Visitors can explore Torquay's 1.5-mile Illumination Trail featuring 18 large light installations, digital light shows, pixel pads, an LED light fountain, and a walk-through Christmas present. The wider celebration includes pixel tree installations, lantern parades, a Christmas market at Torre Abbey, and an ice rink in Abbey Park.

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Plan Your Visit

When

Tickets

The Bay of Lights Illumination Trail is free.

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

English Riviera

Food & Drink

The Torre Abbey Christmas Market has local food traders and atmospheric bars.

Accessibility

The 1.5-mile Illumination Trail along Torquay seafront is fully accessible.

Going?

Location

Various locations throughout the English Riviera, Devon, TQ2 5JG, Torquay, Devon TQ2 5JG Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families and festive light-trail fans

Vibe

Festive and luminous

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Tips & Advice

  • Allow time to walk the full 1.5-mile Torquay trail and explore its interactive installations.
  • Look for the pixel Christmas tree displays in Paignton and Brixham as well as the Torquay trail.
  • Visit the Torre Abbey Christmas Market for food traders and bars alongside Christmas shopping.
  • If you want to attend a separate activity such as the ice rink or a market, check its dates before setting out; some dates are to be confirmed.

Special Events & Promotions

  • The Torquay Illumination Trail is free to enter.
  • A free fireworks display opens the celebrations on November 28.
  • The Christmas Market at Torre Abbey is free to enter.
  • Torre Abbey’s Alive with Light projection is a free event.
  • Winterfest, with an artisan market and seasonal theatre performances, takes place on December 6.

Links & Contact

Run by English Riviera BID Company Ltd.

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can enjoy the Illumination Trail?

The free trail is designed for visitors of all ages and is described as accessible.

What can I see on the Torquay trail?

The 1.5-mile seafront route has 18 large light installations, digital shows, Christmas music and interactive features, including an LED fountain, pixel pads and a walk-through Christmas present.

What else is part of the Bay of Lights?

The wider programme includes illuminated Christmas trees in Paignton and Brixham, a Christmas market at Torre Abbey, an ice rink, light events and seasonal performances. Some activities are separate events.

Are food and drink available?

The Torre Abbey Christmas Market has food traders and bars. Festive food and drink is also offered outside the ice rink.

Is there a family event with activities beyond the light displays?

Winterfest at the Spanish Barn includes an artisan market and seasonal theatre performances. The programme also includes a lantern parade, live music and street entertainment in Brixham.

Browse Christmas in Torquay

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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