Christmas in Paignton on the English Riviera – 23 Dec to 27 Dec 2025

Celebrate Christmas at The Esplanade Hotel in Paignton—a seaside retreat where festive charm meets coastal tranquillity. With sweeping Torbay views and warm hospitality, it’s the perfect setting for good food, gentle sea breezes, and seasonal joy. Just beyond the hotel, the Bay of Lights transforms the English Riviera into a glittering wonderland with immersive light trails, illuminated sculptures, and nightly music along the shore

Dec 23rd: We depart the Blackmore Vale and head to our hotel in Paignton with a comfort break en-route. You’re welcomed into a warm, elegantly decorated lobby adorned with twinkling lights, garlands, and a scent of mulled wine drifting through the air.  You will be offered mulled wine and a minced pie and will then have plenty of time to freshen up before dinner  followed by In House entertainment.

Christmas Eve: there’s ample free time to explore Paignton and Torquay today. You might wander the traditional high streets, browse festive markets, or enjoy panoramic sea views from Paignton Pier or the marina at Torquay. With gentle coastal walks, local shops, and charming cafés nearby, the day offers a relaxed start to the holiday. In the evening, you return to the hotel for carols, mulled wine, and a seasonal dinner.

Christmas Day: The day begins with a leisurely breakfast overlooking the English Riviera, followed by time to stroll the promenade or simply relax in the hotel’s lounge. The highlight is the afternoon festive meal, plated with care, filled with classic dishes, and accompanied by warm hospitality that makes everyone feel like part of a seaside family. Later, you might enjoy live entertainment or a quiet walk along the beach under sparkling lights. In the evening there will be a festive buffet.

Boxing Day: brings gentle energy: a hearty breakfast, maybe some coastal sightseeing, and time to unwind before heading home. We will have a surprise journey out to the local sights, when we return we will enjoy another evening in the hotel with in house entertainment, it’s a peaceful close to the holiday.

Dec 27th: After breakfast we say our farewells and start the return journey home. On our journey back we will stop for lunch and then have a leisurely journey back to Blackmore Vale arriving late afternoon/early evening.

Included:

• 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast at The Esplanade Hotel in Paignton
• Mystery trip around the English Riviera area
• Complimentary drinks throughout your journey when feasible

Depart Stalbridge: 09:00
Return Stalbridge: 19:00 approx

All itineraries are approximate and subject to change