You don't have to buy all your Christmas presents from the same old chain stores this year - why not take a look at the wonderfully diverse and eclectic range of local gifts available at Christmas fairs and special events across the West Country?
It’s a celebration of all things Cornish at Padstow’s traditional Christmas market, located on the quayside in a large marquee. It's one of the UK’s biggest food festivals, with cookery demonstrations and lots of free samples to set your taste-buds tingling. Explore the many stalls brimming with handmade gifts and marvel at the lantern parades and fireworks display.
The whole family is spoiled for choice at the Eden Project winter festival. Meet Father Christmas and his real reindeer, go ice skating, explore the enchanted rainforest at twilight, listen to choirs and live storytelling, and pick up some great gifts in their shop.
With the backdrop of the beautiful cathedral, a visit to Exeter’s Christmas market really cranks up the festive mood with more than 50 local and international traders present. Roast hog, Belgian chocolates, baklava, crepes, speciality cheeses and meats from across the continent, as well as traditional Christmas crafts and local foods will be on offer.
If you head to Bath Christmas Market, you'll find more than 170 twinkling, traditional wooden chalets surrounding ancient Bath Abbey and the famous Roman Baths deliver a mind-boggling array of handmade and beautiful gifts to delight your family and friends. Treat yourself afterwards to a tasty local dish or tipple.
Wherever you choose, you're sure to find a warm welcome and a healthy dose of Christmas spirit.
