From craft workshops and magical light trails to funky markets, this list of festive experiences has all the Christmassy feels
Pottymouth, Bristol
For the ultimate hand-made gift, why not make a gravy boat? Handmade holiday crafts are a gorgeous way to give – and to treat yourself – particularly when they’re something essential to every Christmas table like the vessel for liquid gold.
Pottymouth is running a series of pottery workshops at venues across Bristol, Bath and Cheltenham, where both seasoned makers and first-time throwers can craft a bespoke gravy boat using the traditional slab-building technique. Whether you’re shaping a functional gift for someone special or simply settling in for a cosy evening of mindful making, it’s the perfect way to pour a little extra joy into the festive season.
The Eden Project, Cornwall
Fully immerse yourself in festive sparkle while inside the Eden Project’s iconic biomes. As dusk falls from November through to January, the Rainforest and Mediterranean Biomes glow with festive magic as thousands of twinkling installations transform the verdant landscape into a dreamy scene of light and colour.
Wander through the gardens, discover hidden surprises, twirl around the ice rink, meet Father Christmas and his elves, then scoff a home-baked mince pie while sipping a mulled tipple or two at one of the cafes or restaurants.
The Lost Kitchen, Devon
Lose yourself in print throughout November and December as the crafty team at The Lost Kitchen host a series of festive events, including a paper star decoration workshop. Learn how to make the large, printed paper stars that adorn the restaurant interior, then take your creations – and newly learnt skills – home to enjoy a spot of seasonal making with friends and family.
The Lost Kitchen sits on the upper edge of Chettiscombe, a village just outside Tiverton in Devon. This 19th-century converted linhay and former cider barn is now a light-filled open kitchen with its wood-fired oven at the heart of the action. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the rolling countryside beyond, transforming the view into a picture-perfect winter postcard that makes for an idyllic spot to cosy up with some diy crafts. Check out our interview with its owners here.
The Slaughter’s Inn, Gloucestershire
Brimming with rustic character and winter warmth, a cosy country Christmas is what The Slaughter’s Inn promises. Once farmworkers’ housing and stables – the building now boasts roaring fires, soft lighting and comfortable interiors, making it the perfect setting for a spot of festive crafting.
Sip a warm drink while a weaving expert demonstrates how to create a take-home garland, then settle in for a feast of finger sandwiches, non-negotiable scones with seasonal preserves and clotted cream, and a tempting selection of cakes. Round off the experience with a complimentary glass of Nyetimber sparkling wine and even better, extend the celebrations with an overnight stay. Note to self: send a save-the-date to the group chat.
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Bar Silo, Cornwall
Go Cornish-cool for Christmas and make a beeline for Bar Silo’s Christmas market in Fowey. This family-friendly outdoor venue – voted the coolest spot in the county – combines live music, DJs, delicious food and drink, and a laid-back farm-chic aesthetic, making it the perfect place for a festive warm-up.
The market happens on December 13 and will feature artisan stalls where guests can meet the makers, join creative workshops such as wreath making and browse for one-of-a-kind gifts. Expect warming seasonal soups, hearty winter salads and moreish sweet bakes throughout the day, alongside local crafts and draughts – including Silo’s own Golant Pils, a Cornish pilsner brewed in partnership with Firebrand in Launceston.
Enjoyed reading our curation of festive experiences in the South West? Discover more curated festive round-ups.
