Forget the stress of parking and traffic this festive period and hop on the train to your favourite Christmas events.
From bustling markets to late-night shopping, we’ve rounded up just some of the destinations accessible by train – all just a short stroll from the station. Think unique gifts, festive cheer, and maybe even a glass of mulled wine.

Plymouth is brimming with fun events this festive season.
• Late night shopping every Thursday – from Thursday 13th November
• City centre Christmas lights switch on – Thursday 13th November
• Barbican Christmas lights switch on – Saturday 15th November
• Central Park Winter Wonderland – from Friday 21st November
• Plymouth Christmas Market – from Thursday 27th November

This year the Exeter Christmas market promises to be bigger, brighter and more magical than ever!
• Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market – Thursday 20 November – Friday 19 December
• Winter Wonderland Ice Rink at Northernhay Gardens – Friday 21 November – Sunday 28 December

Catch the train to the quirky town of Totnes for an atmospheric evening out.
• Totnes Christmas Market – Tuesday 2nd, 9th and 16th December
• Late night Christmas shopping – Tuesday 2nd, 9th and 16th December
• Totnes Carnival and Lantern Parade – Tuesday 16th December

Catch the Tarka Line to Barnstaple for their annual party on The Square and Christmas Lights switch on!
• Barnstaple Christmas Lights switch on – Thursday 27th November

Get into the festive spirit and find the perfect gifts in Honiton this Christmas! (The full hourly train service on the West of England Line will be restored starting Saturday 29th November).
• Present Makers – Festive Selling Exibition of Contemporary Craft – Saturday 8th November – Wednesday 24th December
• Honiton Christmas Carnival – Saturday 6th December
• Christmas Craft Fair + Santas Grotto – Saturday 6th December
Save a third for you and a friend (with kids travelling for just £2) with a Devon & Cornwall Railcard – just £13 a year for local residents. Now available to buy online.
Look up train times and buy rail tickets on the GWR website or app.