Visiting Knowle Farm in the winter
/South Devon is a glorious place to be in the Spring and Summer but, apart from the temperatures being warmer, many of the great reasons to visit the area continue in the colder months. Here are some of our favourite things about living here in winter:
Quieter roads and fewer crowds – Easier journeys and more peaceful experiences.
Many attractions remain open such as the National Marine Aquarium, Paignton Zoo, Dartmoor Zoo and also many of the National Trust properties, which often have winter-themed activities. Our particular favourites include Greenway, the home of Agatha Christie, and Saltram house, although their popular house trail is closed for 2025.
Beaches are still just as spectacular as is the South West coastal path. And, as long as your children are happy to don waterproofs and wellies, they can have their run of a quiet beach and have just as much fun building sandcastles, digging holes and splashing in waves.
Unique Father Christmas experiences and Christmas markets – visit any time from the end of November and create a lifelong memory for your little one. Join the many families (including us!) who have treasured a Pennywell Christmas experience, take a trip on the Polar Express from Buckfastleigh or visit local theme parks Woodlands or Crealy for rides, Christmas shows and a chance to meet Father Christmas. Or for something a little bit different, visit the Eden Project for a theatrical interactive Christmas experience and see the biomes transformed with lights, or take a ride on the Train of Lights. Just be sure to book any events before you arrive! There are a variety of Christmas markets on in the local area too, to buy special, locally-made gifts for loved ones before the big day. Soak up the atmosphere at the ever popular Totnes Christmas late-night market, held on the first three Tuesdays of December, or visit the Exeter Christmas Market, with the backdrop of the beautiful Exeter Cathedral.
Dartmoor National Park – the park’s dramatic beauty is only enhanced with frost, snow or clouds rolling in the sky and it is always the first place to get snow in the area. Plus there are far fewer people for those magnificient photos at the top of the famous tors!
Dartington Estate – A short journey from the farm, the large estate has a variety of walks on site, a great cafe (the Green Table) and restaurant (The White Hart), while the Cider Press Centre has a series of Christmas workshops on Saturdays through December, with the chance for adults and children alike to make keepsakes for the holiday season.
Knowle Farm! – Even if the weather is wet or cold on any particular day, or you just don’t fancy going anywhere, the farm is still a fun place to be. From going for a swim in the indoor heated swimming pool, or a visit to the play barn with the soft play, ride-ons, table tennis and pool table, as well as the woodland walk and all the animals to say hello to, there is plenty to keep the children entertained on site.
So why not book your short break or week away with us now? We would love to welcome you.
