Winter Day Trips from Exeter

If you’re looking for something different to do this winter to create memories, why not pack up the car and head out on a winter-friendly day trip?

We’ve compiled a list of day trips with destinations accessible from Exeter to give you the option of adding some variety into your winter plans.

The Eden Project

Cornwall’s Eden Project provides the perfect day out for people of all ages. Whether you’re looking for somewhere to take the kids or planning a romantic trip with your partner, the Eden Project is a must-visit destination. With its Rainforest Biome, Mediterranean Biome, Outdoor Gardens, Invisible Worlds exhibition, Nature’s Playground, zip wire and more, it’s the perfect day for adventure and education.

During the festive month of December, the Eden Project has lots to offer to enhance your Christmas celebrations. A breath-taking music and lights experience turns the Rainforest Biome into an immersive night-time tropical wonderland, while the Mediterranean Biome is a Christmas spectacle with a 1920s jazz twist.

The Eden Project is just under an hour and a half (74 miles) away from Exeter.

The English Riviera

Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham make up the infamous English Riviera, and there’s an abundance of things to do across the coast. From Torquay’s harbour, full of stunning views and a variety of restaurants and bars, to Babbacombe’s Model Village and Paignton’s Pier and Crazy Golf, there’s no end to the fun that can be had.

During the winter, the English Riviera hosts the exciting Bay of Lights! With lantern parades, a steam train covered in lights and the Illumination Trail along Torquay seafront, it’s definitely a festive must-see.

Torquay is a half an hour drive (20 miles) from Exeter.

Plymouth

Britain’s Ocean City is full of activities and sightseeing opportunities, which is only set to get better in the winter months. From Drake’s Circus shopping centre to Plymouth Aquarium, there’s something for everyone. In December, you can take your festivity up a notch with Plymouth’s Winter Wonderland, before settling down for a meal at one of the number of restaurants along the Barbican.

Plymouth is an hour’s drive (45 miles) from Exeter.

Woodlands Family Theme Park

Whatever the weather, Woodlands Theme Park is the ultimate family day out, with attractions to suit all ages. The largest theme park in Devon, Woodlands is home to a zoo farm, water rides, indoor play areas, and so much more. Additionally, their festive period features Christmas Evening events, where guests can adventure through the magical forest meeting all of Santa’s friends before arriving at his toy workshop.

Woodlands Theme Park is located near Totnes, and is an hour’s drive (38 miles) from Exeter.

Dartmoor Zoo

Dartmoor Zoo, infamous for its story’s portrayal in the film We Bought a Zoo, is a charitable zoo with a unique history, and it makes for the perfect day trip.

Located on the edge of Dartmoor, it’s a 30-acre zoo dedicated to the conservation and research of animals. It is home to a number of animals, such as notorious big cats, a range of mammals, reptiles, and more. From jaguars to axolotls, you’re bound to find your favourite animal here.

To make it the perfect winter day trip, Dartmoor Zoo has its Zooluminate event, bigger and better than before. See the zoo brought the life in the most enchanting way after dark with a number of light installations and festive food and drink options.

Dartmoor Zoo is just under an hour (40 miles) from Exeter.

And if you’re looking for your next car to make these day trips that much better, check out our range of used cars.