Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market

The Cathedral Close transforms into something genuinely special come December. Wooden chalets line the medieval square, fairy lights strung between the Gothic towers, and the smell of mulled wine pulls you in the second you arrive. It's Christmas done properly - not a shopping mall crammed into an outdoor space, but an actual market that belongs where it is.

You're looking at the usual suspects: crafts, local food, gift stalls, maybe some jewellery. Nothing revolutionary, but the setting does the heavy lifting. The cathedral itself looms above everything, which sounds cheesy until you're actually there watching it light up at dusk. Kids will want to go on the rides if there are any, and fair play - the whole thing has that genuine festive atmosphere that most high streets gave up on years ago.

Plan for a couple of hours minimum if you're eating or drinking anything. The market runs through December (exact dates vary year to year, so check ahead). It's free to wander, though obviously you'll spend money on food and gifts if you want to. Come midweek morning if crowds put you off - weekends get rammed.

If you're staying at Devon Heaven Hideaways just outside the city, this is an easy drive in for an afternoon. Exeter's compact enough that you can park near the cathedral and explore the rest of the city centre while you're there. The whole thing beats sitting in your glamping pod in the rain.