Bay of Lights switches on across Torbay tonight

Torre Abbey is getting into the festive spirit this winter, offering something for everyone - from local markets to twinkling light shows and a brand-new real ice rink.

The Winter Fest Artisan Market returns to the Spanish Barn on 29–30 November and 6–7 December (11am–8pm), packed with handcrafted gifts and seasonal treats. Torbay Council is also sharing historic photos of the Barn and inviting ideas for its future, giving visitors a say in how the space is used.

As night falls, the Abbey comes alive with the Alive with Light projection show from 28 November to 2 January (4:30pm–11pm), forming part of the wider Bay of Lights experience.

Families can visit the Winter Wonderland Undercroft, where Father and Mother Christmas will be greeting youngsters across three weekends in December. Theatre fans can catch a one-night Festive Four Forty Double Bill on 12 December, featuring Twelfth Night and A Midsummer Night’s Dream with a holiday twist.

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Music lovers can enjoy the Unleashed Community Choir Christmas Performance on 13 December (6pm–7pm) in the Spanish Barn, with festive songs and seasonal treats. And for a touch of creativity, Wreath Making Workshops take place on 19 December for adults and 20 December for families, using fresh foliage from Torre Abbey’s gardens.

Glide into winter magic with Torquay’s first real ice rink in years, opening in Abbey Park on 6 December. Open whatever the weather, the rink offers hourly sessions for up to 80 skaters, including special Parent & Toddler sessions, and is wheelchair accessible. A sparkling canopy of lights adds extra seasonal charm as part of the Bay of Lights celebrations.

Cllr Jackie Thomas, Cabinet Member for Events, Tourism, Culture and Corporate Services, said: "Torre Abbey is at the centre of Torbay’s festive magic this year. With markets, lights, theatre, music, and now an ice rink, there really is something for everyone to enjoy."

Whether you’re wandering the Spanish Barn, marvelling at projections, or testing your skating skills, Torre Abbey and Abbey Park have plenty of festive sparkle to go around this season.