Local Events in North Devon | The Royal & Fortescue Hotel

Plan a Memorable North Devon Break

Plan an even more memorable stay with the help of our diary of local events in the area, from Bonfire nights at The Big Sheep to beach side festivals North Devon has it all.

Here are some of the highlights of events happening in Barnstaple and North Devon to help you plan your trip.

Royally Good Deals

1 Jul - 14 Nov 2026

In the mood for a bargain? Look no further than our NEW RF Lounge & Bar Deals.

The North Devon Show returns for 2025 with the usual Devon blend of attractions, exhibitions, trade stands, crafts and food - celebrating all things rural. It's the premier agricultural event in the region and has something for everyone.

August Bank Holiday Summer Music Festival

28 - 29 Aug 2026

Make it a bank holiday remember with The Big Sheep's Summer Time Music Festival. Offering a lively and fun-filled atmosphere that’s sure to become a highlight of your summer calendar.

North Devon Christmas Market

5 Nov 2026

The North Devon Christmas Market is one of the largest outdoor holiday markets in the region, featuring over 150 stalls with crafts, gifts, and festive treats alongside a wide variety of international food and drink. Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy live entertainment - including choirs, acoustic music, dancers, and carol singing. As well as children's rides and inflatables, making it a complete festive experience for all ages.

Psychic Supper

12 Nov 2026

A psychic supper at The Royal & Fortescue in Barnstaple blends a delicious two-course meal with private spiritual readings in a historic, atmospheric setting.

Christmas at Arlington Court

21 Nov 2026 - 3 Jan 2027

Celebrate "A Storybook Christmas" at Arlington Court with classic literary-themed house decorations, an interactive outdoor story trail, and traditional green Father Christmas visits. Families can also enjoy special late-night open evenings featuring marshmallow-toasting, crafts, live carols, festive food, and local gift shopping.

Barnstaple Christmas lights switch-on

26 Nov 2026

Kick off the festive season at Barnstaple’s Christmas lights switch-on, featuring the official town light switch-on, live entertainment, local food and drink, and late-night shopping at the historic Pannier Market and High Street.

Santa’s Mistletoe Lodge Grotto

26 Nov - 24 Dec 2026

Visit Santa’s Mistletoe Lodge Grotto at Green Lanes Shopping Centre in Barnstaple. Kids can meet Father Christmas, take a keepsake photo, share their wish list, and receive a gift straight from the workshop.

Royal and Fortescue Hotel 62 the Bank Restaurant Dining Area with Christmas Decorations

Festive Lunches & Dinners

27 Nov 2026 - 2 Jan 2027

Get in the festive spirit early by gathering friends, family, and work colleagues and treating yourself to a festive lunch or dinner in the warmth and comfort of 62 The Bank.

Festive Afternoon Tea

27 Nov 2026 - 2 Jan 2027

Enjoy an extra special Christmas treat as you indulge in our festive afternoon tea. Sink into our cosy lounge enjoying a traditional afternoon tea with a festive twist, gather your closest friends, family or work colleagues and celebrate the festive season.

Lynton & Lynmouth Christmas Shopping

28 - 29 Nov 2026

This year, the charming twin towns of Lynton & Lynmouth are pulling out all the stops for an extended Christmas Weekend. Promising twinkling lights, festive markets, community competitions and heart-warming entertainment for the whole family.

Christmas Party Nights

28 Nov 2026 - 9 Jan 2027

The Royal & Fortescue Hotel knows how to throw a Christmas party; charming surroundings, attentive staff and delicious food will make your party one to remember.

the big sheep | christmas | santa | festive

Christmas at The Big Sheep

28 Nov - 24 Dec 2026

Celebrate the magic of the season at The Big Sheep this year. Enjoy festive activities for all the family, seasonal treats, fun rides and the chance to meet Santa himself.

The Magic of Christmas at The Milky Way

5 - 23 Dec 2026

Step into a world of festive wonder at The Magic of Christmas at The Milky Way Adventure Park.

Psychic Supper

16 Dec 2026

A psychic supper at The Royal & Fortescue in Barnstaple blends a delicious two-course meal with private spiritual readings in a historic, atmospheric setting.

edwardian restaurant laid up for christmas

Christmas Day Lunch

25 Dec 2026

Leave the Christmas day stress behind and join us for the perfect Christmas day lunch, forget the stress of the large food shop, all the cooking, and cleaning as you retreat to The Edwardian at The Royal & Fortescue Hotel.

More from The Royal & Fortescue Hotel

News

Keep up-to-date with The Royal & Fortescue Hotel's latest news. Be inspired for your next hotel break in Barnstaple, North Devon. Use our blogs as a guide to finding out more about the must-sees, hidden treasures and local news.

Bikes Leaning on Wall with a View Over the Estuary at Instow North Devon

Things To Do

There are great activities available close to the Royal & Fortescue Hotel to make your stay even more memorable, enjoy family fun at The Big Sheep, try something new with paddleboarding or coasteering around the North Devon coast or take a step back in time at Arlington Court.

Accommodation

With 48 luxury rooms, most being recently refurbished with a fresh contemporary style, quality furnishings and all the little touches that make a difference. We are the perfect base for your break, set in the town centre of Barnstaple our rooms create warmth and charm that you will look forward to returning to after a busy day exploring.

Sunset Over River Taw in Barnstaple North Devon

Offers & Breaks

Whether it's a weekend escape, family holiday, or a few days of indulgence - we'll have an offer to suit everyone. From late availability to packaged breaks, you'll find our best available offers here. Or check our online booking engine if you have other dates in mind.

What's on Locally