Autumn & Winter Short breaks In East Devon

Autumn and Winter Short Breaks at Alpine Park Cottages

Summer may be coming to an end, but there is still plenty to enjoy in East Devon. In fact, autumn and winter can be a wonderful time to escape for a few days, enjoy quieter beaches and countryside, and discover everything the area has to offer.

At Alpine Park Cottages near Exeter, we have short breaks available from just 3 or 4 nights, giving you the perfect excuse for a little getaway.

Our 11 self-catering cottages are set within six acres of lightly wooded parkland, offering a peaceful and comfortable base for couples, families and friends. Whether you are planning a weekend away, a midweek break or a few days of Christmas shopping, there is plenty to see and do nearby.

Something for Everyone

Football fans can enjoy a trip to watch Exeter City FC, while those looking for festive fun can head into Exeter to enjoy the Christmas markets and seasonal shopping.

A visit to the Donkey Sanctuary near Sidmouth is always a lovely day out, with beautiful walks and plenty of donkeys to meet. You could also take advantage of one of the winter birdwatching and wildlife cruises with Stuart Line Cruises and enjoy a different view of the beautiful Devon coastline.

For something a little more festive, enjoy Christmas shopping in the wonderful independent shops of Sidmouth, or visit Paulos Circus at Greendale, depending on what seasonal events are taking place.

Of course, you do not need a packed itinerary. Sometimes the best part of an autumn or winter break is simply wrapping up warm for a walk along the coast, stopping for lunch in a local pub and then returning to the comfort of your cottage for a relaxing evening.

If you are visiting Westpoint Exeter for the popular Antique and Vintage Fair, the Christmas Shopping Fair in November, or any of the many other events held there throughout the year, Alpine Park Cottages is just a few miles up the road and provides the perfect place to stay.

Autumn & Winter Highlights in East Devon

Sidmouth Classic Car Show – Saturday 12 September 2026
A great day out for classic car enthusiasts, held at Sidmouth Cricket Club

Paulo's Christmas Circus at Greendale – 11 December 2026 to 2 January 2027
A festive family favourite at Greendale Farm Shop, with performances throughout the Christmas period

Westpoint Antiques & Collectors Fair – 14–15 November 2026
Perfect for antique hunters and collectors, with hundreds of stands at Westpoint Exeter

Westpoint Christmas Shopping Fayre – 27–29 November 2026
Three days of festive shopping, with gift ideas, handmade treasures and Christmas goodies. Friday and Saturday are 10am–5pm, with Sunday 10am–4pm

Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market – 13 November–13 December 2026
Enjoy festive stalls, food, gifts and Christmas atmosphere in the beautiful setting of Exeter Cathedral

The Donkey Sanctuary – Open throughout the year
A lovely day out whatever the season, with beautiful countryside walks and plenty of donkeys to meet

Bicton Park Botanical Gardens – Open throughout the year
Enjoy the gardens and surrounding countryside during the changing seasons

Winter birdwatching on the River Exe
Autumn and winter are particularly good times for birdwatching around the Exe Estuary, with large numbers of wintering waders and wildfowl. Stuart Line Cruises also offers wildlife and birdwatching trips when scheduled

Exeter City FC
Why not combine watching Exeter City play at St James Park with a relaxing short break at Alpine Park Cottages?

Christmas shopping in Sidmouth
Explore Sidmouth's independent shops, cafés and restaurants and enjoy a more relaxed Christmas shopping experience away from the bigger cities

And don't forget Westpoint Exeter

If you are visiting Westpoint Exeter for an event, exhibition or show, Alpine Park Cottages is a particularly convenient place to stay. Westpoint's 2026 calendar includes the Antiques Fair in November, Christmas Shopping Fayre, Motorhome & Campervan Show and Westpoint Equine Fair, amongst many other events. drop us an email for the best rates direct

Looking for an autumn or winter short break in East Devon? Alpine Park Cottages is the perfect base for a 3 or 4-night getaway, with comfortable self-catering cottages set in peaceful countryside just a few miles from Exeter and Westpoint Exeter.