It's the most magical time of the year, when we start planning our festive day out - and there's nowhere better than a Christmas market. And this year, the UK's largest outdoor waterpark is welcoming its own for the very first time with free entry.

Stretching along the English Riviera on the South Devon coastline is Goodrington beach which is home to Splashdown Waterpark at Quaywest. The hugely popular attraction is the UK's biggest outdoor waterpark, boasting 11 adrenaline-filled flume rides and a giant play area for young children.

During the warmer months, Splashdown Quaywest welcomes hundreds of visitors to race down their slides and this year had a record-breaking number of thrill-seekers. While the waterpark is currently closed until Spring 2026, it will host its first ever Christmas market during two weekends this December, boasting more than 30 stalls.

• 'I tried the famous ‘airport theory’ but there’s one thing you should know’


• Disneyland Paris confirms Frozen land opening date - and we got a first look

The new Christmas market is designed to bring more activity to the desirable seaside area of Goodrington throughout the year, along with a touch of festive cheer. Along with its local craft stalls offering gift inspiration, seasonal treats and festive drinks will also be available, accompanied by a range of fun-packed activities and entertainment for children.

The Christmas market will be held on Saturday, December 13 and Sunday, December 14, and again on Saturday, December 20 and Sunday, December 21 from 11.30am to 6.30pm. Joyfully, entry into the Christmas market will be free, with the event aimed at supporting local traders.

Group Marketing Director and co-owner of the waterpark, Jackie Richmond, told Torbay Weekly: "We are excited to be bringing the first of what we hope will be a number of fun events that will take place out of waterpark season. The Christmas Market Weekends and Festive Fridays will, we hope, bring vibrancy, community spirit and holiday cheer to locals and visitors alike.

"We love Goodrington and want to make it a focus for people both in the summer and beyond, creating something for our local community to enjoy. We hope this event will be something that we can grow year on year."

Additionally, there will be another event called Festive Fridays, offering hot drinks and Bratwurst-style hot dogs from the Quaywest Snack Shack from 4pm to 6pm. You can grab a warming treat from the shack before a brisk walk along Goodrington beach on four consecutive Fridays on November 28, December 5, December 12 or December 19.

Aside from the famed waterpark, Goodrington is a popular destination for a seaside getaway, featuring Paignton Beach and its classic British pier nearby. While the weather will be brisk, this could be the ideal time to visit the Devonshire coast - shopping at the new Christmas market, taking a stroll along the beaches, and visiting some of the area’s beloved attractions, all while avoiding the usual summer holiday crowds.

What's more, Paignton train station is just a short walk away from Splashdown Quaywest and Goodrington Beach, and there are plenty of hotels dotted along the coastline if you want to extend your stay.