Torquay is gearing up to transform into a winter wonderland, complete with a light show and Christmas market in just a few weeks. The town’s most historic building, Torre Abbey, will be the backdrop for a spectacular light projection show.
The abbey is poised to be the star attraction of this year’s Bay of Lights programme, kicking off in two weeks (Friday, November 29). The facade of the building will morph into a canvas of light and history with an innovative light projection show dubbed ‘Alive with Light’.
The 3D display pays homage to the building’s heritage, narrating the tale of 800 years of Christmas at the Abbey. Spectators will be treated to a visual and musical journey.
Images inspired by various historical periods, beautifully mapped onto the newly restored architecture of the abbey, will be accompanied by a captivating musical soundtrack. The light projection show forms a crucial part of this year’s Bay of Lights Illumination Trail, which runs every evening from Friday, November 29, 2024 until Thursday, January 2, 2025.
Visitors can kick-start their 1.5-mile trail journey at Torre Abbey before meandering through the mesmerising Tunnel of Lights. From there, they can enjoy a leisurely walk along the picturesque seafront promenade, reports Devon Live.
Lastly, they can immerse themselves in the lively harbourside, where live music is on offer from 6 to 9pm every Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening until Saturday, December 21. The Trail has been made possible thanks to Torbay Council, The English Riviera Bid Company, SWISCo and local company Future Technical Solutions (FTS), who are behind the light displays.
A fresh addition for 2024 is the ‘sponsor a flower’ scheme. For a mere £10, you can sponsor an LED flower under any name of your choosing.
The names will be showcased on boards/projections at the sunken gardens and sponsors will receive a digital certificate acknowledging their contribution. Half of the proceeds will go towards next year’s Illumination Trail and the remaining 50% will be donated to the Mayor of Torbay Council’s selected charities: Play Torbay and The Fisherman’s Mission.
Running parallel to the light show is Torquay’s inaugural Christmas market set to take place on the grounds of Torre Abbey. The market promises a variety of festive delights, unique presents, artisan crafts as well as a mouth-watering selection of food and drink.
It’s the ideal spot for some Christmas shopping and to find that perfect gift for your loved ones whilst basking in the holiday spirit. Over 30 local stalls and food traders will be present along with fun activities for the whole family.
Two expansive, sheltered spots are being set up where visitors can enjoy a heated mulled drink or local ale while sampling festive fare and taking in a captivating light projection display. The Exeter Beer Company is bringing the market to life with the backingg of Torbay Council and Torre Abbey.
Its slated to be open daily from November 29 through to December 22, although the opening hours will vary day by day. Entrance to the market is gratis and accessible to everyone.
Additionally, alongside the market, Torre Abbey is hosting its renowned gifting and handicraft event, Winter Fest, in the Spanish Barn beginning on Saturday, November 30, and concluding on Sunday, December 1. This particular event is a showcase for unique handmade items by local artisans, including Christmas decor, toys, jewellery, and crocheted goods.
Guests will also be able to encounter alpacas from a nearby farm, and browse alpaca-related wares amidst a festive atmosphere filled with yuletide music, decorations and spiced wine. Entry to the event is free of charge, and there’s a 50% concession on admittance fees for the abbey and gardens throughout the Winter Fest weekend.
Cllr Jacqueline Thomas, Cabinet Member for Tourism, Culture and Events and Corporate Services at Torbay Council stated: “With its stunning light projection display and festive Christmas market, Torre Abbey is a must-visit attraction for anyone coming to the English Riviera this Christmas. Ideally situated at the start of the Bay of Lights Illumination Trail, it offers a fantastic opportunity to get into the festive spirit and indulge in some Christmas shopping before enjoying the rest of the light installations.”
Carolyn Custerson, Chief Executive of the English Riviera BID Company, expressed her excitement: ”It is very exciting to see the Bay of Lights, a resort-wide winter marketing campaign initiated by the English Riviera BID Company, continue to grow, with new attractions joining the programme this year.
“There will certainly be lots of festive fun for all the family and many reasons to visit and stay on the English Riviera to share the magic this year. The English Riviera BID Company are pleased to continue to be sponsors of the Illumination Trail. ”.