Brass band playing music outdoors during a festive night event, with people wearing warm winter clothing and hats.

Dickensian Evening in Tavistock

Friday 5th December 2025

Tavistock’s Dickensian Evening is one of the highlights of the town’s calendar - a truly magical event that ushers in the festive season in classic Dickensian style.

Step back in time as local shopkeepers don traditional costume and the streets come alive with music, laughter and twinkling lights. With the scent of roast chestnuts in the air, the glow of Tavistock’s Christmas lights, and the puff of vintage steam engines, the whole town is transformed into a bustling winter wonderland.

Enjoy choirs, bands, stilt walkers and street performers, along with an old-fashioned merry-go-round and candy floss for the children. Butcher’s Hall will be brimming with festive craft, food and drink stalls — perfect for a little Christmas shopping.

The festivities begin at 5pm, with the official lights switch-on at 5:45pm.

At The Bedford Hotel, we’ll be open throughout the evening, serving our full dinner menu in the restaurant, bar and lounges, with Gallery 26 open for extra space. Enjoy live performances from The Edge Singers and The Tavy Tars while you relax with a delicious meal, a warming glass of mulled wine, or a traditional Dartmoor Brewery ale.

A warm welcome, great food and festive cheer — all waiting for you this Dickensian Evening at The Bedford.

To book your table for dinner at The Bedford, call 01822 613221 or book online.

Book a Table

 

Children wearing festive hats and coats singing on a stage at a nighttime outdoor event, watched by a crowd.
Colorful lanterns shaped like animals and fantasy figures being carried during an outdoor evening event
Vintage green steam engine truck labeled 'Soulby's Ales' driving through a street at night during a festival, surrounded by people.
Performer with braided hair holding a fire spinning staff in front of a stone building at night