Visiting South Devon Chilli Farm in Winter: A Different Kind of Day Out

Looking for things to do in South Devon this autumn and winter? South Devon Chilli Farm is still worth a visit! Explore our show tunnel before the first frosts arrive, browse our nursery shop for chilli sauces, chocolate and unique Christmas gifts, and discover one of the independent farm shops in the South Hams. Find out what to expect when visiting us during the colder months.

by Charlotte Burdett
Visiting South Devon Chilli Farm in Winter: A Different Kind of Day Out

Looking for things to do in South Devon during the autumn and winter months? You might be surprised to discover that there's still plenty to enjoy at South Devon Chilli Farm, even as the growing season comes to an end.

While our farm looks a little different in winter, you can still visit our nursery shop, browse our range of chilli products and, for a little longer, explore our show tunnel before the first frosts arrive.

Whether you're planning a day out in South Devon, searching for independent farm shops in Devon or looking for somewhere different to do your Christmas shopping, we'd love to welcome you.

Can you visit South Devon Chilli Farm in winter?

Yes! Although the colder months bring changes to the farm, we're still open for visitors to enjoy our shop and discover our range of home-grown chilli products.

Our show tunnel is one of the highlights of visiting the farm. It's where you can get a closer look at the plants we grow, discover different chilli varieties and see the results of all the work that goes into growing chillies here in South Devon.

However, the show tunnel is seasonal. We usually have until around November, depending on the weather, before the first frost arrives. Once temperatures begin to drop and frost threatens the plants, we close the show tunnel and other growing areas for the winter.

If visiting the show tunnel is on your list, autumn is the ideal time to plan your trip. We're open Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays 10am-4pm. 

Looking for things to do in South Devon?

South Devon is full of beautiful countryside, coastal walks, independent businesses and places to explore. If you're searching online for things to do in South Devon, days out in South Devon or places to visit in Devon, South Devon Chilli Farm offers something a little different.

We're a working chilli farm in the South Hams, growing more than 100 varieties of chillies and producing a wide range of chilli-inspired products.

A visit gives you the chance to explore our growing areas when they're open, browse the shop and discover products made using chillies grown here on the farm.

We're also a useful stop if you're exploring the South Hams and want to support an independent local business along the way.

And if you're visiting with someone who loves cooking, gardening or trying new flavours, there's a good chance they'll find something to enjoy.

Discover our farm shop

Our farm shop remains a highlight throughout the colder months. It's the place to browse our range of chilli products, find gifts and pick up something tasty to take home.

You'll find plenty of options, including:

  • Chilli sauces ranging from milder favourites to seriously hot sauces for those who like a challenge.

  • Jams, jellies and chutneys for adding a chilli twist to cheeseboards, sandwiches and everyday cooking.

  • Chilli chocolate for anyone who enjoys the combination of chocolate and heat.

  • Cooking ingredients and gifts for chilli enthusiasts and adventurous cooks.

If you're looking for farm shops in South Devon, independent food shops in Devon or somewhere to discover locally produced gifts, our shop is well worth a visit.

It's also a chance to explore flavours you might not have come across before. Whether you're after a new everyday sauce or something with a little more fire, our range offers plenty of choice.

Christmas shopping in South Devon

Autumn and winter are wonderful times to visit if you're starting to think about Christmas presents.

If you're searching for Christmas shopping in South Devon, unique Christmas gifts in Devon or foodie gifts from Devon, our shop is full of ideas for anyone who enjoys good food and a bit of chilli heat.

Chilli products make particularly good gifts because there's something for all sorts of tastes. You could put together a selection of sauces for someone who loves spicy food, choose chilli chocolate for a sweet-toothed friend or pick out a mixture of preserves and cooking ingredients for someone who enjoys experimenting in the kitchen.

We also offer gift sets, making it easy to find something ready to give. And if you're shopping for someone who already seems to have everything, a selection of unusual chilli products could be just the thing.

Shopping with us is also a lovely way to support an independent South Devon business while finding something a little different from the usual high-street gifts.

So, if you're planning a Christmas shopping trip around Devon, why not add South Devon Chilli Farm to your itinerary?

What happens to the farm when winter arrives?

Growing chillies in South Devon is a seasonal business, and the weather plays a big part in what happens here throughout the year.

As temperatures fall, we start preparing the farm for winter. Our chillies are sensitive to cold conditions, and the first frost marks an important turning point in the growing season.

Around November, depending on the forecast, we close our show tunnel and begin to prepare for the colder months.

Although visitors won't be able to explore these areas once they're closed, the work doesn't stop. Winter is an important time for preparing for the next growing season, looking after equipment, planning what we'll grow and getting everything ready for another year of chilli growing.

By the time spring arrives, we'll be looking forward to welcoming visitors back to see the new season taking shape.

Planning your winter visit

If you're thinking of visiting South Devon Chilli Farm over autumn or winter, here are a few things to bear in mind.

  • Visit before the first frost if you'd like to explore the show tunnel. We usually close it around November, depending on the weather.

  • Allow time to browse the shop. You might arrive looking for a bottle of sauce and leave with a few extra treats or Christmas presents.

  • Dress for the weather. We're a working farm in the South Hams, so suitable footwear and a coat are a good idea.

Our winter opening hours are different from our summer schedule, so please check our website before travelling to make sure you can visit when you plan to.

Any Questions?