Celebrate the festive season in one of North Devon’s most breathtaking coastal settings. With spectacular interiors, panoramic views across Instow Beach and exceptional seasonal dining, Christmas at The Boathouse is designed to be truly special.
Whether you’re joining us for a traditional Christmas Day lunch with loved ones or gathering for a festive celebration by the sea, our talented chefs have carefully curated a menu full of seasonal indulgence. Expect warm hospitality, beautifully festive surroundings and those thoughtful finishing touches that make all the difference.
From champagne cocktails and mulled wine on arrival to attentive service and indulgent festive digestifs after dessert, we’ll take care of every detail – so you can simply sit back, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy a Christmas to remember.
Last year's reviews
Celebrate Christmas Day at the Boathouse Instow and enjoy a relaxed festive lunch overlooking the estuary. Leave the cooking to us and settle in for a delicious Christmas Day menu in Instow, packed with seasonal British ingredients, fresh local seafood and traditional festive favourites – all served with warm hospitality and stunning coastal views.

Whether you’re planning an intimate Christmas lunch or a lively festive party by the sea, we have the perfect space to suit your celebration.
Alongside our restaurant and bar tables, all boasting glorious views across Instow Beach and offering flexible layouts for larger groups, we have a selection of spaces available to book. The Gig Bar on our top floor features its own private bar and seats up to 25 guests, making it ideal for office parties and festive get-togethers.
Our semi-private restaurant table is perfect for gatherings of up to 10, while The Lobster Pot offers a cosy corner for four, ideal for a relaxed Christmas catch-up over great food and drinks.
From a three-course feast to a weekend away, or simply a quiet couple of pints in their favourite local, treat someone special and give the gift of the Boathouse this Christmas.

Yes – we’re now taking bookings for Christmas 2026 at The Boathouse. Whether you’re planning festive drinks with friends, an office Christmas party or a family celebration by the coast, we’d love to host you. We recommend booking early for the most popular dates throughout December.
We’re happy to pencil in your preferred date straight away. To confirm your booking, we’ll simply ask for a deposit of £10 per person.
Your deposit is fully refundable up to 14 days before your booking. If you’d prefer to pay by BACS, payment must be received at least 10 working days before your event. Your deposit will be deducted from your final bill and, where applicable, put towards your minimum spend.
Unfortunately, we’re unable to accept payments by cheque.
From intimate festive dinners to larger office Christmas parties, we can accommodate groups of all sizes. Whether you’re gathering a handful of friends or celebrating with the whole team, we’ll help make it a Christmas to remember.
We offer a selection of semi-private spaces, including our Top Bar, perfect for festive drinks, office Christmas parties and private celebrations, all with beautiful estuary views from our Top Deck.
Absolutely. We offer a selection of delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes across our festive menus, so everyone can enjoy a memorable Christmas celebration with us.
Yes. Please submit your menu choices through our online pre-order system at least 14 days before your booking, along with details of any dietary requirements.
You can amend menu choices up to 10 working days before your event, although earlier is always appreciated. If you require menus without calorie information, simply let the team know.
Yes. We cater for a wide range of dietary requirements and allergens. Please let us know of any allergies or dietary needs when you book, and again when you submit your pre-order, so our team can ensure your meal is prepared with the utmost care.
