The days are getting shorter. The hats and mittens are back. The weather's turning. Well, maintaining itself from a pretty rubbish summer. That's right: winter's here, and the Christmas markets are back.
There are dozens of Christmas markets in the UK every year, and it just so happens that some of the best are pretty near us. So grab your hot chocolates and insane Yorkshire pudding roast-dinner-wrap-monstrosities, and make sure to check out some of these markets before they go.
Bristol Christmas Market
23rd November - 23rd December
Bristol’s central shopping area is transformed this Christmas as the city welcomes its annual Christmas Market. With over 50 stalls selling a selection of gifts and food stalls offering traditional German bratwursts and Aberdeen aged burgers, the Bristol Christmas Market is one not to be missed.
There’s also heated seating, drinks such as mulled wines and ciders and live music for those looking to have the real Christmas market experience. For a truly memorable treat, why not book an igloo or gondola? Find out more on the Bristol Christmas Market website.
Bath Christmas Market
23rd November - 10th December
Step back in time and discover the wonderful world of Christmas in Bath. The World Heritage City is transformed into a sea of twinkling lights, with over 150 chalets selling crafts and produce from across the South West and beyond. Treat yourself to a winter warmer and wander through Bath’s beautiful treats while picking up some unique gifts for your loved ones.
Find out more on the Bath Christmas Market website.
Cardiff Christmas Market
9th November - 23rd December
Ranked the second best in the UK, Cardiff's Christmas market is a must. Get there from Bristol by train or car in less than an hour, and enjoy over 200 (!) local vendors selling homemade jewlery, gifts, and foods. Grab a mulled wine and get to know the Welsh capital at its best.
Find our more on the Cardiff Christmas market website.
Christmas at Bristol’s National Trust sites
Bristol has a number of spectacular National Trust sites in the local area, each of which offers a range of fun activities. We’ve chosen our two favourites, but for details on the others, the Visit Bristol site has curated the details here.
Tyntesfield Christmas
Close to Bristol, Tyntesfield is an ornate Victorian Gothic Revival house with extensive garden and parkland.
Christmas at Tyntesfield is celebrated across the entire estate from the 2 December. Decorations and Christmas trees will be everywhere, while the Gibbs family will be back in the house along with their friends, maids and staff, to greet you as they prepare for Christmas festivities. There are plenty of events taking place across the month, from Christmas card making to music performances. Check out their website for full info and dates!
Lacock Christmas
Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays 18th November – 18th December
For a special Christmas treat a little further afield, Lacock could be exactly what you’re looking for. A day out to Lacock in North Wiltshire encompasses the Abbey; a country house with monastic roots, an exploration of the invention of photography in the Fox Talbot Museum, and a lived-in historic village. This National Trust site has been the filming location for many favourites, including Harry Potter and they have a packed calendar of family friendly activities this holiday season. Head on their reindeer trail, or send your letter to Santa from their North Pole mail room.
Made in Bristol Gift Fair at Bristol Beacon
- Saturday 25 & Sunday 26 November
- Saturday 9 & Sunday 10 December
If you’re looking for a unique, hand-crafted Bristol gift, you’re sure to find it at the Made in Bristol Gift Fair. This year the Bristol Beacon is home to 200 stalls showcasing the finest designers, ceramists, illustrators, knitters, wood-workers, jewellers and artists from across the region.
Grab yourself a coffee, take a friend, meet the artists and pick up unique gifts for someone you love. Find out more about opening times and stallholders on the Made in Bristol site.
Bearpit Festive Market
Selected Sundays across November and December
With up to 50 stalls, music and live music, the Bearpit is hosting its very own festive market. Taking place over 6 weeks through November and December, it’s the perfect spot for some feel-good shopping. Come along and support local businesses and makers by picking up a special gift you won’t get anywhere else.
If you are lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of Bear wandering around - their very own Bearpit mascot! Find out more on their facebook page.
Visiting Bristol this Christmas?
Book a room in one of our Clifton Hotels and enjoy Bristol while staying in the heart of the city. Clifton Hotels have a variety of rooms to suit a range of budgets, with parking available. Book direct for our best rate guarantee - or, check out our offers pages for a bargain!
