There’s something magical about visiting a Christmas market during the festive season. From the wooden huts and stalls that pop up in otherwise mundane streets, to twinkling lights, trees and festive decor to get you in the mood.
Then there are the festive smells of delicious food and drink to warm you up on colder days and nights – and that’s all before we even mention the Christmas shopping and browsing, music and other entertainment you quite often find at such markets during this time of year.
Bristol has its very own Christmas market each year, but if you’re a huge fan of all things festive, then you may have considered also venturing out to other Christmas markets, not too far away from our hometown. We’ve compiled a list of some of the best nearby – from award-winning to lovably local and simply catering to all things festive.
Think we’ve missed your favourite from the list? Let us know by emailing [email protected].
Bath
When: Thursday, November 28 – Sunday, December 15 (10am-7pm, Monday to Wednesday, 10am-8pm Thursday to Saturday, and 10am-6pm on Sundays)
Where: The streets of Bath
What:Bath Christmas Market will return to the streets of Bath this festive season. Visitors will be able to meander through the cobbled streets of the heritage city centre, soak in the festive atmosphere and browse items from some of the best independent makers in the South West and beyond.
This free, open-air event will boast more than 170 twinkling chalets, selling everything from stylish homeware to handmade jewellery, personalised gifts and more. You’ll also be able to enjoy a comforting hot drink, a winter warmer and plenty of delicious food while you wander.
What’s more, Bath Christmas Market supports local charities, with stalls dedicated to them. It’s also striving to be more environmentally responsible year upon year.
Gloucester Quays
When: Every weekend from November 2 – December 15 (opening times vary)
Where: St Ann Way, Gloucester, GL1 5SH
What:The Christmas Markets return to Gloucester Quays this year with a range of festive gifts, locally produced food products, street food and pop-up bars. Located across Gloucester Quays and the historic docks, more than 90 traders will showcase items from across the South West region.
Those who enjoy the monthly Orchard Street Markets will recognise many regular traders, who will be in attendance for this festive market with seasonal specials, while brand new faces will also be there, too. Entry to the market is also completely free.
Wells
Where: Wells Market Place and Bishops Palace Green
When: Saturday, December 14, 2024 (9am-3pm)
What: More than 100 traders will fill Wells Market Place and the Bishops Palace Green with festive stalls, offering an array of gifts, crafts, food and drink products, and more, allowing shoppers the chance to pick up some unique Christmas gifts.
Though only lasting one day a year, this proper village-esque market draws in many shoppers across six hours. You’ll also be able to explore the idyllic cathedral city too.
Weston-super-Mare
Where: Weston Museum, Burlington Street, Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, BS23 1PR
When: Saturday, November 30 and Sunday, December 1, 2024 (10am-3pm both days)
What: Due to ever growing popularity, the Weston Museum Christmas Market is opening its doors on both Saturday and Sunday this year. Entry to the market is free and there will be a wide range of local stallholders and businesses with gifts and products for you to peruse.
Onsite cafe Clara’s will have its usual treats on the menu, alongside some seasonal specialities. While a Christmas children’s trail will see families and little ones hunting through the galleries to find Santa’s missing reindeer.
There will even be a visit from Santa himself (between 10.30am-12.30pm and 1.30pm-3.30pm each day) for photos and meet and greets. Find out more here.