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Bath is one of the most beautiful places to be at Christmas, but it’s not just the Bath Christmas Market that’ll have you feeling festive, it’s the buskers, the Christmas lights in Bath and the general festive and jovial atmosphere.
This guide will cover everything visitors need to know about spending Christmas in Bath from Christmas breaks in Bath, the best Christmas dinner in Bath and tips on the best Bath Christmas Market Stalls, plus other events you should plan into your Christmas itinerary.
What to expect at the Bath Christmas Market 2024
For those who haven’t visited Bath at Christmas before, if you visit Bath between the dates that the Bath Christmas Market is on which is the 28th November to the 15th December then you’ll be delighted by all sorts of market stalls.
New for 2023, the Bath Christmas Market installed some Christmas carts which are smaller stalls that are just three or four day lets (instead of the full 18 days) and many local independents can be found here.
If you visit the Bath Christmas Market with an open mind for what you’d like to buy, you’re sure to find something for a loved one’s Christmas present.
Navigating with the Bath Christmas Market map
The Bath Christmas Market Map is useful for navigating the market, especially with over 170 chalets and stalls spread across the city. I’d really recommend downloading it if you haven’t been to Bath before as the market is spread across the centre so you don’t want to miss anything. The market is primarily located in the historic centre, with key areas around Bath Abbey, York Street, and the Roman Baths.
The map highlights the main shopping zones and notable sections where you’ll find stalls, food vendors, and entertainment. It’s a good idea to download or screenshot the map ahead of time so you can plan your route.
For easy access, use this link to download the Bath Christmas Market Map.
Key areas you should explore:
- Bath Abbey Courtyard: Located in the heart of the market, this area is particularly atmospheric with the Abbey as a backdrop. Expect to find many artisan stalls and festive food options.
- York Street: A very busy street with local crafts, gifts, and festive treats.
- Union Street: This street will lead you to stalls offering both gifts and a variety of food and drink options, perfect for a mid-shopping break.
Bath Christmas Market 2024 prices
Prices at the Bath Christmas Market vary depending on the type of products you’re looking to buy, but you can expect handmade gifts and crafts to range from £10 for smaller items to upwards of £50 for artisanal products.
Bath Christmas Market is known for having all sorts of different crafts, from bespoke jewellery to handmade candles, so the prices reflect the craftsmanship. Not all products are local with many stallholders coming from all over the country.
Food prices
Festive food and drink stalls are a big attraction, with prices for snacks like warm crepes and doughnuts ranging from around £3 to £8.
Full meals such as mac and cheese, and fish and chips can range from £9 to £13, while festive drinks like mulled wine and hot chocolate are typically around £5-£7.
Bath Christmas Market stalls
Bath Christmas Market has a reputation for featuring artisans locally and from all around the UK. Here are some stalls to look out for in 2024:
- House of Leopards: Owned by Bath local, Soph, this stall will be back at the market in 2024 and she’ll be selling her gorgeous eco-friendly, resin earrings
- Beau & Badger: The perfect gift for your potty-mouthed friend, this seller stocks bone china hand decorated with hilariously naughty words.
- Bibico: A Bath-based clothing shop that sells the most beautiful, warm, ethical clothing made using natural fabrics.
- The Wooden Tie Company: One of the market’s most funny, memorable stalls, offering handcrafted wooden ties and bow ties – perfect for those looking for a very quirky gift.
Best food stalls at Bath Christmas Market
- Feast Brothers: Famous for its rich, cheesy pasta goodness, this stall is a must-visit for comfort food lovers. Plus, they’re Bath-based too
- La Lola: A favourite amongst market-goers, these warm churros with chocolate dipping sauce are the ultimate festive treat. They also have vegan options too.
- The Angelfish Restaurant: Located in Abbey Green, this vendor offers a tasty option for those with dietary restrictions, but it’s delicious for everyone. If you present your Residents Discovery Card, you get 50p off some dishes!
Bath Christmas Market 2024 trip
When you’re planning your trip to Bath Christmas Market in 2024 it’s important to make the right decision about how to travel. Here are your options:
Driving to the Bath Christmas Market
For those who want to drive to the Bath Christmas Market, I highly recommend you take advantage of the Park & Ride. Parking in Bath is usually very challenging and expensive, and it’ll be even busier at Christmas time. There are even more Park & Ride services while the market is on and it’s only £3.60 for your return bus fare, you park for free. If you choose to go ahead with parking in central Bath, expect road closures, long queues and expensive parking fees. Just saying!
Getting a train to the Bath Christmas Market
Bath Spa train station is very central and you can easily walk from here to the market. In fact, as soon as you get off the train you’ll be able to enjoy the festive atmosphere as you walk through SouthGate Shopping Centre up to the market. This option is going to be the most time efficient if your local train station is accessibly.
Coach trips to the Bath Christmas Market
If you’re looking for coach trips to the Bath Christmas Market, there’s plenty coming in and out of the city at all times of day. You’ll be dropped off near the Bath on Ice rink and Alpine ski bar and the Royal Crescent, so it’s a very scenic drop off. It’s worth looking around for coach trip deals as these will often be much more affordable than the train.
Bath Christmas Market coach trips booking tips
- Book coach trips as early as possible as they tend to sell out, especially for weekend trips towards the end of the market when it tends to be business.
- Look for bundled deals that include both travel and accommodation perks, such as having mulled wine, an afternoon tea or other activities included.
Christmas lights in Bath
Bath’s Christmas lights are really magical. The entire city lights up, creating a warm and festive atmosphere. Walking through Bath’s streets during the Christmas season is like stepping into a Christmas card. The lights cover the historic buildings and streets with an extra bit of sparkle, bringing the city to life as a winter wonderland.
The Bath Christmas lights are switched on in the middle November, and it’s one of my favourite times of the year. Everyone gathers in the city centre, with a mix of locals and visitors all watching in awe as the city gets a makeover. The lights are up all the way until the start of January, so you have plenty of time to enjoy them if you’re visiting Bath during this season.
Last year there wasn’t an official Christmas lights switch on, instead there was a Christmas light procession, so we can only assume a similar event will happen this year.
Bath Christmas lights walking tour
One of the best things to do during Christmas in Bath is to take a self-guided walking tour of the Christmas lights. You don’t need a map – just start in the city centre and let the lights guide you!
- Milsom Street: Start on Milsom Street, where the lights are some of the best in the city. The historic Georgian buildings look incredible adorned in lights, and many of the shop windows are beautifully decorated too. There are often holograms over the buildings and many are flashing, it’s really lovely.
- Royal Crescent: From Milsom Street, make your way up to the Royal Crescent. It’s a bit of a walk, but trust me, it’s worth it. Seeing the stunning architecture of the Royal Crescent lit up at night is a sight to behold. They always have the most beautiful Christmas tree on the front lawn.
- Bath Abbey: End your tour at Bath Abbey. This is one of my favourite spots during Christmas in Bath. The Abbey Square has a huge Christmas tree, and it’s the perfect place to stand and take in the lights while sipping on a mulled wine or hot chocolate from a nearby stall while enjoying the buskers.
Bath Christmas lights trails 2024
- Longleat’s Festival of Light: Each year is different at Longleat with the most amazing themes revealed closer to the time. This year is Journey Through Time, a look back in history with Arabian Nights, sphinx, pyramids and an epic light show on the house. It’s also been ten years so expect something amazing!
- Stourhead at Christmas: Although it is a little way out of Bath, Stourhead is one of the most epic Christmas light trails I’ve ever seen, highly recommend going if you can get there.
- Avon Valley Country Park: Follow the light tour as you explore the country park, this includes the animatronic dinosaurs and the beautiful lake. It’s worth going even if you don’t have kids!
- Westonbirt Arboretum: Definitely more kid-friendly and a little shorter than the other trails, this light show is incredible as it casts over some of the most beautiful trees in the South West.
Father Christmas in Bath
If you’re visiting Bath with kids (or even if you’re an adult who loves a bit of Christmas magic!), meeting Father Christmas is a must. There are a few places around the city where you can find him:
- Avon Valley Country Park: Father Christmas will be returning to Avon Valley Country Park so kids can meet him, there’s a festive show so prepare to be entertained, you can also go to the toy factory to receive a special gift.
- Father Christmas’ Grotto in Milsom Street: Located perfectly within the Bath Christmas Market, kids can meet Santa in Bath with a professional experience with actors and elves!
Whether you’re visiting the market or exploring the city, keep your eyes peeled for Father Christmas – you never know where he might pop up!
Christmas dinner in Bath
You can’t visit Bath during Christmas without indulging in a proper Christmas dinner. Whether you’re after something luxurious or prefer a more laid-back pub experience, Bath has something to offer. I’d get on and book this quickly, especially if you’re with a big group or weekend visit, as these will book up very quickly!
The Hare & Hounds: If you prefer something a relaxed, head to The Hare & Hounds. It’s a traditional country pub just outside the city centre, and it serves one of the best Christmas dinners around. The views over the countryside are spectacular, and the food is hearty and delicious – perfect after a long day of exploring.
The Bath Stable: If you’re looking for something a bit different, this is the place to be. The Bath Stable is known for having tonnes of different cider options, however at Christmas they also have some delicious festive pizzas!
Clayton’s Kitchen: If you want decadent food in a beautiful atmosphere, Clayton’s will tick all your boxes. The staff are incredible and you’ll be blown away by the food options. I’ve had amazing vegan dinner’s here in years gone by so I recommend it.
Christmas breaks in Bath
Why not make your Christmas in Bath extra special by booking a Christmas break? There are so many places that offer festive packages, combining Christmas dining with spa treatments or cosy accommodation.
Royal Crescent Hotel: I recommend looking into their stays over Christmas Day, which includes two nights from the 24-26th December. You’ll be fed some of the best Christmas food around, and you’ll have access to the cosy spa. It’s a great way to unwind after exploring the city.
The Francis Hotel: This hotel is right in the heart of the city, and they offer lovely Christmas breaks that include festive dinners, accommodation in their beautifully decorated rooms, and a festive breakfast on Christmas morning. It’s such a lovely way to experience the magic of Bath at Christmas.
Other festive activities
Christmas shopping in Bath
Bath is well known for its independent shops, and Christmas is the perfect time to discover them. Whether you’re looking for unique gifts or just want to take in the festive window displays, the best places to go are Milsom Street and SouthGate, these are the main shopping areas in Bath, with a mix of high street brands and independent boutiques.
You’ll find everything from fashion to homewares, and the Christmas window displays are a sight to behold. Just be aware that if you’re going during the Bath Christmas Market it will be busy!
Festive events and entertainment
Bath has so much more to offer during Christmas than just the market. There’s always something festive going on, whether it’s a concert, a theatre show, or a skating session at Bath on Ice.
Bath on Ice
This is one of the most popular Christmas activities in Bath. It’s an open-air ice rink located in Victoria Park, and it’s a must-visit if you’re in the city for Christmas. After you’ve had a go on the ice, warm up with a drink at the Alpine Ski Bar – it’s the perfect way to end the afternoon or start the evening!
Christmas concerts at Bath Abbey
The Abbey hosts some really lovely events throughout December. Whether you’re religious or not, the carol services and festive performances are something you shouldn’t miss. The atmosphere in the Abbey is really magical at this time of year.
The Theatre Royal
If you’re a fan of the theatre, make sure to check out the Christmas shows at the Theatre Royal. The Christmas pantomime in 2024 is Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, which is great fun for families and adults.
Bath during the festive season is such a great experience. It has so much stunning Georgian architecture, Christmas lights, and the delightful Christmas Market, it’s no wonder Bath is one of the most popular destinations in the UK at Christmas. Whether you’re visiting for the market, taking in the beautiful Christmas lights, or indulging in a festive meal, the city offers something special for everyone. From the festive events at Bath Abbey to Father Christmas meet-and-greets and scenic winter walks, Christmas in Bath is a magical experience.
If you’re planning to visit Bath this Christmas, be sure to book your trip early to secure the best accommodation and dining experiences. For more tips and detailed guides on what to do, where to stay, and what events to attend, keep an eye out for more articles related to Christmas in Bath.
Bath Christmas Market commonly asked questions
Why does Bath Christmas Market finish so early?
Many people live in Bath city centre which means if it stays open late it’ll become a nuisance to Bath residents trying to sleep in their homes. Stallholders also need time to tidy away their stalls for the night so quiet can ensue on the streets, especially on weekdays.
Who runs Bath Christmas Market?
The Bath Christmas Market is run by the local council, BANES Council, it’s a small team of people from the council who organise the event alongside many contractors and freelancers.
Where is Bath Christmas Market held?
The Bath Christmas Market is held across various locations in Bath including the Bath Abbey Courtyard, York Street, Stall Street and other locations. If you walk around the city centre you will find it.
When is Bath Christmas Market open?
The Bath Christmas Market is open everyday from 28th November until 15th December. The stalls at the market are open between:
- Monday – Wednesday, 10am – 7pm
- Thursday – Saturday, 10am – 8pm
- Sunday, 10am – 6pm
How busy is Bath Christmas Market?
The Bath Christmas Market gets extremely busy on the weekends, especially later in December. The best time to visit is at the start of the week during the day. The last weekend of the Bath Christmas Market is almost unbearable.