It isn’t anywhere near as long as Bristol’s, but Bath has built up quite the festive spirit with its charming Christmas happenings. For two and a half weeks every year, Bath Christmas Market lights up the gorgeous Georgian streets of our closest neighbouring city and fills the city centre with hundreds of wooden chalets.
No wonder then that Which? has crowned Bath the UK’s best Christmas market in 2024. Known for its independent advice, the brand highlighted it as one of the UK’s biggest and most established Christmas markets. Head down from Thursday next week (November 28) to buy from an unbeatable range of independent sellers from the South West.
Wander down from the top of Milsom Street towards Bath Abbey, stopping by several other spots along the way, for local food and handmade gifts. You’ll be able to pick up every and anything from “garden sculptures to handmade wooden furniture, Bristolian knitwear to indie fragrances, and gifts for your furry companions.”
When is Bath Christmas Market open?
Bath Christmas Market is open from Thursday, November 28 to Sunday, December 15. Opening times:
- Monday to Wednesday: 10am to 7pm
- Thursday to Saturday: 10am to 8pm
- Sundays: 10am to 6pm
Where is it in Bath?
The main parts of the market will be found on Milson Street, Bath Street and Bath Abbey, but there are also chalets placed on and around Green Street, Union Street, York Street, Kingston Parade, Abbey Green and Abbeygate Street.
What can I buy?
Don’t expect copy-and-pasted Christmassy stalls like every other market. With over 170 stalls selling South West produce, you’re bound to find something unique that supports local businesses. We won’t bother naming everyone, but we’ll give you a taste of what’s on offer instead.
You’ll find artisan gins from 6 O’clock Gin, Beau & Badger with tongue-in-cheek pottery, one of the UK’s only independent perfume houses at Abbey Perfumery, all things garlic from The Garlic Farm, and Amica and its felt animal-themed Christmas decorations. Plus, baked goods, metal garden art, luxury skincare, CBD oil, Bristol cider, foraged jam, glass baubles, British honey and so so so much more.
What else is there to do at Christmas in Bath?
Which? recommends exploring Bath Abbey and the Roman Baths, while in town, but you can do this any time of year. But for the next best Christmassy attraction in Bath head to the ice rink in Royal Victoria Park. Bath on Ice is open now (November 15) until January 5, 2025.
The ice rink is open from 10.30am – 10pm, and is also home to the Moguls Alpine Bar serving festive cocktails, mulled wine and cider, and hot chocolates. Plus, check out the glow-in-the-dark adventure golf course, Glow Golf, decked out with fairy lights. For more festive glows in Bath, the gardens of the American Museum are lit up until the end of December.
How do I get to Bath Christmas Market?
Your easiest option is to take the train, which can be as quick as 10 minutes from Bristol Temple Meads. Otherwise, you can easily drive via the A4 – taking anywhere from 30 to 50 minutes. For somewhere to park, head to Charlotte Street Car Park, Manvers Street, Podium Shopping Centre, SouthGate, Avon Street Parking or Bath Cricket Club.
To learn more about Bath Christmas Market head here.