Christmas ’tis almost upon us. But the festivities can begin sooner than that as Christmas markets start to appear around the country. The Bristol Christmas Market has already begun, but there’s more than one Christmas market around Bristol. That’s we’ve gathered all the very best Christmas markets around Bristol to start your festive shopping at.
Bristol Christmas Market
We have to start with the biggest and, arguably, the best. The return of Bristol Christmas Market (November 4) means we can happily treat ourselves to mulled wine, bratwurst sausages and delicious Yorkshire every day again. While of course shopping for lovely Christmas presents, like snow globes, decorative baubles and handmade wooden toys.
It won’t wrap up until December 22 – an incredible 49 days of non-stop Christmas shopping. According to a recent study from Christmas Tree World, this makes it the joint longest Christmas market in the UK. They ranked it eighth among the best markets in the UK.
This year will see the return of the Jäger Barn Bar; the Bavarian-themed bar serving up traditional German Glühwein, mulled cider and hot chocolate with a shot of Baileys. Perfect for keeping you toasty this winter. If you fancy something even more Christmassy, you and some friends can slip into a cosy, snug and private igloo pod – which must be booked in advance.
Over 50 stalls will be selling wonderfully unique, one-of-a-kind gifts and crafts in the city centre. While there will be plenty of entertainment happening across the Christmas period. Children can help out Santa, who has lost a sack of presents. You can follow clues hidden throughout the market to find them! There will also be musical performers at the market every Thursday to Sunday.
Broadmead, Bristol BS1 1UX
Bath Christmas Market
Bristol was not the only local Christmas market to feature in Christmas Tree World’s study. Bath Christmas Market came in 12th on its list of best in the UK. Amazingly, it was the second most instagrammable Christmas market in the UK – with 29,000 tagged posts for Bath alone.
This year will be Bath Christmas Market’s 20th anniversary, so definitely worth heading down to embrace the festive celebrations. It’s on for a much shorter length of time, however, so make sure to be quick. You can catch the Bath Christmas Market in the city centre between November 24 and December 11.
Queen Square, Bath BA1 2HA
Christmas at St Nick’s Markets
Sharing a name with Father Christmas himself, it’s only right that St Nicholas Markets get in the festive spirit. The traditional indoor markets will largely be up to their usual – with over 60 stalls selling perfect Christmas gifts, such as fashion items, accessories, books and records, as well as food. It’s the Christmas-themed outdoor markets that have caught our eye this Christmastime. From December 10 to Christmas Eve, you’ll be able to grab a variety of handmade crafts and delicious festive foods.
St Nicholas Market, Corn Exchange, Old City, Bristol BS1 1JQ
Bearpit Festive Market
The Bearpit will also be getting a festive makeover this Christmas. For five weeks (November 20 to December 18), up to 50 stalls will be selling festive treats and special gifts. It’s the perfect place to support local businesses and find something you won’t on the high street. Plus, there’ll be lots of live music to soundtrack your shopping. Head down every Sunday between 10am and 5pm to get your festive jig on.
The Bearpit, St James Barton Roundabout, Bristol BS1 3LY
Future Leap Festive Markets
Future Leap, the local hub, brings back its Festive Market for the third year running. Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, from November 18 until December 23, Future Leap will offer a different shopping experience this Christmas. Its focus is on businesses encouraging sustainability. You’ll find everything from photography and art prints to eco-friendly beauty and hygiene products, as well as ceramics, handsewn homewares and much more. Every weekend, a different selection of stallholders will make an appearance, so it’s worth repeat visits. Head down between the hours of 10am and 5pm.
1-4 Gloucester Road, Bristol, Bristol BS7 8AA