It’s a magical time of year in Bristol. The city feels alive with twinkling lights, festive music and happy crowds thanks to one of the UK’s greatest Christmas markets. There’s only one problem. It’s a bit busy… We’ve been in Bristol too long, it’s time for something a little different.
So why not have a breather from the city and visit this far quieter and cosier Christmas market on the edge of the Cotswolds next month? The Christmas Cheltenham Arts & Craft Market returns on December 12 to 22, surrounded by charming Regency buildings.
Hosted by Cotswold Markets, a small yet select number (32 to be exact) of stalls will be set up on The Promenade of the spa town. You’ll be able to shop for many handmade Christmas gifts from local creators, makers and producers – including jewellery, glasswork, woodcraft, art prints, pottery and more.
What else is there to do in Cheltenham this Christmas?
The Christmas lights are already up and sparkling around Cheltenham. But from November 29, the Imperial Gardens glides into the festivities with its very own spectacular ice rink. Open daily (apart from Christmas Day), it’s filled with festive lights, music and decorations too!
You can also catch not one but TWO pantomimes in the town. Watch the timeless tale of Aladdin at the Everyman Theatre (November 29 – January 12, 2025) with dazzling costumes, breathtaking set designs, and iconic musical numbers. Then catch Jack and the Beanstalk at Cheltenham Playhouse Theatre (December 13 – January 5, 2025) as he “sacrifices his beloved DJ-loving cow, Edelweiss, for a bag of beans”…
Elsewhere, the free Christmas Elf Trail will lead you all around the town centre; there’s an awe-inspiring Spectacle of Light trail at the nearby Sudeley Castle; and you can catch all the horse racing action at the Home of Jump Racing, Cheltenham Racecourse for The Christmas Meeting (December 13 & 14), including a Santa’s Grotto on the Saturday.
How do I get there from Bristol?
The quickest way to Cheltenham from Bristol is by train. From Temple Meads, it takes just under 40 minutes. Alternatively, you can drive for roughly an hour via the M5. Park at Regent Arcade Car Park, otherwise use the Park & Ride at Arle Court (GL51 6SY) or Cheltenham Racecourse (GL50 4SH).