There is much to enjoy in Bristol in the run up to Christmas, from the German market in the shopping quarter, to the fun fair in Millenium Square. Personally, I always think it is fun to see what other cities have on offer as well. This month Christmas markets have been taking centre stage in towns and cities across England and Wales. They are a fantastic place to meet family and friends, to buy local crafts, and unusual gifts and to sample local foods. They bring much needed festive cheer to our cities as the dark nights set in.
All around the U.K. during November, December and January you will find squares, parks and even castles transformed into magical scenes this winter.
Here are the best Christmas markets to visit by train from Bristol. This year most of them have an ice rink for skating so wrap up warm.
Getting to Temple Meads Station
The easiest way to get to the station is by bus. If you are driving to the city, use one of the park and ride schemes. You won’t have to worry about parking charges, city centre traffic or clean air charges. If you tap on or off with a contactless card you will automatically get the best value ticket. The First Bus app will also let you buy tickets and plan your journey. It will show you which bus to catch and even how to walk to the bus stop.
Bath
Bath Christmas market is based around the Abbey precinct and will be full of local crafters and food producers selling their wares from 150 wooden chalets.
It runs from 22 November to 12th December.
There are always lots of Christmas activities in Bath. This year, there will be an ice rink in Victoria Park and a light trail of some of Bath’s most iconic buildings. Locals often prefer the small independent market at Green Park station.
Birmingham
Birmingham has the largest German market outside Germany. The Frankfurt Christmas market runs from 2nd November to 24 December in the area around New Street and Victoria Square. Enjoy German beer, bratwurst and pretzels while listening to live bands. One of the market’s unmissable sights and sounds is the singing Christmas moose who serenades passersby from his usual spot in front of the council house.
From 3rd November until 8th January there will be a big Wheel and an Ice rink in Centenary Square.
Cardiff
Cardiff Christmas market opens on Thursday 16th November and runs until 2nd Jauary 2024. You will find many stalls selling handmade Welsh crafts and local food. The famous Victorian and Edwardian shopping arcades are only a short walk away and always beautifully decorated.
Cardiff Winter wonderland is held outside Cardiff Castle and on the city Hall lawn. Attractions include a skating rink, fun fair and ice bar. The castle grounds are free to visit in winter.
Gloucester
Gloucester Quays Christmas market is spread across the historic docks and over 90 traders will offer gifts cards and food. There will also be an open-air ice rink.
Open weekends in November and December. 20 minutes’ walk or a short bus ride from the station.
Held in Broad Street from 1st to 18th December 10 minutes walk from the station
Worcester
Victorian characters and entertainers will help bring Worcester’s historic streets to life. The Victorian themed street market will have over 200 stalls selling Christmas decorations and gifts. Many of the stall holders dress in costume and the event attracts thousands of visitors each year.
Held from 1st to 4th December in the area around the cathedral.