Whether you’re hoping to find that perfect Christmas gift, can’t wait for a mug of hot mulled wine or are simply looking forward to soaking up the festive atmosphere, Somerset’s Christmas markets won’t disappoint.
Calling to all seasonal merrymakers, there are a number of superb Christmas markets to look forward to this winter season in Somerset. Offering something for everyone, they provide the whole family with an opportunity to take part in some good ol’ fashioned festive fun, from sampling seasonal delicacies to picking up artisan stocking fillers.
To get your celebrations started in style, here are some of the best Christmas markets in Somerset for 2024.
Glastonbury Frost Fayre
30th November 2024
An unmissable date for the Christmas calendar is Glastonbury’s Christmas festival. Called Frost Fayre, the festival is always held on the last Saturday in November, lining the streets with Christmas lights and multi-coloured stalls selling all sorts of Christmas delights. Spread across the town centre, there is plenty to see and ample to stir up the festive feeling. Adding an extra flourish to the day are appearances from Father Christmas and his elves, as well as Christmas buskers and live entertainment.
Bristol Christmas Markets
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One of the most widely anticipated events in the South West, Bristol Christmas Market has found far-reaching fame. Truly magical, the markets are located in the heart of the city and are open from November to December. This year will feature over fifty different crafts and gift stalls, foodie stands with everything from churros to Bratwurst, open-air bars with heated seating and lots of live entertainment, as well as private igloos and gondolas for hire. There’s even a chance to meet Santa – well, if you’ve been good, that is.
Hestercombe Christmas Market
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Usually held in November, Hestercombe Christmas Market near Taunton welcomes winter-lovers with an array of Yuletide offerings. Head over and explore this thriving annual market in Somerset and peruse its festive stalls. With every stall filled to the brim with locally-made gifts, foodie goodies and hand-crafted gems, you are sure to find something for the Christmas list. What’s more, you will also receive free admission to Hestercombe’s gardens, house and art gallery with your market ticket too.
Bath Christmas Market
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One of the most beautiful in the country, the historic city of Bath provides a truly atmospheric setting for Christmas celebrations. Taking place in the middle of Bath near Bath Abbey, Bath Christmas Market makes the city even more enchanting, peppering its streets and squares with over 170 traditional chalets adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. Selling everything from hand-blown, Victorian glass ornaments to luxury chocolates handmade in Bristol, there’s plenty to inspire you this Christmas. From November, you can also check out Bath on Ice that returns on in 2024 with its glistening ice rink, alpine bar and glow golf.
Frome Christmas Market
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Featuring a lantern procession, live music, lots of foodie treats and the town’s much-anticipated lights switch-on event, Frome Christmas Market draws locals and visitors alike from far and wide. Pull your scarf around your shoulders and step out in the wintery air to enjoy the event, watching as the town’s ‘Light the Night’ lanterns parade through Frome. For an extra sweet touch, each year has its own theme, such as 2022's ‘Gingerbread Town’ with lanterns coming in the form of mouth-watering gingerbread biscuits, lollipops, sweets, candy canes and more.
Weston Super Mare Christmas Market
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Whether you’re looking for stocking fillers for loved ones or just want to soak up the atmosphere, Weston Super Mare’s Christmas market at Weston Museum has something for you. During the day, grownups can look forward to exploring more than twenty stalls selling handcrafted products, while youngsters can seize the chance to meet Santa Claus and take a photo for the Christmas album.
Taunton Christmas Fayre
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From teeny tots to grandparents, all generations will have a lovely time exploring the seasonal offerings on show at Taunton Christmas Craft Fair in the run up to Christmas this year. Held in December, the event beckons with all kinds of unique gifts handmade in Somerset by local exhibitors. Don the layers and peruse the stalls, taking in the selection of driftwood art pieces, personalised pottery, Christmas wreaths, jewellery inspired by the wilds of Exmoor and much, much more.
Wells Christmas Market
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One of the smallest cities in the country, the history-rich Wells is a must-visit during any trip to Somerset. Made all the more magical at Christmas, this cathedral city undergoes a festive transformation with pretty lights flooding its ancient streets. A highlight of the city’s Christmas calendar, Wells Christmas Market takes place in December with Christmas stalls sprinkled across the Market Place and Bishop’s Palace Green. Grab yourself a steaming cup of mulled wine or hot chocolate and wander the stalls to find that perfect gift for your favourite person and relish the merry atmosphere.
Feeling inspired? Take a look at our holiday cottages in Somerset for a Christmas break.
