Bath Christmas Market 2025 Guide
Bath, Somerset • 27 Nov – 14 Dec 2025 • England
Twinkling chalets fill the cobbled streets surrounding Bath Abbey, with more than 170 traders and a strong focus on local makers and sustainable gifting.
Why visit in 2025?
- 80% of chalets host businesses from Bath and the South West
- Festive lighting and live performances around the Abbey
- Sustainability initiatives including reusable cups and recycling hubs
At a glance
Location
Bath Abbey, Abbey Churchyard, BA1 1LT
Opening hours
- Mon–Wed: 10am – 7pm
- Thu–Sat: 10am – 8pm
- Sun: 10am – 6pm
Costs
Free entry. Workshops, tours and add-on experiences may have their own charges.
Contact
Why Bath’s market is special
Bath’s UNESCO-listed cityscape gives its Christmas market an unmistakably romantic feel. Over 170 chalets are carefully curated, with more than 80% of stallholders coming from the South West. Expect artisan glass, jewellery, homewares, luxe knitwear and locally-produced food gifts. The Abbey Choir regularly performs from the steps, while pop-up gin tastings, craft workshops and charity nights add extra sparkle.
Sustainability is a big focus. Vendors must adhere to the market’s single-use plastic pledge, reusable cup scheme and reduced waste policy. Keep an eye on the Bath BID calendar for late-night shopping events, and the annual light trail linking SouthGate and Milsom Street.
Getting there
Train
Bath Spa station is a 10-minute walk from the Abbey. There are direct services from London Paddington (approx. 80 mins), Bristol Temple Meads (15 mins), Cardiff Central and Portsmouth.
Coach & Park & Ride
National Express and megabus operate seasonal services. Three park & ride sites (Newbridge, Odd Down and Lansdown) run extended hours with accessible buses dropping close to the market footprint.
Parking
City-centre parking is limited and fills fast. SouthGate, Avon Street and Charlotte Street car parks are the closest, but visitors are encouraged to use park & ride to ease congestion.
Accessibility
Most chalets sit on level streets surrounding Bath Abbey, though cobbles can be uneven. Accessible toilets are located at Bath Abbey courtyard and SouthGate. Assistance dogs are welcome.
Need-to-know details
- Tell me something unusual: Bath’s market uses recycled chalets built in Somerset and has won Britain’s Favourite Christmas Market multiple times.
- Year established: 2000 – the event celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2025.
- Typical attendance: ~400,000 visitors across 18 days.
- Official opening: The Mayor of Bath traditionally leads the opening ceremony alongside local choirs.
Insider tips
- Arrive early on weekdays to browse at a gentler pace, then stay for dusk when the Abbey facade is illuminated.
- Seek out Abbey Green for local designers, and Union Street/SouthGate for brand pop-ups and live music.
- Pair your visit with Thermae Bath Spa’s rooftop pool, a comedy night at Komedia, or a lantern tour of the Roman Baths.
- Book festive afternoon tea at The Pump Room or The Ivy Bath Brasserie as a warming retreat.
Plan your trip
Accommodation
Book hotels or guesthouses as early as possible—weekend dates around the market book up quickly. Consider nearby villages for boutique stays.
Travel
Rail is often the most convenient way to arrive. If driving, look for park and ride services to avoid city-centre congestion.
Accessibility
Most markets provide accessible routes, but cobbles and temporary surfaces can be uneven—check the organiser accessibility guide linked below.
Weather Ready
Pack layers, waterproof footwear and gloves (touchscreen-friendly for photos). Early sessions are quieter; evenings bring the best atmosphere.