The festive atmosphere comes alive with local musicians, carolers, and brass bands, creating a joyful holiday soundtrack at the bustling market. It’s the perfect setting to enjoy traditional treats and explore Cornwall’s festive offerings.
The Best Christmas Markets in the South West 2024
25th Nov 2024
The Best Christmas Markets in the South West
The South West is not only famous for its popular holiday destinations in the summer months, but it also shines during the winter and festive season. The region offers a magical array of Christmas markets that combine festive cheer with local charm. Whether you’re searching for unique gifts, artisan crafts, or seasonal treats, these markets are sure to get you into the Christmas spirit.
Please read our recommendations for the best Christmas markets in the South West.
Somerset
Bath
28th November – 15th December
First on our list of the best Christmas Markets in the South West is Bath. Bath’s award-winning Christmas market is a wonder to behold in one of England’s most picturesque cities.
Bath’s Christmas market is special due to its stunning Georgian backdrop, offering an immersive winter wonderland experience. With over 229 stalls, it features homewares, handcrafted jewellery, food, drinks, and personalised gifts, many run by local designers and craftspeople.
Of course, no trip to Bath is complete without a visit to the Roman baths, so why not finish your trip by experiencing the Christmas decorations from Thermae Bath Spa’s rooftop pool. Alternatively, visit Bath on Ice which has returned for its 12th year between 15th November and 5th January. Here you can try skating whilst enjoying festive music and seasonal drinks or visit the Glow Golf next door. This adventure golf course has been illuminated with fairy lights to make it a magical adventure. You can even play with glow-in-the-dark balls!
Christmas market opening times: Monday-Wednesday 10am-7pm, Thursday to Saturday 10am-8pm and Sundays 10am-6pm.
Bristol
1st November – 23rd December
Bristol is one of the UK’s trendiest cities, and their Christmas Market is one of the liveliest in the South West. As well as having over 35 stalls selling crafts, unique gift ideas and food, there is also live music and heated seating in the Jäger Barn Bar, where you can really unwind after a day of shopping. Over the course of the market, Santa and his elves will also be visiting to entertain the little ones.
However, Bristol isn’t home to just one Christmas Market. Spread throughout the city, you can find other hubs of festive cheer, such as the Harborside Christmas Market with its idyllic waterfront setting. One of the best markets in the UK is St Nicholas Market, and there’s also the Local Christmas Market, where you will find stalls by Bristolian artists, craftspeople and merchants – all offering wares you won’t find anywhere else.
Opening times for Bristol Christmas market: Festive stalls 10am-7pm and Food stalls and bar 10am-10pm
Devon
Exeter
15th November – 15th December
Exeter Cathedral’s Christmas market is a popular annual event that attracts over 600,000 visitors. Set against the stunning backdrop of Exeter Cathedral, the Cathedral Green features over 100 wooden chalets offering crafts, gifts, and fresh food. There’s also a Bavarian-style bar for drinks, adding to the festive atmosphere.
With Exeter High Street only a stone’s throw from the market, you can get all of your Christmas shopping done. The Cathedral also hosts carol services, exhibitions, concerts, children’s craft fairs and more over the Christmas period. Entry is by donation. A trip to Exeter, and one of the best Christmas markets in the South West, will certainly get you in the holiday spirit.
Opening times: Monday to Wednesday 10am – 7pm, Thursday to saturday 10am-9pm and Sundays 11am – 5pm
Icescape at Westpoint Exeter is an extraordinary adventure opening over the festive period from 12th December to 5th January, excluding Christmas Day. There are different sessions to book, from parent and toddler sessions to disco nights and quiet sessions.
Plymouth
28th November – 15th December
The Plymouth Christmas Market transforms the city centre into a winter wonderland, with wooden log cabins adorned in twinkling lights. Visitors can explore these charming stalls, filled with unique gifts and clothing perfect for the holiday season.
From handmade crafts and cosy winter clothing to decorative ornaments and collectable decorations, there’s something for everyone. The festive food stalls are a highlight, with the mouthwatering aroma of spiced mulled wine, freshly made fudge, and traditional holiday treats filling the air.
With live music, carol singers, and a wonderful holiday spirit, the Plymouth Christmas Market is the ideal place to make lasting memories. It’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to capture the essence of a traditional, magical Christmas.
Opening times: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 10am – 6pm, Thursday 10am – 9pm (late night shopping) and Sunday 10am – 5pm.
Totnes
3rd, 10th & 17th December
Totnes’ Night Market is on every Tuesday in December in the run-up to Christmas, from 3:00pm to 9pm. The market is run by traders for the local community. Rather than a month-long installation like other Christmas markets, the Totnes Night Market is a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it event that offers an experience that is uniquely Devon.
The Night Market hosts performances from local schools, community choirs and local bands. There is even a festive lantern parade which takes place on 17th December at 4:30 pm. Totnes Market houses over 90 local traders in a more intimate and cosy market atmosphere. With great entertainment and local food, cider and mulled wine, this is one not to be missed if you’re in the South West during these dates.
Cornwall
Truro
22nd November – 24th December
Truro’s award-winning Christmas Market is a highlight of the holiday season in Cornwall! The market on Lemon Quay is Cornwall’s largest, attracting locals and visitors with its festive atmosphere. It features a variety of stalls offering unique, handcrafted gifts and decorations for everyone on your list.
Alongside the gift stalls, visitors will find an impressive selection of local produce, from Cornish cheeses and artisan preserves to delicious baked goods, perfect for holiday feasts. Artisans from across the region showcase their creations, offering original artwork, pottery, and jewellery celebrating Cornwall’s rich creative spirit.
The market is open daily, but timings differ, so it’s best to check before your visit.
Eden Project- St Austell
27th- 28th November
The Eden Project Christmas Fair is a vibrant annual event held in the beautiful biomes in Cornwall. With up to 70 independent stalls, it offers unique, high-quality gifts from Cornwall and beyond.
The fair is particularly magical at this time of year, with sparkling lights illuminating the biomes and festive decorations adding to the beauty of the Eden Project’s lush landscapes. Guests can also enjoy seasonal treats and mulled drinks, making for a warm and festive experience. With live entertainment and holiday-themed activities, the Eden Project Christmas Fair is a must-visit for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit and kick off the festive season in a truly memorable way.
We hope you enjoy our recommendations and visit the South West during the festive period! If you would like to spend more time holidaying in the South West, why not browse our static caravans for sale in Devon, Cornwall and Somerset?