UK's 'best' Christmas market in beautiful city confirms dates and brand new attraction for 2026

The countdown to Christmas is well and truly on, with the Bath Christmas Market set to return for its 25th magical year. With less than ten weeks to go, thousands of locals, businesses and visitors from across the UK and abroad are gearing up to descend on the enchanting Bath Christmas Market for its silver anniversary.

From November 27 to December 14, the city centre will transform into a winter wonderland, with stallholders, charities and caterers offering artisan food, drinks and gifts in twinkling chalets. Founded in 2001, the Bath Christmas Market began as a gathering of local businesses and artisans welcoming the festive season.

It has since grown into one of the UK's most cherished yuletide events, attracting an estimated 444,000 visitors last year and generating a whopping £60.4m turnover for businesses, supporting over 500 jobs and contributing £48.9m to the city's economy.

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Since 2021, Bath and North East Somerset Council have been at the helm of the Christmas Market.

This year, over 250 businesses, 65 per cent of which are local to Bath and the surrounding areas, will participate in the 2025 event, with six Christmas Carts showcasing micro-businesses based in Bath and Bristol, reports Somerset Live.

A new addition this year is a reindeer trail around the market's perimeter, encouraging visitors to explore more of Bath's double-UNESCO World Heritage Site and its diverse range of retailers catering to all budgets.

During the Christmas Market, daily Park and Ride bus services will be ramping up their frequency, with timetables to be released closer to the time.

Staff will be on hand at all Park and Ride sites and central stops throughout the festive market period to assist with queues and ticket sales.

Cllr Manda Rigby, Cabinet Member for Communications and Community, expressed her pride in the event: "The 25th anniversary of Bath Christmas Market is a proud moment for the city as we reflect on how the event has grown in popularity.

"We know the event has an impact on people living in the city and would like to thank you for your cooperation and support each year."

She added: "Although the market is a large-scale event with traders joining us from the wider region, it also helps local businesses with their growth and resilience.

"It's a significant boost for the local economy, creating seasonal jobs and bringing extra vitality to the heart of the city.

"This year, we're encouraging local residents to explore the market at a more relaxed pace during weekdays when the market is quieter.

"Whether you're shopping for gifts, sampling local food or simply soaking up the seasonal ambience, we look forward to welcoming you."

The special preview evening for locals is back on Wednesday, 26 November from 5pm to 7pm. Those with a Discovery Card can enjoy discounts at all chalets from Monday to Friday.

The offers will be displayed in each chalet and listed on the website.

Additionally, Discovery Card holders can also benefit from free heritage visits and discounts on various other purchases in B&NES throughout the year.

For those with sensory needs or who prefer a more tranquil shopping experience, quieter periods are available from 10am to 12pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, with no entertainment scheduled during these hours.

Over the festive period, Bath Central Library will also provide a quiet and warm space.