If you only have three hours to soak up the Christmas spirit in Bath, don’t worry—you can still unwrap a bundle of joy. With twinkling lights, Georgian charm, Bath offers a perfect bite-sized festive escape. Here’s how to make the most of it.
Wander the Christmas Market
Start your adventure in the heart of Bath, where the Christmas Market transforms the city into a winter wonderland. Wooden chalets line the cobbled streets, brimming with handmade gifts, artisan treats, and seasonal delights. Sip on mulled wine as you browse locally crafted candles, woolly scarves, and quirky ornaments. The scent of cinnamon and roasted chestnuts fills the air, and live music adds a merry soundtrack to your stroll.
Pro tip: Don’t miss the stalls tucked around Abbey Green and York Street—they’re often less crowded and full of hidden gems.
Meet Father Christmas!
Choose between two enchanting experiences:
- Father Christmas at No.1 Royal Crescent: Step into a beautifully preserved Georgian townhouse, where Father Christmas awaits, ready to read a Christmas story to the children and give them a gift.
- Father Christmas Grotto at The Holburne Museum: much more than your typical grotto, the experience offers a 20-minute immersive performance where children and grown-ups help the elves wake Father Christmas and discover how they’re planning to make this the best Christmas ever.
Whichever you choose, you’ll leave with a smile—and maybe a photo with the big man himself.
Cozy Up in a Café
Wrap up your whirlwind visit with a warm drink and a sweet treat. Bath’s café scene is as charming as its architecture. Take a moment to relax, reflect, and let the holiday spirit sink in at one of Bath’s many cafés. Click here to discover some independent cafes.