Christmas Events in Bath

Bath's historic venues and beautiful buildings will play host to a multitude of festive events this season.

The iconic Bath Christmas Market returns from Thursday 23 November to Sunday 10 December. With over 200 chalets spread out across Bath’s picturesque Georgian streets among some of the city's top independent shops, cafes and bars.

Bath on Ice is back in Royal Victoria Park until 3 January, with 1000 square metres of smooth ice for you to glide around to the sound of festive tunes. As well as the ice rink, there's also glow golf and a cozy alpine bar serving seasonal food and drink.

Warm up after taking in the Christmas lights and shopping in Bath with a mulled wine at the Après Ski Bar at The Abbey Hotel, or book in for a festive afternoon tea at The Bath Priory or Royal Crescent Hotel and Spa.

Festive family fun

Go back in time and experience a Georgian Christmas at No.1 Royal Crescent, or celebrate the Roman festival of Saturnalia at the Roman Baths.

Looking for a chance for the littles to share their Christmas list with Santa? Pop into Father Christmas' Grotto at Milsom Place or find him at No.1 Royal Crescent on weekends throughout December.

Winter Wonderland at the American Museum & Gardens brings together beautiful decorations, Christmas workshops and special events throughout the festive period.

Theatre shows and performances

This year's Theatre Royal pantomime is classic fairytale Sleeping Beauty, with Bath favourite Jon Monie starring as Lester the Jester in his 21st Theatre Royal pantomime.

Sing along at a special carol concert at Bath Abbey on 5 December, or watch classic Christmas film "The Snowman" at The Forum accompanied by a live orchestra on 16 December.

Christmassy days out near Bath

Wow the whole family with a trip to Enchanted Christmas at Westonbirt Arboretum, where you can explore an illuminated trail and interactive displays among the trees.

Head to Bath's National Trust properties and gardens to enjoy themed outdoor trails, craft workshops and even the chance to meet Father Christmas!.

Winter Wonderland at Wookey Hole has three amazing Christmas experiences wrapped up into one magical day out, including 100,000 Christmas lights adorning the caves, a visit to Santa's North Pole Grotto, and a spectacular Christmas-themed circus show.

Visit Avon Valley for a full day of festive, family fun including ice skating, The Santa Show, The Elf Express miniature railway and a trail through The Magical Forest.

The Festival of Light is at Longleat until 7 January, with more life-size lanterns featuring scenes from Cinderella, Peter Pan, The Wizard of Oz, Winnie the Pooh and many more.

Find out more:

Christmas Highlights

Bath Christmas Market

Discover the magic of Bath at Christmas at the Bath Christmas Market.
1. 23 Nov 202310 Dec 2023
Enchanted Christmas at Westonbirt Arboretum

Discover the trees of Westonbirt Arboretum in a whole new light along the Christmas Illuminated Trail this December.
1. 1 Dec 20232 Dec 2023
2. 8 Dec 20239 Dec 2023
3. 15 Dec 202323 Dec 2023
Sleeping Beauty at Theatre Royal Bath

The fabulous annual family pantomime at Theatre Royal Bath promises a laugh-a-minute extravaganza with stunning sets, top musical hits, fantastic costumes and exciting special effects to keep audiences both young and old entertained!
1. 7 Dec 20237 Jan 2024