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Bristol glows with festive spirit each winter, when Broadmead transforms into a charming holiday hub filled with twinkling lights, handcrafted gifts, and the aroma of warm mulled wine. The Bristol Christmas Market 2025 is more than just a shopping destination, it’s a celebration of community, creativity, and cozy winter magic. With its lively atmosphere, local artisans, and delicious food stalls, it’s one of the most cheerful Christmas markets in southwest England.
When Is Bristol Christmas Market 2025?
The Bristol Christmas Market 2025 is expected to run from Friday, November 8 until Monday, December 23. The stalls generally open at 10:00 AM and close at 7:00 PM on weekdays, with extended hours until 9:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays. Sundays are slightly shorter, ending around 6:00 PM. It’s free to enter, and the central location makes it easy for locals and visitors alike to soak up the holiday cheer.
Where Is the Bristol Christmas Market Located?
The main market is set in the heart of Bristol’s Broadmead Shopping Quarter, just a few minutes’ walk from Cabot Circus and the Harbourside. The area transforms into a winter wonderland with over 50 wooden chalets selling festive crafts, gifts, and gourmet treats. Visitors can also find a covered beer garden, a cozy alpine-style bar, and a selection of pop-up stalls offering handmade ornaments and winter fashion.
What to Expect at Bristol Christmas Market
Unlike some of the larger European markets, Bristol’s has a distinctly local feel. Here you’ll find handmade crafts, artisanal candles, jewelry, and eco-friendly gifts created by regional makers. The food stalls are a highlight, serving everything from German bratwurst and crepes to Yorkshire puddings stuffed with roast dinners. There’s also an inviting bar area where visitors can sip mulled cider or hot chocolate under fairy lights while live music plays in the background.
The market often includes themed entertainment like carol singers, local choirs, and Santa’s Grotto for children. In recent years, the market has expanded to include more local vendors and unique dining options, making it a great spot to discover Bristol’s independent creative scene.
Winter Attractions in Bristol
Christmas in Bristol goes beyond Broadmead. The city bursts with festive events and family-friendly attractions:
- Millennium Square hosts Bristol’s ice rink and observation wheel, offering panoramic views of the city lights.
- The Harbourside and Wapping Wharf feature cozy pop-up bars and independent food stalls for a relaxed winter evening.
- The Clifton Suspension Bridge and Brandon Hill lookouts provide beautiful vantage points to see the city glowing during the festive season.
- For families, Bristol Zoo and We The Curious often host special winter events and light displays.
Where to Stay for Bristol Christmas Market
Visitors will find plenty of accommodation options within walking distance of the market. Boutique hotels in the city center, such as those near Park Street and Corn Street, offer a warm and festive atmosphere. For a more peaceful stay, the harbourside area has stylish hotels and apartments overlooking the water, still just a short walk from the festivities.
Explore Bristol Hands-Free with Radical Storage
If you’re spending the day exploring Bristol’s Christmas market or arriving before check-in, Radical Storage offers secure, convenient luggage storage in central locations. Drop off your bags and stroll through Broadmead and the nearby Harbourside stress-free. You can find more details and book online at Radical Storage.
FAQs About Bristol Christmas Market 2025
It’s expected to open on November 8 and run until December 23.
In Broadmead, close to Cabot Circus and the Harbourside.
From 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with extended evening hours on weekends.
No, entry is free for everyone.
Everything from classic bratwurst and festive crepes to mulled cider and local desserts.
The Bristol Christmas Market 2025 perfectly captures the city’s friendly, creative energy. Whether you’re browsing handmade crafts, sharing a drink with friends, or ice skating under the stars, Bristol in December offers the perfect mix of warmth and wonder for the holiday season.
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