There’s something extra special about visiting Bristol in the run-up to Christmas. The city is filled with busy shoppers, festive events and millions of twinkling lights illuminating the streets. We’re looking forward to this Christmas, welcoming guests from around the UK and the world to share the best festive things to do in Bristol. It’s not too late to plan your festive trip to Bristol. Book your stay in PREMIER SUITES serviced apartments in Bristol for a home-from-home experience for families, couples, groups and more. Here are some of the highlights of Christmas in Bristol.
Bristol Christmas Market
Located in the heart of the city centre, Bristol’s Christmas Market is the focal point of the city in November and December. The market is home to over 50 unique stalls and traders with an emphasis on high-quality local items. You’ll find many local crafters selling their creations and you’re sure to find something special and unique as a gift for a loved one or yourself. If shopping is not your thing, there are a wide variety of food and drink available from around the world, from traditional Bratwurst to churros. Find yourself a hot toddy or a mulled wine and keep warm while soaking in the festive cheer. If you’re travelling with family, you’ll love the entertainment from local choirs and festive games as well as visits from Santa and his reindeer. There are heated seats, delicious drinks and live music for grown up in the Jäger Barn Bar or you can book one of our Igloos for a more private relaxing experience. The Bavarian alpine bar is fully stocked with festive Christmas drinks, including German Gluehwein, warming mulled cider and indulgent hot chocolates with a shot of Baileys. The market opens daily from 4th November until 23rd December. The stalls open from 10 am to 7 pm every day and food and drink are served from 10 am until 10 pm daily. You don’t need to book but bear in mind weekends are extra busy.
Better Sundays
The popular Better Sundays Market has announced additional dates in the lead-up to Christmas. Usually held on the third Sunday of the month, the market will also appear on the 10th of November, 4th, 11th and 18th of December in Broadmead shopping district. More than 20 local, ethical and sustainable traders will be at each event, plus a workshop and festive entertainment. You’ll find independent traders like Kara Chiropractic, With Love, Luj x vegan bakery and Upcycled Mushrooms. It’s a great addition to the Bristol Christmas shopping scene and an alternative to big-name brands and you’re sure to find something truly unique to put in a Christmas stocking.
Panto in Bristol
Nothing says Christmas like a panto & this year Bristol has a great selection of shows in theatres big and small across the city. Bristol Old Vic brings us a unique retelling of The Nutcracker. The all-singing all-dancing show tells the story of a Christmas Eve like no other where Clara gets a magical gift she’ll never forget. Bristol Hippodrome is home to a laugh-out-loud comedic rendition of Cinderella starring Craig Revel Horwood. You’ll enjoy all of the traditional pantomime ingredients at this show including stunning sets, beautiful costumes, and plenty of ‘he’s behind you!’. Redgrave Theatre in Clifton’s panto choice this year is Aladdin incorporating spectacular scenery, dazzling costumes, spellbinding special effects and lots of audience participation. Keep an eye on theatre websites for tickets and additional information.
Ice Skating in Bristol
A family-friendly and often hilarious Winter activity in Bristol is ice skating. Festive ice-skating returns to Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park from 26 November until 1 January. Bring the family, young and old and enjoy practising your axel turns or watch your dad audition for Bambi on ice! The rink is 500 square meters of real ice and there is a free spectators’ area if you want to keep your hips intact! Sessions are 45-minutes each and they provide skates and children’s skating aids if needed. Enhance your experience by booking the ‘Christmas Nights’ Light Trail or visit ‘Christmas Experience’ Santa’s Sleigh Surprise Show creating lasting Christmas memories with your loved ones.
PREMIER SUITES serviced apartments offer the perfect accommodation in Bristol for all types of travellers. Our location, facilities and comfort offers guests a true home-from-home experience. Book our best available rates on our website.
