Christmas in Bristol: Your Festive 2026 Guide
The most wonderful time of the year is fast approaching and if you’re planning a trip to Bristol there is something for everyone to enjoy during this special time of the year. Bristol’s good cheer extends to the festive and famous Christmas markets, whether you’re searching for unique gifts, planning a festive day out or simply want to soak up the atmosphere. Here's your insider guide to everything you need to know about the Christmas markets in Bristol.
Bristol Christmas Market: Dates, Times & Highlights
Set in the heart of the city centre, Bristol Christmas Market brings festive magic to Broadmead and Bristol Shopping Quarter. The 2026 market runs from November 6 to December 23, giving visitors ample time to enjoy one of the most popular Christmas Markets experiences.
Wander through more than 40 wooden chalet-style stalls offering gifts, clothing, local food and drink and plenty of festive treats. Expect everything from churros and German bratwurst to hog roasts, Yorkshire pudding wraps and hot fruit crumble, before warming up with a mulled wine or cider at the lively Jäger Barn Bar.
There’s plenty of entertainment too, with live music from local performers at selected times from Thursday to Sunday. Families can also enjoy the Christmas Tree Ride and Bristol Christmas Wheel, both open daily during the market.
For something a little different, settle into one of the private Christmas ski gondolas or life-sized hot air balloon tables. The gondolas can accommodate up to six guests, while the hot air balloon experience is ideal for larger groups, with food and drink packages also available to book.
Whether you’re hunting for last-minute Christmas presents, meeting friends for festive drinks or simply enjoying the atmosphere, Bristol Christmas Market is a great place to get into the Christmas spirit.
If you're planning a festive getaway, don't miss our guide to other things to do in Bristol.
Bristol’s Shopping Quarter
Located right next to the market, Bristol’s Shopping Quarter is a paradise for anyone who loves shopping in Bristol, with hundreds of shops including high street names, designer stores, restaurants, bars, cafes and independent stores. Browse big names at The Galleries, refuel at the food hall, or wander through The Arcade, a Grade II listed Victorian shopping arcade packed with independent boutiques and local charm.
Cabot Circus
Just steps away from the Bristol Christmas Market, Cabot Circus combines high-street favourites and luxury labels in one stylish setting. Whether you’re here to shop, dine, or unwind, Cabot Circus offers everything from designer stores to entertainment like mini golf and the cinema. For families visiting in 2026, Santa’s Grotto also returns for the festive season. Its central location makes it easy to include Cabot Circus as part of a day exploring the Bristol Christmas Market and surrounding city centre.
St. Nicholas Market
Established in the 1700s, St. Nicolas Market is one of the city’s most beloved landmarks and a great addition to your Christmas in Bristol itinerary. Only a short walk from Clayton Hotel Bristol City, it houses over 60 stalls bursting with a wide variety of goods and food. The market is also home to several outdoor markets which take place in the pedestrian streets running adjacent to The Exchange Building. Throughout the week, extra pop-up markets like the Saturday Flea Market and local farmers’ markets offer even more opportunities for shopping in Bristol this Christmas season.
For 2026, St Nick's Christmas Market runs from November 20 to December 24, offering even more opportunities to discover gifts from independent Bristol makers and traders.
Tip: Interested in a trip outside of Bristol during your stay? Discover our guide on 10 day trips from Bristol
Christmas Steps Arts Quarter
Nestled in the Old City, the charming Christmas Steps Art Quarter is the perfect location for searching for a unique gift, souvenir or artwork. It’s hard not to fall in love with the architecture in this fun, quirky and historic area.
Cribbs Causeway
If you’re looking to venture beyond the city centre, The Mall at Cribbs Causeway is ideal for festive shopping and is open until late every evening until 8pm, except weekends. With top high-street brands, dining options, and plenty of parking, it’s another great spot to enjoy shopping in Bristol during the holiday season.
If you’re spending a weekend in the city? Our itinerary for 48 hours in Bristol is the perfect way to explore beyond the Christmas markets.
FAQs: Christmas Markets in Bristol
Bristol Christmas Market runs from November 6 to December 23, 2026 in Bristol city centre.
The market is open daily throughout its 2026 run. Market stalls are open from 10am to 7pm, while food and bars remain open until 10pm. Christmas rides operate from 10am to 9pm.
No, entry is completely free. Some private experiences, such as the ski gondolas and hot air balloon tables, can be booked separately.
Yes, it’s just a short walk away from Cabot Circus and the Bristol Shopping Quarter.
If you’re visiting Bristol during the festive season, the Bristol Christmas Market is a great way to combine Christmas shopping, seasonal food and drink, live entertainment and festive atmosphere in the heart of the city. With Cabot Circus, Bristol Shopping Quarter, and St Nicholas Market nearby, there’s plenty to make a full day of it.
