The 35 stalls at Bristol Christmas Market return to the city centre this year. The event is known for its cosy Iglu, Bavarian bars, and beautifully decorated tree on Broadmead.
Read on for confirmed 2024 dates, location details, opening times, and information on booking a private Iglu or Ski Gondola.
Bristol Christmas Market 2024
Dates – Confirmed
Bristol Christmas Market dates: 1st November to 23rd December 2024 (confirmed).
Update: Dates were announced in June. Sign up for our newsletter for future updates.
Source: Dates are obtained directly from the tourist office, available here.
Plan Your Visit
Location and Times
Location: Broadmead.
Opening times: 10am to 7pm.
Food and drink stalls: 10am to 10pm.
Christmas Day: Closed.
Travel and Accommodation
Public transport: Buses run regularly to Bristol Shopping Quarter.
Parking: Please take public transport to help limit congestion.
Where to stay: Hort’s Townhouse is a highly-rated hotel near Broadmead.
Amenities and Attractions
Admission: Free, no tickets required.
Santa: No.
Ice skating: No.
Reason to visit: The Bavarian Jäger Barn Bar and Alpine Hütte. Iglu and Ski Gondolas.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian: Yes, plenty of options.
Vegan: Yes, plenty of options.
Gluten-free: Limited. Ask individual vendors, but beware of cross-contamination.
Specialities: Mulled cider, Somerset Brie bites, Bristolian sausage rolls, local chutney and jams, Clifton Seafood.
Accessibility
Accessible: Yes.
Pet-friendly: Not recommended.
Convenient Hotels
I suggest staying at Hort’s Townhouse as it’s highly rated and centrally located.
Alternatively, Hampton by Hilton is a nearby budget hotel. I’ve stayed at Hampton by Hilton before, and they’re better than some other budget places.
Read our guide to hotels in Bristol for more places to stay.
This UK Christmas Markets List has many ideas for where to go this winter and planning tips to help you get organised.
Location Map
Captured a moment that embodies the holiday season? Tag your photos with #UltimateChristmasMarkets — we can’t wait to see your festive finds!
What to Expect
Bristol’s market is a popular place to gather with family and friends for mulled wine, hot chocolate, and traditional treats like bratwurst and gingerbread.
You’ll find locally made, handmade gifts, as well as ornaments, lights, and trees. Full details of the stalls are provided below.
Book an Iglu or Ski Gondola
Enjoy a private Iglu experience by reserving your Iglu online before your visit. Each booking lasts 90 minutes and offers a cosy, intimate setting to soak in the atmosphere. You can pre-order refreshments to save time and avoid the crowds.
Two igloo packages are available: the Medium Package for up to four guests and the Large Package for up to eight, catering to both small and larger groups.
You can choose from a range of food and drink options, including a Bratwurst Platter, a Charcuterie Board, or a Cheese Board.
Complete your experience with a festive drink like German glühwein, hot cider, or bubbly Prosecco.
Book your Iglu or Ski Gondola online before you go.
Food at the Stalls
- Bristol Blue Cheese: A regional staple, this rich, creamy blue-veined cheese has a tangy taste and can be enjoyed on-site or taken home.
- Cider-Braised Pulled Pork: Slow-cooked pork in cider, served in a fresh bun.
- Fish and Chips: A classic British dish of hot, crispy battered fish with chunky chips.
- German Bratwurst: Grilled sausages served in a crispy roll, offering a taste of Germany with a selection of sauces.
- Mince Pies: Traditional fruit-filled pies.
- Dutch Pancakes: Small, fluffy pancakes topped with powdered sugar, butter or Nutella.
- Mulled Wine: The popular warm, spiced red wine drink.
- Craft Beers: Sample locally brewed ales from Bristol’s thriving craft beer scene.
What to Buy
- Bristol Blue Glass: Handmade glass items known for their striking cobalt blue colour, ranging from vases to baubles.
- Locally Made Jewellery: Unique handmade pieces, including earrings and necklaces, crafted by Bristol artisans.
- Bridge Souvenirs: Souvenirs featuring the iconic bridge, from postcards to prints.
- Local Gin: Small-batch gin from Bristol distilleries, available in unique flavours like elderflower and rhubarb.
- Knits: Cosy scarves and hats crafted by local crafters, available in various colours and patterns.
- Organic Skincare: Locally made skincare items using natural ingredients, including hand creams and soaps.
- Traditional Decorations: Handcrafted ornaments, wreaths and other festive decor.
Sustainability Tips
- Green Hotels: Choose eco-friendly hotels in Bristol that use renewable energy sources, such as solar panels or green tariffs for electricity.
- Food Waste: To avoid food waste, be mindful of portion sizes when ordering food. Only buy what you can finish.
- Ethical Shopping: Support ethical retailers in Bristol that sell locally sourced and ethically produced products. When shopping, focus on items you truly need and will use.
- Eating Sustainably: Go for food stalls and restaurants that use local, organic ingredients and vegetarian or plant-based cuisine.
- Transport: Use Bristol’s public transport network or rent a bike to explore the city, taking advantage of its bike-friendly infrastructure.
- Recycling: To help with the city’s waste management efforts, use recycling bins located throughout Bristol, including around Broadmead.
Comment below if you want to leave a Xmas review, have any questions or would like to report any inaccuracies.
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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. While we make every effort to provide accurate information, the dates and details listed here should not be relied upon. Please consult the official website before booking your trip or planning a visit.
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