Southampton Christmas Market 2024 Dates at Above Bar

Southampton is known for its maritime history and modern shopping. During the festive season, the city centre hosts the Southampton Christmas Market, adding to its attractions.

In this article, I’ll cover the essential details, including 2024 dates, opening times, locations, and local specialties.

Southampton Christmas Market 2024

Dates – Confirmed

Southampton Christmas Market dates: 14th November 2024 to 6th January 2025 (confirmed).

Update: Dates were announced in June. Sign up for our newsletter for future updates.

Source: Dates are obtained directly from the event organiser’s website, available here.

Plan Your Visit

Location and Times

Location: Above Bar Street.
Opening times: 10am to 10pm.
Christmas Day: Closed.

Travel and Accommodation

Recommended tour: Secrets of the Titanic tour takes you around the port area.
Public transport: Buses run every 4 minutes from Southampton Central.
Parking: Please take public transport to help limit congestion. Parking is available at Southampton Central.
Where to stay: No 4 Carlton is a highly-rated hotel, 9 minutes from the event.

Amenities and Attractions

Admission: Free, no tickets required.
Christmas lights: Switch on date: 14th November (unconfirmed).
Light Up Trails: 28th November to 1st January 2025 (confirmed) at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens in Romsey. Book online.
Santa: Yes, at Santa’s Grotto until 24th December.
Ice skating: Yes, at Westquay on Ice at The Esplanade, Medieval Walls, Westquay South.
Attractions: Carousel, Apres Bar at Westquay Esplanade.

Dietary Options

Vegetarian: Yes, plenty of options.
Vegan: Yes, plenty of options.
Gluten-free: Limited. Ask individual vendors, but beware of cross-contamination.
Food specialities: Artisan mince pies, mulled wine, locally-made fudge; diverse international cuisine.

Accessibility

Accessible: Yes.
Pet-friendly: Yes, but not recommended during busy periods.

Convenient Hotels

The Cultural Quarter is a great area to consider for your stay in Southampton. This district puts you close to the market and key cultural attractions such as the O2 Guildhall and the City Art Gallery.

I recommend the No 4 Carlton in this area for its location and consistently excellent reviews.

Read our UK Christmas Markets List for more ideas on where to go this winter.

Event Location Map

Wrapped up your Christmas visit? We’d love to hear about your experience. Share your story and tag photos with #UltimateChristmasMarkets on social media.

What to Expect

Southampton’s market has a wide range of artisanal goods and international cuisine. Food stalls serve global flavours, including German sausages and French pastries.

Live music performances add to the experience, making it a vibrant destination during the season.

Local Specialties

• Mince Pies: A British staple, these pies are made with dried fruits and spices encased in flaky pastry, often served warm.
• Mulled Wine: A warm, spiced red wine that many of us love.
• Roast Chestnuts: A classic winter street food snack.
• Bratwurst: German sausages typically served in a bun with sauerkraut and mustard.
• Hot Apple Cider: A warm, spiced apple cider. Both alcoholic and non-alcoholic variations.
• Stollen: A dense German fruit bread filled with dried fruit and nuts, often dusted with icing sugar.
• Churros with Chocolate: Spanish doughnuts, deep-fried and served with thick hot chocolate for dipping.
• Poffertjes: Small, fluffy Dutch pancakes served with powdered sugar and butter.
• Crepes: Thin French pancakes with various fillings, such as Nutella, strawberries, cheese, ham and eggs, cooked on a griddle and folded for easy eating.
• Fudge: Sugary treats, including seasonal specials like gingerbread.
• Pretzels: Twisted snacks, available in sweet or savoury varieties, such as salted or cinnamon sugar-coated.
• Gingerbread Cookies: Shaped and decorated cookies that make thoughtful gifts, often adorned with colourful icing and messages.
• Fish and Chips: The local British classic of battered fish and chips, served with mushy peas or tartar sauce.
• Craft Beer: Southampton brewed craft beer.
• Tea: A variety of teas available for sipping or as gifts.

Gifts and Stocking Fillers

• Maritime Crafts: Ship models and sea-themed decorations reflecting Southampton’s maritime heritage.
• Wooden Toys: Handcrafted traditional toys like rocking horses, puzzles, and spinning tops.
• Ornaments: Glass baubles, tree toppers, and other decorations, with options for personalisation.
• Local Gin: Locally produced gin featuring regional botanicals, often available in gift sets.
• British Sweets: Traditional sweets like toffee, hard candies, and liquorice.
• Woollens: Scarves, hats, and gloves made from quality materials.
• Tea Sets: Fine china tea sets, including cups, saucers, and teapots.
• Books: A selection of literature, from classic novels to local history books.
• Pet Treats: Homemade dog biscuits, catnip toys, and other animal-friendly gifts.

Sustainable Travel Tips

• Green Hotels: Southampton has accommodation options that run on renewable energy sources.
• Reduce Food Waste: Only buy food you’re sure you’ll eat to avoid waste or compost the leftovers.
• Ethical Consumption: When shopping for gifts, consider the origins and sustainability of the products and materials.
• Sustainable Diets: Order vegetarian or plant-based meals and snacks from the food stalls.
• Transport: Southampton has an excellent network of cycle paths and pedestrian-friendly routes. Renting a bike or simply walking is a convenient way to get around.

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.