Stratford Upon Avon Christmas Market 2024: Over 2 Weekends

Stratford-upon-Avon is changing up the event layout of this year’s Christmas market, which will host 200 market stalls over two weekends. Instead of on dedicated stages, live performances will be integrated throughout the market.

The confirmed 2024 dates and travel information are below.

Stratford Upon Avon Christmas Market

Dates – Confirmed

Stratford Christmas dates: 7th and 8th and 14th and 15th December 2024 (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 and are available here.

Plan Your Visit

Location and Times

Location: Wood Street, Bridge Street, Henley Street, High Street, Meer Street and Waterside.
Opening times:
Saturday: 10am to 8pm.
Sunday: 10am to 5pm.

Travel and Accommodation

Recommended tour: Walking tour with a local guide.
Parking: Please take public transport to help limit congestion. If driving, a shuttle service is available at Bishopton Park & Ride (charges apply).
Where to stay: Hotel Indigo is a highly-rated hotel, 4 minutes from the event.

Amenities and Attractions

Admission: Free, no tickets required.
Christmas lights: Switched on in Stratford on the 16th of November (unconfirmed).
Santa: Yes, meet Father Christmas, his reindeer and Frosty the Snowman.
Ice skating: No.
Reason to visit: One of the largest winter events in the West Midlands.

Dietary Options

Vegetarian: Yes, plenty of options.
Vegan: Yes, plenty of options.
Gluten-free: Limited. Ask individual vendors, but beware of cross-contamination.
Specialities: Classic seasonal drinks plus spiked hot chocolate and local street food.

Accessibility

Accessible: Yes. If you have questions regarding accessibility, email: [email protected].
Pet-friendly: No.

Convenient Hotels

The historic centre of Stratford is compact and easy to get around. Staying anywhere between Shakespeare’s Birthplace and Shakespeare’s Schoolroom would be well-located.

I suggest staying at Hotel Indigo as it’s centrally located opposite Shakespeare’s Schoolroom.

If you’re thinking of visiting more destinations this year, read my UK Christmas Markets List for ideas and inspiration.

Event Location

Captured a moment that embodies the holiday season? Tag your photos with #UltimateChristmasMarkets — we can’t wait to see your festive finds!

At the Food Stalls

• Roast Chestnuts – Always a popular winter street food snack.
• Mulled Wine – The classic winter drink, available in a commemorative mug.
• Mince Pies – Get yours from a local bakery stall.
• Bratwurst – Available at the grilled food stands.
• Hot Apple Cider – A lighter alternative to mulled wine.

What to Buy

• Gourmet Cheese – From creamy cheddar to tangy Stilton, these are ideal for taking home or adding to a food hamper.
• Festive Decorations – Traditional decorations like glass baubles, wooden ornaments and fairy lights.
• Stratford Honey – Choose a jar of honey as a sweet souvenir or gift.
• Shakespeare Memorabilia – Given the town’s association with the legendary playwright William Shakespeare, a piece of themed memorabilia would be a unique memento.
• Hand-knitted Items – Made from warm, high-quality yarns and featuring traditional patterns.
• Craft Chocolate – A simple yet delicious gift.

Travel Information

Shakespeare’s England has some useful information for visitors to Stratford and those who would like to travel elsewhere in Warwickshire. It gives a good overview of what to expect.

Sustainability Tips

• Public Transport – Take the bus or park and ride shuttle bus to get around. The town also has excellent rail links from London, Birmingham, and other nearby cities.
• Local Produce – Support local producers by buying local.
• Think Ethically – Be conscious of your purchases and favour ethically produced items with limited packaging.
• Reduce Food Waste – Be mindful of the quantity of food you purchase at the market. Try to buy only what you can consume and take leftovers with you.
• Recharge Responsibly – If you’re staying overnight, many accommodations use renewable energy sources.
• Walk the Town – The town centre is compact, and most of the attractions are within walking distance of each other. Take advantage of this by walking to get around or rent a bike.

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.