Cotswolds Christmas Markets You Can’t Miss in 2025
The Cotswolds are a magical destination during the festive season, transforming its charming villages and historic towns into twinkling winter wonderlands. As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, the region comes alive with the sights, sounds, and scents of Christmas. From handcrafted gifts to seasonal treats, the Cotswolds’ Christmas markets capture the true spirit of the holidays and offer an unforgettable festive experience.
Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a romantic escape, or a solo adventure, the Cotswolds’ markets provide a mix of traditional charm and contemporary festive cheer. Picture strolling through cobbled streets, sipping mulled wine, and finding unique treasures in beautifully decorated stalls. These markets aren’t just about shopping; they’re about soaking in the holiday atmosphere, enjoying seasonal entertainment, and making memories that last a lifetime.
Cheltenham Christmas Market: A Classic Festive Treat
Cheltenham is renowned for its elegant streets and historic charm, making it the perfect setting for a Christmas market. The town’s annual market attracts visitors from across the country, offering a variety of artisanal gifts, festive decorations, and local delicacies. Strolling through the market, you’ll find stalls brimming with handcrafted jewelry, bespoke toys, and unique stocking fillers.
The food options are equally enticing. From mulled wine and hot chocolate to traditional mince pies, Cheltenham’s market is a feast for all the senses. It’s an ideal spot for families and friends to soak in the festive spirit. For those planning a longer stay, you can choose cozy holiday cottages Cotswolds nearby, allowing you to fully enjoy the Christmas magic without worrying about travel.
Bath Christmas Market’s Timeless Charm
Just a short drive from the Cotswolds, Bath hosts one of the most picturesque Christmas markets in England. Set against the backdrop of the city’s Georgian architecture, the market features over 150 chalets, each offering unique gifts and seasonal treats. Here, you can discover handmade candles, festive jewelry, and artisan foods that make perfect gifts for loved ones.
Bath’s market is more than shopping; it’s about the experience. The scent of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine fills the air, while live music performances create a cheerful atmosphere. Staying in cotswold cottages to rent nearby allows you to enjoy Bath’s festive atmosphere while waking up to the peaceful charm of the Cotswolds countryside.
Cirencester Christmas Market: A Hidden Gem
Cirencester, often called the capital of the Cotswolds, offers a smaller yet equally enchanting Christmas market. This market is perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed experience. You’ll find an array of local crafts, including pottery, textiles, and handmade decorations. It’s a chance to support local artisans while picking up unique gifts that can’t be found elsewhere.
The market also features seasonal treats like mulled cider, festive pastries, and gourmet sausages. Cirencester’s market is especially family-friendly, with activities like ice skating, Santa’s grotto, and storytelling sessions for children. Pair your visit with a stay in a charming holiday cottage in the Cotswolds, giving you easy access to all the local festivities.
Stow-on-the-Wold Christmas Market Cozy and Traditional
Stow-on-the-Wold is one of the most charming Cotswold towns, and its Christmas market embodies traditional English festive cheer. The market is set in the town square, where historic buildings and twinkling lights create a postcard-perfect scene. Local vendors sell everything from handmade soaps and jewellery to seasonal foods like gingerbread and roasted chestnuts.
One of the highlights is the market’s welcoming atmosphere. Live performances, festive music, and even horse-drawn carriage rides make it feel like stepping into a Christmas story. Booking a Cotswold cottage to rent nearby allows visitors to enjoy this enchanting town at a leisurely pace, making it a perfect festive getaway.
Broadway Christmas Market: A Festive Finale
Broadway, often called the “Jewel of the Cotswolds,” is known for its charming High Street lined with honey-colored stone buildings. The Broadway Christmas Market is a highlight of the season, featuring stalls filled with local crafts, gifts, and seasonal treats. It’s the perfect place to pick up unique presents while enjoying a cup of mulled wine in the crisp winter air.
Broadway also offers festive entertainment, including carol singing, craft workshops, and activities for children. Exploring this market while staying in nearby holiday cottages in the Cotswolds makes for a memorable festive trip. The combination of picturesque surroundings, local flavors, and cheerful ambiance ensures a holiday experience you won’t forget.
Final Thoughts
The Cotswolds during Christmas is a true winter wonderland. From Cheltenham’s bustling streets to Broadway’s picturesque charm, each market offers its own unique festive experience. Visiting these markets is not just about shopping; it’s about immersing yourself in the holiday spirit, enjoying seasonal foods, and creating lasting memories with family and friends.
Whether you’re planning a short trip or a longer festive retreat, staying in Cotswold cottages to rent allows you to fully enjoy the Cotswolds’ seasonal magic. Pack your warmest clothes, bring a festive spirit, and prepare to explore some of the most enchanting Christmas markets in England.
