The Best Christmas Markets in the South West

The South West is not just known for its sought-after summer holiday spots; it truly comes alive during the winter festive season. This enchanting region boasts a delightful array of Christmas markets that beautifully intertwine festive joy with local charm. Whether you’re on the hunt for one-of-a-kind gifts, exquisite artisan crafts, or delectable seasonal treats, these markets promise to immerse you in the magic of Christmas.

Westcountry Resorts has compiled a list of the best Christmas markets in the South West.

Somerset

Bath

26th November – 13th December

First on our list of the best Christmas markets in the South West is Bath. Set against the stunning Georgian architecture of one of England’s most picturesque cities. Bath Christmas Market transforms the historic city centre into a magical winter wonderland.

Running from 26 November to 13 December 2026, this award-winning market will welcome around 245 traders. It offers a fantastic selection of handcrafted gifts, jewellery, homewares, Christmas decorations and artisan food and drink. With around 80% of traders coming from the South West, it’s a wonderful opportunity to support local businesses while finding something special for your loved ones. Visitors can also look forward to live music, street performers and a new indoor space on Stall Street where you can relax and enjoy a festive drink.

There’s plenty to enjoy beyond the market stalls, too. No trip to Bath would be complete without visiting the famous Roman Baths and admiring the city’s beautiful historic landmarks. You can also explore the independent shops, cosy cafés and restaurants.

For even more festive fun, head to Royal Victoria Park for Bath on Ice, returning from 20 November 2026 to 3 January 2027. Glide across the outdoor ice rink beneath sparkling lights, enjoy festive music and warm up with a seasonal drink at the Moguls Alpine Bar. You can also try Glow Golf, an illuminated adventure golf course that adds a magical twist to a family favourite.

With its beautiful architecture, unique shopping opportunities and festive attractions, Bath is an ideal destination for a memorable Christmas day out with family and friends.

Bath Christmas Market 2026 opening times

• Monday to Wednesday: 10am–7pm
• Thursday to Saturday: 10am–8pm
• Sunday: 10am–6pm

Entry to the Christmas market is free, making it an excellent festive day out for visitors of all ages.

Bristol

6th November – 23rd December

Bristol is undoubtedly one of the most stylish cities in the UK, and its Christmas Market is a fantastic place to soak up the festive spirit in the South West. Returning to Broadmead from 6 November to 23 December 2026. The market features more than 40 stalls packed with handmade crafts, unique gifts and tempting seasonal treats.

After browsing the stalls, take a break at the cosy Jäger Barn Bar, where heated seating, live music and festive drinks provide the perfect setting to relax. Families can also look forward to seasonal entertainment, with Santa and his elves adding a little extra magic for younger visitors.

However, Bristol’s festive charm extends beyond Broadmead. Head into the historic Old City to discover St Nicholas Market, where independent traders offer distinctive gifts, crafts and delicious street food. The outdoor St Nick’s Christmas Market is also returning from 20 November to 24 December 2026. Making it another excellent stop on your festive shopping trip.

For a different atmosphere, explore the Harbourside area, where waterfront views, independent eateries and seasonal events provide a lovely backdrop for a winter stroll. You can also discover Bristol’s independent creative scene, with local artists and craftspeople showcasing their work at markets and festive fairs throughout the city.

Whether you’re searching for special Christmas gifts, enjoying delicious festive food or simply soaking up the twinkling lights, Bristol offers plenty of ways to make your Christmas shopping feel like a magical day out.

Bristol Christmas Market 2026 opening times:

• Festive shopping stalls: 10am–7pm
• Food stalls and bar: 10am–10pm

The main market runs from 6 November to 23 December 2026. Check the official event information before travelling, as individual stall hours and entertainment may vary.

Devon

Exeter

13th November – 13th December

Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market is one of Devon’s biggest festive attractions, welcoming visitors to the heart of the city from Friday 13 November to Sunday 13 December 2026. Set against the magnificent backdrop of Exeter Cathedral, Cathedral Green transforms into a magical Christmas village. More than 100 festive chalets offer handcrafted gifts, unique decorations, local produce, and delicious seasonal food.

Just a short walk from Exeter High Street, the market is the perfect place to enjoy some Christmas shopping while soaking up the festive atmosphere. Browse the independent stalls, sample tempting street food and warm up with a seasonal drink beneath the cathedral’s impressive medieval architecture.

There is plenty more to discover during your visit, too. Exeter Cathedral hosts a programme of festive services, carol concerts and seasonal events, while the city centre comes alive with Christmas lights and decorations. Entry to the market is free, and visitors can also take advantage of the cathedral’s entry-by-donation offer during the festive period.

Exeter Christmas Market 2026 opening times:

• Monday to Wednesday: 10am–7pm
• Thursday to Saturday: 10am–9pm
• Sunday: 11am–5pm.

Icescape at Westpoint Exeter

For even more festive fun, head to Icescape at Westpoint Exeter, where a huge undercover real ice rink returns from Thursday 10 December 2026 to Sunday 3 January 2027.

Perfect for families, couples and groups of friends, Icescape offers a memorable winter activity whatever the weather. Enjoy skating sessions for different ages and abilities, including family-friendly sessions, alongside fairground rides and festive food and drinks. Keep an eye out for Pippen the Penguin, too!

Whether you’re helping little ones discover the joy of skating or enjoying a lively session with friends, Icescape is a fantastic addition to a festive day out in Exeter. Booking in advance is recommended, so visit the official website to explore session times and ticket availability.

Plymouth

26th November – 20th December

Plymouth Christmas Market is set to bring festive magic to the city centre from 26 November to 20 December 2026. With charming wooden chalets, twinkling lights and a lively seasonal atmosphere, it is a wonderful place to enjoy Christmas shopping in the heart of Devon.

Browse a fantastic selection of stalls selling handmade crafts, unique gifts, festive decorations, winter accessories and clothing. Whether you are searching for a special present for a loved one or treating yourself to something new, there is plenty to discover. Food stalls add to the festive experience, serving tempting seasonal treats and warming drinks to enjoy as you explore.

The market is also a lovely place to spend time with family and friends, with its bustling atmosphere making it easy to get into the Christmas spirit. As you wander through the city centre, take time to admire the festive decorations and enjoy the surrounding shops, cafés and restaurants.

If you fancy extending your festive day out, head to the historic Barbican or visit Royal William Yard. Additional Christmas events and artisan markets offer even more opportunities to find unique gifts and sample delicious local food. Royal William Yard’s Festive Good Food & Craft Market is scheduled for selected Wednesdays and Sundays in December 2026.

Whether you are planning a festive shopping trip or simply want to soak up the seasonal atmosphere. Plymouth offers plenty of reasons to visit in the run-up to Christmas.

Totnes

8th, 15th & 22nd December

For a truly local festive experience, head to Totnes in Devon, where the popular Christmas Market and Late Night Shopping events bring the town centre to life on three Tuesdays in December. Taking place on 8, 15 and 22 December 2026, from 3pm to 9pm. These special evenings celebrate the town’s independent businesses, talented local makers and welcoming community spirit.

Unlike Christmas markets that run for several weeks, Totnes offers three lively evenings filled with festive shopping, entertainment and seasonal treats. More than 70 artisan stalls will showcase unique gifts, handmade crafts and festive goodies. Many independent shops stay open late, giving visitors even more opportunities to find something special for Christmas.

There is plenty to enjoy beyond the shopping, too. Live music, community performances and street entertainment help create a cheerful atmosphere throughout the town. Food stalls serve a tempting selection of street food and local refreshments, including warming mulled cider.

One highlight of the 2026 celebrations will be the Totnes Carnival Lantern Parade on Tuesday 8 December at 4.30pm. This colourful procession adds an extra touch of magic to the opening evening.

With independent traders, local food and drink, live entertainment, and an intimate community atmosphere, Totnes Christmas Market is a lovely way to experience a traditional Devon Christmas.

Opening times: Tuesday 8, 15 and 22 December 2026, from 3pm to 9pm.

Cornwall

Truro

21st November – 24th December 

Truro Christmas Market is a festive highlight in Cornwall, transforming Lemon Quay into a charming Christmas village. It’s filled with twinkling lights, traditional wooden chalets, and seasonal cheer. Running daily from Saturday 21 November to Thursday 24 December 2026. Cornwall’s largest traditional Christmas market attracts visitors looking to enjoy festive shopping in the heart of the city.

Browse the stalls for unique Christmas gifts, handmade decorations and beautiful crafts created by talented local makers. You’ll also find plenty of delicious Cornish produce, from artisan cheeses and preserves to freshly baked treats and other tempting festive goodies. Local artists, craftspeople and independent traders showcase their creations. It’s an excellent opportunity to discover something special while supporting Cornwall’s small businesses.

Food lovers can enjoy a tempting selection of street food and seasonal refreshments. Festive lights and live entertainment help create a welcoming atmosphere throughout the market. Whether you’re searching for presents, sampling local delicacies or simply enjoying a winter stroll, there’s plenty to make your visit memorable.

The festive celebrations extend beyond Lemon Quay, too. Boscawen Street hosts additional Christmas markets on selected Wednesdays and Saturdays, featuring independent traders, local produce and street food. You can also enjoy late-night shopping on selected Wednesdays in December, when many shops remain open until 9pm.

With festive shopping, delicious food and plenty of seasonal entertainment, Truro is a wonderful destination for a Christmas day out in Cornwall.

Truro Christmas Market 2026 opening times: The market runs daily from 21 November to 24 December. Check the official website for the latest daily opening hours and event details before visiting.

Cornwall’s Christmas Fair at the Eden Project- St Austell 

18th- 19th November

Dorset

Bournemouth

12th November- 31st December

Bournemouth Christmas Market is the perfect place to get into the festive spirit this Christmas. Located in the heart of Bournemouth, the market transforms the town centre into a winter wonderland. It’s filled with twinkling lights, traditional wooden chalets, and plenty of seasonal cheer.

Wander through the charming market stalls to discover unique gifts, handmade crafts and beautiful Christmas decorations. It’s an ideal place to pick up presents for loved ones. Along the way, treat yourself to delicious festive food, warming hot chocolate and seasonal favourites as you soak up the magical atmosphere.

There is plenty for the whole family to enjoy, too. Explore the sparkling Christmas light displays, stroll through the festive attractions in the Lower Gardens, or enjoy ice skating for a memorable winter experience.

With Christmas shopping, delicious treats and festive entertainment all in one place. Bournemouth Christmas Market makes a wonderful day out for families, couples and friends looking to celebrate the most magical time of the year.

Dorchester

13th December 

Experience the magic of Christmas in Dorchester, where festive markets, sparkling lights and seasonal entertainment bring the historic Dorset town to life. The annual Dorchester Christmas Cracker is a fantastic festive day out for the whole family. It offers a wonderful opportunity to browse local stalls, discover unique gifts, and soak up the Christmas spirit.

Taking place on Sunday 13 December 2026, from 11am to 4pm, the Dorchester Christmas Cracker promises a lively day filled with festive cheer. Visitors can explore stalls selling seasonal gifts and local products. Enjoy Christmas entertainment and look out for family-friendly activities, including Santa’s appearance and the popular Santa Hat Parade. Children can join the parade, with free Santa hats available for participants.

Once you’ve explored the festivities, why not take some time to discover Dorchester itself? Browse the town’s independent shops, enjoy a warming drink in a cosy café or visit one of its fascinating museums. With its historic streets and welcoming atmosphere, Dorchester is a lovely place to combine Christmas shopping with a festive family adventure.

Whether you’re searching for thoughtful Christmas presents, enjoying a seasonal treat or simply making special memories with loved ones. The Dorchester Christmas Cracker is a wonderful way to celebrate the festive season in Dorset.

We hope you enjoyed our recommendations and visit the South West during the festive period! If you would like to spend more time holidaying in the South West, why not browse our static caravans for sale in Devon, Cornwall, Dorset and Somerset