Each winter, the seaside town of Bournemouth in Dorset transforms into a festive dream. Glittering lights fill the air, alpine huts spring up in the town square, and the smell of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts wafts through the streets.

But Bournemouth’s charm at Christmas isn’t just about the lights and snow-dusted trees — it’s about the experience. The town hosts a variety of Christmas venues, each with its own atmosphere, offerings, and traditions. Whether you’re a local looking for festive cheer or a visitor seeking a winter getaway, Bournemouth’s Christmas markets are a must-see.

Here’s your comprehensive guide to the best Christmas markets in Bournemouth and nearby areas you absolutely can’t miss.

1. Bournemouth Christmas Market & Christmas Tree Wonderland

The heart of Bournemouth’s Christmas celebrations beats strongest in Bournemouth Square and Lower Gardens, where the town hosts its biggest festive attractions — the Christmas Market and the world-famous Christmas Tree Wonderland.

At the centre of it all is the Alpine Market, a charming set of wooden chalets offering handmade crafts, Christmas decorations, artisan gifts, and locally produced food and drink. You can shop for unique stocking fillers, warm your hands with a hot cup of mulled wine, or treat yourself to a sweet crêpe or bratwurst roll.

Just steps away lies the Alpine Lodge Bar, a rustic-style winter bar decked out with faux furs, fairy lights, and heaters. It’s the perfect place to unwind with a glass of Glühwein or a hot chocolate piled high with whipped cream. Live music, DJs, and themed nights take place throughout the festive season, turning a simple market trip into a night out.

The Christmas Tree Wonderland is the town’s glittering crown jewel. This illuminated trail showcases more than 100 dazzling trees and light installations, many sponsored by international cities. Highlights include the 60-foot walk-through Bournemouth Wonderland Tree, a giant teddy bear, and even an illuminated ice queen carriage. The trail leads visitors from the market through Lower Gardens and down to the seafront, with plenty of Instagram-worthy moments along the way.

For children, the area also offers a Santa’s Grotto experience, carousel rides, and festive street performers. And for grown-ups, the market is surrounded by lively pubs, cafes, and restaurants, many of which offer seasonal menus or festive cocktails.

2. SKATE Bournemouth

Although not a traditional Christmas market, SKATE Bournemouth is an integral part of the festive experience. The open-air ice rink, nestled within Lower Gardens and surrounded by fairy lights, adds an extra touch of magic to Bournemouth’s holiday scene.

Adjacent to the rink, there’s often a Moguls Bar, where skaters and non-skaters alike can enjoy festive drinks, mulled wine, and winter snacks. It’s a great spot to soak up the festive atmosphere and watch families and couples skating under the stars.

SKATE Bournemouth is especially magical after sunset, when the garden lights reflect off the ice and the air feels crisp and wintry. Pairing a visit here with a stroll through the Christmas Tree Wonderland and some shopping at the market makes for a perfect evening out.

3. Poole Christmas Maritime Light Festival & Market

Just a short drive or train ride from Bournemouth, Poole hosts a spectacular Maritime Light Festival that transforms the harbour into a coastal Christmas paradise. It’s an easy extension to a Bournemouth holiday and provides a slightly different festive flavour with its nautical charm.

Running for six weeks, the festival includes large-scale light installations inspired by maritime themes — think giant anchors, glowing jellyfish, and a ship decked out in fairy lights. The walking trail spans the length of the quay and brings visitors past local restaurants, cafes, and shops.

The Poole Christmas Market is smaller and more relaxed than Bournemouth’s Alpine Market, but still features charming stalls selling festive gifts, handmade candles, fudge, local spirits, and decorations. Street food vendors serve warming dishes like Yorkshire pudding wraps, loaded fries, churros, and mulled cider.

For families, there are fairground rides, costumed characters, and Santa meet-and-greets, while adults will enjoy the festive bars and relaxed pace.

4. Upton Country Park Christmas Craft Fair

If you’re looking for a more traditional, countryside-inspired Christmas market, make time for the Upton Country Park Christmas Craft Fair. Set within a grand Georgian mansion and its landscaped gardens, this event is a lovely, low-key alternative to the town-centre hustle.

Here, local crafters and artists showcase beautiful handmade goods: knitted gifts, glass ornaments, woodwork, artisan soaps, jams, chutneys, jewellery, and more. It’s a top spot for finding meaningful, one-of-a-kind Christmas presents.

Often, the manor’s tea room will offer festive refreshments, and outdoor food stalls serve treats like mince pies, roasted chestnuts, and spiced hot drinks. The park also features woodland walks, a walled garden, and a play area, making it ideal for a festive family day out.

5. Littledown Christmas Market

The Littledown Christmas Market is a favourite among locals for its warm, family-focused atmosphere. This indoor/outdoor market is hosted at the Littledown Centre and features a mix of artisan stalls, community craft displays, and children’s activities.

Visitors will find festive gifts, handmade decorations, jewellery, sweet treats, and more. There’s often a choir or brass band playing carols, as well as a Santa’s Grotto and children’s rides. Food trucks and local bakeries provide plenty of delicious options, from festive bakes to hearty lunches.

Because it’s typically held for just one weekend, it’s worth checking dates early. The market has grown in popularity in recent years and is ideal for those seeking a more relaxed, neighbourhood feel.

6. Southbourne Christmas Festival

Southbourne, one of Bournemouth’s trendiest districts, holds a Christmas Festival that’s short but sweet. This one-day event transforms Southbourne Grove into a buzzing street fair filled with Christmas cheer.

Expect live music, craft stalls, children’s activities, and festive food vendors. Many of Southbourne’s independent shops, cafes, and bars also get involved, offering discounts, giveaways, and special Christmas menus.

There’s usually a parade or lights switch-on in the evening, and families will love the face painting, funfair rides, and performances by local school groups. If you’re in town on the day, it’s worth heading east for a few hours of community spirit and festive fun.

7. Christchurch Christmas Festival

Just east of Bournemouth lies the historic town of Christchurch, which holds an annual Christmas Festival complete with market stalls, live performances, lantern parades, and a Christmas lights switch-on.

The festival is spread across the high street and Saxon Square, where wooden cabins and tents sell crafts, food, gifts, and holiday treats. Expect roasted nuts, hand-sewn toys, Dorset-made cheeses, and colourful ceramics.

Families can meet Santa in his grotto, enjoy puppet shows or storytelling, and take part in a lantern-making workshop. The event wraps up with a beautiful candle-lit parade through the town, creating a memorable ending to a festive day.

What to Eat and Drink

No Christmas market is complete without indulgent seasonal food and drink. Across Bournemouth’s markets, you’ll find:

• Bratwurst and sausages grilled over open flames

• Yorkshire pudding wraps filled with turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce

• Churros and sweet crêpes, perfect with Nutella or cinnamon sugar

• Mulled wine, mulled cider, and hot chocolate (often with Baileys!)

• Mince pies, shortbread, stollen, and festive cupcakes

• Local gins, beers, and spiced rum from Dorset distilleries

• Roasted chestnuts, caramelised nuts, and gingerbread

Whether you’re after a hearty lunch, a sweet pick-me-up, or a warm winter drink, Bournemouth’s markets will satisfy.

Planning Your Visit

Transport: Bournemouth is easily accessible via train from London (approx. 2 hours) or by car from the M27/A31. Once in town, many attractions are walkable. Local buses and taxis are available for travel between districts.

Accommodation: From boutique hotels near the gardens to family-friendly B&Bs and luxury seafront stays, Bournemouth has accommodation for every budget. Book early during peak December weekends.

Parking: Town centre parking can fill quickly, especially around the Square. Use public transport if possible, or arrive early. Some outlying markets offer free parking.

Best Time to Visit: Weekdays or early evenings are less crowded. Visit mid-December for the full festive experience, but avoid the final weekend before Christmas if you dislike crowds.

Final Thoughts: Why Christmas Markets in Bournemouth Are Unmissable

Bournemouth’s Christmas markets combine the charm of a Victorian seaside town with the sparkle of a festive city break. From twinkling trees and seaside skating to mulled wine under fairy-lit canopies, the town delivers atmosphere in spades. Whether you’re seeking handmade gifts, seasonal food, a family outing, or a romantic evening under the lights, Bournemouth’s festive offerings are as varied as they are magical.

With surrounding gems like Poole, Christchurch, and Southbourne also joining the celebrations, you’re spoiled for choice. So wrap up warm, bring your shopping bag, and prepare for an unforgettable Christmas season on the South Coast.