Bristol, one of the UK’s most vibrant and culturally rich cities, transforms into a twinkling wonderland during the festive season. From late November through to Christmas Eve and beyond, the city lights up with bustling Christmas markets and festive attractions, each with its own personality, community, and spirit. It’s also a popular spot for end-of-year celebrations, with plenty of Christmas party venues in Bristol offering everything from rustic charm to modern elegance.

Whether you’re after artisan gifts, Alpine-style street food, unique experiences, or family-friendly festivities, there’s a Christmas market in Bristol to suit every mood.

This guide dives deep into the best Christmas markets in Bristol for 2025, from the central Broadmead spectacle to hidden gems nestled in historic corners. Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning a weekend break, these are the can’t-miss Christmas markets in Bristol this year.

1. Bristol Christmas Market at Broadmead

Location: Broadmead Shopping Quarter
Dates: 7 November – 23 December 2025
Opening Times: Stalls open 10:00–19:00; bars and food until 22:00

The main event in Bristol’s festive calendar is the central Christmas Market at Broadmead. Drawing thousands of visitors every year, this expansive, open-air market is packed with over 50 traditional wooden chalets offering handmade gifts, festive decorations, locally produced food, and plenty of warm drinks to keep the winter chill at bay.

Expect the air to be filled with the scent of roasted nuts, bratwurst sizzling on grills, and mulled wine being ladled into reusable mugs. Traders here come from across the UK and Europe, showcasing everything from handcrafted leather goods and ceramics to eco-friendly candles and bespoke jewellery. There’s also a focus on sustainability, with several stalls specialising in upcycled crafts and plastic-free wrapping options.

Unique highlights:

• The immersive Jäger Barn Bar, a cosy chalet-style bar with heated seating, German beers, and spiced cocktails.

• Private ski gondolas and hot air balloon pods available to book for drinks and food – perfect for couples or small groups.

• Live music, festive DJs, and appearances from Santa and carol singers throughout December.

• A towering Christmas tree covered in lights provides the perfect Instagram spot.

Why visit? This is the heart of Bristol’s Christmas celebrations – lively, festive, and full of charm.

2. St Nicholas Christmas Market

Location: The Exchange, Corn Street
Dates: 14 November – 24 December 2025
Opening Times: Mon–Sat 09:30–17:00, Sun 10:00–16:00

If you’re after something more intimate and authentic, the St Nicholas Christmas Market delivers. Set within the historic walls of the 18th-century Exchange building on Corn Street, this market is home to some of the city’s most passionate independent traders.

Inside, you’ll find a range of permanent stalls that are given a festive twist for the season. Outside, the surrounding streets are filled with seasonal traders offering handmade items like woollen scarves, original prints, jams, and chutneys made in Somerset.

What sets this market apart is its indoor-outdoor feel – ideal for unpredictable winter weather. The atmosphere is warm, welcoming, and focused on community. It’s the kind of place where you can chat directly with the maker of the item you’re buying and hear the story behind it.

Food tip: Don’t miss the street food in Glass Arcade – from Moroccan wraps and Caribbean jerk to vegan curries and gourmet toasties, it’s an international feast.

Why visit? A beautiful historic setting, supporting local artisans, and offering Bristol’s most diverse street food under one roof.

3. Winter Wonderland at Millennium Square

Location: Millennium Square, Harbourside
Dates: 15 November 2025 – 5 January 2026
Opening Times: 10:00–23:00 daily

Millennium Square transforms into Bristol’s biggest festive playground during the winter season. Though not a traditional market in the chalet sense, the Winter Wonderland here offers something for everyone – especially families and those looking for a lively evening scene.

At the heart of it is the real ice rink, which draws in both seasoned skaters and first-timers eager to give it a go. There’s also a fairground with rides, from traditional carousels to more daring options for teens. Santa’s Grotto is set up near We The Curious, giving kids a chance to hand-deliver their Christmas wishes.

There are pop-up bars and food vendors galore. The après-ski-style Alpine Bar offers mulled wine, craft cider, and hot chocolate (with or without a kick). Street food trucks serve loaded fries, gourmet burgers, doughnuts, and roasted marshmallows over fire pits.

Why visit? More than just a market – it’s a full festive day out for families and friends, with skating, rides, and entertainment.

4. Arnos Vale Community Christmas Market

Location: Arnos Vale Cemetery
Date: Sunday 7 December 2025
Opening Times: 10:00–15:00

One of Bristol’s most unique festive experiences happens in the beautiful, leafy setting of Arnos Vale Cemetery. Don’t let the venue fool you – this market is full of life, creativity, and community warmth.

Set within the woodland grounds and Victorian buildings, Arnos Vale’s Christmas market focuses on local artisans, charities, and sustainable gifts. Expect handmade soaps, home-baked cakes, organic skincare, vintage clothing, and zero-waste wrapping ideas.

There’s usually a children’s storytelling session inside the Anglican Chapel, as well as choirs performing carols among the trees. Food stalls serve winter soups, hot drinks, and festive bakes, and proceeds help support the preservation of the site.

Why visit? A peaceful, charitable, and heartwarming market that’s full of Bristol soul.

5. Tobacco Factory Sunday Christmas Market

Location: North Street, Southville
Dates: Every Sunday from 24 November to 22 December 2025
Opening Times: 10:00–14:30

If you like your markets with a strong community focus and a side of culture, the Tobacco Factory Christmas Market is ideal. Taking place every Sunday in the run-up to Christmas, it features over 40 local artists, farmers, and designers each week.

You’ll find vintage finds, handmade jewellery, ceramics, organic produce, and a fantastic atmosphere. Many of the vendors rotate, so it’s worth visiting more than once.

The market sits beside the renowned Tobacco Factory Café Bar, so it’s easy to combine with brunch, a hot cider, or even a trip to the theatre next door.

Why visit? Locally made, socially conscious, and effortlessly cool – Southville at its festive best.

6. Whapping Wharf Festive Pop-Up Market

Location: Gaol Ferry Steps & Cargo
Dates: Select weekends in December (TBC)
Opening Times: 10:00–18:00

Whapping Wharf’s festive market is small but packed with charm. This harbourside container community brings together some of Bristol’s most inventive food and drink vendors – and during December, it gets a holiday makeover.

Local crafters set up shop alongside Cargo’s independent traders. Expect small-batch gins, handmade chocolates, local art, and quirky cards. Street food is a highlight, with dumplings, bao buns, tacos, and raclette all making appearances.

The area is also decorated with fairy lights, fire pits, and acoustic music sets, making it a cosy spot to spend a Saturday afternoon.

Why visit? A laid-back, foodie take on the Christmas market experience in a unique setting.

7. The Frome Independent Christmas Market (Near Bristol)

Location: Frome town centre (approx 45 mins from Bristol)
Dates: Sunday 1 December & Sunday 15 December 2025
Opening Times: 10:00–15:00

Though technically just outside Bristol, Frome’s market is a must-visit for serious Christmas shoppers. The whole town turns into a winter fair, with over 200 stalls stretching across the high street and surrounding lanes.

Frome is known for its bohemian spirit, and the Christmas market is no different. There’s a huge focus on ethical, handmade, and local goods – think soy candles, handmade toys, slow fashion, and botanical gin.

Why visit? It’s worth the short drive to soak up the festive cheer and pick up unforgettable gifts.

Tips for Making the Most of Bristol’s Christmas Markets

1. Bring cash: While most traders now accept cards, some small businesses still prefer cash.

2. Arrive early: Markets like St Nicholas and Tobacco Factory are busiest after midday. Arriving before 11am often means quieter browsing.

3. Wrap up warm: Bristol can get chilly – bring layers, gloves, and even a thermal mug for refills.

4. Go green: Many markets reward reusable cups with discounts. Bring your own or buy one at the market.

5. Use park & ride: Driving into central Bristol in December can be tricky. Park and ride schemes are the easiest way in.

6. Book activities in advance: Ice skating, private gondolas, and Santa visits often sell out early – plan ahead.

7. Look for late-night openings: Some markets offer special late-night shopping evenings, often with live music or extra food options.

Final Thoughts: Can’t-Miss Christmas Markets in Bristol

Bristol’s Christmas markets aren’t just places to shop – they’re immersive experiences filled with festive joy, community spirit, and winter magic. Whether you’re sipping mulled wine in a ski gondola at Broadmead, skating at Millennium Square, or picking out handmade soaps at Arnos Vale, you’ll find something to treasure at every turn.

The city’s diverse neighbourhoods each bring something unique to the festive table. From the buzz of Broadmead to the indie cool of Southville and the creative warmth of St Nick’s, Bristol shines with charm during the holiday season.

If you’re planning a Christmas trip to the South West, these can’t-miss Christmas markets in Bristol are reason enough to make the city your festive base. Just be sure to bring a big bag – you’ll likely leave with more gifts, treats, and memories than you planned.