Bath is a wonderful summer city, where you can spend your days picnicking in the park and floating about on the river, but you’ll see a whole new and beautiful side of it when winter sets in.

Here’s our quick guide to the unmissable treats in store for you in Bath this winter…

Winter culture

Every November, Bath is home to Mozartfest, a festival held in honour of the composer and celebrating the very finest classical music. With 17 events and concerts running across 9 days, in glorious venues from the Guildhall to the Assembly Rooms, Mozartfest in Bath has built a reputation for excellence and is absolutely worth getting a ticket for. This year’s event runs from 11th-19th November 2016 at various venues.

The Christmas markets

If you visit Bath in winter and don’t take a stroll around the gloriously festive Bath Christmas Markets, you’ve seriously missed out. As well as boasting dozens of chalet-style stalls bursting with gifts, goodies and food from local makers, artisans and chefs, the markets are also among the prettiest in the UK, so take your camera! The markets run from 24th November to 11th December in the picturesque streets surrounding Bath Abbey.

Cosy Christmas cocktails

If you need to warm up with a strong seasonal cocktail, you must visit the charming and cosy Après Ski Bar at the Abbey Hotel, just a short stroll from Bath Holiday Rentals’ No 10 apartment and the Christmas Markets. A warm, snow-topped cabin decked out in wood, traditional decorations and twinkling lights, the Après Ski Bar is the perfect place to stop for mulled wine, hearty traditional food or a festive cocktail.

Skating and sports

From 18th November to 3rd January, Bath on Ice is in town. It’s a festive ice rink in the centre of town, perfect for families and parties, and with the exciting addition of glow in the dark mini golf too! If you’re feeling just that little bit more adventurous in your pursuit of winter sports, you can even head out of the city to the Mendip Snowsports Centre (around 20 miles away) for dry slope skiing, snowboarding and toboganning.

Warm up in the spa

What could be nicer on a freezing winter’s day than a dip in a hot spa, followed by an afternoon of delicious food and beauty treatments? Bath is the home of spa culture, and there are many different venues and spa packages to choose from, including the Thermae Bath Spa, Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel, the Garden Spa Beauty Retreat at the Bath Priory and many more. It’s the perfect treat after a hard day shopping and spending at the Bath Christmas Markets, so indulge yourself!

Where to stay in Bath this winter

With so much to see and do in Bath this winter season, you’ll need the perfect central space to stay. Bath Holiday Rentals has elegant, luxurious properties throughout the city centre and near all major attractions, so you’ll be spoilt for choice.