5 fabulously festive things to do near the Bath Christmas markets

4 December 2017

The Bath Christmas markets are the main attraction in the city at this time of year, but there’s plenty of other festive things to do this December. Handily, most are within a short hop from the markets, which are clustered around Bath Street, York Street, Abbeygate Street and the Bath Abbey itself.

Here’s our roundup of things to do at the Bath Christmas markets and surrounding areas:

  1. Ice skating and glow-in-the-dark mini golf

If you need a break from the Bath Christmas markets, ice skating could be just the ticket. Just a short walk away from the main Christmas shopping area in Bath is the stunning Royal Victoria Park, which at this time of year is home to Bath on Ice. You’ll find the rink – 50% bigger than last year’s – in the Royal Pavilion, and right next door is a fantastic glow-in-the-dark mini golf course.

  1. Family fun at the Theatre Royal

Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without a good old pantomime complete with slapstick, songs and bags of family fun. This year’s must-see show is Snow White and the Seven Dwarves at the gorgeous Georgian building that houses the Theatre Royal, just a short walk from the markets on Saw Close. If you’re staying in our Hot Bath apartment, you really couldn’t be closer to the action – with both the Christmas markets and the Theatre Royal very close by.

Snow White and the Seven Dwarves runs from Thursday 7th December all the way through to Sunday 7th January 2018.

  1. Bath Spa University Carol Concert

On Monday 4th December, head to the majestic Bath Abbey for a very special carol concert. Completely free and almost magical in atmosphere, the event will feature carols, readings and music performed by the Bath Spa University Choir. Tickets aren’t required, but make sure you arrive promptly by 7pm.

  1. Apres ski drinks!

Treat yourself to a little glamour after your Christmas shopping, with mulled wine, delicious food and cosy blankets at the popular Apres-Ski Bar outside the Abbey Hotel on North Parade. There’ll be a full programme of festive music and a warm, fabulous atmosphere at this charming alpine chalet bar all the way up to Thursday 21st December, so make you pop in for a winter warmer!

  1. Carols by Candlelight

Another treat for fans of traditional carol singing, the Pump Room is hosting evenings of carols and entertainment hosted by the Bath Bach Choir and charismatic conductor Nigel Perrin. You’ll find the Pump Room at the Roman Baths, one of Bath’s most popular tourist attractions. Carols by Candlelight will be held here on Thursday 14th and Friday 15th December at 7.30pm, but there’s a special performance outside St Michael’s church on Wednesday 13th December.

Christmas in Bath is always very busy and bustling, but there’s still time to snap up somewhere lovely to stay for your winter break! Take a look at our fantastic selection of elegant city centre apartments and studios here at Bath Holiday Rentals.