Carol singing is a wonderful Christmas tradition, and right here in Bath there are a fantastic choice of magical, candle-lit evenings happening throughout December. From singing at the Bath Christmas markets to unforgettable concerts at the majestic Bath Abbey, here’s what’s on…

Shopper’s Carols

Bath Christmas Markets – 28th November to 15th December

Thursdays and Fridays at 12.30pm and 2pm, Saturdays at 12.30pm, 2pm and 3.30pm

If you’re planning to visit the Bath Christmas Markets this year, pay attention to the times above. This is when you’ll be treated to a short burst of fabulous Christmas carolling – it’s all free, informal and there’s no need to reserve seats or tickets. Just turn up and listen, it’s the perfect backdrop to your Christmas shopping. 

Jazz ‘n’ Carols by Candlelight

St Michael’s Without – Monday 2nd December

One of the many fantastic alternative Christmas carol concerts in Bath, this uplifting event features traditional festive songs from local choir Songways interspersed with lively performances from the sax quartet Saxophony. You can expect toes to be tapping and plenty of dancing, and it’s all rounded off with mulled wine and cider, mince pies and stollen. Better still, the proceeds from each £10 ticket go to the Dance Again Foundation. 

Christmas Carols in the Garden

The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa – Thursday 5th December

Enjoy Christmas carols under the stars in the beautiful gardens of the iconic Royal Crescent Hotel, complete with mulled wine, hot chocolate and festive canapes. Tickets are £25, but there’s limited availability so booking soon is advisable. 

Beer & Carols 2019

The Bath Brew House – Friday 6th December

Don your favourite Christmas jumper and celebrate the season with carols and delicious craft beers at the Bath Brew House on James Street West. There’s a free mulled cider for the first 50 people to arrive, and carols will be belted out around the piano. 

Carols by Candlelight

The Pump Room – 19th and 20th December 

One of the best-loved annual carol concerts in Bath returns to the Pump Room for another year, with Bath Bach Choir at the helm. You can expect a mix of traditional songs with original touches, as well as local children’s choirs, virtuoso musicians and a relaxed atmosphere – all led by fantastic conductor Nigel Perrin. Tickets cost between £15 and £24 and they’re selling fast – so hurry up!

Christmas Carol Concert & Dinner

Bath Priory – Monday 23rd December

If you can’t get enough of the Bath Bach Choir and also fancy a gourmet dinner along with your carols, snap up tickets to the Christmas Carol Concert & Dinner at the Bath Priory. You’ll get a superb four-course dinner with matching wines, carols, Christmas music and a roaring log fire to snuggle up to. 

Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols

Bath Abbey – Monday 23rd December

For a truly traditional experience, head to Bath Abbey on 23rd December for a beautiful service based around nine Bible readings. The readings will be accompanied by carols and hymns performed by the Abbey Choir of Boys and Lay-Clerks. It’s free entry to the Bath Abbey Christmas carols event, but bear in mind that space will be limited due to building work at the Abbey. 

Planning your Bath carols experience? Remember that the city gets very busy at Christmas, so don’t leave it too late to book your accommodation. Bath Holidays Rentals has a fabulous choice of elegant city centre apartments for groups of all sizes – take a look here and book soon to avoid disappointment.