As the largest city in the South West, Bristol is full of fun things to do. This is even more true at Christmastime, when the festive activities are in full swing and the streets are transformed with sparkling decorations.
Planning a Bristol staycation this winter? Some of the best activities include:
Read on as we help you plan a magical Christmas in Bristol this year.
Looking for Christmas things to do in Bristol? Visit the city’s market for a guaranteed way to get into the festive spirit. This year, you can browse over 50 unique stalls to find the perfect gifts for friends and family. Enjoy delicious refreshments and live entertainment in the Jäger Barn Bar, and admire the tree adorned with sparkling decorations. For something extra special, why not book one of the market’s igloo pods and indulge in tasty food and drink?
Bristol’s winter market will take place from the 4th of November until the 23rd of December 2022 in the city centre.
This winter, enjoy a fun, festive evening at St George’s Hall with its exciting Christmas Spectacular. Located in the city’s West End, this event aims to spread festive cheer and features a mix of uplifting songs and readings. You can expect lots of great music and audience participation at this world-class venue. Grab a drink and some seasonal snacks at the bar beforehand, and enjoy the show!
The Christmas Spectacular will take place at 19:30 on the 19th of December 2022. Tickets start at £15.00.
For something truly memorable, attend Carols by Candlelight at Bristol Cathedral this December. This service will feature classic carols from the Cathedral Choir, as well as festive readings from actor John Telfer. See the historic 12th-century cathedral illuminated by candlelight and enjoy a spectacular evening with loved ones.
The Carols by Candlelight event will take place at 19:30 on the 16th and 17th of December 2022.
Wondering what to do in Bristol in December? Tick present-buying off your to-do list and spend an afternoon in Bristol Shopping Quarter. Located in the city’s heart, this shopping spot is home to around 400 shops, so you’re bound to find everything you need.
Explore different areas of the shopping quarter, including The Galleries, The Arcade and Cabot Circus. Flit between national stores such as TK Maxx and Marks & Spencer and discover independent shops nestled here too. When you need a break from retail therapy, head to one of the cafés dotted around to relax and refuel.
Looking for Christmas activities in Bristol for the kids? Book a ticket to the Father Christmas Experience for a fun afternoon out. This is an interactive event with professional actors, where children will have the chance to meet Santa Claus and receive a gift. The event will take place at Ashton Court, a Grade I-listed mansion offering a lovely festive setting.
The Father Christmas Experience will be held at various times from the 3rd to the 23rd of December 2022. Tickets are £12.00 for children and £6.00 for adults.
Book an evening of ice skating this Christmas at Avon Valley Wildlife and Adventure Park. Skate to your heart’s content on 500 square metres of glistening ice and enjoy the picturesque backdrop. The sessions here are suitable for all experience levels, from beginners to advanced skaters. Afterwards, treat yourself to festive snacks at the bar and soak up the cheerful atmosphere. There’s also a free viewing area where you can watch family and friends on the ice.
Ice skating at Avon Valley will run from the 26th of November 2022 until the 1st of January 2023. Tickets start at £6.50 per person.
This December, head to Bristol’s St Mary Redcliffe Church for its fantastic Yuletide tree display. This unique festival celebrates creative talent across the city, with an opportunity to support two charities through donations. In 2022, the charities will be Redcliffe Foodbank (North Bristol Foodbank) and Freewheelers EVS.
St Mary Redcliffe Church is a brilliant example of gothic architecture, boasting over 800 years of history. Step inside and admire its breathtaking features, such as the stained glass windows and range of carved bosses.
Treefest will take place from the 1st to the 4th of December 2022. Entry is free.
If you’re looking for family activities in Bristol this winter, why not book tickets to see a pantomime at one of Britain’s largest theatres? This year, Cinderella will be heading to the Bristol Hippodrome, promising plenty of laughs and entertainment. The production will feature everything you’d expect from a traditional pantomime, such as great comedy and fabulous costumes. Expect a brilliant cast, too, including Craig Revel Horwood as the Wicked Stepmother.
Cinderella will run from the 4th to the 31st of December 2022.
If you’re planning a short break in Bristol and need somewhere luxurious as a base, our Leonardo Hotel Bristol City is the ideal choice. Featuring modern rooms and onsite dining facilities, our hotel is here to make your stay relaxing and memorable. And only an eight-minute walk from Bristol Temple Meads station, it’s a great option if you’re travelling to the city by train.
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