The Bath Christmas Market is a good event, but the weekend crowd makes the centre unwalkable. A weekday morning is a completely different, better experience. To make the most of your visit, consider staying in the city centre near the Abbey, where you can easily walk to the market and other attractions. If you're arriving by train, base yourself near Bath Spa station for easy access. For a more luxurious experience, consider the Royal Crescent Hotel and Spa or The Gainsborough Bath Spa, both of which offer high-end amenities and services. Alternatively, the Francis Hotel on Queen Square offers reliable mid-range comfort.
For fewer crowds and lower prices, visit Bath on a weekday in January or February. However, if you're looking for atmosphere, the September Jane Austen Festival and the late-November Christmas Market are the highlights, but they're also the busiest and most expensive weeks of the year.
| Time | Crowds & prices | Why go |
|---|---|---|
| Weekday morning | Lowest | Calm, easy to walk around |
| Weekend | Highest | Atmosphere, but very crowded |
| January or February | Lowest | Calm, cheap, Roman Baths and spa without queues |
| September or late November | High | Jane Austen Festival, Christmas Market atmosphere |
If you're planning to visit the Christmas Market, consider using a Tick Taxi, which is a service owned by our parent company, and can be booked in advance. This offers a convenient way to get around the city, with prices varying depending on the route and time of day. You can check the prices on the Tick Taxi website.
In addition to visiting the Christmas Market, there are plenty of other things to do in Bath. The Roman Baths and Thermae Bath Spa are must-visit attractions, and the city's many museums and galleries offer a wealth of cultural and historical information. If you're looking for something more active, consider taking a stroll along the River Avon or visiting the Royal Victoria Park. For more information on what's on in Bath, check out our guides for more tips on planning your trip.
FAQs
When is the best time to visit the Bath Christmas Market?
A weekday morning is the best time to visit the Bath Christmas Market for a more enjoyable experience
Where should I stay in Bath?
Consider staying in the city centre near the Abbey or near Bath Spa station for easy access to the market and other attractions
How can I get around the city?
Consider using a Tick Taxi, which can be booked in advance and offers a convenient way to get around the city
What else is there to do in Bath?
In addition to visiting the Christmas Market, consider visiting the Roman Baths, Thermae Bath Spa, and the city's many museums and galleries
How can I find out more about events in Bath?
Check out our guides for more information on events and festivals in the city