A Festive Guide to Bath At Christmas!
Bath is beautiful all year round there’s no denying it, but there is something extra special about the city at Christmas. It has a sparkle about it and that’s not just because of the lights.
The bustling markets, historic streets and armoatic smells of roasting chestnuts fill the air. It’s easy to see why The Telegraph rated Bath as one of the Top Destinations to visit at Christmas.
In addition to the award winning Christmas Market, there are so many ways to make the most of the festivities in Bath and last week, I had the pleasure of doing so with Visit Bath and Southgate *.
So, sit back, grab a mince pie (or two) and check out my ‘Festive Guide to Bath at Christmas’! P.S. if you haven’t got Mariah Carey playing, this is a *polite* reminder to quickly do so!!
1. Start the day at Bath Thermae Spa .
Name a better way to start the day than with a spa session. Don’t worry, I’ll wait…
The Thermae Spa’s are one of the most popular attractions and as soon as you step foot through the glass doors, it’s easy to see why. The rooftop pool really is as magical as you think – the photos don’t do it justice!
With panoramic views of the city and naturally warm mineral rich waters, it’s an experience you won’t forget in a hurry. As well as views of the city, you can enjoy the Minerva Pool and stunning Wellness Suites which offer an impressive 5 experiences.
A Roman Steam Room, Georgian Steam Room, Infrared Room, Ice Chamber and lastly, a Celestial Relaxation Room. This one is a personal favourite of mine. Get lost in a swirling, twinkling room full of soothing aromas and heated loungers. Heaven.
Opening Times: Open all year excluding Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Year’s Day.
Prices: Standard 2-hour spa session, Mon-Fri: £36 pp. Sat & Sun: £40 pp.
Book your trip now!
2. Bath Christmas Market .
Naturally, it should be top of your list and with good reason.It really is magical. With over 150 twinkling huts spread across the centre, it’s the perfect place to start your Christmas shopping.
I’d recommend starting in the Abbey Courtyard before weaving your way in and out of the cobbled side-streets and up toward Milsom Street. Almost everything that is for sale has been made or sourced locally by independent businesses. Unique gifts, personalised presents, toys and jewellery are just some of the items you’ll find. Not forgetting the 50+ food and drink stalls! From mulled wine to mince pies and marshmallow kisses, you’ll most definitely leave feeling fabulously festive (and full).
Opening times: Thur 28th Nov–Sun 15th Dec. Mon – Weds: 10am–7pm. Thurs – Sat :10am–8pm. Sun: 10am–6pm.
Price: Free to visit, most stalls take card.
View the full list of stalls here.
3. Blow your own Bauble with Bath Aqua Glass.
If you struggled to find the perfect handmade gift at the market, be sure to check out Bath Aqua Glass ‘Breath in A Bauble’ workshop. Based in their studios on Walcot Street, you’ll learn all about glassblowing before breathing life into your very own decoration!
The experience takes around an hour, but is totally worth it. You’ll leave with a totally bespoke handblown bauble. And if like me, you’re looking to gift experiences as opposed to material gifts this year, it’s a really nice and unusual one.
*Baubles are available for collection 24 hours after they’ve been blown, rested and cooled*.
Opening times: Mon-Fri: 11am, 1:15pm & 3pm. Sat: 11am & 2pm.
Price: £20.95.
Book your space here!
4. Bath on Ice.
Cliche, but ice skating is a must at Christmas right? Even if, like me, clinging to the sides of the ice rink is your idea of ice skating!
Located in Victoria Park, Bath on Ice is an the perfect festive activity for all ages at any time of the day. Pick up your skates, take to the ice then, reward your efforts in Moguls Alpine Bar. From wood-fired pizza, to mulled wine and hot chocolates, there’s something for everyone! I can personally vouch for the hot chocolates too – decadent, indguldent and delicious!
The sessions last an hour and pre-booking is recommend – it gets pretty busy!
Opening times: 5th Nov 2019– 5th Jan 2020, every day (except Christmas day). Mon-Fri: 11:45am-10pm. Sat & Sun: 10:30am-10pm.
Prices: Adult £11.50 / Child £10 / Family £37 / Student or Senior £10.50
Book your trip on the ice here!
5. Take a trip to Tivoli.
A family Christmas tradition in the Cousins’ household has always been a trip to the cinema. And what better way to watch the latest release than at Tivoli. The brand new cinema concept that combines a luxury cinema setting with a cafe, bar and lounge.
There are four screening studios all kitted out with velvet lined sofas, low lighting and side tables for in-screen food and drink. Cosy up, sit back, relax and wait for your cocktails (or soft drinks) and dinner to be delivered straight to your booth before the film starts. Bliss.
My mum and I went to see Last Christmas – if you’ve not seen it yet, you must! It’s a real feel good festive.
Located in Southgate which if you’re not familiar with, is home to over 50 shops and 22 resturants. This year, they’re also hosting a variety of festive activities for all ages. Meet Father Christmas on 21st December, step inside a giant snowglobe or enjoy a glass of mulled wine at the Gingerbread Bar!
Tivoli opening times: Mon – Thurs: 10am – 11pm. Fri-Sat: 9:30am – 11pm. Sun: 9:30am – 10pm.
Prices: Adult £21 / Child £19 / Student or Senior £19
Book your tickets here!
So whether you’re a local just wanting to be a tourist (like me) or a visitor exploring for the first time, Bath really is perfect for festive city break.
And if you’re looking for additional acitivites, be sure to visit to official Visit Bath website!
Have you visited Bath before? If so, how was your trip? I’d love to know what you got up too!
Amy xo.
*All activities listed were complimentary, but as always, all views are my own*.
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