Create some new traditions this Christmas, with memorable days out and one-of-a-kind experiences in Bristol.
Watch stunning art displays in forests and historic ships, meet Santa on a ferry or steam train, explore caves lit by thousands of fairy lights, and see quirky twists on classic Christmas theatre shows. You can even dance underneath Concorde, or party on a pier over the sea!
Whatever takes your fancy, make it a festive break to remember. Everyone's welcome to our place this Christmas. #MerryBristmas
Christmas with a twist
Bristol is bursting with quirky things to do over the festive period:
Try something new this Christmas by booking a festive show or experience via Yuup, from wreath making, whisky masterclasses and ceramic workshops to classes on making gingerbread houses, Christmas baubles, and even Christmas dinner!
Bristol Christmas Market is back in the city from the start of November, featuring numerous stalls of crafts, food and gifts, plus the Jäger barn bar and Ski Gondolas for private hire.
The days may get shorter, but now the streets of Bristol shimmer with twinkly spidery webs of fairy lights, infusing the dark nights with a touch of magic. If you're heading to the city this December, we've got a festive events calendar as well as a list of winter walks, gift ideas and more. Scroll down for more festive inspiration!
Warm up by heading to one of Bristol's top indoor attractions, and don't forget to explore some of Bristol’s sacred buildings, which are at their most impressive during the Christmas period and which host a variety of carol concerts and impressive events in the lead up to Christmas Day. Browse more Christmas events or check out our What's On page for even more ideas
Coming to Bristol for some Christmas shopping? We've rounded up the city's best options, from gift fairs and markets to independent shops.
Shop at over 180 businesses with the Love Bristol Gift Card, from independents to well-known brands - it's the perfect stocking filler gift!
Christmas near Bristol
Just outside Bristol, you'll find a wealth of festive trails and fun days out, from Twilight Tobogganing at Mendip Activity Centre, to festive circus shows and a Christmas grotto with thousands of lights at Wookey Hole's Winter Wonderland, as well as a spectacular light trail at Westonbirt Arboretum and beautiful outdoor trails at Tyntesfield and Dyrham Park.
Bristol oozes atmosphere during the Christmas months and with so much to see, do and shop, you'll be needing somewhere to stay. Book a room in the perfectly-located Mercure Bristol Grand Hotel, stretch out in stylish serviced apartments, or browse other city centre hotels to be close to the shops and markets. Check out our accommodation pages and offers pages and book yourself a merry little festive break.
Come and say hello to us on Facebook, Instagram or TikTok and show us how you're enjoying a Proper Bristol Christmas using the hashtag #MerryBristmas
