If you want to avoid the high street this Christmas, head to a Christmas Market where you can shop at a laid back pace and pick up unique gifts for your loved ones. Bath Christmas Market (27th November-14th December) has long been a favourite for people who want to take a trip away from their own town, to get into the Christmas spirit.
Take in a little history

An official World Heritage site, Bath is home to some of the most beautiful buildings in the UK. The market is centred around the stunning Bath Abbey, where you can climb the tower to enjoy panoramic views of the city and the pretty market stalls. On the other side of the market you can take a tour of traditional Roman Baths, that have made Bath so famous. There is lots to see and do in Bath and no better way of experiencing it all than a walking tour around the city.
Shop until you drop

Of course, whilst the city is bathed in beauty, your prime reason for travel will be to fill your bags with lovely Christmas treats. The market is packed with over 170 stalls selling everything from handmade leather bags, jewellery and soaps to decorations for your tree and candles to make your home feel festive. Made up of a collection of wooden huts, the market adds extra sparkle to this already picturesque area of Bath.
Enjoy

Bath Market is a fun break for all of the family, with many attractions to keep children entertained. A traditional Victorian carousel takes centre stage and this year sees the return of a large ice-rink, which is sure to create lots of laughter. For adults there is an Apres-ski bar, where you can buy mulled wine, cider and other Christmas tipples and a hot chocolate for the little ones. With dozens of food stalls and street stalls you can have plenty of treats to keep your energy levels up as you soak in the atmosphere of the market.
Relax

With so much shopping opportunities on offer, you are sure to be worn out by the end of the day. For a little R&R before you head back home, why not treat yourself to a spa, in one of the city’s luxury salons. When in Rome! There are many spa hotels, if you want to extend your trip to the city, with The Royal Crescent hotel offering fantastic Christmas packages.

If you have any room left after all of your Christmas treats, head over to Betty’s, a longstanding tea room full of traditional delights and the best cream tea in England. If you are planning to splash out then a visit Menu Gordon Jones offers a wonderful fine dining experience.

Once you have visited Bath Christmas Markets you are sure to want to return year upon year, so that you can eat, drink and be merry.