Here in the Cotswolds Christmas is so much more than just the one day. It’s a whole season of sparkle, community and countryside charm. From the local Christmas lights switch-ons to festive markets, late-night shopping evenings, and cosy pub gatherings, the weeks leading up to Christmas are filled with the kind of small-town magic that makes this time of year feel truly special. Villages and market towns come alive with twinkling lights and shop windows glisten with thoughtful gifts waiting to be discovered.
We’ve put together a guide of our favourite festive activities in The Cotswolds for you to enjoy…
Christmas Markets in the Cotswolds
With wooden chalets draped in sparkling lights, colourful decorations, and the scent of mulled wine drifting through the crisp winter air, Christmas markets in the Cotswolds are an experience to savour. Stalls brim with locally made gifts, handmade crafts, and indulgent treats, from artisan cheeses and festive bakes to woollen scarves and unique decorations that capture the spirit of the season.
Whether you’re hunting for special presents, meeting friends for a festive drink, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, there’s no better way to step into the Christmas spirit. Here we list some of the markets adding extra sparkle across the Cotswolds this year:
Bath Christmas Market – (27 November – 14 December) Bath comes alive with the best independent makers from across the South West, set against the city’s Georgian streets and iconic Abbey backdrop.
Cheltenham Christmas Gift Market – The Christmas Gift Market runs from 20–23 November, followed by the Arts and Crafts Market from 11–23 December. Both are hosted on the Promenade and are packed with artisan crafts, food and festive gifts.
Christmas Events in Stroud – (17 November – 20 December) Across Painswick, Bisley, Eastcombe and Berkley, Stroud’s Christmas markets and craft fairs bring seasonal cheer to the valleys. The well known Vintage Mary Markets take on a Christmas theme too – details can be found here. For last-minute shoppers, the Cornhill Christmas Market takes place on Friday 20 December.
Christmas Events at Blenheim Palace – (14 November – 3 January) From the illuminated light trail to the palace’s magical Sleeping Beauty theme, Blenheim is a true festive wonderland. With over 70 traders in the Great Court, it’s also a fantastic spot for Christmas shopping.
Cirencester Christmas Market (23 November to 21 December) From the Advent Markets and light awitch-on on the 29 and 30 November, Cirencester’s Market Place is transformed with twinkling lights, live carols and plenty of seasonal stalls. Enjoy mulled cider, local crafts and a festive atmosphere that makes this a must-visit market.
Moreton-in-Marsh Christmas Market & Lights Switch-On (29 November) The high street sparkles as Moreton-in-Marsh celebrates its Christmas lights switch-on. With stalls, entertainment and a warm community spirit, it’s a quintessential Cotswolds Christmas evening.
As well as the larger events, there are also several towns and villages which have one-off Christmas markets in the Cotswolds, often as part of their Christmas lights switch-on events. These markets are on the smaller scale but have equal amounts of charm and beautiful scenery.
- Painswick – 25th November 5 to 8pm
- Tetbury – 5 December from 5.30pm
- Chipping Campden – 6 December 12-6pm
- Winchcombe – 28 & 29 November for the Winchcombe Christmas Festival
- Broadway – 15th November at 5pm
Ice Skating
The magical Cheltenham Ice Skating Rink returns to Imperial Gardens Christmas on the site of the town’s original Winter gardens and skating rink in the late 19th century. The rink is open to the public from the 21 November up until the 4 January 2025 but do remember to pre-book your tickets to guarantee your space on the ice. Luckily, it is undercover so no need to worry about the weather, especially with hot drinks and tasty treats available at the Imperial Gardens barn afterwards.
The Gateway Ice Rink at the Cotswold Water Park runs from 21 November to 19 January, set beside the lakes with a fully covered rink and all the usual festive trimmings. After skating, you can drift over to the Gateway Café & Bar, the Hideout Lakeside Bar, Pizzeria 720 or the Brat Shack for something warm, though pre-booking your slot seems sensible. You can also take a spin at Bath on Ice in Victoria Park, open from 14 November to 4 January, if you’re looking for another option.
Christmas Sunday Roasts
There’s something especially comforting about a Sunday roast in the Cotswolds at Christmas. With roaring fires, twinkling lights, and the scent of roast potatoes and gravy in the air, it’s the perfect way to warm up after a winter walk or gather with loved ones for a festive feast.
The Lygon Arms, Broadway
A timeless favourite for a festive feast. This historic hotel offers an elegant dining room, a refined seasonal menu, and a cosy yet luxurious atmosphere, perfect for a long, leisurely Sunday lunch. Festive dining runs from 28 November to 23 December.
The Slaughters Country Inn, Lower Slaughter
Full of traditional Cotswold charm, this village inn is all roaring fires, stone walls, and hearty roast dinners. Ideal for those who prefer a rustic, relaxed setting with plenty of warmth and character. Festive Lunch and Dinner from 24 November to 23 December.
The Porch House, Stow-on-the-Wold
Reputedly England’s oldest inn, The Porch House is steeped in history and festive spirit. Expect glowing fires, twinkling decorations, and generous Christmas roasts that capture the season’s cheer. Christmas menu available until the 24th December.
The Halfway, Kineton
A traditional pub known for its friendly welcome and classic Sunday roasts made with locally sourced ingredients. A great choice for a relaxed family lunch in a picturesque village setting.
The Crown at Ampney Brook, Cirencester
Combining a stylish country interior with a warm, lively atmosphere, The Crown serves beautifully cooked roasts with all the trimmings, ideal for groups or cosy festive gatherings. Take a look at their what’s on page for details of their wreath making, Christmas menu, Elf show and Christmas market.
The Horse and Groom, Bourton-on-the-Hill
Running a special Christmas roast menu from 24 November to 21 December, this much-loved pub pairs seasonal flavours with a welcoming, country feel. A perfect stop for a touch of festive indulgence.
Make your own Christmas Wreath
Spruce up your home & decorate your front door with a beautiful handmade Christmas wreath this year, with tuition from expert florists. All of the flora, fauna and tools are provided, all you need is your imagination and maybe a Santa hat! All of these events will need to be pre-booked so click through and reserve your space today!
Wild Thyme & Honey – Thursday 20 November
Ellenborough Park – various dates in November and December
The Lygon Arms – 27 November, 29 November, 4 December and 6 December
Larksworld – 3 December
Daylesford Organic – various dates from 13 November to 20 December
Christmas Light Trails in the Cotswolds
Grab a hot chocolate or spiced apple and explore a magical illuminated light trail this Christmas. With dazzling displays set to music, these enchanting walks through some of the Cotswolds’ most beautiful gardens and parklands are a highlight of the festive season. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or little ones in tow, these glowing winter wonderlands promise to make the countdown to Christmas extra special.
Here are some of the most spectacular trails to explore this year:
Spectacle of Light at Sudeley Castle, Winchcombe
Dates: 24 November 2025 – 30 December 2025
Experience Sudeley Castle’s grounds transformed into a shimmering world of colour and creativity. Follow a beautifully lit trail through the castle gardens, enjoy themed music, and stop for festive food and drink beneath the stars. Book tickets online here
Enchanted Christmas at Westonbirt Arboretum
Dates: 24 November – 23 December 2025
A long-standing favourite, Westonbirt’s Enchanted Christmas is a sensory delight. Wander through the illuminated trees of the National Arboretum, meet Father Christmas, and enjoy festive stalls, warming drinks, and seasonal cheer along the way. Book in advance here
Illuminated Light Trail at Blenheim Palace, Woodstock
Dates: 15 November 2025 – 1 January 2026
Set within Blenheim’s grand parkland, this world-famous light trail features tunnels of twinkling lights, laser gardens, and choreographed musical displays. It’s an unforgettable evening out, especially when paired with the palace’s indoor Christmas market and themed installations. Tickets availble to book
The Enchanted Garden at Painswick Rococo Garden
Dates: 29 November 2025 – 5 January 2026
Discover the charm of the Rococo Garden after dark as it’s brought to life with magical lighting and gentle festive music. A smaller, more intimate trail perfect for families and those seeking a peaceful, atmospheric evening. Book online and choose between their regulary or sensory sensitive time slots
Cotswold Farm Park Enchanted Light Trail, Guiting Power
Dates: 22 November – 24 December 2025
Meet the animals, stroll through sparkling farm scenes, and enjoy festive treats along the way. The Enchanted Light Trail at Cotswold Farm Park is a wonderful mix of rural charm and Christmas sparkle, especially for children. Book your Christmas on the Farm experience online
Indulge in a festive Afternoon Tea
Afternoon tea is an English institution, and during the festive season it takes on an extra touch of magic here in the Cotswolds. Cosy lounges, roaring fires, and twinkling decorations set the scene – think delicate finger sandwiches, spiced scones, and miniature desserts infused with seasonal flavours. Whether you’re taking a break from Christmas shopping or celebrating with friends, a festive afternoon tea is the perfect way to slow down and savour the season.
Ellenborough Park, Cheltenham
Step into the grandeur of this historic country house hotel and enjoy a luxurious festive afternoon tea featuring turkey and cranberry sandwiches, warm scones, and Christmas-inspired patisserie. Served in elegant surroundings, it’s a truly decadent seasonal treat.
Book Festive Afternoon Tea at Ellenborough Park
The Lygon Arms, Broadway
Nestled in the heart of Broadway, The Lygon Arms offers a classic afternoon tea with a festive twist — enjoy freshly baked scones, indulgent pastries, and seasonal flavours alongside a glass of fizz or a warming mulled wine.
Book Festive Afternoon Tea at The Lygon Arms
Stratton House Hotel, Cirencester
At Stratton House, festive afternoon tea is served in the Garden Restaurant or cosy lounges, with a menu of Christmas-inspired sandwiches, sweet treats, and plenty of tea (or bubbles if you fancy!). It’s a relaxed, traditional experience with a friendly Cotswold welcome.
Book Festive Afternoon Tea at Stratton House
Create your own Christmas Hamper
The Cotswolds is bursting with fantastic artisan food & drink suppliers, so why not get creative and make your own Christmas hamper – whether that’s for yourself or friends and family! Stock up on local favourites from the Cotswold Cheese Company, Diddly Squat Farm Shop, Tubby Tom’s sauces, Costello & Hellerstein chocolates as well as charcuterie from Salt Pig Curing Company.
Late-Night Shopping
Soak up the festive atmosphere and watch the store fronts come to life during the festive late night shopping event in the Cotswolds. Pick up unique gifts from the independent shops in Broadway on the 28th November and 5th December – the village comes alive with festive crowds enjoying mulled wine & mince pies while they browse. Winchcome Christmas Festival sees the shops open late on the 6th and 7th December. Whilst Malmesbury town hall on the 6th December is home to the grand opening of their late night shopping by the local Mayor.
Festive Concerts in the Cotswolds
Celebrate Christmas in the Cotswolds with some exceptional musical evenings set in historic and atmospheric venues.
Berkeley Castle, Orchestral Christmas Concert
Set in the Great Hall of the castle, this classical event features Orchestra Pro Anima performing a mix of Baroque through 20th-century pieces. Find out more about their concert on 14 December on their website.
Gloucester Cathedral, Carol Services & Advent Music
This stunning cathedral hosts several special services and choral performances in the run-up to Christmas. Full details for 2025 are yet to list every date. See more details online here.
Daylesford Farm, Carol Concert by Candlelight
In the stunning setting of Daylesford, there is a candlelit carol concert on 21 December, from 4.30 pm. Drawn from former members of the Royal Holloway University Choir, the evening promises seasonal music in a relaxed yet refined environment. Book for Daylesford Carol Concert
Badminton House, Christmas by Candlelight Concert with The Bristol Ensemble
This is a more intimate, classical-music by-candlelight experience: the North Hall at Badminton House hosts an evening of festive music with the Bristol Ensemble on 13 December 2025. The venue’s architecture and candle-lit ambience add to the specialness of the evening. Details & booking at Badminton Estate
From twinkling markets and light trails to festive feasts and concerts by candlelight, Christmas in the Cotswolds is full of charm, community and celebration. However you choose to spend it, you’re sure to find plenty of ways to make the season sparkle.
If you’re considering relocation to the Cotswolds, then please get in touch with our Cotswold Letting Agent team on 01993 684572 and we will be happy to help you find the right home or cottage to rent in the Cotswolds.
