Bath is a really beautiful city, but it gets even more charming at Christmas time. The cobblestone streets are like something out of a Charles Dickens book, and festive lights are hung everywhere! There’s also lots of Christmas student events in Bath that makes staying in the city as long as possible before the winter break much more enjoyable. So if you’re looking for things to do in Bath at Christmas, here’s our must-do festive activities for students.
1. Boo and cheer at pantomimes at Theatre Royal Bath
The Theatre Royal Bath is one of the city’s crown jewels when it comes to live performances. During the festive season, the theatre hosts spectacular shows that are bound to get you into the Christmas spirit. This year, for instance, the theatre presents the much-loved pantomime “Sleeping Beauty”, featuring Neil McDermott. Boo the villains, cheer for the heroes, and immerse yourself in a magical theatre experience that’s perfect for students seeking a break from their studies.
2. Visit Bath Christmas Market
The award-winning Bath Christmas Market is back again, transforming the city’s streets into a festive shopping haven. With over 150 stalls, you can find unique gifts, artisanal food and drink, and handcrafted decorations. It’s an ideal spot for students to buy gifts for loved ones or simply indulge in some festive treats. It’s also one of our top things to do at night in Bath.
3. Wander around the American Museum & Gardens Light Display
From the start of December until New Year’s Eve, the American Museum & Gardens become a luminous wonderland. The entire estate, from the house to the gardens and woodland, is adorned with radiant light displays, with sparkling reindeer leading the way through captivating tunnels of light.
4. Try unique experiences with Yuup Bath
For those looking for things to do in Bath at Christmas for students that’s more out of the ordinary, Yuup Bath offers various winter experiences. Whether it’s waffle making, attending a gin workshop, or even sheep herding, there’s something for every adventurous spirit. Plus, these experiences make for great Christmas presents.
5. Devour festive food and drinks
Numerous restaurants and cafes in Bath roll out special seasonal menus. From yuletide tipples and desserts at The Ivy Bath Brasserie to festive Sri Lankan street food at The Coconut Tree, there’s a dish for every palate. Students can also opt for a traditional Christmas Day lunch at one of Bath’s luxurious hotels.
6. Venture on the magical Illuminations Trail
Starting mid-November, Bath’s iconic streets and buildings are transformed by enchanting illuminations. Following the trail, students can absorb the Christmas ambience of the city. Moreover, a little outside Bath, at Westonbirt Arboretum, a festive adventure awaits as you search for Father Christmas’s lost reindeer among the trees.
7. Skate at Bath on Ice
What’s Christmas without some ice-skating? Bath on Ice is back in Victoria Park, providing a vast skating area complemented by atmospheric lights and music. Post-skating, students can unwind in the cosy bar area with some seasonal drinks. It’s one of the more iconic things to do in Bath at Christmas for students. Make sure you have your student ID handy, as you’ll be able to get a concessionary ticket for £13.50 instead of full adult price.
8. Visit Wookey Hole’s Winter Wonderland
Just a short trip from Bath, Wookey Hole transforms into a Winter Wonderland. The caves are illuminated with over 100,000 lights, creating a mesmerising underground experience. There’s also Santa’s North Pole Grotto, where children can meet Santa and receive a gift. There’s no better way to bring out your inner child.
9. Feed reindeers at the Avon Valley Christmas Experience
This experience offers ice skating, an enchanting journey through a magical land, and rides through a snowy forest. It’s a festive adventure that’s hard to resist. But our favourite thing to do here is reindeer feeding. Bath is definitely giving Lapland a run for it’s money at Avon Valley!
10. Enjoy a festive afternoon tea
Another delightful experience to add to the list of things to do in Bath during Christmas is enjoying a festive afternoon tea. Bath offers various locations where one can indulge in this quintessentially British tradition with a Christmassy twist. Check out the Bath Spa Hotel, which both offer festive afternoon teas. It might be one of the more luxurious things to do in Bath at Christmas for students, but comes with lots of delicious food. Not only can you savour traditional treats like scones, sandwiches, and cakes, but they often come with special seasonal additions, making it an excellent way to unwind after a day of Christmas shopping or sightseeing.
Bath during Christmas is a magical place, full of festive activities and experiences suitable for university students. Whether you’re a theatre enthusiast, a food lover, or just looking to soak in the Christmas spirit, Bath is one of those cities that will put you off going home for winter break.
Last Updated on June 11, 2024
Published on June 24, 2023
