What's on in Stratford-upon-Avon in December?

In December, Stratford-upon-Avon hosts a popular Victorian Christmas Market (expected early Dec, often over two weekends) featuring over 200 stalls with traders in costume, filling the historic town center with festive cheer. Visitors can enjoy the festive atmosphere with lights, mulled wine, and, in early December 2025, a major market, say Billesley Manor Hotel & Spa and Time Out Worldwide. Other highlights include:

What is there to do in Stratford-upon-Avon at Christmas?

Stratford-upon-Avon Christmas Market. Escape to the picturesque home of William Shakespeare for a magical day out at the Stratford-upon-Avon Victorian Christmas Market! Stroll along the historic streets and soak up the festive atmosphere as you explore over 300 stunning stalls.

What date is Christmas Market in Stratford-upon-Avon?

Taking place over two consecutive weekends, on 29th and 30th November and 6th and 7th December 2025 (Saturday 12-8pm, Sunday 10am-5pm), this allows visitors to experience the markets on what are traditionally the most popular days, and the midweek traffic congestion in the town will be significantly reduced.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon Christmas Market worth visiting?

The Victorian Christmas Market in Stratford-upon-Avon is one of Time Out's top festive markets in the UK for 2025. There are more than 200 stalls spread across the town centre, with traders donning traditional Victorian dress.

What to do in Stratford during winter?

Explore Stratford's Great Food and Drink Trails

• Stratford Bacon & Ale Trail. ...
• Stratford's Chocolate Trail. ...
• Visit the Stratford Slow Food Market. ...
• Explore Stratford Winterfest. ...
• Ice Skating at Stratford's Arenas. ...
• Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing at Stratford Conservation Area. ...
• Stratford Festival Theatre Winter Performances.

Stratford upon Avon Town Centre Walk, Christmas Lights, Monday 17th November 2025

Which activity is very popular during the winter?

Outdoor Winter Activities

• Sledding. Find a safe hill and spend the afternoon racing together. ...
• Build a snowman. This is another one of those classic childhood moments that's fun for the whole family. ...
• Go ice skating. Bundle up and find an outdoor skating rink. ...
• Make Your Home Cozy. ...
• Crafts. ...
• Games. ...
• Cook and Bake. ...
• Build a Fort.

How do I spend a day in Stratford-upon-Avon?

Based on my experience I would set aside around 2-3 hours to see all the five houses - Shakespeare's Birthplace, Nash's House and New Place, Hall's Croft, Anne Hathaway's Cottage and Mary Arden's Farm. Post the 5 house tour, you could go on a relaxing boat trip on River Avon.

What day is market day in Stratford-upon-Avon?

Stratford-upon-Avon has two main regular markets: the Rother Street Market on Fridays and Saturdays (9 am - 4 pm) for food, clothing, and crafts, and the Waterside Upmarket on Sundays (10 am - 5 pm) featuring local artists, crafters, and street food, running March to December. Both offer a variety of goods, from fresh produce and artisan foods at Rother Street to unique handmade items and gifts at Waterside.
 

What is the biggest Christmas Market in the UK?

Manchester Christmas Market

Manchester boasts arguably the UK's largest Christmas market, and one of the largest in Europe, with more than 300 stalls spread across the ten sites included in the 2025 Manchester Christmas Markets trail.

What day is Quayside market on?

The Quayside Market in Newcastle, UK, is held every Sunday, typically from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM, featuring local crafts, art, fashion, and food along the River Tyne. It runs year-round, though hours can be affected by holidays, so checking the Newcastle City Council website is wise. 

What date does Winter Wonderland open in 2025?

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland London opened for the 2025 season on Friday, November 14, 2025, and runs until Thursday, January 1, 2026, offering festive fun with rides, markets, and food, though it's closed on specific days like Christmas Day (December 25) and some other dates in November, with varying entry times and required pre-booking for specific slots.
 

What can you do for free in Stratford-upon-Avon?

You can enjoy Stratford-upon-Avon for free by walking along the scenic River Avon Trail, exploring the historic Henley Street, relaxing in Bancroft Gardens (near the Royal Shakespeare Theatre), walking or cycling the traffic-free Greenway, visiting the Guild Chapel (exterior/grounds), and seeing Shakespeare's burial site at Holy Trinity Church (free entry). Don't miss the Canal Basin with its colourful barges and quirky statues like The Jester.
 

What is the River festival Stratford-upon-Avon?

The Stratford upon Avon River Festival is held each year to honour the beautiful river that runs through the city. This bustling summer festival runs for two days along the River Avon, opposite the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.

Do any celebrities live in Stratford-upon-Avon?

Actor Simon Pegg studied at Stratford-upon-Avon College, and actor Craig Charles has lived in the area too. The Office star John Krasinski studied at the Royal Shakespeare Company.

What not to miss in Stratford-upon-Avon?

Attractions

• Hall's Croft. Website. ...
• The Royal Shakespeare Company and Theatres - The Other Place. Website. ...
• Chedham's Yard. Website. ...
• Stratford-upon-Avon Christmas lights. Website. ...
• Shakespeare's Schoolroom and Guildhall. Website. ...
• Escape Live Stratford-upon-Avon. Website. ...
• The Bear Pit Theatre. Website. ...
• Shakespeare's Birthplace. Website.

Is Anne Hathaway's cottage worth visiting?

Anne was born and raised and where the young Shakespeare would have visited her during the early part of their relationship. The Garden area is perfect for a picnic lunch or tea. See original furniture including the Hathaway bed and uncover five centuries of stories of the family who lived here for 13 generations.

What is the most beautiful place in the UK in December?

For beautiful December views in the UK, consider the dramatic, icy landscapes of the Isle of Skye, the festive, historic streets of York and Bath, the serene, snow-dusted valleys of the Lake District, the rugged, empty coastlines of Cornwall, and the stark, castle-dotted beauty of Northumberland, all offering unique winter charm from moody mountains to cozy Christmas markets.
 

What is the most picturesque Christmas town?

Christmas Towns at a Glance

• Leavenworth, Washington – Bavarian-style village with a Christmas charm.
• Aspen, Colorado – Snowy mountain luxury with festive activities.
• Bethlehem, Pennsylvania – The “Christmas City” is rich in tradition and markets.
• McAdenville, North Carolina – Famous for massive light displays.

What is the least Christmassy town in the UK?

Crowned the least Christmassy town in the UK was… Luton. The city scored the lowest on the festive spirit score, making it home to the Grinchiest of souls in the country. Second place went to Bradford, followed by Southampton in third.

Are there castles near Stratford-upon-Avon?

There are 18 Stratford upon Avon castles and palaces to pick from. Find the perfect places to go with your kids and get out on your next adventure!

Is there a hop-on hop-off bus in Stratford-upon-Avon?

City Sightseeing Stratford-upon-Avon tour – hop on, hop off!

Set on the banks of the River Avon which winds its way through the town. Take the City Sightseeing tour and discover the birthplace of William Shakespeare, and home to the world-renowned Royal Shakespeare Company.