Monday, 13 November 2023

Top 10 Christmas Markets You Can't Miss in the UK 2023

Welcome to the enchanting world of festive wonder as we embark on a journey through the United Kingdom's top 10 Christmas markets. 'Tis the season of joy, and what better way to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit than by exploring these magical markets that transform city centres into winter wonderlands. From the bustling streets of London to the historic charm of Edinburgh, each market offers a unique blend of local crafts, delectable treats, and a vibrant atmosphere that captures the essence of the season. Join us as we discover the sights, sounds, and flavours that make these Christmas markets the epitome of yuletide magic. Whether you're seeking the perfect gift, indulging in seasonal delights, or simply basking in the festive ambiance, these markets promise an unforgettable holiday experience. Let the journey through the UK's most amazing Christmas markets begin!

Edinburgh - Scotland

From 17th November 2023 to 6th January 2024

Edinburgh's Christmas, situated in the heart of the city, offers the ultimate winter experience for families. Running from November 17, 2023, to January 6, 2024, this seven-week extravaganza transforms the city centre with traditional Christmas Markets, exciting fair rides, live outdoor events, delicious food, and more. From festive delights to spectacular entertainment, there's something for everyone. Visit their Christmas Markets page for venue details and explore the festive season's live events. We look forward to welcoming you this year!

Edinburgh Christmas (edinburgh-christmas.com)

Where to stay:

Manchester, England

From 11th November to 22nd December 2023

This year, Manchester celebrates the 25th anniversary of its first Christmas market in 1998, solidifying its status as the UK's Christmas capital. Over the past quarter-century, the markets have consistently drawn Mancunians and visitors by the thousands to enjoy festive treats. With 225 stalls across nine city centre locations, including the iconic ski chalet market stalls in Piccadilly Gardens (transformed into the Winter Gardens), Market Street, Cathedral Gardens, Exchange Street, New Cathedral Street, St Ann's Square, Exchange Square, The Corn Exchange, and King Street, this year's Christmas markets promise an enchanting experience. The much-anticipated Manchester Christmas Parade, returning on December 3, is set to be even bigger and better than last year's unforgettable inaugural event, attracting families to the city centre streets.

Manchester Christmas Markets - Manchester - Visit Manchester

Where to stay:

Chester, England

From 17th November to 21st December 2023

Chester Christmas Market returns for a magical festive experience in the heart of the city. With 70 traders surrounding the town hall, the new arcade, and the forum near the iconic sparkling tree, this handmade and historical market offers a unique shopping experience. Discover locally made crafts, jewellery, accessories, and stocking fillers, ensuring you find the perfect presents. Chester has your Christmas all wrapped up!

Chester Christmas Market - Visit Cheshire

Where to stay:

Birmingham, England

From 2nd November to 24th December 2023

Birmingham's Frankfurt Christmas Market, a beloved annual event, lights up the city each winter and is a favourite among residents and visitors alike. Nestled on Victoria Square and along New Street, this market, the largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany or Austria, boasts a diverse array of traditional goods and gifts, along with tempting food and drink options. From pretzels and schnitzels to bratwursts and roasted almonds, the culinary delights are complemented by gluhwein, weissbier, or rich hot chocolate. The festive ambiance is perfect for gatherings with family and friends, enhanced by a lively music program on Victoria Square. Explore the stalls for handcrafted wooden decorations, delicate glass baubles, crystal lamps, Sounds of Nature, hand-crafted leatherwork, toys, jewellery, and more—a one-stop-shop for delightful presents!

Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market - Visit Birmingham

Where to stay:

York, England

From 16th November to 22rd December 2023

Experience the enchantment of a winter wonderland in York from November 16th to December 22nd. With over 75 alpine chalets lining Parliament Street and St Sampson's Square, the festive atmosphere comes alive with twinkling lights and cheerful carols. Explore these charming chalets to discover locally crafted treasures and artisan gifts, all brought to you by talented local traders.

York Christmas Market 2023 | Visit York

Where to stay:

Bath, England

From 23rd November to 10th December 2023

Bath Christmas Market is back in the historic city from November 23rd to December 10th, creating a winter wonderland in the picturesque Bath City Centre. This free event features charming chalets among iconic monuments, offering a festive atmosphere with mulled wine at every corner. Embrace the holiday spirit and create lasting memories in the heart of Bath.

Bath Christmas Market

Where to stay:

Nottingham, England

From 18th November to 31st December 2023

Winter Wonderland is back in Nottingham, bringing extended Christmas magic! The city's premier Christmas attraction features the Ice Rink, Sky Skate ice path, and popular spots like the Ice Bar, Sur La Piste, and Altitude ski bars. Running from November to New Year's Eve, it's open for an extra week this year. Whether skating above Old Market Square, enjoying a festive drink at the skate-up bars, or opting for the ground-level ice rink, there's something for everyone. For a unique experience, check out the themed Ice Bar at a chilling -10 degrees—don provided gloves and coats for warmth. Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience; book early to secure your spot!

Nottingham Winter Wonderland 2023

Where to stay:

London, Covent Garden, England

From 7th November 2023 to 1st January 2024

Experience the magic of Christmas in Covent Garden as its cobbled streets and Piazza come alive with giant festive installations, a Santa sleigh, and a Christmas Sandwich Festival. From the Market Building to Seven Dials, the atmosphere is filled with the warmth of mulled wine and holiday stalls.

Christmas in Covent Garden | Covent Garden

Where to stay:

Newcastle, England

From 18th November to 23rd December 2023

Newcastle's Christmas Market, a festive city tradition, is back from November 18th to December 23rd! Spread around Grey's Monument, Grainger Street, and this year, Old Eldon Square too, the lively market features local independent traders, offering a perfect opportunity to find unique Christmas gifts, savour delicious hot chocolate, or simply immerse yourself in the festive ambiance.

Markets - Newcastle's Christmas (newcastleschristmas.com)

Where to stay:

Rochester, England

From 25th November to 10th December 2023

In the stunning Rochester Castle gardens, the Christmas markets span three weekends, offering an ideal setting to find that perfect gift or stocking filler among numerous craft and trade stalls. Enjoy hot and cold beverages, mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and more from the available food and drink stalls.

Rochester Christmas Market 2023 | Visit Medway - Visit Medway

Where to stay:

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Tuesday, 18 July 2023

Experience the Enchanting Charms of Bath

Experience the Enchanting Charms of Bath: A Must-Visit Destination for an Unforgettable Stay

Bath, Somerset - Wikipedia

Welcome to Bath, an enchanting city nestled in the heart of the English countryside. Steeped in history, adorned with stunning Georgian architecture, and renowned for its Roman baths, Bath offers a unique and captivating experience for visitors. In this blog post, we'll explore the many reasons why you should choose Bath as your next travel destination and indulge in a memorable stay that will leave you yearning for more.

Bath's historical significance is undeniable. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the city boasts Roman roots that date back 2,000 years. The Roman Baths, with their natural hot springs, offer a glimpse into ancient bathing rituals and are a must-visit attraction. Immerse yourself in the warm, mineral-rich waters and let the history of the city come alive.

Bath's architectural heritage is a sight to behold. The city is famous for its Georgian architecture, characterised by honey-coloured limestone buildings and grand crescents. The iconic Royal Crescent, the majestic Bath Abbey, and the elegant Pulteney Bridge are just a few examples of the architectural marvels that grace the city. Take a leisurely stroll through the streets, marvel at the stunning facades, and transport yourself to a bygone era.

Bath is a cultural hub, offering a vibrant arts scene and a wealth of cultural attractions. The city is home to the esteemed Theatre Royal, where you can catch world-class performances. The Holburne Museum and the Victoria Art Gallery house remarkable collections of art and artefacts. Bath also hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Bath Literature Festival and the Bath International Music Festival, which celebrate the city's creative spirit.

Literary enthusiasts will delight in Bath's connections to the renowned author, Jane Austen. Austen lived in Bath for a significant portion of her life, and the city served as a backdrop for two of her novels, "Persuasion" and "Northanger Abbey." Explore the Jane Austen Centre, step into the Regency era, and gain insight into the life and works of this literary icon.

Beyond its historical and architectural allure, Bath is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. The picturesque countryside, rolling hills, and nearby Cotswold villages offer endless opportunities for exploration. Take a scenic walk along the Bath Skyline, visit the beautiful Prior Park Landscape Garden, or venture further afield to explore the enchanting wonders of the Cotswolds.

Bath is a city that effortlessly combines history, culture, and natural beauty to create an unforgettable experience for visitors. Whether you're seeking a relaxing getaway, a journey into the past, or a dose of artistic inspiration, Bath has it all. From its Roman baths to its Georgian splendour, from literary connections to captivating festivals, this city promises to leave an indelible mark on your heart. So, pack your bags, prepare to be mesmerised, and embark on a remarkable journey to Bath, where history, beauty, and charm converge to offer a truly memorable stay.

find your B&B today : Bath Bed and Breakfast, Guest Houses & Hotels, Somerset UK | Bed and Breakfasts Guide

Booking.com: Hotels in Bath. Book your hotel now! (bedandbreakfastsguide.com)

Wednesday, 11 May 2016

The Beauty of Bath

The City of Bath, renowned worldwide as the epitome of British elegance, attracts visitors in their droves, determined to soak up the atmosphere of this bastion of British gentility. Visitors are mesmerised by the city's beautiful Georgian architecture.

(image courtesy of istock.com artist JustinBlackStock)

Bath, however, is more than a mere tourist mecca, steeped in history; the city is also a modern commercial centre; its affluence clearly apparent. But despite its thriving economy, Bath has somehow managed to cling to vestiges of more gracious times - and to market its history to good advantage. There is indeed, something very special about Bath and its unrivalled reputation as a World Heritage Site. The city boasts some of the finest architectural sites, anywhere in the world.

One of the best ways to see Bath is to hop on one of the many city tour buses. Baths Classic City Tour, for example, offers professionally guided tours, from an open-topped red bus, with sixteen hop on and off points. For novelty value, how about taking an oriental style tuk-tuk trip round the city? If you prefer to browse around the city, at your own pace, just follow the elegant finger posts dotted throughout the city. Or, for the ultimate birds eye view of Bath, balloon flights lift off from Victoria Park, daily, weather permitting!

Baths attractions:

Royal Crescent: Designed by John Wood the Younger, the Royal Crescent is an impressive arc of terraced houses with Ionic column facades. For a taster of how the upper echelons of society lived, in Georgian times, visit No.1, Royal Crescent, with its authentic Georgian interior.

The Circus: Designed by John Wood the Elder and completed by his son, The Circus is made up of three crescents, of thirty-three houses each. All have facades that depict three Roman classical architectural styles: Doric, Ionic and Corinthian.

The Roman Baths & Pump Room: Britains only hot springs and arguably the most famous Roman religious spa in Northern Europe is a must for anyone visiting bath.

Bath Abbey: One of the finest examples of fan vaulting, in Britain, Bath Abbey was completely restored during the Tudor period. Today, the Abbey often hosts orchestral and choral concerts.

Pulteney Bridge: Designed by Robert Adam and built in 1771, this is the only bridge in Britain to have shops on either side of its arch.

The Jane Austen Centre: Jane Austen fans will be in their element; the centre captures the refined and orderly world portrayed in her novels.

Shopping: Bath is awash with small, specialist foodie shops, delicatessens, and upmarket arts and crafts outlets. For local produce, visit the Guildhall Market in High Street. This marketplace dates back to 1284.

Atmosphere: Take time out to absorb the simple pleasures of Bath. And where better to relax than in one of the many inviting coffee and tea shops that spread out onto the cobbled pavements, during high season. For sheer ambience, visit Sally Lunns English Tea House. Established in 1680, this café is home to the original Sally Lunn Bun.

The centrally located tourist information office will help you make the most of your visit Bath, with an abundance of leaflets and advice on the citys numerous attractions, as well as details of B&B accommodation in the area.

So, still wondering where to go for your next British break? Make a beeline for Bath - and dont forget your camera!

Find your perfect B&B Bath, or even a nice hotel in Bath -

Top 10 Christmas Markets You Can't Miss in the UK 2023

Experience the Enchanting Charms of Bath

The Beauty of Bath

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