Chester Christmas Market Dates, Location and Tips
Embark on an enchanting journey through the heart of Cheshire, where you'll discover the ultimate winter wonderland, complete with captivating Christmas Markets.
Is Chester a good place to visit during Christmas?
Absolutely! Chester is an excellent place to visit during Christmas. The city is home to a magical Christmas market, festive parades, and beautifully decorated Christmas trees at the Cathedral. With charming Christmas lights, Santa's Grotto, and even a visit to Chester Zoo's illuminated lanterns, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Where is the Chester Christmas market?
The Chester Christmas Market 2024 is located in the heart of Chester. Nestled in the shadow of Chester Town Hall and across from Chester Cathedral, it's also conveniently located near the new market and Northgate development.
When does the Chester Christmas Market start?
The Chester Christmas Market will take place from 15th November to 22nd December 2024. The opening times for the Chester Christmas market this year are from 10.30 am to 6.30 pm from Sunday to Wednesday, with extended hours until 8 pm from Thursday to Saturday.
Do you need a ticket?
Entry to Chester Christmas Markets is absolutely free. Don't miss out on your chance to experience the Cheshire Christmas market break - start planning today!
How to reach the Chester Christmas Market?
The Chester Christmas Market is conveniently located in the heart of the city, making it easily accessible from various transport options. Here's how you can get there:
- By train: Chester Railway Station is just a 10-minute walk from the market, offering direct services from cities like Liverpool, Manchester, and Birmingham.
- By bus: Chester has an extensive bus network, with the main bus station located just a short walk from the market. Several local and regional bus services stop near the city centre, including routes from surrounding areas such as Ellesmere Port and Wrexham.
- By car: If you're driving, Chester is easily accessible via the M56 and M53 motorways. There are various car parks in the city centre, including the Northgate Street car park, which is just a 5-minute walk from the market.
Popular attractions at the Chester Christmas market
Get ready for a magical Christmas experience in Chester, featuring an enchanting Christmas market adorned with Alpine-style chalets, twinkling fairy lights, and a majestic Christmas tree.
Food and drink delights
At the Chester Christmas Market, you'll find yourself surrounded by delicious smells that tempt your taste buds. Enjoy everything from hot roasted chestnuts to mouthwatering grilled cheese sandwiches, perfect for the festive season. Warm up with a cup of mulled wine, spiced just right, or try the famous Chester pies, packed with rich meats and gravy. You can even enjoy international flavours like German bratwurst sausages or Polish pierogies, and satisfy your sweet tooth with chocolate-dipped fruit, gingerbread cookies, and classic mince pies.
Stalls
The Chester Christmas Market is filled with over 70 stalls offering something for everyone. From unique Christmas gifts to local spirits, fudge, and stocking fillers, there's a lot to explore. You'll find handmade jewellery, hand-painted baubles, artisanal soaps, and plenty of Chester-themed souvenirs. Don't forget to browse the talented local artisans' creations, including bespoke glassware, artisanal cheese, and small-batch jams for the perfect festive gift.
Where to stay in Chester?
For an immersive festive experience, most visitors choose to stay within the historic Roman City Walls of Chester. It's the ideal location for a short stay, allowing you to fully embrace the holiday atmosphere. Enhance your visit with our exclusive offers on this page for a Chester Christmas market break. Make the most of your time at the market and enjoy the convenience of nearby accommodation.
Other things to do in Cheshire
- Tatton Park Christmas Gift Fair: The Tatton Park Christmas Gift Fair offers festive shopping in the beautiful Tenants' Hall of the grand mansion, which is transformed into a Christmas market. Local suppliers showcase a variety of unique gifts, and entry to the hall is free for a relaxed shopping experience.
- Nantwich: Experience the mediaeval market town of Nantwich, known for its picturesque timbered buildings. Explore quaint streets with boutiques, antiques dealers, and craft shops.
- Bolesworth: From November to December, Bolesworth becomes a dazzling winter wonderland with a 1.2-mile illuminated trail, Santa's Grotto, ice skating, Christmas markets, and more. Located near Chester and Wrexham, it's a perfect place for a festive outing. Note that a general admission ticket is required for Christmas at Bolesworth.
- Chester Zoo: Set off on a magical evening of discovery where you will explore new captivating light installations and be transported into enchanting lands filled with colour and festivity, and can also meet orangutans, lions, dolphins and woolly mammoths.
Christmas Essentials: Christmas Shop | Christmas Gifts | Christmas Pyjamas | Christmas Decorations | Christmas Market Breaks | Christmas Jumpers | Christmas Trees