December in the Cotswolds - A run-down of Christmas festivities not to be missed

The lead up to Christmas is a wonderful time to be in the Cotswolds so below is our suggestions of some of the key events for you to enjoy…

Chipping Campden Christmas Market

Saturday 3rd December 2022 the whole street is closed off to traffic to allow the stall holders and shoppers plenty of space to explore the festive delights and stock up on presents.

There will be a huge range of stalls as well as a choice of food and drinks on offer in the market square and an indoor arts and crafts market with a range of original Christmas gifts at the Town Hall. At dusk, the Christmas lights will be switched on and there will of course be an appearance by Father Christmas!

Entry: Free
Where: High St, Chipping Campden, GL55 6HB
When: 3rd December 2022, 12pm - 6pm

Cheltenham Christmas Market

Running every day from Thursday 8 December to Saturday 24 December 2022. This will run along the promenade and Long gardens in front of the municipal office with stalls offering an array of food, gifts and Christmas decorations.

Entry: Free
Where: The Promenade & Long Gardens, Cheltenham, GL50 1PJ
When: Thursday 8 December to Saturday 24 December 2022

Winchcombe Christmas Festival

Charming Winchcombe turns into a winter wonderland as shops, pubs and restaurants throw open their doors with a warm welcome to visitors. There will be Christmas spirit in abundance with street entertainers, Morris dancers, choirs and carol singing as well as over 60 Christmas trees lighting up the town. As well as all this, there will be an abundance of stalls with a variety of gifts and food to browse and purchase. There will also be late opening at the shops too.

Where to stay: The Bolt Hole with its roll-top bath, rain shower, king-size bed and delightful log burner and top reviews, is in the centre of the town making it the ideal place to stay.

Where: North St / Abbey Terrace, Winchcombe, GL54 5LJ
When: 6 December 2022 5pm – 8pm

Stow-on-the-Wold Christmas Tree Festival 2022

The annual Christmas Tree Festival which will take place at the stunning St Edward’s church on the 8th to the 11th of December 2022. There will be a delightful display of Christmas trees decorated by local children and businesses. The best tree in each category will be decided by votes the public.

Entry: Donations suggested of £5 per couple
Where: St Edward’s Church, Stow-on-the-Wold
When: 10.00am to 5.00pm on Thur 8th to Sun 11th Dec 2022

Spectacle of Light, Sudeley Castle

Sudeley castle is the setting for this magical night-time trail. Not only will the majestic trees and romantic ruins be a festival of light but there will also be water features and beams to light-up the way and fill it with colour. Mulled wine and hot chocolate, as well as food will be available from the castle terrace.

Where to stay: Just a few minutes away is The Bolt Hole, a delightfully cosy and luxurious cottage - the icing on the cake after a magical festive evening!

Entry: From £19.20
Where: Sudeley Castle, Winchcombe GL54 5LP
When: Weekends throughout December ending on the 30th Dec 2022

Bourton-on-the-Water Christmas Tree Lighting

Friday 2nd December will be the day of the lighting of the magical Christmas tree which sits in the River Windrush in prime position in the village centre. The tree will be on show throughout the festive period with a Christmas shopping evening on the 2nd of December.

Entry: Free
Where: River Windrush, Centre of Bourton-on-the-Water
When: 2nd December 2022 6.30pm