A Festive Guide to Christmas Markets Near Taunton

Looking for some festive fun near Taunton? Here are a few Christmas markets to get you into the holiday spirit:

West Somerset Railway Christmas Market

• Dates: Saturday, November 30th & Sunday, December 1st, 2024
• Location: West Somerset Railway Station, Minehead
• Website: https://www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk/events/view/minehead-station-christmas-market-and-train
• A truly unique Christmas experience: Board a special steam train service departing from Bishops Lydeard or Williton/Watchet for a magical journey through stunning winter landscapes. Enjoy festive markets at Minehead Station, featuring a variety of local crafts, delicious food, and carol singing. Don’t forget to visit Santa Claus!

Please note: Tickets for the West Somerset Railway Christmas Market include your train journey and access to the market. Pre-booking is recommended as these tickets are likely to sell out quickly.

Hestercombe Christmas Market

• Dates: Friday, November 15th – Sunday, November 17th, 2024
• Location: Hestercombe House and Gardens, Taunton
• Website: https://www.hestercombe.com/whats-on/christmas-market
• A delightful festive market nestled within the beautiful Hestercombe Gardens. Discover a charming selection of local crafts, delicious treats, and festive entertainment for the whole family. Explore the beautifully decorated house and gardens, and get into the spirit of the season.

Bonus: Visitors to the market receive free admission to the gardens, house, and contemporary art gallery!

Taunton Christmas Fayre

• Dates: Saturday, December 1st – Sunday, December 15th, 2024
• Location: Taunton Town Centre
• Website: https://www.facebook.com/TauntonChristmasCraftFair/
• A traditional Christmas market with a variety of stalls selling handcrafted gifts, local produce, and festive food. Enjoy live music, carol singing, and a festive atmosphere.

Christmas at Clarks Village, Street

• Dates: Thursday, November 7th – Sunday, November 10th, 2024 and Thursday, November 29th – Christmas Eve
• Location: Clarks Village, Street
• Looking for the perfect Christmas gift? Clarks Village’s Festive Artisan Market is the ideal place to find unique presents and festive treats. Explore a winter wonderland of stalls filled with handcrafted decorations, one-of-a-kind gifts, and delicious local delicacies. 

Hestercombe Illuminations

• Dates: November 21st – December 30th, 2024 
• Location: Hestercombe House and Gardens, Taunton 
• Website: https://www.hestercombe.com/whats-on/christmas-illuminations 
• Experience the magic of Hestercombe at night as the gardens are illuminated with stunning light displays. Wander through the illuminated trails, admire the festive decorations, and enjoy the enchanting atmosphere.

Glastonbury Frost Fayre

• Dates: Saturday, November 30th, 2024
• Location: Glastonbury Town Centre
• Website: https://glastonbury.gov.uk/frost-fayre/ 
• Glastonbury’s annual Frost Fayre is an unmissable event for the Christmas calendar. Explore a vibrant market filled with local crafts, delicious food and drink, and festive entertainment. Enjoy live performances, festive lights, and the magic of Christmas.

Wells Bishop’s Palace Christmas Market

• Dates: Saturday, 2nd November & Sunday, 3rd November, 2024, 10am – 4pm
• Location: Wells Bishop’s Palace
• Website: https://bishopspalace.org.uk/christmas-artisan-market/
• Explore the historic grounds of Wells Bishop’s Palace transformed into a festive wonderland. Browse over 70 stalls showcasing a delightful selection of handcrafted gifts, gourmet food, and festive decorations. Enjoy seasonal music played in the chapel and soak up the charming atmosphere.

Bonus: Your reduced-price ticket to the Wells Bishop’s Palace Christmas Market also includes access to the palace and the beautiful gardens!

Other Winter Events

While not specifically a Christmas market, the Rural Living Show is a fantastic event for those who love the countryside and rural lifestyle. It takes place at the King’s College Prep school in Taunton, and features a wide range of exhibitors, demonstrations, and activities.

Looking for a cosy place to stay during your festive adventures? Consider booking a stay at Mill Meadow Eco Lodges, your perfect base for exploring Somerset’s Christmas markets and other attractions.