Fun and affordable Christmas activities

Bristol  

Bristol Christmas Market (City Centre, BS1 3DX) 
From 7 November to 23 December, the city centre transforms into a Christmas wonderland with stalls, lights, and seasonal treats. You don’t need to spend, just wandering through, soaking up the atmosphere, and maybe sharing a hot chocolate can make for a lovely winter evening. 

Vintage Winter Wonderland (Millennium Square & Harbourside, BS1 5DB) 
Late November through December, Millennium Square turns into a cosy winter spot with rides, games and music, Entry is free, so you can choose what fits your budget. Even just strolling through and enjoying the lights can be a simple way to feel festive. 

Tip: The Bristol Free & Affordable Things to do With Kids Facebook group is a great place to find smaller community activities like craft mornings or gingerbread decorating, perfect for low-cost fun. 

Bath 

Bath Christmas Market (City Centre) 

Bath’s historic streets sparkle with lights and music during the Christmas Market. Even if you’re not shopping, it’s a lovely setting for a relaxed evening walk and some seasonal cheer. 

Meet Father Christmas at The Moorfields (73 Third Avenue, BA2 3NZ) 
On 13th December Father Christmas will be stopping by The Moorfields and he might have a few surprises with him! This is a free event, perfect for adding a little magic to the day without spending a penny. Register your interest here 

Kids Christmas Crafts Morning at The Moorfields (73 Third Avenue, BA2 3NZ) 
On 20 December, The Moorfields is hosting a free Christmas craft morning for kids, a great way to spark creativity and keep little ones entertained. While the children get stuck into crafting, parents can relax with a festive drink from the bar. All ages welcome, and it’s completely free. Find out more.  

Somerset 

Light Up The Lake (Clevedon Marine Lake, BS21) 
On Saturday 6 December, lanterns, samba music, and illuminated paddle boards bring Clevedon’s lake to life. It’s free to attend, just bring a lantern or torch and join the walk from the Pier to the lake for a magical evening. 

Santa’s Grotto & Festive Activities at The Museum of Somerset, Taunton 
Entry to the museum is free, and kids can join seasonal activities for £1–£2, like an Elf Trail or craft sessions. It’s a relaxed way to keep little ones entertained without spending much. 

Gloucester and surrounding areas  

Winter Glow Christmas Market (Three Counties Showground) 
On selected December dates, Winter Glow offers an indoor market with free entry to their market, there’s also plenty of activities at a range of prices parking—ideal for picking up thoughtful gifts without the big price tags. 

Stick Man Christmas Trail at Westonbirt Arboretum 
Follow Stick Man through Silk Wood on an interactive trail at Westonbirt. Included in general admission, you can also add on an additional activity pack for £4, it’s perfect for children, but enjoyed by all. It’s a fun and festive way to spend a winter afternoon surrounded by nature. 

Simple festive fun 

You definitely don’t have to spend big to have the most fun, sometimes the simplest ideas make the most special memories. Why not wrap up warm, make some hot chocolate and take a walk to see local Christmas light displays. The Christmas Displays in Bristol and South Glos group keep an updated map of streets and homes with the best decorations, perfect for a low-cost evening adventure, check it out here. 

If you’re staying in, a festive movie night, homemade decorations or easy Christmas crafts can be just as magical, especially for children. With a little creativity and imagination, you can make Christmas extra magical without stretching your budget.