It feels as though Christmas in Somerset is officially underway. Last night, thousands of people turned up to see the Christmas lights being switched on at The Mall at Cribbs Causeway in Bristol. OK, the free concert by All Saints probably helped to attract the crowds, but even in early November it seems that plenty of us in Somerset are happy to get into the Christmas spirit.
In the coming days, Clarks Village (just down the road from me in Street) will switch on their Christmas lights. This will be attended by local Olympic and Paralympic athletes. Countless other ‘switch on’ events will follow around the county.
I have pencilled in 24 November as the day that The Cross Bed and Breakfast is ‘Christmasfied’ this year. (Obviously incredibly tastefully!) Unfortunately, I won’t be able to stretch to live music (a Christmas compilation and a bottle of red will probably be my accompaniments…)
ENJOY CHRISTMAS IN SOMERSET
But enough about Christmas decorations. There is far more to Christmas in Somerset than tinsel and fairy lights. My blog last month on my favourite places to go in Somerset is as valid in December as it is in Autumn (or in Spring or the height of Summer for that matter) . In fact, I’d go as far as to say that some of the places I listed are at their very best in Winter. Take Wells Cathedral for example. Hearing the incredible choir sing Christmas carols in this magnificent building will live long in the memory. There are lots of cathedral services to choose from in December (some of the most popular do need to be booked in advance).
Pic by Nick James
The local markets are fantastic all year round and are a great place to pick up some Christmas shopping. This year, Wells market has been extended. Alongside the bi-weekly market on Wednesdays and Saturdays there will also be a special ‘Extra Days of Christmas’ market in Wells Market Place on 21, 22, 23 & 24 of December. 100 stalls will be open from 9am – 4pm (9am – 2pm on Christmas Eve). Ideal for any last minute Christmas shopping.
A little further afield from me, Bath Christmas Market runs from 24 November to 11 December. This picturesque market is long established and usually has over 170 stalls selling all manner of goodies.
I couldn’t talk about Christmas in Somerset without mentioning the stunning scenery. Obviously, the beaches and gorges have been here for centuries and make for great viewing at any time of year. Who doesn’t feel better after a bracing walk in the fresh air? (provided it’s rounded off by some warming refreshments in a cosy hostelry). The views from Ebbor Gorge and Cheddar Gorge are stunning and there are miles of coastline to explore. Indeed, if your ideal December involves peace and quiet then you can also escape the crowds in Somerset.
If you fancy spending Christmas in Somerset this year, I do have a couple of rooms available. I hope you will come and see some of these attractions for yourself.