Before it was the unofficial capital of the Cotswolds, Cirencester was Corinium, the second-largest city in Roman Britain after London. The wool merchants came later, building the grand parish church that still dominates the marketplace where the Cirencester Christmas Market sets up each November for its Advent festival.
Cirencester Christmas Market 2026
Dates and Location
Status: Confirmed
Advent Market: 28th and 29th November 2026
Christmas Market: 5th and 6th December 2026
Gift Markets: 13th to 22nd December 2026
Last checked: July 2026
Source: City of Cirencester
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Location: Market Place.
Opening times:
Saturday: 10am to 6pm.
Sunday: 10am to 4pm.
Admission: Free.
Lights switch-on: Opening day at Market Place.
Ice skating: Cirencester Abbey Grounds.
Accessible: Yes.
Pet-friendly: Yes, but not recommended during busy periods.
Parking: Please take public transport to help limit congestion.
Reason to visit: Historic setting, live local performances, largest town in the Cotswolds.
Specialities: Cotswold cheeses, local pies, hot cider, artisanal chocolates, traditional British puddings.
Where to stay: The Fleece is on Market Place.
Convenient Hotels
If you’re visiting Cirencester, there are some excellent places to stay right in the town centre. I suggest booking a room at The Fleece as it’s situated directly on Market Square.
Read our complete guide to the Best Christmas Markets in the UK.
Event Location
What to Expect
Cirencester’s Advent Market is a central highlight of the town’s winter festivities, taking pride of place in and around the Market Place. The atmosphere is enhanced by live entertainment from local performers. With over 100 stalls, it offers visitors an array of choices, making it a standout event in Cirencester’s calendar.
Regional Specialties
- Mulled Wine: Made by heating red wine with various spices and sometimes orange peel.
- Pigs in Blankets: Bite-sized sausages wrapped in bacon.
- Gingerbread: Spiced biscuits cut into festive shapes and intricately iced.
- Bratwurst: An international addition from Germany.
- Toffee Apples: Covered in hard toffee and served on a stick for easier eating.
What to Buy
- Cheeses: The Cotswolds region is famous for its dairy production. You can purchase a variety of local cheeses and gift boxes.
- Cotswold Honey: Jars of local honey and honey-based products.
- Soaps and Candles: Made with natural, locally sourced ingredients.
- Decorations: Range from handmade wooden ornaments and glass baubles to wreaths made from local foliage.
- Knitted Goods: Scarves, gloves, and hats are popular.
- Cotswold Gin: Distilled using local botanicals.
Sustainability Tips
- Green Hotels: When booking your stay, consider accommodation that utilises renewable energy sources and waste reduction measures.
- Food Waste: Order mindfully and take leftovers back for later.
- Shop Ethically: Support local makers who use more sustainable materials.
- Sustainable Food: Opt for plant-based or locally sourced food options when eating out.
- Transport: Cirencester town centre is easily walkable. Try to get public transport to and from Cirencester.
Comment below if you want to leave a Xmas review, have any questions or would like to report any inaccuracies.
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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. While we make every effort to provide accurate information, the dates and details listed here should not be relied upon as definitive. Please consult the official website before booking your trip or planning a visit.
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