Southampton Christmas Market 2026 Dates at Above Bar

For a city best known for cruise ships and container ports, the Southampton Christmas Market brings a different kind of energy to the centre each winter. The stalls cluster in the pedestrianised shopping district, and with the New Forest and Winchester both less than half an hour away, it pairs well with a wider day out.

Southampton Christmas Market 2026

Dates

Status: Expected, based on previous years
Southampton dates: 12th November 2026 to 4th January 2027
Last checked: July 2026

Update: Last year’s dates were announced in June. Sign up for our newsletter to be notified of changes.

Source: Verified by Ultimate Christmas Markets via Visit Southampton.

Plan Your Visit

Location and Times

Location: Above Bar Street, Guildhall Square, and Bargate.
Opening times: 10am to 10pm.
Christmas Day: Closed.

Travel and Accommodation

Recommended tour: Secrets of the Titanic tour takes you around the port area.
Public transport: Buses run every 4 minutes from Southampton Central.
Parking: Please take public transport to help limit congestion. Parking is available at Southampton Central.
Where to stay: No 4 Carlton is 9 minutes from the event.

Convenient Hotels

The Cultural Quarter is a great area to consider for your stay in Southampton. This district puts you close to the market and key cultural attractions such as the O2 Guildhall and the City Art Gallery. I recommend the No. 4 Carlton in this area for its location and consistently excellent reviews.

Read our UK Christmas Markets guide for more ideas on where to go this winter.

Event Location Map

Wrapped up your Christmas visit? We’d love to hear about your experience. Share your story and tag photos with #UltimateChristmasMarkets on social media.

What to Expect

Southampton’s market has a wide range of artisanal goods and international cuisine. Food stalls serve global flavours, including German sausages and French pastries. Live music performances add to the experience, making it a vibrant destination during the season.

Local Specialties

• Mince Pies: A British staple, these pies are made with dried fruits and spices, encased in flaky pastry, and are often served warm.
• Mulled Wine: A warm, spiced red wine that many of us love.
• Roast Chestnuts: A classic winter street food snack.
• Bratwurst: German sausages are typically served in a bun with sauerkraut and mustard.
• Hot Apple Cider: A warm, spiced apple cider. Both alcoholic and non-alcoholic variations.
• Stollen: A dense German fruit bread filled with dried fruit and nuts, often dusted with icing sugar.
• Churros with Chocolate: Spanish doughnuts, deep-fried and served with thick hot chocolate for dipping.
• Poffertjes: Small, fluffy Dutch pancakes served with powdered sugar and butter.
• Crepes: Thin French pancakes with various fillings, such as Nutella, strawberries, cheese, ham and eggs, cooked on a griddle and folded for easy eating.
• Fudge: Sugary treats, including seasonal specials like gingerbread.
• Pretzels: Twisted snacks available in sweet or savoury varieties, such as salted or cinnamon-sugar-coated.
• Gingerbread Cookies: Shaped and decorated cookies that make thoughtful gifts, often adorned with colourful icing and messages.
• Fish and Chips: The local British classic of battered fish and chips, served with mushy peas or tartar sauce.
• Craft Beer: Southampton brewed craft beer.
• Tea: A variety of teas are available for sipping or as gifts.

Gifts and Stocking Fillers

• Maritime Crafts: Ship models and sea-themed decorations reflecting Southampton’s maritime heritage.
• Wooden Toys: Handcrafted traditional toys like rocking horses, puzzles, and spinning tops.
• Ornaments: Glass baubles, tree toppers, and other decorations, with options for personalisation.
• Local Gin: Locally produced gin featuring regional botanicals, often available in gift sets.
• British Sweets: Traditional sweets like toffee, hard candies, and liquorice.
• Woollens: Scarves, hats, and gloves made from quality materials.
• Tea Sets: Fine china tea sets, including cups, saucers, and teapots.
• Books: A selection of literature, from classic novels to local history books.
• Pet Treats: Homemade dog biscuits, catnip toys, and other animal-friendly gifts.

Sustainable Travel Tips

• Green Hotels: Southampton offers accommodation options powered by renewable energy sources.
• Reduce Food Waste: Only buy food you’re sure you’ll eat to avoid waste, or compost the leftovers.
• Ethical Consumption: When shopping for gifts, consider the origins and sustainability of the products and materials.
• Sustainable Diets: Order vegetarian or plant-based meals and snacks from the food stalls.
• Transport: Southampton has an excellent network of cycle paths and pedestrian-friendly routes. Renting a bike or simply walking is a convenient way to get around.

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.