• Swindon & Wiltshire Culture
• Friday September 4 2026

After 25 years, Bath Christmas Market finally secures permanent planning permission

Bath Christmas Market has secured permanent planning approval, guaranteeing the long-term future of one of the UK’s most iconic festive events.

Running since 2001, the market has grown from 40 stalls in Kingston Parade to more than 250 traders across the city centre, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors each November and December.

Previously, the market operated under time-limited permissions that required renewal every three years, creating uncertainty for traders, the council and local businesses.

Permanent approval removes that cycle of reapplication, giving stallholders confidence to invest in better chalets, stock and staffing, while allowing the council to plan improvements and manage impacts more sustainably.

Economically, the market is a powerhouse for Bath and the wider region. In 2025, it attracted more than 439,000 visitors and boosted business turnover in the city by £64 million, with an associated spend of £50.7 million.

The previous year saw similar scale: 444,000 visitors generated £60.4 million in turnover and £48.9 million in additional spend, supporting more than 500 jobs.

The planning approval also expands the potential footprint to include Queen Square, Kingsmead Square and Parade Gardens, and allows the event to run for up to 25 days if needed from 2027 onwards.

Organisers say there are no immediate plans to extend beyond the current 18-day run, but the flexibility provides a safety valve for future demand while spreading footfall more evenly across the city.

Councillor Manda Rigby, Bath & North East Somerset Council’s cabinet member for communications and community, said: “Bath Christmas Market is a much-loved tradition that brings people together, supports local businesses and contributes tens of millions of pounds to our local economy.

“This decision secures the future of this hugely popular, internationally recognised event and ensures it can continue to evolve responsibly and sustainably in the years ahead – which we’ll continue to do in consultation with residents, businesses and stakeholders.”