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Christmas in Bath at the Francis Hotel

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Last year, The Sloaney Travel Team jetted off to explore the Christmas Markets in Dusseldorf. While Germany certainly boasts some of the best Christmas Markets in Europe, there are also plenty of brilliant versions that you can enjoy without venturing too far from home.

One of the most famous in England is the Bath Christmas Market, which has exploded onto the scene and presents visitors with an utterly delightful experience. On a cold frosty morning, Bath Abbey provides a beautiful backdrop to the chalets, which are nestled among the historic streets. With mulled wine available at regular intervals, you can spend your time trying the hottest chilli sauces, stocking up on West Country cheeses or browsing the range of original leather goods, interiors accessories or customised jewellery on show.

Bath Christmas Market

Bath Christmas Market has a beautiful setting

There is a huge range of stalls and over 70% of the businesses involved in the Christmas Market are from the local area. You Are SO Invited added some extra flair to the experience when they pioneered the Apres Ski Bar  last year that is located a stone’s throw away. It has proven a great success and is one of the best places to stop off for a mulled wine.

The city is very busy during December, so an early morning visit for Christmas shopping is definitely recommended. This means you will have plenty of time to enjoy an Afternoon Tea after purchasing all of your gifts. The Francis Hotel is in an ideal situation because it is just a short stroll from Milsom Street, which is where many of the best shops are located, including one of the oldest department stores in the world, namely Jolly’s.

Bath Christmas Market

The Bath Christmas Market weaves through the streets

The MGallery hotel has recently undergone a refurbishment and it is particularly inviting during this period thanks to the generous Festive Champagne Afternoon Tea menu. Traditional sandwiches followed by mince pies, Christmas cake, plenty of pretty treats and freshly baked scones will certainly warm you up on a wintery day.

The dining area overlooks Queen Square and has a bustling atmosphere with a relaxed and pleasant level of service. There is more than enough food to satisfy even the hungriest of appetites and many guests actually request to take some of the tea home with them to enjoy later on in the evening because it is so filling. The gunpowder green tea and the pomegranate tea are both excellent; although some may prefer to enjoy a glass of champagne first before wiling the rest of the day away.

Bath Christmas Market

Festive Afternoon Tea at the Francis Hotel is a must

If you want to extend your day trip and stay overnight in the city, the regency style townhouse has individually styled rooms and many include grand four poster beds. However, without wanting to labour the point, it is the excellent location that really sets this venue apart from its competitors.

While the stunning architecture and renowned tourist attractions in the World Heritage City can be enjoyed at any time of year, the festive period adds an extra sense of magic to Bath. With an ice-skating rink also present, this is definitely one of the top destinations to enjoy the holiday season.

Bath Christmas Market

Visitors to the Bath Christmas Market can stay at the Francis Hotel

The Christmas Market runs until December 14th. You can reserve Afternoon Tea at the Francis Hotel by telephoning (+44)1225/424105 or visiting the hotel’s website at http://francishotel.com. Visit youaresoinvited.com for more details about the Apres Ski Bar.