• 

This time of year we would usually talk about the cool Christmas markets on continental Europe. Or we might be recommending a trip to New York to take advantage of that great exchange. But the truth is the dollar-sterling exchange rate is becoming less advantageous for us. And flying out to check out those Christmas markets is a bit less affordable this year. So we’ve come up with a few ideas about how you might want to carry out your Christmas shopping somewhere a little more different but a little more closer to home!…

Bath
On the 27th of November Bath’s Christmas market sets up shop to the backdrop of the famous Roman baths and Bath Abbey in the centre of the city. The market will consist of 120 individual wooden chalet style stalls selling an assortment of hand-made crafts, jewellery and decorations and, of course, plenty of locally produced food and drink! The market finishes on the 7th of December. I’ve also been advised to recommend the ‘The Silver Shop’ as a local favourite for jewellery and the Bath Aqua Glass shop for unusual jewellery and ornaments.

Brighton
I wrote about Brighton before as a shopping destination after my time there at the Great Escape festival back in May. While it is Churchill Square that will provide you with your “high street” shopping, it is The Lanes which gives Brighton it’s uniqueness and charm, making the trip there worthwhile. I believe that last time I referred to the area as “an ecletic mix of unqiue shops, boutiques, bars and restaurants with an awesome vibe” and I still stand by that description. A shop I didn’t try, but have been recommended, is Cybercandy on Gloucester Road. I’m told they stock candy from all over the world. A great one for the kids!

Bicester Village and York Outlet Village
Great ones for those looking to bag designer brands at bargain prices with Bicester Village representing the south and York Outlet Village the north. Bicester Village’s extensive list of designer brands covers a wide spectrum from Diesel to Jimmy Choos. York Outlet Village offers the likes of Armani and Burberry in addition to a number of stores more generally associated with high street.

Portsmouth
I read about the Victorian festival of Christmas in Portsmouth today and I had to include it. Set at the Historic Dockyard, not only will Victorian actors be on hand (apparently even Scrooge will make an appearance!) but they also guarantee snow! In addition to the traditional Christmas market, a Victorian ‘green’ Father Christmas, carol singers and fairground rides add to the entertainment. I should note though that there is a price for all this excitement. Tickets cost £12 for an adult, £10 for a child and £36 for a family of five.

I hope that gives you a bit of inspiration for your Christmas shopping. Let me know if you have any ideas of your own!

•