Bath Christmas Market has been cancelled for 2020 due to the COVID-19 outbreak, the organisers have confirmed on the official website.
The award-winning market, which draws in a steady crowd of jolly shoppers each year, is being replaced with smaller, safer events for the first time ever.
Kathryn Davis, Chief Executive of Visit Bath, told Somerset Live: "It is disappointing that we cannot hold the Christmas Market this year, but I hope everyone will understand the reason for this decision and the early notice we are giving.
"We fully understand the value of the Bath Christmas Market to the city, but public safety and preventing the spread of COVID-19 has to come first. We are pro-actively working with partners across the city to create a Christmas event in Bath that will still support our local economy, but in a way that can be adapted as needed and disperses visitors across the city."
Instead of the large festival, there are ongoing plans for scaled-back Christmas events which people can pre-book in advance. Keeping the spirit of Christmas alive, the revised programme will include music and entertainment, street stalls and artisan food — all with strict social distancing measures in place.
Kathryn added: "Bath & North East Somerset Council, Visit Bath, Bath BID and Bath Festivals are all working together to create a four week programme which will include dressing the city, music and entertainment, cultural events, street stalls and artisan food; all part of a Christmas celebration for residents and visitors alike and all delivered in a Covid-secure way."
For more information about the event, head over to the Bath Christmas Market website.
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The best recyclable wrapping paper to buy this Christmas
This FSC-certified wrapping paper is one of the thickest, most lavish picks we've found, with a 120gsm weight and matte finish. It comes with matching gift tags too, so you can dress your gift up properly.
John Lewis Christmas Cottage Elves Gift Wrap
John Lewis has lots of lovely wrapping paper options this year, including this elf-themed design. It’s cheery, bright and fully recyclable – what’s not to like?
The promo code WRAP will also add a free festive gift wrap when you buy three or more selected designs.
The White Company Champagne Coupe Wrapping Paper
What’s Christmas without a glass of fizz? The White Company’s champagne-themed wrapping paper is just like the brand itself: simple and stylish.
It’s versatile enough to suit other celebrations too, including birthdays and anniversaries.
This M&S wrapping set is a bargain at just £7. You get three lengthy rolls, matching gift tags, paper twine and raffia ribbon.
The three designs, including a red tartan print, are a great option if you prefer a traditional Christmas look.
Dunelm's wrapping paper may be designed for children, but we have a feeling that adults will enjoy it too.
This one features a variety of traditional merry scenes to get you in the festive mood: think sparkly Christmas trees, candy canes and Christmas puddings.
John Lewis Royal Fairytale Peacock Feather Gift Wrap
Any presents wrapped in this peacock-inspired paper will look gorgeous when placed under a full, bushy tree. The rich red hue and gold detailing gives it a luxe finish.
This paper sack is a sweet alternative to traditional wrapping paper, courtesy of the planet-friendly brand, The Conscious.
It means you can pop any presents inside, saving yourself the job of wrapping them, and then giftees can reuse them in the future. Smart! Available in two designed (red and yellow).
BBIllustration 12 Days of Christmas Wrapping Paper
Inspired by the classic carol, this 12 Days of Christmas design depicts everything from turtle doves to calling birds. With its beautiful illustrations, it almost seems a shame to rip it when opening presents…
The blue sheets are sold out, but the white option (pictured) is still available. Note that it can take up to five days to arrive, so order now if you’re tempted.
The price above is for a single sheet.
This wrapping paper is beautiful on its own, but we love how Cox & Cox has styled it with red velvet ribbons. The brand's own ribbons are currently sold out, but M&S has identical ones here.
34th Street Christmas Carrot Wrapping Paper Set
Children will love this fun wrapping paper with matching tags. There's also an option to add matching stickers and orange ribbon.
VerbatimARTUK Luxury Eco Wrapping Paper
This isn't exactly traditional Christmas wrapping paper, but the elegant bird print is hard to resist. You can choose from two colours, and it comes with matching tags. The price above refers to a single sheet.
Hallmark Multipack Christmas Wrapping Paper
This pack of three festive rolls will ensure all your gifts will complement each other under the tree. It’s a great pick if you’ve got lots of presents to wrap!
EcoWrap Christmas Eco Friendly Wrapping Paper
EcoWrap's paper is 43% bigger than standard rolls, meaning you can tackle more presents with fewer sheets. And for every order over £5, the brand will plant a tree, making it a more sustainable choice all around.
The price above refers to a single sheet.
Looking to make a statement? This paper should do the trick. Bold and bright, it's a good choice for big cat lovers.
Black isn't the first festive colour that springs to mind, but this recyclable wrapping paper is super smart — and the metallic bees add a pretty finish.
A portion of proceeds goes to Oxfam so you’ll be donating to a good cause too.
Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.
