It seems like almost every city has a Christmas Market these days. But if you head down to Gloucester Quays this weekend, you’re sure of a big surprise. Imagine a winter scene from a Dickens’ novel; street urchins, sooty chimney sweeps and children’s entertainers surrounded by open fires, a steam engine and of course, chestnuts roasting on an open fire.
The Victorian Christmas Market at Gloucester Quays aims to bring something a bit different to festive shoppers and day trippers. It’s bigger than ever this year, with an open air ice skating rink overlooked by a glorious gluhwein tent; not strictly Victorian, but definitely good fun for young and old alike! In fact, you can ice skate at the Quays until 2nd January, so book your tickets now.
If you’re thinking of heading down for a spot of Christmas shopping this weekend, here are just a few of our must visit stalls at the market:
Thread White and Blue
Fabulous lampshades, striking make up bags and beautifully soft scarves; the Thread White and Blue ladies are a truly talented pair. You can’t deny these ladies have an eye for stylish prints and colour. I’m loving the penguin print tea light holders and the scandi print bunting- very festive indeed. I managed to pick up a few Christmas presents for some of my favourite girls too; I can’t tell you what I bought, but I know they’ll just adore their gifts when they unwrap them on Christmas morning.
Hetty’s Tea Party
Oh my! I can’t lie, Hetty’s Tea Party is undoubtedly the highlight of the market for me each year. Those of you who know me will be only too aware of my obsession with Hetty’s salted caramel brownies; I typically get my fix from my favourite coffee house in Cheltenham, the Coffee Dispensary. They’re the best.
This year, Hetty has some exceptionally good festive brownie flavours; the marzipan and cherry brownie went down a storm with Mr L and I, as did the gingerbread cookie dough. Also on offer are insanely good mince pie bakewell slices; a favourite of my friend and local foodie Roseann Honeybourne Line.
Not content with making delicious and addictive brownies, the very talented Hetty also makes a mean hot chocolate. Just what you need on a cold wintery shopping day. I can’t be held responsible if you find yourselves saying “I’ll take a hot chocolate. Oh and one of everything else too”. It’s really that good.
Cotswold Distillery
Surely this one needs no introduction. Their gin has deservedly won just about every award going, their Cotswold Whisky launched to critical acclaim in October, and I can honestly say the team are a terrific bunch too, having helped out bottling their gin.
Whilst the Cotswold gin and whisky are undeniably worthy of a place under your tree, there is one spirit which I think is a real festive treat. The Cotswold Cream liqueur is the Rolls Royce of cream liqueurs. Smooth, intensely creamy and not too sickly sweet. I switched from the leading brand to this two years ago, and I’ll never go back. I’ve heard Santa is pretty partial to this tipple too!
Gloucester Brewery
I couldn’t leave this one out. Every year without fail I buy my Dad a bottle of Gloucester Brewery’s Gloucester Gold; it’s a particular favourite of his. He’ll definitely be finding one of these in his Christmas stocking again this year.
As well as having a well stocked stall full of beer, you can also grab a pint from their bar. If you’d rather be inside, head to Tank just a few steps from the market stall. If you’re looking for a gift for a true beer lover, why not book a tour and buy a beer to give the lucky recipient? It’ll be sure to whet their whistle!
Credit: Gloucester Brewery
These are just my top four – I’d love to know which stalls are a must visit for you! Drop me a comment below!
When is the Gloucester Quays Victorian Market on?
Gloucester Quays Victorian Christmas Market runs until Sunday 26th November. There will be an Enchanted Christmas Market from 27th November – 24th December.