Cambridge always offers an array of fantastic festive events, and this year is no exception. The city is a fairy tale place to spend your time in the run-up to Christmas, and whether you’re a day-time adventurer or a night owl, 2019 offers something for everyone. Let us guide you through the top things to do and see in Cambridge this Christmas.
Ely Christmas Gift and Food Fair
Thursday 14th – Saturday 16th November 2019
A festive minibreak wouldn’t be complete without a visit to a Christmas market. The Ely Christmas Gift and Food Fair offers the crème de la crème of festive markets.
As well as being hosted in an awe-inspiring venue – the market takes place within the iconic Ely Cathedral – its bespoke trade stalls provide a Christmas shopping experience like no other. Eat Drink Seek reveals more about what to expect from one of the UK’s best Christmas markets:
“The Ely Christmas Market one for the whole family to enjoy! On Saturday there will be musical entertainment, live performances, a festive food hall and a carousel. There will also be live reindeer which you can pet and feed, as well as children’s entertainment so that they can get in the Christmas spirit ready for Santa to visit them. Find some last-minute gifts from local makers around the stalls with hand-painted baubles, customised jewellery and angel ornaments galore.”
Shop, eat and drink your way through more than 120 stalls and enjoy a perfect day out during your stay in Cambridge.
The North Pole
Saturday 16th November 2019 – Sunday 5th January 2020
The city’s winter wonderland returns for another year this November, and it’s the perfect fun freebie to kick-start that festive feeling. The North Pole is based on Parker’s Piece Park. As well as being home to a range of food stalls, bars, and fairground rides, you can enjoy a magical skating experience.
The North Pole’s ice rink is undercover, with its clear span roof allowing you to skate away to your heart’s content, whatever the weather outside. Spend your rainy day in Cambridge at The North Pole then head to the Alpine Cabin Bar to warm yourself with a steaming cup of hot chocolate or mulled wine.
The Wind in the Willows
Wednesday 11th December 2019 – Sunday 5th January 2020
Catch a Christmas show at edgy urban arts venue Cambridge Junction. This year it’s the classic tale of The Wind in the Willows as you’ve never seen it before. Christmas Figs in Wigs have reimagined the iconic story, with hilarious results. You’ll travel with the cast as they take on a brand new festive adventure, and it’s all-singing, all-dancing, and a little bit anarchic!
A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols
Tuesday 24th December 2019
The carol service at King’s College Chapel is a must-attend event whatever time of year you’re visiting Cambridge. But there’s something about their Christmas Eve service, A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, that’s extra magical.
King’s College Chapel’s Christmas Eve service has been going strong for more than 100 years and is broadcast to millions around the world. If you’re staying in Cambridge over the Christmas period, why not head to the College on Christmas Eve morning to get your own ticket?
There’s just 500 tickets available for A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols and only one ticket will be given per person. If you don’t manage to get a ticket or aren’t in Cambridge for Christmas Eve, tune into BBC Radio 4 at 3pm to hear something enchanting.
Book your Christmas break in Cambridge by browsing our award winning apartments online today. Whether travelling for work or pleasure during the festive period, our serviced accommodation is the perfect place to call home. We’re even offering discounts across our Christmas stays. Book online now for the best rates!