As Bath’s famous Christmas Market comes to a close for another year, organisers Visit Bath say the annual event was a ‘huge success’, and have welcomed news of increased trade for local businesses.
For the first time in its 18-year history, the Bath Christmas Market encompassed the northern area of the city centre and featured a piano donated by Bath Piano Shop and decorated by local school children, the charity chalet which supports eighteen local charities and twenty-three stall-holders – including third-place best dressed chalet winner Chi-Africa.
Craig Jenkins, Executive Chairman, said: “We are delighted with the success of Milsom Street this year. The feedback from many of the businesses in Milsom Street and the surrounding area who have benefited from the increase in footfall has been extremely positive.
“Visitors have commented on the great atmosphere and enjoyment of exploring Milsom Street traffic-free. We will certainly be looking to return in 2019.
“Now the market is finished local-residents and visitors can enjoy many other Bath at Christmas activities taking place in and around the city centre.”
Nickie Portman, Owner of Milsom Street independent boutique Portman, said: “Bath Christmas Market has increased business and added a great atmosphere. Quite a few people have said it is better than last year as it is less congested and this way they are discovering more of Bath.
“All we hear back from customers is positive feedback saying they are loving coming up Milsom Street so I’m very much for it happening again.”
Andrew Davies, Duty Manager of Milsom Place, added: “We have been delighted to welcome the Bath Christmas Market into Milsom Street for the very first time. We can only be positive about its effects. Generally, retailers and restaurants within our centre have felt the benefits of increased footfall and healthy sales as a result.
“The mixture of artisan stalls accompanied by street entertainment has contributed to a festive, good-natured atmosphere and appears to have been well received by the visitors. The pedestrianisation of the street has certainly added to their comfortable, unhurried experience. Long may it continue.”
Mathilde Heather, owner of Gay Street independent Beauty and Hair Bar, The Suite, said: “Here at The Suite, we have seen a definite increase in walk-in customers due to Bath Christmas Market being in Milsom Street. We would be delighted if it returned to Milsom Street next year.”
Gap Kids have also reported a successful trading period during the Market, smashing their targets from last year to become the highest achieving store in the region.
