Gloucester Quays is transformed into a winter wonderland this Christmas 2023, with a sleigh-ful of festive events, photo opportunities and Christmas treats to tuck into.
SoGlos rounds up some of the fabulous festive experiences you can enjoy at the popular shopping and leisure destination in the run-up to the big day...
Outdoor ice rink at Gloucester Quays
Gloucester Quays outdoor ice rink returns on Friday 24 November 2023 and is open all the way through the festive season until Sunday 7 January 2024, providing plenty of opportunities to make magical festive memories.
Shoppers can get their skates on and glide around the ice for £11.50 per adult, £9.50 per junior, £9 per child and £9 per wheelchair user, with carers able to accompany for free.
Gloucester Quays Winter Markets
Taking place every weekend until Sunday 17 December 2023, Gloucester Quays Winter Markets bring over 90 of the south west's finest traders to the city.
Selling an eclectic range of food, drinks, gifts and festive treats, visitors can browse and buy unique Christmas gifts that they won't find anywhere else.
Immersive Santa experience at Coal Kitchen
Coal Kitchen at Gloucester Quays is hosting immersive Santa experiences on Saturday 9, Sunday 10, Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 December 2023.
With a warm welcome from the elves as they arrive, families can enjoy a festive singalong; a tasty breakfast; and the chance to snap a selfie with Santa as he spends time at each table to meet and greet little diners. Every child will get a gorgeous gift from Santa to take home, too, with tickets costing £25 each.
Delicious Christmas dishes at Gloucester Quays restaurants
Gloucester Quays' many restaurants are going all out this festive season, with seasonal menus and Christmas specials galore — from dough balls in blankets at Pizza Express, to prawn thermidor at Côte, beef brisket and venison stufato at Zizzi and the Christmas Clucker burger at Portivo Lounge.
There's also Christmas set menus at the likes of Bill's, with three courses and a glass of fizz costing £32.95; three courses for £29.95 at Brewhouse & Kitchen; three courses for £29.50 at Coal Kitchen; three courses for £34.95 at Côte; three courses for £26.95 at Portivo Lounge; or four dishes and a glass of prosecco for £25 from The Real Greek.
Festive films at Cineworld Gloucester Quays
Film fans have a sackful of fantastic festive movies to see on the big screen, with Cineworld hosting special showings of classic Christmas movies throughout November and December 2023.
Catch Love Actually, The Holiday, Elf, Jingle All The Way, Santa Claus, Home Alone, Die Hard, The Muppets Christmas Carol, It's A Wonderful Life and even a live screening of The Royal Ballet performing The Nutcracker. Don't forget the popcorn!
Up to 70 per cent off Christmas shopping at Gloucester Quays
With up to 70 per cent off recommended retail prices at a host of High Street and high-end brands, Christmas shoppers can have a ball at Gloucester Quays.
Fashion fans are spoilt for choice with the likes of All Saints, Levi's and Ted Baker; sporty types have stores including PUMA, Adidas, Raging Bull and The North Face to choose from; The Fragrance Shop and Cosmetics Company are a must for perfume and beauty gifts; for the host with the most, there's Denby and Le Creuset; while chocoholics can get their fix from Hotel Chocolat and Lindt.
Santa's sleigh photobooth at Gloucester Quay
Hop aboard Santa's sleigh for a selfie while you're out Christmas shopping, with Gloucester Quays providing a spectacular festive photo opportunity throughout the season.
Surrounded by twinkling Christmas lights and evergreen trees, the selfie station is located near the outdoor ice rink — perfect for capturing big smiles and rosy cheeks as you come off the ice, before warming up with a mulled wine or two!
