Take a festive trip with TrawsCymru this Christmas
1 week ago
With TrawsCymru, you’re only a scenic bus ride away from some of the season’s most enchanting spots. Whether it’s twinkling Christmas markets, quaint winter towns, or festive light displays, there’s a little something for everyone.
Cardiff
Home to one of Wales’s most popular Christmas markets, Cardiff is brimming with seasonal charm. The Cardiff Christmas Market runs from 14th November to 23rd December, offering local crafts, delicious treats, and holiday gift inspiration. Winter Wonderland is also a must-see, open from 14th November to 5th January, complete with an ice rink, fairground rides, and plenty of festive fun. T4 service travels from Newtown, passing through Llandrindod Wells, Brecon, and other scenic towns before reaching Cardiff. The Greyfriars Road bus stop is just an 8-minute walk to Cardiff Castle, making it convenient for exploring the city’s top festive spots.
T1C service also travels from Aberystwyth to Cardiff includes stops in Pencarreg, Llanarth, providing West Wales residents with a direct ride to Cardiff’s festive magic.
Photo Credit: Visit Wales
Bristol
Just across the bridge, Bristol’s festive vibe makes it an ideal winter day trip. Bristol’s Christmas Market, opens from 1st November to 23rd December, is famous for its cosy wooden chalets and German-inspired food stalls.
T7 service from Chepstow to Bristol Bus Station provides convenient access, and from there, it’s a 7-minute walk to the Christmas Market.
Photo Credit: Bristol Christmas Market
Swansea
Swansea’s waterfront lights up with a festive market and activities for the whole family. Swansea’s Christmas Market will run from 23rd November to 22nd December at Oxford Street, offering everything from hand-made crafts to festive eats. Head down to the Waterfront Winterland for rides, a skating rink, and plenty of season cheer.
T6 service from Brecon to Swansea passes through towns like Llanspyddid, Sennybridge, Pen y Cae. Swansea’s main bus station is just a 7-minute walk from the heart of the market on Oxford Street.
Photo Credit: Visit Swansea Bay
Hay-on-Wye
Known for its literal charm, Hay-on-Wye brings a unique twist to the festive season. Wander the bookshops decorated for Christmas, and don’t miss the Hay Festival Winter Weekend from 28th November to 1st December. The event includes author talks, crafts workshops, and a market filled with local goods.
TrawsCymru service T14 stops in Hay-on-Wye, perfect for an idyllic winter’s day out.
Photo Credit: Hay Festival
Wrexham
This vibrant market town is the perfect stop for a local festive experience. Wrexham’s Christmas Market will be held from the 6th to the 8th of December and the 13th to the 15th of December, featuring handmade gifts, food stalls, and a cosy Christmas vibe. T3 and T3C service travels from Barmouth to Wrexham, passing through Dolgellau, Bala, Llandrillo and Corwen. Enjoy views of North Wales on your way to Wrexham’s seasonal festivities. Wrexham Bus Station is a short minute walk from the market. T12 service also connects Machynlleth to Wrexham, offering more options for visitors. T12 also stops at Wrexham Bus Station, right in the heart of the town’s festive action.
Photo Credit: Wrexham Christmas Market
Hereford
Hereford’s historic charm shines even brighter in the winter months. The Hereford Christmas Market will be in full swing from 6th December to 22nd December on the high street. Plus, the Cathedral hosts its beautiful Christmas Tree Festival throughout December.
T14 takes you directly to Hereford City Centre from Brecon and Cardiff. 
Photo Credit: Eat Sleep Live Herefordshire
Betws-y-Coed
Set in the heart of Eryri, Betws-y-Coed brings a magical mountain setting and offers a truly magical winter market experience. The Snowdonia Christmas Market in Betws-y-Coed takes place from 30 November to 1 December 2024, featuring handmade crafts, local produce, festive activities, and a cosy, wintry atmosphere in the scenic Snowdonia landscape.
T10 service from Bangor to Betws-y-Coed makes it easy to reach this charming market, with just a short walk from the bus stop to the market.
Photo Credit: Visit Conwy
Chester
Chester’s historic streets and charming market bring an old world feel to the festive season. The Chester Christmas Market will place from 15 November to 22 December outside Town Hall Square and near Chester Cathedral and the new Chester Market. Discover handmade gifts, seasonal foods, and festive drinks in this charming setting.
T8 service from Corwen Bus Station to Chester provides a scenic route. The Pepper Street bus stop is just a 7-minute walk to Town Hall Square, putting you right in the heart of Chester’s festivities.
Photo Credit: Visit Cheshire