Oswestry, a charming market town on the Welsh border, comes alive with festive cheer every December. Whether you're a local or a visitor, there's something for everyone—from bustling markets and festive lights to unique events and cosy pubs. Here's how to make the most of Christmas in Oswestry.
Explore the Markets
Start your day at the heart of Oswestry's festive celebrations—the markets. The Powis Hall Indoor Market (open Wed/Fri/Sat) and outdoor street markets (Wed/Sat) are packed with seasonal produce, handmade gifts, and delicious treats. For something extra special, visit the Artisan Market (19th Dec) on Bailey Street where local makers showcase crafts, food, and drink. The atmosphere is lively, with lots of seasonal goodies. The Tourist Information Centre, based in the indoor market, can give you all the information you need as well as stocking some wonderful local gifts. Oswestry Memorial Hall has a craft market on 6th Dec. Find out more HERE.
Top Tip: Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy a relaxed shopping experience.
Festive Lunch & Family Fun
After shopping, warm up with a festive lunch at one of Oswestry's cosy cafés or traditional pubs. Try Niche, The Old School House, Beech Tree or Ambers.
Many venues offer special Christmas menus featuring local produce. For families, hop aboard the Cambrian Heritage Railways Santa Steam Train for a nostalgic ride through the countryside, complete with mince pies and carols. Just out of town enjoy some incredible metal sculptures and treat yourself to a festive afternoon tea at the British Ironwork Centre.
Park Hall has the Santa Experience at weekends from 29th Nov. Tickets include all day entrance to the farm, where you can meet the animals too.
Oswestry's calendar is packed with festive events. The Oswestry Christmas Live(5th Dec) event features fairground rides, an ice rink, live music, and Santa's Grotto. The Christmas Parade (6th Dec) and Illuminated Tractor Convoy (13th Dec) add colour and excitement to the streets. The largest Santa Run in Shropshire takes place on (7th Dec) and fills Oswestry's streets with hundreds of Father Christmases on a 5K run.
Music lovers can enjoy concerts such as Cantiones on the 13th Dec at the Methodist Church. For a relaxed evening, head to CAMRA pub of the year The Bailey Head.
As night falls, stroll through the illuminated streets and soak up the festive atmosphere. Many shops stay open late, perfect for last-minute gifts. Enjoy a warming drink at a local pub. On the 19th Dec Oswestry Indoor Market has one of its late-night openings with Live Music.
Christmas in Oswestry is a blend of tradition, community spirit, and festive fun. Whether you're shopping for unique gifts, enjoying live music, or making memories with family, this market town offers a magical experience for all ages.
If you'd like a chance to win a family ticket to Chirk Castle, then just follow us on Facebook or Instagram and comment "I Love Oswestry" on one of our posts … it is easy as that.
