What’s Open Over the Christmas Period in Bristol: A Student’s Guide

The Christmas break is a much-needed time to chill for students, and whilst many might go home for the holidays, not all do! If you’re staying in Bristol this Christmas, It can sometimes be tricky to navigate the city when many places close for the holidays; we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll take a look at what’s open during the Christmas period in Bristol — from supermarkets and pharmacies to 24/7 cafés and transport options.

Supermarkets and Grocery Stores

While many shops in Bristol may close for Christmas Day and Boxing Day, supermarkets and convenience stores tend to have extended or modified hours leading up to Christmas. Here’s where you can stock up on your last-minute essentials:

• Tesco: Most Tesco stores in Bristol are open until around 6 PM on Christmas Eve, and will reopen on Boxing Day for reduced hours (typically 9 AM to 6 PM). Check the store locator for specific branch hours.
• Sainsbury’s: Sainsbury’s will have similar hours, with many stores staying open on Christmas Eve until 6 PM and reopening on Boxing Day from 9 AM. Some 24-hour locations may have adjusted hours.
• Asda: The larger Asda superstores like those in Bedminster and Eastgate are generally open until 6 PM on Christmas Eve. Boxing Day hours may vary but expect them to be open from 9 AM.
• Co-op: Many Co-op convenience stores are open on Christmas Day for basic essentials, so you won’t be left without milk or bread! The hours vary by location, so be sure to check your nearest branch.
• Aldi: Most Aldi stores close early on Christmas Eve (typically by 4 PM), but they’re back open on Boxing Day, with hours around 9 AM to 6 PM.

Tip: Be sure to plan ahead for any holiday meals or grocery needs as the shelves may be emptier closer to Christmas Day!

Pharmacies and Health Services

If you’re feeling unwell during the holidays, it’s essential to know where to find a pharmacy or health service that will be open. Here are a few options:

• Boots: Boots pharmacies in central Bristol usually have one or two stores open on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, with reduced hours.
• Lloyds Pharmacy: Some branches in the city may remain open for essential services, so it’s good to check their website for exact timings.
• Bristol NHS Walk-In Centre: If you need medical help and it’s not an emergency, the NHS Walk-In Centre in Temple Quay is open during the holidays (except Christmas Day). Check their website for opening times.

Tip: Many pharmacies will close early on Christmas Eve, so it’s a good idea to grab any essentials a few days before.

24/7 Cafés and Takeaways

If you’re craving a coffee, a bite to eat, or simply a place to hang out during the holiday break, you’ll be pleased to know there are a few places that stay open throughout the Christmas period:

• Boston Tea Party: The popular Bristol-based café chain is open on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day at selected locations, like the one on Whiteladies Road. They’ll be serving their delicious breakfast and lunch options with festive treats.
• Starbucks: Most Starbucks in Bristol are closed on Christmas Day but will reopen with adjusted hours on Boxing Day. The Starbucks in Cabot Circus is typically open on both Christmas Eve and Boxing Day, so you can still get your coffee fix!
• 24/7 Takeaways: If you’re looking for food any time of day or night, places like Domino’s and McDonald’s are usually open for delivery or takeaway. Check Deliveroo or UberEats to see what is available near you!

Public Transport in Bristol Over the Holidays

Getting around Bristol can be tricky during the Christmas period, especially if you’re relying on public transport. Here’s what you need to know:

• Buses: During Christmas and Boxing Day, many buses will run on a reduced timetable. However, buses are available on Christmas Eve until early evening (around 6 PM). There will be no bus services on Christmas Day, and on Boxing Day, expect limited routes to be running. Check the First Bus Bristol website or app for specific routes and times.
• Trains: National Rail services are reduced on Christmas Day and Boxing Day. The main Bristol Temple Meads Station will have limited service. On New Year’s Day, there is also a reduced service, so plan accordingly if you’re traveling outside the city. Visit the National Rail website for updates.
• Taxis & Ride-Sharing: If you’re planning a late-night adventure or need to travel on Christmas Eve or Boxing Day, Bristol taxis and services like Uber will be operating, though it’s a good idea to book in advance, as they get filled up very quickly!

Christmas Events and Pop-Up Stalls

Despite many places closing, there’s still plenty to do in Bristol during the festive season. Here are some Christmas-specific events and pop-up stalls that are open and happening:

• Bristol Christmas Market (Harbourside): Running until Christmas Eve, this German-style market is perfect for enjoying mulled wine and festive food.
• Winter Wonderland at the Lloyds Amphitheatre: Open through the holidays (excluding Christmas Day), the ice-skating rink and carnival rides at Winter Wonderland are a must-do for students looking to make the most of the winter break.
• Bristol Cathedral Carol Services: The beautiful Bristol Cathedral hosts Christmas carol services throughout the week leading up to Christmas Day. Check their website for service timings and availability.
• Christmas Food Stalls: Many food stalls and pop-ups will be operating at locations like Bristol Harbourside or St Nicholas Market throughout the Christmas season. Grab some festive treats like churros, bratwurst, or seasonal pastries while you explore the city.

Other Useful Services

• Post Offices: The post office will be open on Christmas Eve but closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Some branches will reopen on New Year’s Eve, but it’s worth checking in advance to avoid any last-minute postal delays.
• Gyms: Some gyms in Bristol, like PureGym, are open 24/7 year-round, including Christmas Eve and Boxing Day. Be sure to check with your local gym for their holiday hours.

Last bit not least…us!

We’re always on hand to help you. Here are our opening hours at Urban Student:

Monday 23rd December : 09:00-19:00

Tuesday 24th December (Christmas Eve) : 09:00-18:00

Wednesday 25th December (Christmas Day) CLOSED

Thursday 26th December (Boxing Day) : 10:00-18:00

Friday 27th December : 10:00-18:00

Saturday 28th December : 10:00-18:00

Sunday 29th December: 10:00-18:00

Monday 30th December : 09:00-19:00 (back to normal from this date)

While the city of Bristol does slow down during the Christmas period, there are still plenty of essential services and fun events to enjoy. Whether you need to pick up groceries, grab a coffee, or catch some festive cheer, this guide will help ensure your Christmas break is both enjoyable and hassle-free.

Stay safe, happy holidays from all of us at Urban Student 🎄✨

Published: 23.12.24 by Phoebe Clutton