Southampton’s Christmas Market has come to the city centre once again this year, stretching festive fun half a mile up Above Bar Street.

The closure of Bargate Street has allowed stalls and food vendors to spill out into the road and visitors are not short for choice.

S&D Leisure has run the market for the last three years and have managed to raise the bar each season.

Notable new inclusions that I noticed this year were a “salt and pepper chicken” stall that eluded me last time and a stall selling “wake and shake cocktails” sold in a bottle that glows on movement.

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A delicious breakfast courtesy of Visit Southampton and XOXO started the trip perfectly - though I thought I would stay away from the market's impressive set of rides in order to keep the food down.

XOXOXOXO provided a fantastic twist on the all-day breakfast using fresh ingredients and their own take on baked beans that put big brands to shame. (Image: Newsquest)Thrill seekers will look straight at the “Atmosfear” ride that plunges people 80 feet into the air and upside down as it spins in front of the Guildhall.

Prices have remained the same in most places across the market  – the £1 increase from £7 in 2023 to £8 this year on Atmosfear will not raise too many eyebrows.

The Ferris wheel is also back for 2024.The Ferris wheel is also back for 2024. (Image: Newsquest) New for 2024 is the giant snow slide which is not one for those scared of heights.

The new giant snow slide is positioned between Poundland and Burger King.The new giant snow slide is positioned between Poundland and Burger King. (Image: Newsquest) Many would argue that no visit to the market is complete without a classic bratwurst.

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The shower of ash I was covered in while I waited nine minutes for mine was a surprisingly nostalgic feeling, but for the price of £8, the toasted bun was just a bit too crunchy for me.


Westquay On Ice is great for all kinds of skater - the staff on hand were more than happy to help in our experience.Westquay On Ice is great for all kinds of skater - the staff on hand were more than happy to help in our experience. (Image: Newsquest)Westquay On Ice is also back starting today - something else for thrill seekers to enjoy.

I was lucky to have an early go with Visit Southampton so the rink was not too busy, and god knows I needed the space, because I was clinging onto the side rail for dear life.

Eventually I managed to do something that somewhat resembled skating by using a children’s penguin support as stabilisers.

The On Ice staff are very friendly and keen to help beginners, and considering I took a tumble when I tried it last year, I would say that leaving the market bruise-free is enough of an achievement for me.