AS the sun sets earlier and the first snowflakes of winter fall, Somerset Christmas market season is officially upon us - ‘Tis the time of year for giving after all.

With many people looking to find the perfect stocking fillers, tree toppers, and snacks for Santa, here are five top Somerset Christmas markets to enjoy. 

Many of the below articles were all recommended on the Down Somerset Way website.

Clarks Village, Street

From sparkling crystal baubles to soothing beauty supplies and freshly made crepes, the Clarks Village Artisan Market promises delights waiting for every shopper to discover.

This market will include the DoughBros popular doughnuts, Rich’s cider, hand-crafted gifts made by local creatives, and live musical performances.

The market opened briefly from November 7-10, but fear not if you did not manage to make it, as the market is back from November 29-Christmas Eve.

Clarks Village late night shopping is also back from 9am-8pm on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays with access to the free ‘World’s Biggest Santa Skate’ festive ice rink event which opened November 14.

Christmas Craft Fair, Taunton

The annual Christmas Craft Fair in High Street, Taunton is returning this year on Fore Street (near the giant Christmas tree), having been a Somerset festive constant for over 15 years.

With stalls pitched up including local crafts such as Brendon Hill’s award-winning preserves, hand knitted scarves, animal-themed pillowcases, floral arrangements and much more, the organisers promise there is something on offer for everyone.

Taking place from November 30 to December 15 this is one you shouldn’t miss if you’re a fan of Somerset crafts.

For more information check the Taunton Christmas Craft Fair Facebook page.

Taunton Winterfest

Speaking of Taunton, Taunton’s Winterfest 2024 will take place this Sunday, (November 24), from 10 am to 8pm in Taunton Town Centre.

This event will include live music, funfair rides, entertainment and is home to over 50 local stall and market traders, offering a variety of seasonal goods, from handcrafted gifts and decorations to food items.

A spokesperson said: “Whether you’re finding the perfect present or indulging in festive delights, the WinterFest market is the ultimate destination for holiday cheer.”

The event will culminate with the much-anticipated Christmas lights switch-on at 6pm, kicking off the holiday season with a light display across the town centre.

Somerset Council is also offering free parking for this event.

Find more information here.

READ MORE: 'The best way to enter winter': Monk's Yard Christmas Market was a huge success

READ MORE: 'It got me in the festive sprit': Hestercombe kicks off Christmas Market season

READ MORE: Winterfest 2024: Taunton's Council offering free parking

The Rural Living Show, King’s College Prep School

This weekend (November 23-24) will be the 31st Rural Living Show, a staple in the Somerset school holiday calendar for parents and children alike.

The Rural Living Show’s annual Christmas market is returning this year to King’s Prep School and will include over 110 exhibitors – with all funds going towards The Children’s Hospice South West.

This event is a cosy gathering where students perform classic Christmas songs and the community can find holiday crafts sourced from local businesses as well as hand-made or baked by students food.

Find out more here.

Yeovil Christmas Market

The Yeovil Christmas Market in Yeovil Showground, running from December 15-22, promises to be a seven-day extravaganza including a Christmas shopping village, Santa’s grotto, live music and much more.

Find out more here.

Christmas Collective, Ten Market Place, Shepton Mallet

Shepton Mallet is offering an alternative Christmas Market experience through the launch of its first ever festive pop-up shop starting this week.

The Ten Market Place team have brought together 16 of the most highly acclaimed local makers, showcasing a host of Christmas goodies from different businesses all in one shop.

This collective is running until December 21 with opening hours from Wednesday to Saturday, between 11 am and 5pm.

A spokesperson for the pop-up shop reported that almost 70% of the makers are based less than five miles from the shop, “which is a testament to the range of vibrant creative producers and businesses we have here in Shepton Mallet.” 

Find out more on their Instagram page.