What's On: Festive Events at Warwick and beyond

As winter settles in, Warwick becomes a hub of festive activities before everyone heads off for the holidays. From local markets and cosy evenings in Leamington to bigger days out in Birmingham or London, there’s a wide range of events to help you soak up the festive atmosphere. Here’s a guide to what’s happening both at Warwick and beyond in the coming weeks: 

Festive options close to campus 

There are several festive events only a short bus ride from campus running right up until Christmas, such as Coventry Christmas Market, which is a great option if you want something lively without travelling far. It offers international food stalls, Christmas decorations, gift stands, and standout street food from churros to bratwurst, along with plenty of warm drinks.

If you’re after something calmer, Leamington Spa is a great choice. The high street is lined with simple but elegant lights that make it feel warm and seasonal without the crowds of bigger markets. You can take a relaxed walk, browse a few shops, and finish the evening with a hot chocolate. Spa Town Coffee is one of the top-rated spots and perfect for warming up after wandering through the lights. It’s an easy festive trip that gives you a break from campus without needing to plan a full day out. 

Day trips a little further away 

If you are hoping to explore a bit further, December is the perfect time for a festive day trip. Winter by the River in London is one of the best Christmas markets I have been to and it is surprisingly easy to reach from Warwick. I went last week, and it was honestly magical at night, with Tower Bridge and central London glistening away in the background. The whole riverside felt cosy and atmospheric, and the food was a real highlight. The Yorkshire pudding wrap lived up to every expectation, packed with roast dinner classics and perfect for warming up in the cold. I ended the evening with a trip to Oxford Street to see the light displays, which added an extra bit of festive sparkle to the day.

Birmingham is another great option and only a short train journey away from Coventry. Its Frankfurt Christmas Market is one of the largest in the UK, with colourful stalls, handcrafted decorations and plenty of seasonal treats like bratwurst and the creamiest hot chocolate I have ever had. It is an easy and lively day out if you want something festive without travelling too far. 

Getting into the festive mood on campus 

On campus, there are plenty of easy ways to get into the festive mood even on busy study days. Warwick Arts Centre is running small seasonal activities, from craft sessions to the BBC Concert Orchestra: Christmas at the Movies screening on the 12th of December, which are great if you want something fun without planning a full day out. They’re relaxed, inexpensive, and a nice way to spend time with friends between deadlines. You can also take a walk around campus in the evening. The lights around the Piazza make everything feel surprisingly festive, and grabbing a hot drink from Curiositea while it’s decorated for the season is one of the simplest ways to unwind during the final stretch of term. 

What makes all these events enjoyable is how accessible they are, no matter what kind of festive experience you’re looking for. The Christmas period is a great time to make the most of being at Warwick, and despite the colder and shorter days, the lights, food, and small traditions make the season feel warm. Whether you stay local or head out to explore, there’s always something fun to do. With so many nearby options, it’s easy to find something that suits your schedule and budget, while still giving you a proper festive experience.