Bath is a city that shines in winter: honey-coloured Georgian architecture dusted with frost, atmospheric cobbles lit with fairy lights, and streets alive with festive energy. In December, Bath’s eateries and restaurants embrace the season with special festive menus, Christmas Day lunches, and holiday lunches for family, friends and work parties — many of which are kid-friendly and take reservations well in advance. Bath also hosts beautiful city markets and seasonal experiences that make a festive meal part of your Christmas tradition here.

Whether you want a traditional roast with all the trimmings, a cosy pub lunch with the kids, or a luxury sit-down festive lunch with friends, this guide walks you through Bath’s best options with booking tips, what to expect, and what makes each place unique.

1) Bathwick Boatman — Riverside Festive Lunch (Family-Friendly)

Where: By the River Avon, Bathwick.
Why It’s Quirky: A beloved local favourite with views over the water — and an ideal spot for a scenic festive lunch walk beforehand.
What to Expect: Expect a festive Christmas lunch menu with traditional roast options as well as seasonal starters and desserts. They often take early bookings for groups and include choices for dietary requirements. This is a great choice for families wanting hearty festive cooking in a relaxed yet quality setting.

2) The Circus Restaurant — Stylish Seasonal European Fare

Where: Near The Circus, Bath city centre.
Why It’s Quirky: A charming restaurant with a classic European kitchen that often releases special menus over Christmas.
What to Expect: Festive mains and courses that balance seasonal creativity and crowd-pleasing classics. Ideal for Christmas Eve or pre-holiday lunches with family — book well ahead due to popularity.

3) Clayton's Kitchen — Seasonal British with a Modern Twist

Where: George Street, central Bath.
Why It’s Quirky: Loved for its seasonal menus and contemporary British cooking with flair.
What to Expect: Festive set menus or special Christmas lunches around December. Booking is essential as the space fills quickly during the holiday season.

4) Crescent Restaurant & Bar Bath — Central Elegant Christmas Lunch

Where: Margaret’s Buildings, Bath.
Why It’s Quirky: Elegant interiors with quality cooking that often sees special festive menus through December.
What to Expect: Festive three-course lunches suitable for families and parties — ideal if you want a lively city-centre meal with seasonal touches.

5) Sotto Sotto — Classic Italian (Great for Families)

Where: N Parade, Bath.
Why It’s Quirky: A Bath institution for Italian food and a warm, candlelit setting.
What to Expect: While not a traditional roast house, Sotto Sotto often runs special holiday options and festive Italian courses that appeal strongly to families and groups. Bookings open early for the season.

6) Woods Restaurant — Stylish Seasonal Dining

Where: Alfred Street, Lansdown.
Why It’s Quirky: Contemporary British with superb seasonal ingredients, known locally for strong service and quality.
What to Expect: Festive lunches with thoughtful classics and options for children. Great for families or couples seeking quality without formal stiffness.

7) The Pump Room Restaurant — Historic Setting, Festive Vibe

Where: Bath’s iconic Pump Room.
Why It’s Quirky: A Bath landmark with atmospheric interiors, perfect for a seasonal lunch after exploring the Christmas market.
What to Expect: Seasonal menus with British classics and festive flavours. Ambience and location make this a memorable family lunch spot.

8) La Terra — Refined, Intimate Festive Lunch

Where: John Street, Bath.
Why It’s Quirky: A refined yet relaxed neighbourhood restaurant with Mediterranean-inspired touches.
What to Expect: Festive lunch experiences blending classic and modern dishes — excellent for smaller family gatherings or dates.

9) Olive Tree Restaurant — Fine Dining Christmas Lunch

Where: Russell Street, Bath.
Why It’s Quirky: Elegant and upscale — perfect for a Christmas Day lunch or high-end festive lunch experience.
What to Expect: Classic Christmas menus, often including roast turkey and seasonal desserts, with bookings required well in advance. Options for wine pairings and special service.

Bath’s festive menus also include classic Christmas Day lunch at hotel restaurants like the Royal Hotel Bath (traditional roast turkey and multiple main course options) — ideal for those wanting a full holiday feast.

10) Hall & Woodhouse Bath / The Bath Brew House — Casual Festive Pub Dining

Hall & Woodhouse Bath: Traditional pub with a dedicated Christmas Day menu and kids’ festive options, taking bookings for Christmas Day and festive lunches.
The Bath Brew House: Casual, family-friendly pub with festive menus and lively atmosphere — pre-orders recommended for larger groups.

What to Expect from Festive Dining in Bath

Do Restaurants Take Bookings & Deposits?

Yes — many Bath restaurants require advance bookings, deposits and sometimes pre-orders for Christmas menus (especially Christmas Day and peak festive weekends). Check with the specific venue at the time of booking.

Are These Restaurants Kid Friendly?

Most on this list welcome kids, but the level of kid-friendly options varies. Pubs like Hall & Woodhouse and The Bath Brew House are explicitly inclusive, while finer-dining venues include children’s options on request.

What Types of Menus Are Available?

Expect three-course festive lunch menus, traditional roasts with all the trimmings, alternative mains (fish or vegetarian), and seasonal desserts. Some offer festive afternoon teas, special lunch domes or group party packages.

When to Book

Because Bath is a popular destination in December, book early (late autumn or early December) — especially for Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and weekends throughout December.

FAQs 

Q: Can I find restaurants open on Christmas Day in Bath?
A: Yes — some hotels and restaurants offer Christmas Day lunch with roasts and traditional menus. It’s essential to book far in advance as spaces are limited.

Q: Are festive lunch menus family friendly?
A: Many are. Casual pubs and some restaurants offer children’s menus and relaxed environments; for finer dining, contact the restaurant ahead to confirm options.

Q: What if I’m visiting Bath just for Christmas Eve?
A: Christmas Eve is often busy and many places are open with festive menus, but late bookings or walk-ins are not guaranteed — reservations are recommended.

Q: Can I find vegetarian or vegan festive lunch options?
A: Yes — most venues now cater for different dietary needs with advance notice.

Conclusion — Celebrate Christmas in Bath Without the Stress

Bath’s festive food scene covers everything from classic Christmas Day lunches, cosy pub fare with kids’ menus, to refined seasonal menus perfect for special occasions. To make the most of the season: book early, check deposit/pre-order policies, and choose a venue that suits your family or group’s style.

If you’re hosting guests during the festive period and juggling lots of plans, Pass the Keys Bath can help you manage your property bookings, guest communication and turnover — so you can enjoy Christmas in Bath without the hosting stress.