Looking for a Christmas break? With twinkling lights, bustling markets, creative workshops, carol-filled evenings and cosy places to eat and drink, look no further than Ross-on-Wye. A stay at The Feathered Pillow’s luxury holiday homes gives you the ideal home-from-home for exploring this charming market town and its beautiful surroundings.
Here’s your guide to the very best festive activities happening this season.
Christmas Markets & Festive Events
Ross-on-Wye Christmas Markets - 6th, 13th & 20th December
Each Saturday in December, the Market House becomes the heart of the town’s festivities. Expect artisan gifts, handmade decorations, local produce, mulled treats and live music. If you’re searching for Christmas shopping in Herefordshire, these markets are a must-visit.
Ross-on-Wye Christmas Carnival - 20th December
One of the most vibrant Christmas events in the Wye Valley. Farther Christmas comes to town with a torchlight parade. A magical event for families and visitors alike.
Ross-On-Wye Tractor Run – 21st December
Farmers and local groups prepare sparkling convoys to raise funds for Midlands Air Ambulance, leaving Ross Cattle Market at 6pm and making its way through town spreading festive cheer.
Christmas Carolling Across Ross-on-Wye
There are plenty of opportunities to enjoy beautiful carolling this December:
- Ross Choral Society Concert – 13th December
Adrian Taylor, the choir presents a programme featuring works by Bach, Brahms, Mozart, Lauridsen, Berlioz, and Bruckner-mixing timeless choral masterpieces and seasonal favourites.
- Ross Town Band Christmas Carrols -20th & 23rd December
Ross town Band’s annual carol session outside Morrisons supermarket to speal a little festive cheer.
- Candlelit Carols - 21st December
Sing familiar carols and hear the story of the first Christmas in words and music from St Marys Choir
- Carols Under The Spire - 22nd & 23rd December
Gather under the stars for a wonderfully wintry outdoor singalong in the churchyard. Afterwards enjoy mulled apple juice and mince pies.
Festive Vintage & Design Shopping Trail
Explore Ross-on-Wye’s charming independent shops and vintage boutiques on this self-guided trail. It’s the perfect way to discover unique homewares, retro treasures, handcrafted pieces and thoughtful gifts - all while supporting local creatives and makers.
Creative Christmas Workshops
Looking for something crafty, hands-on and festive? Ross’s libraries and studios are hosting some lovely workshops:
At Ross Library
- Stitch & Story: Tiny Reindeer Craft - 12th December
Perfect for beginners or families wanting to make a cute Christmas keepsake.
- Wet Felting Christmas Workshop - 20th December
Create snowy scenes or felted decorations in this cosy, tactile workshop.
At Ledbury Library
- Christmas Workshop with Petr Horáček
A festive storytelling-and-craft session with the much-loved children’s author and illustrator. Booking is essential.
Heavenly Homes & Gardens - Wreath Workshop - 7th December
Design your own traditional or modern wreath using fresh winter foliage. A beautiful way to start the season - and bring home something that smells like Christmas.
Festive Places to Eat & Drink
Between shopping, strolling and singing, warm up in one of Ross’s welcoming cafés or pubs.
Cosy Cafés
- Priority Coffee House - Artisan coffee, seasonal bakes and calm Scandi vibes.
- Gingernut Café - Friendly, relaxed spot for lunches, cakes and hearty hot drinks.
- Jacqueline’s Vegetarian Café - Delicious meat-free comfort dishes perfect for winter.
- Truffles Delicatessen - A Ross classic: pastries, salads, local produce and festive treats.
Traditional & Cosy Pubs
- Man of Ross Inn - Family-run pub with real ales and hearty classics.
- Hope & Anchor - Riverside views, roaring fires and a brilliant winter atmosphere.
- Inn on the Wye - A welcoming country pub close to the river and woodland walks.
- Crown & Sceptre - Great drinks, great food and a friendly village-pub feel.
Stay Cosy at The Feathered Pillow
If you're planning a Christmas getaway in Ross-on-Wye, The Feathered Pillow offers boutique comfort in the heart of the Wye Valley. Enjoy peaceful rooms, local hospitality and easy access to all of Ross-on-Wye’s festive events - the ideal home base for a magical December escape.