Booking for Father Christmas
To avoid queuing slots for Father Christmas will be available to book and online from 1st November. Father Christmas will be in a special grotto full of Christmas sparkles in the Abbey where he will have time to chat to each child and hand out small presents. Although there will be no charge for booking your slot we are asking that families pay what they can afford on the day. Elves will not only dance but take cash or credit cards at the door to the grotto!
In line with our commitment to the environment, presents will be good quality 2nd hand books & toys, reindeer food and a christmas gingerbread person.
Pre-order your wreath or Christmas cake
Links to pay in advance by credit card will be posted here by 1st November
Dorchester Abbey Christmas Market Saturday 29th November 2025
Over 40 stalls full of gifts and Christmas food, with wreaths to order or take away, all surrounded by the smell of Bratwurst and mulled wine and Christmas music supplied by local choirs and musicians. As always, the highlight of the Market is the Tea Room stall packed full of home made Christmas cakes and food to take away as gifts!
Stallholder applications can be made using the form below. All stallholders are asked for 10% commission on sales and a prize for the raffle. As tables are in such high demand and space limited, an additional extra charge of £20 will be made for a second table.
Stalls are always oversubscribed so are selected based on previous year’s sales and to ensure a range of goods across the market. If similar applications are made, then it’s first come first served. Any questions? Email fundraising@dorchester-abbey.org.uk
Always a brilliant live music lineup! Everything from jazz to brass to carols for you to join in, all playing Christmassy stuff to help get you in the mood while you shop
Or just get a cup of tea & a mince pie and take the weight off while you listen. This was the 2024 lineup:
10-11.30am The Thames Brass Quartet
11.45-12.15 The Wittenham Singers
12.30-12.50pm Dorchester Abbey Choir
1-3pm Cholsey Silver Band
3.15-4pm Abingdon Handbell ringers
Below is a video of our 2024 stalls just to get you in the Christmassy mood! Get a coffee and pull up a chair to plan your Christmas shopping!
