Where to Go for Christmas Drinks in Wiltshire 2026

Looking for the best Christmas drinks in Wiltshire this festive season? Whether you’re planning a night out with colleagues, a festive catch-up with friends, or a cosy evening with family, our 2026 guide shows you exactly where to go for Christmas drinks in Wiltshire.

From traditional pubs serving warming mulled wine and craft ales to stylish bars mixing seasonal cocktails, there’s something for every taste and budget.

Swindon town centre is packed with pubs and bars offering festive drink menus, from classic Christmas cocktails to local craft beers. Meanwhile, across Wiltshire, you’ll find charming countryside inns and historic taverns perfect for enjoying a seasonal tipple with friends or family. Many venues also offer Christmas party packages, live music, and cosy spaces to soak up the festive atmosphere.

Planning your night out? We cover practical tips like parking, public transport, and booking ahead to make sure your Christmas drinks in Swindon and Wiltshire go smoothly. Plus, we highlight family-friendly options, unique cocktail experiences, and hidden gems that locals love.

Whether it’s a quick festive drink after work or a full evening celebration, this guide is your go-to resource for finding the best places to go for Christmas drinks in Wiltshire, helping you make the most of the festive season.

If you’re planning a full Christmas office party, check out our main Christmas office parties guide for ideas on venues, festive menus, and group activities in Wiltshire.

For those who want a full festive dining experience, our where to go for Christmas lunch and dinner in Wiltshire guide highlights the best restaurants and pubs serving set menus this season.

Combine drinks with entertainment - check out our guide to unique Christmas activities in Wiltshire for ideas that go beyond the usual festive night out.

Parking, Transport & Getting Around in Swindon & Wiltshire

Parking if Leaving Your Car Overnight:

Many Swindon town centre car parks allow overnight stays. Popular options include Regent Circus, Brunel North, and Wharf Green, which are close to restaurants and bars. For countryside venues across Wiltshire, check with the individual pub or hotel, as some offer free on-site parking or secure overnight options.

Train:

Swindon railway station provides direct links to London, Bath, Bristol, and other major cities. It’s a convenient option if you want to enjoy Christmas drinks or dinner without worrying about driving.

Bus:

Local bus services run regularly across Swindon and Wiltshire, including routes connecting town centres to popular pubs and restaurants. The Swindon Bus Company operates many of these routes and often increases frequency during the festive season, making it easy to travel safely to and from your Christmas outing.

Taxi & Rideshare:

Taxis and rideshare services such as Uber are widely available in Swindon. Booking a taxi in advance is recommended, especially on busy nights, to ensure a safe journey home after festive celebrations.

Hotels & Places to Stay

Where to stay in Swindon

• Leonardo Hotel – stylish hotel with festive packages.
• The Doubletree by Hilton Swindon – great for groups and office parties.
• The Village Hotel - perfectly located near the M4 junction and great for large parties.

Where to stay in Salisbury

• Mercure Salisbury White Hart Hotel — central Georgian hotel, a short walk from the cathedral and market square
• Best Western Red Lion Hotel — historic city-centre hotel with Tudor character and courtyard
• The Merchant’s House — boutique hotel in a 15th-century building, very central
• The Kings Head Inn — pub-with-rooms style stay in the city centre
• Legacy Rose & Crown Hotel — riverside hotel close to the centre with cathedral views
• Qudos Hotel — modern, lively hotel above a bar/restaurant in the centre
• The Chapter House — boutique stay near the cathedral with traditional English charm

Where to stay in Chippenham

• Best Western Plus Angel Hotel — main central hotel right by the town centre and River Avon
• The Bear Hotel — historic coaching inn style hotel near the market place
• The Kings Arms Hotel — traditional pub-hotel in/near the town centre with restaurant and bar
• Stanton Manor Hotel — a bit just outside the centre but still a short drive, set in gardens and very popular
• The Red Lion — village-style inn close to Chippenham with a pub atmosphere
• The Peppermill Town House Hotel & Restaurant — boutique-style townhouse hotel with restaurant in/near the centre
• Widbrook Grange — countryside boutique hotel just outside town, more relaxed and rural vibe