Christmas is the season for indulgent treats, community warmth, and that unmistakable festive magic.

Let's be honest though, there’s no better place to experience it all than in a charming market town.

With searches for "best market towns in England" soaring by 50% in the past 90 days, it’s clear that Brits are on the hunt for the perfect destination to fully embrace the Christmas spirit.

And, naturally, Cotswolds towns have an abundance of charming little haunts that complement Christmas perfectly.

The staycation experts at holidaycottages.co.uk have revealed a list of the top market towns to visit this Christmas, based on various factors such as scenic winter walks, cosy pubs with roaring fires, sparkling holiday lights, likelihood of snow, search volume for ‘Christmas markets’, number of pantomimes and more.

But where in the Cotswolds is the most magical?

Stow-on-the-Wold

Ranked as the second-best festive market town, Stow-on-the-Wold exudes a timeless Christmas charm that’s hard to beat.

This historic Cotswolds town offers a perfect festive setting with its cobbled streets and picturesque market square, where twinkling holiday lights create a cosy atmosphere.

Recommended reading:

Stowing away in the timeless Cotswolds

Times best restaurant list includes four from Cotswolds

Jeremy Clarkson’s new pub 'causes Cotswold housing spike'

Known for its abundance of charming pubs, Stow-on-the-Wold has 28 pubs with real fires such as The Bell at Stow, providing warmth for those looking to enjoy seasonal treats after exploring scenic winter walks around the rolling Cotswolds hills.

The town’s quaint Christmas market and local crafts add to its appeal, making Stow-on-the-Wold an inviting destination for those seeking a traditional festive experience.

And get this, it's less than an hour's drive from Swindon.