Energy
No generators are used in the delivery of the Christmas Market, the market is run off mains power and LED lights are used to reduce the requirement. For the second year, the cathedral market tree will be lit using energy from solar panels thanks to a project lead by the cathedral works team and our sponsor Paris SmithLLP. This year, 2025, a second solar panel will be added to the tree to double the lighting effort.
Water
Last year, and again this year, the water from the flooded crypt will be utilised to flush the public market toilets, meaning no mains water was used at all. In addition, these temporary toilets use vacuum flush technology, so considerably less water is used in their operation.
Waste
The Christmas Market employs a company called Greenbox Events Ltd to undertake all waste and recycling operations. They undertake to sort bottles, cans, paper and card, glass, food waste and oil and recycle everything.
Local
Where possible, Winchester Cathedral have used local vendors, for items such as signage and Christmas trees, to reduce carbon emissions from deliveries.
Traders
We are delighted that many traders share our ambition to create greener supply chains, reduce carbon emissions and reduce carbon costs to help generate social and environmental benefits. You can browse sustainable traders here.
Travel
As with many historic cities, parking within the centre is limited. Where possible we strongly advise visitors to make use of public transport. Click here to view our ‘How to get here’ information.
Signage
If you’re a regular visitor, you may recognise some of the signage around the market. We will be re-using the same banners and 90% of the same signage as last year.
Winchester Cathedral are committed to continuous improvement of green efforts. If you have any suggestions for further improvements, please email Christmas.Market@winchester-cathedral.org.uk