TLDR lots of chocolate!

Easter is widely celebrated in the UK, with a range of different traditions and meanings attached. For those with a Christian background, Easter marks the death of Christ and his resurrection after three days. For others not observing the religious Easter, it celebrates spring.

There are lots of Easter activities and customs that blend Pagan and Christian traditions, with modern celebrations. 

Easter eggs

Eggs are a common feature of Easter, symbolising new life. It used to be common to decorate hardboiled eggs, but chocolate eggs are now much more popular. 

• Chocolate eggs tend to be exchange with loved ones on Easter Sunday, sometimes through Easter egg hunts. It is absolutely okay to buy and eat them for yourself as well!
• Some households exchange Easter eggs through egg hunts and larger Easter egg hunts are often organised, such as the SU charity egg hunt on campus.

Simnel cake

This traditional cake is usually made during Lent and Easter. It is a fruitcake featuring layers of marzipan, and decorated with eleven marzipan balls representing the apostles. If you fancy baking over this period, try out this Simnel Cake recipe.

Palm crosses

For many Christians, it is traditional to make or receive a cross made from palm leaves on Palm Sunday. These can be displayed at home, or some burn them to collect ashes for Ash Wednesday. If observing the Holy Week in Bath, you can find out more by looking at our article on Easter services.

Hot cross buns

While these were traditionally eaten on Good Friday, hot cross buns are now available all year, though lots of places will have more variety in the run-up to Easter. They are slightly spiced, sweet fruit cakes, and there are all sorts of flavours you can get, including chocolatey ones that don't have fruit in them. 

Roast lunch

Sharing a big roast meal is traditional on Easter Sunday, particularly roast lamb. If you fancy going out for a roast in Bath (make sure to book ahead!), we have some roast recommendations. 

For more information, check out our page covering Easter events, recipes, and more.