The magic of Christmas candle bridges

Christmas candle bridges are a beautiful and festive way to add some extra sparkle to your home during the festive season.

They are typically made of wood or metal and feature a series of candle holders that are arranged in a bridge shape. They are home to either real candles – which many of us might not want to risk – or LED candles which are much safer – though you might find there are still retailers of incandescent bulbs which remain popular.

Candle bridges can be used to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your home, and they are also a great way to add some festive cheer to your Christmas decorations.

Here, the Christmas.co.uk team explores the world of the Christmas candle bridge.

History of the Christmas candle bridge

The tradition of Christmas candle bridges dates to the Ore Mountains region of Germany, where they were originally known as Schwibbogen.

These candle arches were initially crafted from metal and used by miners to guide them home during the dark winter months.

Candle bridges were also popular in Scandinavia, where they were often used to light the way to church on Christmas Eve.

In the UK, Christmas candle bridges became popular in the Victorian era.

They were often used as table centrepieces or window decorations.

Candle bridges were also a popular gift to give to loved ones during the Christmas season.

Over time, the design evolved, and modern candle bridges are now often made of wood and illuminated by LED lights.

However, traditional candle bridges using real candles, often in glass enclosures for safety, are still popular.

The arches typically feature symbols associated with mining and Christmas, such as Christmas trees and angels.

Why should you consider a Christmas candle bridge?

There are many reasons why you should consider adding a Christmas candle bridge to your home decorations. Here are a few of the top reasons:

• They are beautiful: Christmas candle bridges are simply stunning to look at. They add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any room
• They create a warm and inviting atmosphere: The soft glow of the candles creates a warm and inviting atmosphere in your home
• They are festive: Candle bridges are a classic Christmas decoration that is sure to get you in the festive spirit
• They are affordable: Christmas candle bridges are relatively inexpensive, making them a great option for people on a budget – though you can spend much more on those intricate design bridges!
• They are easy to care for: Candle bridges using LEDs are very easy to care for. Simply wipe them down with a damp cloth after each use. For those using wax candles, you’ll need to be more careful and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

How are Christmas candle bridges used?

Candle bridges can be used in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas:

Table centrepiece: Place a candle bridge in the centre of your dining table to create a festive focal point

Window decoration: Hang a Christmas candle bridge in your window to add some holiday cheer to your home’s exterior

Mantlepiece decoration: Place a candle bridge on your mantelpiece to create a festive display

• Gift: Give a candle bridge to a loved one as a special gift.

Essentially, candle bridges are versatile decorations that can be used in various ways.

Types of Christmas candle bridges

It’s worth considering the types of candle bridge that are available for meeting your festive needs.

• Traditional wooden bridges: Classic wooden designs that are often hand-carved and painted
• Modern designs: Contemporary versions incorporate modern materials like metal and plastic
• Electric candle bridges: Offer convenience and safety and which often feature LED lights
• Battery-operated bridges: The easiest to use and are portable
• Themed candle bridges: Explore designs that feature specific themes, such as angels, stars or Santa Claus.

How expensive are candle bridges?

The cost of candle bridges can vary depending on the design, size and materials used.

On average, you can expect to spend between £10 and £30 for a quality candle bridge.

Premium designs or larger arches may cost more, but there are plenty of affordable options available to suit different budgets.

How to care for your Christmas candle bridge

Candle bridges are relatively easy to care for. Here are a few tips for those bridges which hold candles rather than LED lights:

• Clean your candle bridge after each use. Wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris
• Store your candle bridge in a cool, dry place when not in use.

If your candle bridge uses LED lights, make sure to keep the bulbs clean and free from dust.

For wooden candle bridges, avoid placing them in direct sunlight or near sources of heat to prevent warping or damage.

NOTE: We would also recommend that you be careful and not overfill the candle holders with wax. This can cause the wax to spill over the sides of the bridge and become unsightly.

Where can I buy Christmas candle bridges?

• Amazon: Excellent range of candle bridges at a variety of prices
• Marco Paul: Lovely traditional and contemporary designs
• Etsy: Stand out from the crowd with creative designs.

Buy a Christmas candle bridge this year

We think that Christmas candle bridges are a timeless decoration that adds warmth and charm to any festive setting.

Whether you choose to place them in windows, on mantels, or as table centrepieces, candle bridges create a cosy and inviting atmosphere.

With a wide range of options available from online retailers such as Amazon and speciality stores, there’s a perfect candle bridge for every home.

So, why not embrace this beautiful tradition and enhance your festive decorations by trying out a candle bridge this year?

You’ll not only add a cheerful touch to your home but also continue a cherished tradition that brings joy and warmth to the festivities.