The 21 Best Christmas Markets In The UK 2025
The best Christmas markets in the UK 2022 will be back in action this Christmas, offering unique shopping experiences, deliciously warming food and drink, and some extra entertainment for kids and big kids alike!
If you’re looking for the best Christmas markets in the UK then look no further. We’ve found the top festive locations throughout the UK so that whether you’re planning the holiday of a lifetime or a local day out, you’ll find it here in this post!
As there are so many great options to choose from, we’ve split this post up into sections. The best Christmas markets in London, the best in the south, midlands, north, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, and if you’re visiting for more than just a day then you should take a look at these awesome places to spend a winter break in England.
You can browse the whole list or skip to the area you’re visiting in our quick guide below. We’ve included accommodation ideas for those staying longer than a day and some top tips for visiting the UK’s best Christmas markets too.
Don’t forget to enjoy a mulled wine or three for us on your visit, and let us know how it goes in the comments section below! Enjoy!
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- The Best Christmas Markets In The UK – London
- The Best Christmas Markets In The UK – The South
- The Best Christmas Markets In The UK – The Midlands
- The Best Christmas Markets In The UK – The North
- The Best Christmas Markets In The UK – Wales
- The Best Christmas Markets In The UK – Scotland
- The Best Christmas Markets In The UK – Northern Ireland
London Christmas Markets
London is arguably the best city to visit in the UK at Christmas time. There are so many different Christmas celebrations taking place, every shop front is decorated and there are lights on every street.
If you’re heading to London in the run-up to Christmas then you’ll want more than just a day here to explore. If you’re staying for a weekend or longer then check out our guide on 2 days in London for some top sightseeing tips from a local, and don’t forget there are many fantastic day trips from London too!
We’ve given the London Christmas markets their own section in this best Christmas Markets in the UK post, as there are several noteworthy markets in London alone. You can choose the one that takes your fancy or opt to visit them all! It depends on how Christmas crazy you’re feeling!
Where To Stay In London
London’s Christmas markets are centrally located and easy to reach on public transport. We’ve put together the best places to stay in London for a first time visit and they are all great choices if you’re hoping to visit at least one of London’s awesome Christmas markets.
#1 Winter Wonderland Christmas Market, UK
Winter Wonderland is one of London’s biggest and most famous Christmas markets, located in Hyde Park. It’s free entry during off-peak times and you can pre-book here.
There are 100 beautifully decorated wooden chalets selling handmade crafts and gifts, treats, and Christmas decorations along with delicious food and drink. But this is more than just a shopping experience.
Winter Wonderland has a whole host of other activities on offer (you’ll have to pay for most though). There’s ice skating, fairground rides, a circus, an ice slide, live music, and a whole lot more.
Winter Wonderland is best visited outside peak hours as it does get especially busy. Be prepared to queue and make sure you keep your belongings safely out of sight as you wander. This is a Christmas market in the middle of the capital, after all!
Where To Stay
London is full of fantastic hotels and BnB’s, all within easy reach by train or bus to Hyde Park. If staying central sounds a little too chaotic for you (or too expensive!) then consider staying in nearby Kingston, listed below.
✅ Search these top hotels in Hyde Park for the best deals.
#2 London Leicester Square Market
If you’re looking for a London Christmas market without the long queues then Leicester Square Market is a great alternative to Winter Wonderland. You can find it right next to Leicester Square tube station.
This UK Christmas market has all the favourites – fairy-lit stalls, a Christmas tree, tasty treats on offer and a whole lot of Christmas cheer. But it wouldn’t be a Christmas market in the heart of show town if it didn’t have a performance tent showcasing the best theatre and circus shows around.
Where To Stay
✅ Consider staying at nearby Piccadilly Circus or Covent Garden
Both an easy walk from Leicester Square (or a super short tube jump if you’re legs are tired from all that shopping!) This area has some of the best hotels in London with a view, so why not treat yourself to a really special stay.
#3 Greenwich Christmas Market, London
Greenwich’s indoor market will be opening late in the run-up to Christmas, giving you the chance to get your Christmas shopping done after work without a rush.
Stalls will be selling arts and crafts-focused gifts including handmade jewellery, eco-friendly homewares, accessories, and a selection of prints and photographs. The usual Christmas street food and hot drinks will be served and you’ll be treated to festive tunes while you shop under some of the best Christmas lights in London!
Where To Stay
Greenwich has a large choice of accommodation options to suit all needs. You can search for the best deals here! If you aren’t keen on staying quite so central then check out Kingston as an alternative below.
✅ Check out the best places to stay in Greenwich
#4 Southbank Christmas Market
Located right next to the London Eye, the Southbank Christmas market certainly has prime location when it comes to London’s Christmas markets. Home to the Rekorderlig Cider Lodge, this Christmas market has a huge seating area where you can devour delicious Christmas treats with family or a group of friends. It’s the perfect location for a Christmas get-together.
You’ll also find all your favourite shopping stalls selling local wares and pretty Christmas gifts. With the River Thames and Westminster as a shopping backdrop, it’s easy to see why this Christmas market is a popular choice!
Where To Stay
Stay just across the river in the pretty Westminster area, to combine the Christmas market and a spot of sightseeing while you’re in the capital. If you aren’t keen on staying central then check out Kingston below as an alternative.
✅ Check out the best places to stay in Westminster
#5 Kingston upon Thames, England
Just a little outside of London you’ll find Kingston’s traditional Christmas market, selling hand-crafted gifts, pretty Christmas decorations, and some of the most delicious winter street food we’ve tasted!
There’s a vintage carousel for the kids to enjoy and as it’s the heart of Kingston’s main shopping area, you can combine a trip here with stocking up on other Christmas gifts.
Where To Stay
Kingston is still in London but without the same chaos! Staying here will give you the chance to relax a little, but still has the convenience of an easy trip into the centre where all the action is! Plus, we love Kingston’s choice of riverside restaurants to end a full day of Christmas shopping!
✅ You can check out the best deals on accommodation in Kingston here.
UK Christmas Markets In The South
There are so many great places to visit in the South of England. The Christmas markets are obviously centered around the towns and cities, but if you’re visiting the south of England you should consider extending your stay to visit some of the beautiful countryside found along the coast of the south, why not plan a day trip to the quirky and vibrant town of Brighton.
#6 Winchester Christmas Market
Winchester Cathedral’s Christmas Market is renowned for being one of the UK’s best Christmas markets, and this accolade is well deserved. Set in the stunning grounds of Winchester Cathedral, you really couldn’t get much more of a traditional Christmas market backdrop, nor a beautiful one.
The 112 charmingly decorated chalets exhibit all sorts of high-quality wares, including deliciously warming food and drink stands, hand-made Christmas decorations, and artisan gifts. At the centre of the Christmas Market, you’ll find a spectacular covered Ice Rink, the perfect place for kids to run off some steam while their parent’s shop (or drink mulled wine – your choice!)
Entry to the Christmas Market is free with Ice Rink tickets available in advance or on the day. The Christmas Market is open from 10 am until 6.30 pm Sunday to Wednesday and until 8 pm Thursday to Saturday.
If you’re in the area, why not visit another of the best Christmas markets in Hampshire?
Where To Stay
Winchester is the ideal destination for a weekend winter break in the UK, with so much more to see than just the Christmas market. Consider a short stay here to get the most out of your visit. 10 st james villas has to be seen to be believed. When visiting a city steeped in so much history it would be criminal not to stay somewhere like this!
✅ Search for more of the best accommodation deals here.
#7 Bath Christmas Market, UK
Although the actual Christmas market is cancelled this year, Bath promises to be a fantastic place to get some Christmas cheer. The city will be beautifully decorated as always and they have lots of magical festivities planned, including:
• The independent Bath artisan market in Queen Square
• Traditional Christmas celebrations around the Abbey Quarter
• An illumination trail of the iconic and historic buildings of Bath
• A number of festive stalls in Kingston Parade and Abbey Green
• A Victorian carousel ride outside the Roman Baths
• Street entertainment and carol singing
You can find out more about the planned festivities here!
Where To Stay
Bath is another of the UK’s best weekend getaway destinations, with stunning period architecture and a whole lot more on offer than just Christmas celebrations.
Make sure you visit the Roman baths and Bath spa while you’re here. If you’re looking for somewhere to stay that’s amongst the action then consider hotel Eight, located right in the heart of the city.
✅ Search for more of the best accommodation deals here
#8 Bristol Christmas Market
Smaller than some of the UK’s other Christmas markets, Bristol Christmas Market is the perfect place to visit for a little potter, combined with seeing Bristol’s other attractions. It’s also a short hop on the train from Bath, so if you’ve taken in the Christmas atmosphere there and want a second hit then spending a day in Bristol is a great idea.
Bristol Christmas Market happens in the city’s Shopping Quarter in Broadmead. With 40 stalls, it is small but offers the chance to shop for something special and unique for your loved ones.
At the heart of the market is the bar (you can even book a private igloo pod!) so for those seeking mulled wines, you won’t be disappointed! The hot chocolate here is also fantastic and a big hit with the kids. There’s a range of live music performed by local musicians and you might even get the chance to meet Father Christmas himself!
Where To Stay
Berkeley Square B&B is centrally located and has a lovely homely feel for a winter visit to this trendy UK city. Along with a visit to the Christmas market, make sure you take in some of Bristol’s other attractions, like Bristol Zoo, the suspension bridge, and Brunel’s SS.
✅ Search for more of the best accommodation deals here.
#9 Oxford Christmas Market
Famous for its beautiful historic streets and renowned university, Oxford certainly knows how to put on a Christmas market in the traditional way.
With the sound of choirs singing Christmas carols you can shop for local handmade gifts or treat yourself to cinnamon mulled wine, with the backdrop of beautiful architecture and colourful Christmas decorations and lights. You’ll also find a fairground carousel to keep the kids happy!
Where To Stay
Stay right in Oxford’s historic center for a truly memorable visit, with everything at arms reach of your hotel door. The Old Bank is a classy period option for anyone wanting to soak in Oxford’s charm during their stay.
✅ For the best deals on accommodation in Oxford head here.
#10 Cambridge Christmas Market, UK
Cambridge Christmas market has the usual festive stalls, pretty Christmas lights, and delicious food and drink, but if you’ve come for a weekend away in Cambridge then you might also want to head to The North Pole festival in Cambridge.
Here you’ll find an ice rink, ice slide, ice bar, and some more traditional fairground rides. Visiting Cambridge around Christmas time gives you the best of both worlds!
Where To Stay
Just a 5-minute walk from the historic center of Cambridge, Gonville Hotel is a great choice for a weekend stay in this pretty English city. The restaurant here serves locally sourced British food and the rooms are fitted out to the highest of standards.
✅ For the best deals on accommodation in Cambridge head here.
UK Christmas Markets In The Midlands
#11 Nottingham Christmas Market, England
Nottingham Winter Wonderland has all your favourite rides, bars, and shopping stalls, with everything from plants, to jewellery, to fair-trade products.
Amongst the 70 Bavarian-style stalls you’ll also find homemade, warming cuisine, artisan cheeses, chutneys, and chocolates. It’s the perfect place to get lost in a winter wonderland for a day or an evening, and best of all, entry is completely free.
Where To Stay
Hart’s hotel is a minute’s walk away from Nottingham’s center but tucked away in a quiet corner, meaning you’ll still get the good night’s sleep you deserve! They boast an award-winning restaurant and comfortable, modern rooms.
✅ For the best deals on accommodation in Nottingham head here.
#12 Birmingham German Christmas Markets, UK
Don’t fancy a flight to Germany for its world-famous Christmas markets? Not to worry, Birmingham is bringing a taste of Germany to you with their huge German Christmas Market.
Soak in the festive aroma of hot gluhwein, schnitzel, and spicy sausage as you shop for locally made products to your heart’s content! Close by you can find a big wheel and ice rink for kids and big kids alike!
Where To Stay
The Grand Hotel, one of the best in Birmingham, is in the perfect location for your stay here. This 5-star hotel will make sure you have a trip to remember.
✅ For the best deals on accommodation in Birmingham head here.
UK Christmas Markets In The North
#13 Manchester Christmas Market
Attracting millions of visitors from around the world every year, the Manchester Christmas Market is back and it’s bigger than ever!
With around 300 beautifully crafted stalls offering everything Christmas you could possibly imagine, from mouth-watering international food (Yorkshire pies, Greek gyros, and Dutch fries to name just a few!), drinks, and homemade gifts and decorations in the heart of the city centre.
This year the ice rink will be double the size, so make sure you leave a little cash after all that shopping to take a spin on the ice!
Where To Stay
Native Manchester is an award-winning hotel in the heart of Manchester. It was voted the best place to stay in the north of England and we can see why! Originally one of four iconic warehouses – and the only one still standing – this historic building was originally designed to store cotton bales from the US before they were shipped to London. Treat yourself to a stay in some of Manchester’s historic past.
✅ For the best deals on accommodation in Manchester head here
How To Get There
Manchester has extremely good public transport links so I would avoid driving here unless you really have to. There are regular tram services around the city center and trains into Manchester from many of the surrounding cities and towns.
If you’re travelling from London the journey is also relatively simple. London to Manchester coaches run several times a day and there’s also a fast train you can catch from the center of London, bringing you into Manchester Piccadilly.
#14 Liverpool Christmas Market
No trip to Liverpool is complete without a visit to the city’s world-famous Christmas market! The market has been a beloved fixture in the city for centuries, and it’s easy to see why.
The traditional stalls and vendors offer a wide range of products, from handmade crafts to delicious food items. You’ll find everything from toys made of wood or metal to jewelry made from precious metals like gold and silver. And if you’re looking for something truly unique, you can even find hand-painted ceramics decorated with flowers or snowflakes.
Where to stay
The Hilton Liverpool City Centre Hotel is perfect for visiting the Christmas Market here. This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms with great views of the city. The Hilton is located in the heart of Liverpool, close to the Christmas market.
For those looking for a more modern experience, The Hilton is a perfect choice.
#15 York Christmas Market, UK
York is magical at any time of year, but add some festive lights, alpine-style chalets selling locally crafted delights, and the smells of mulled wine and tasty treats and you’ll be in winter heaven. There is a vibrant atmosphere to York’s Christmas market, added to by the buskers and giant, decorated Christmas tree.
In keeping with York’s rich history, the centerpiece of the Christmas market is Thor’s Tipi, an enormous canvas tipi where weary shoppers can relax with an indulgent hot chocolate sitting on warm rugs in front of a warming log fire.
Where To Stay
The 5-star Grand Hotel & Spa offers stylish rooms and a luxury vaulted spa. Set in the iconic Grade II listed former railway headquarters, it makes for quite a luxurious stay! Perfect for a UK winter getaway.
✅ For the best deals on accommodation in York head here.
#16 Chester Christmas Market, England
Located opposite the Chester Cathedral, this Christmas market certainly has a special backdrop. Chester Christmas market is smaller than neighbouring Christmas markets but does have a certain magical feel to it, largely due to the beautiful surroundings of Chester itself.
With over 70 traditional wooden chalets surrounding the beautifully decorated Christmas tree, you certainly won’t find yourself lacking inspiration for Christmas gifts. And if you don’t fancy shopping then grab yourself a hog roast bap or festive pint instead.
Where To Stay
For the best of the best head to The Chester Grosvenor. This award-winning 5-star hotel features a Michelin-starred restaurant, individually decorated rooms, and a thermal suite, complete with a herb sauna and steam room. Though if you stay here you might not want to leave!
✅ For the best deals on accommodation in Chester head here.
#17 Newcastle Christmas Market
The huge Christmas market from a few years ago won’t be returning to Newcastle this year, but instead, they are focusing on a smaller Christmas market that celebrates local vendors. You expect to find handmade gifts and decorations along with delicious locally-made food and drinks.
We love that Newcastle is dedicated to building up local businesses over the Christmas period, so if you’re in the local area then please go and support them!
Where To Stay
✅ For the best deals on accommodation in Newcastle head here.
#18 Leeds Christmas Market, England
Leeds Christmas Market is back on in full force! They are celebrating their 20th year with fairground rides, stalls selling seasonal gifts, and German delicacies including gluhwein, bratwurst sausages and schnitzels.
Even without the Christmas market, Leeds is a fantastic city to visit and is often overlooked by tourists for some of the more popular destinations. We would recommend a trip to this vibrant and culturally diverse city if you’re in the area – you won’t be disappointed.
Where To Stay
The Chambers is centrally located, smart and comfortable. It has everything you could need from a city accommodation, with modern facilities, a gym, and views overlooking the city. It’s within close walking distance of a range of bars and restaurants, so is perfect for exploring the nightlife in Leeds.
UK Christmas Markets – Wales
#19 Cardiff Christmas Market
Cardiff is another UK Christmas market dedicated to pushing local artists and craftspeople to the forefront. They offer an alternative shopping experience where you’re buying original work directly from the makers, and they actively encourage demonstrations at their Christmas market so that you can see how the goods you’re buying were made.
Food and drinks stalls sell a variety of Christmas treats, along with traditional Welsh chocolates and cakes. There’s a Santa’s grotto for the kids, and if you’re here for the weekend then why not book to see one of the many pantomimes that are put on in theatres around the city?
Where To Stay
✅ For the best deals on accommodation in Cardiff head here.
UK Christmas Markets – Scotland
#20 Edinburgh Christmas Market
With the backdrop of Edinburgh castle bringing their Christmas market to life, it’s hardly surprising that Edinburgh Christmas market is one of the most popular in the UK.
If you’re lucky enough to be in Edinburgh in the lead-up to Christmas you’ll find stalls offering handmade crafts, home produce, food and drink stalls, Santa’s grotto, along with fairground rides, and attractions including an ice rink, Ferris wheel, and more.
The Street of Light which boasts a temporary display of 60,000 lights, will illuminate either Royal Mile or George Street. Buy yourself a warm drink and stroll along this magical wonderland before you visit the many beautifully decorated stalls of the market.
Where To Stay
✅ For the best deals on accommodation in Edinburgh head here.
The Best UK Christmas Markets – Northern Ireland
#21 Belfast
This is a Christmas market with something for everyone. It combines a unique shopping experience, with great food and a good selection of activities for the kids. Dutch pancakes, Belgian chocolates, and giant bratwursts are just some of the irresistible foods on offer.
With over 30 international traders offering a range of homemade goodies and interesting gift ideas, you’ll be in the Christmas spirit in no time! The market will also boast a festive grotto with Father Christmas, a Helter Skelter, a carousel, and much more!
Where To Stay
✅ For the best deals on accommodation in Belfast head here.
Travel Insurance
Safety Wing provides travel insurance which will insure you for any activities you plan on doing while you’re over here. Ice skating, for example, may well not be included in standard insurance policies so make sure you read the small print!
✅ You can get a quote from Safety Wing here
Tips For Visiting Christmas Markets in the UK
- Take cash: Although some traders are fully set up with card readers, a lot will only accept cash. It’s also just quicker and easier to pay using cash in the crowded Christmas fair environment. Make sure you head to the ATM before you go to help your visit go smoothly!
- Use public transport: Most of the UK Christmas markets on this list are in city centres, where driving is hectic and parking is hard to find and expensive. Where possible, leave your car at home and use public transport or stay at nearby accommodation. If you need to use your car then there are often park and rides just outside the city centres.
- Wrap up: Winter in England can be surprisingly chilly, especially on windy or wet days. Make sure you’re prepared for the weather and bring a layer or two just in case. Standing outside to enjoy the market can quickly become an unpleasant experience if you’re not dressed for the weather.
- Take water: You might on drinking only mulled cider, but having the option of a swig of water is a good idea if you plan on visiting the Christmas market for any length of time!
- Bring a rucksack: A backpack will be the easiest thing to carry heavier gifts or souvenirs you buy around the market with you.
Conclusion: Best Christmas Markets In The UK
If you’re looking for a festive and charming atmosphere to do your Christmas shopping, then check out one of the best Christmas markets in the UK. From Birmingham to Edinburgh, there’s a market for everyone to enjoy. So get your winter woollies on and explore everything these markets have to offer!
Looking for the best places in the UK to get you into the Christmas spirit? Check out the best places to spend winter in England for some chilly weather activity ideas and the cosiest places to stay.
