Looking for the best Christmas markets in the UK? We are here to help!
After all, who doesn’t love a good Christmas market? It is one of those things that can be such a great way to put you in a festive mood.
The wonderful stalls, the food, the atmosphere, and the fun that you can have. It doesn’t matter whether you go with family, with friends or as a couple, you are bound to have a lot of fun there.
There are many standout Christmas markets in the UK and we shall discover them all!
Manchester has one of the biggest in the UK along with London, Birmingham and Edinburgh. All of them are renowned for their reputations for delivering everything you love and expect from an epic Christmas market but they aren’t the only ones.
In this article, we go a bit deeper and tell you everything about the best Christmas markets in the UK. This includes famous locations as well as some hidden gems.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!
1. Manchester Christmas Markets
Dates (2024): 8th of November to 22nd of December
Entry fee: Free
The Manchester Christmas markets are the leading option in England and should be on top of your bucket list! When it comes to the best Christmas market in England, Manchester sets the standard!
Unlike in most places, it is not one Christmas market that you will find in Manchester but several of them. Nine to be exact.
That’s right! The entire city centre becomes a big winter wonderland in December and that’s what we love about it.
Usually the main market is located on Albert Square, in front of the majestic Town Hall (one of Manchester’s famous landmarks). That’s where you will find most food stalls, mulled wine as well Manchester big Santa but unfortunately it’s on this year due to the works taking place at the Town Hall.
READ MORE: Manchester Christmas Markets: The Ultimate Guide
You will also find many craft stalls in all the other markets. If you like Christmas lights, head to Picadilly Gardens. There are plenty there. St Peter’s Square is also very well decorated in December however, there aren’t any markets there.
PRO TIP: Make sure to bring cash as a lot of sellers don’t accept cards. It’s recommended to avoid the ATMs on King Street and near Albert Square as you could be queuing for a long time here.
If you are visiting with children, make sure to head to the Christmas market on Cathedral Gardens. That’s where you will find the ice rink as well as the ice village. It’s very good fun and kids always love it!
READ MORE: 15 Best Things to do in Manchester in Winter
WHERE TO STAY: Stay at the Midland Hotel. It’s one of the oldest hotels in Manchester and it’s ideally located near the Christmas market on Albert Square. You can also enjoy the views over St Peter’s Square and all the Christmas lights.
2. London Winter Wonderland
Dates (2024): 21st November 2024 to 5th January 2025
Entry fee: Free during off-peak hours and £5 or £7.50 during peak hours.
London is the capital, so it shouldn’t be a surprise that the city also goes a little crazy at Christmas.
Aside from the lights, you also have the popular Winter Wonderland that is held in Hyde Park every year.
You can easily get there with the tube. From Hyde Park Corner station, it’s only a few minutes walk to one of the entrances.
Here you will not only find the incredible stalls full of all of the goodies, but you also will get to experience an incredible Christmas fair.
But that’s not all, Winter Wonderland also hosts several shows, rides and even a Santaland, making it one of the most spectacular Christmas markets in the UK.
You will also find a giant Christmas village where you can get beers, mulled wine and delicious bratwursts.
There is so much on offer here and it is the perfect location for friends and family to get into the Christmas spirit.
Winter wonderland is the most famous Christmas market in England so it can get quite busy. Ideally, you should plan your visit during off-peak hours. This will allow you to truly enjoy the experience.
If you can only visit in the evening or on a weekend, make sure to book your tickets in advance.
Looking for more Christmas things to do in London?
- Christmas Party tour – Silent Disco in London
- Christmas lights Photography Tour in London
- Christmas tour of London in a black cab
READ MORE: 23 Festive Things to do for Christmas in London
3. Edinburgh Christmas market
Dates (2024): November 15th 2024 to January 4th 2025
Entry fee: Free
This will comes as no surprise but Edinburgh is home to one of the best Christmas markets in Scotland!
Located in East Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh Christmas Market is a fun convivial market that will put you in the festive spirit!
You can easily get there on foot. It’s just across Waverley Train station and near all the high street shops (where you might go for your Christmas shopping).
Once you step into the market, you’ll discover over 50 stalls with crafts, food and drinks but also a Christmas tree maze and Santa’s Grotto (perfect for children).
You will also get to see the illuminated Big Wheel, one of Edinburgh’s most famous Christmas landmarks.
For beautiful views of the big wheel, head to Mount Place in the Old town. This street overlooks the gardens and it’s beautiful at night.
PRO TIP: After visiting the Christmas market, head to the Dome in the New Town. This beautiful bar puts up incredible decorations for Christmas and locals usually go there to grab a cocktail in front of the giant Christmas tree inside.
READ MORE: 19 Best Things To Do in Edinburgh in Winter
4. Bristol Christmas Market
Dates (2024): 1st of November to 23rd of December 2024
Entry fee: Free
Located in the heart of the city centre, Bristol Christmas Market is one of the top Christmas markets in England.
You can enjoy a wonderful glass of mulled wine while you look through the stalls that showcase some excellent unique gift options. There are over 50 stalls so you will have plenty of choices!
But the thing Bristol Christmas Market is particularly famous for is not the stalls but its unique Bavarian bar, the Jäger Barn Bar.
This is definitely the best place to get some delicious mulled wine and listen to live music.
If you are a local, you will be happy to know that you can also book your Christmas party at the Jäger Barn Bar. Not only is it affordable but it’s also very unique and there is nothing better to put everyone in the Christmas mood.
Bristol Christmas Market is also home to many Christmas igloos that you can rent! They can host up to 8 people and the hire is for a 90 minutes time slot.
It’s a great option for a group of friends or family who want to get together without having to deal with the crowds. Also, you can play curling which is always good fun!
The kids will also love posting their letters in Santa’s letterbox.
READ MORE: 21 Best Day trips from Bristol (for both locals and visitors)
5. Belfast Continental Christmas Market
Dates (2024): 16th November to the 22nd December 2024
Entry fee: Free
Northern Ireland won’t only delight in beautiful picturesque views, at Christmas you will find some great markets to attend. Belfast is one of them!
Belfast is such a fabulous city to explore, and it is even better at Christmas time thanks to the epic Christmas market that takes place each year.
It’s named the continental Christmas market and it takes place in front of the stunning City Hall.
You will find two heated tents with a bar, food, and handcrafted items stalls, but there is also a fair bit to explore outside as well.
You will also find a huge Santa’s grotto for children to enjoy. It really is a family affair at this Christmas market and will be well worth the trip to explore and see for yourself.
It’s also important to mention that you will find a giant Christmas tree and stunning Christmas lights on the facade of City Hall which makes the experience even more magical.
6. Bath Christmas market
Dates (2024): Thursday 28th November to Sunday 15th December 2024
Entry fee: Free
Every year, the city of Bath organises one of the most beautiful Christmas markets you will ever experience.
It centres around Bath Cathedral, but there are elements of the market throughout the city.
It’s very easy to get there. It’s only a short walk from the station and the location is very central.
You will find some incredible stalls and lots to see and do during the markets.
The atmosphere is also brilliant. The streets are also decorated with lots of twinkly lights and as Bath is huge on independent retailers, everyone makes a big effort with their window displays.
A great British Christmas market to try! Also, Bath is definitely one of the best places in the UK for a Christmas break. There are many places you can visit such as the famous Roman baths and the Christmas lights make the place so magical.
PRO TIP: Avoid weekends and lunchtime as it can get quite busy.
Most stalls accept cards but some will require cash. Knowing that, it’s better to get cash beforehand as the cash points on Stall Street and Bath Street can be busy as well.
7. Birmingham Frankfurt Market
Dates (2024): 1st of November to 24th of December 2024
Entry fee: Free.
Birmingham is a happening city anyway, but this market is something else.
It is one of the only authentic German markets outside of Germany and Austria, so it really is a little more unique than some of the other Christmas markets you might be used to.
There are beautiful stalls to look around, as well as authentic food to enjoy. It is a great day or evening out and one of the best German Christmas markets in the UK.
It takes place in the city centre. You can easily get there by train or any other public transport.
Most stalls are located on Victoria Square and along New Street. It’s an excellent place to go for drinks and food. Pretzels, schnitzels, bratwursts, gluhwein and weissbeer… you will find them all here!
It’s also an excellent place to do your Christmas shopping.
As you may know, most high street shops are located on New Street which means that you will get access to both the craft stalls and the shops. Between everything, you should be able to find all your presents for this year!
You will also find live music on Victoria Square, alongside the stunning Christmas decorations.
All in all, it’s a very complete Christmas experience that you will get in Birmingham!
8. Leeds Christkindelmarkt
Dates (2024): 22nd of November to 24th of December 2024
Entry fee: Free
Looking for a beautiful Christmas market in Yorkshire? Go to Leeds! This is one of the most established German Christmas markets in the UK.
Each year the Millenium Square is transformed into a Christmas market and wonderland perfect for friends, families, and couples.
There is a real Christmas village vibe to this market, with lots of fun and interesting stalls to enjoy.
Unlike other Christmas markets in the UK, this one is a true German market. The city of Leeds work with partners in Frankfurt and the stalls offer authentic German food and drinks such as gluhwein, bratwurst and schnitzels.
9. Winchester Christmas Market
Dates (2024): 22nd of November to 22nd of December
Entry fee: Free
The Winchester Christmas Market is often voted towards the top of the list when it comes to the best Christmas markets in the UK, and for good reason.
It has a really lively vibe and atmosphere to it. Also, Winchester is one of the cutest cities to visit in the UK.
If you are going to Hampshire (or are a local), it’s a great place to add to your list of places to visit! There is a very magical feel and that becomes even stronger at Christmas time.
Winchester Christmas Market takes place outside Winchester Cathedral, but there are elements of festiveness throughout the town.
Lots of Christmas lights and cheer, you will struggle to not enjoy this market.
You will find over 100 stalls offering food, drinks and local British products.
Make sure to also visit Winchester Cathedral. It’s one of the most beautiful buildings in the UK and no visit to Winchester would be complete without it.
10. Oxford Christmas Market
Dates (2024): 23rd November 2024 to 5th January 2025
Entry fee: Free
Though it’s definitely not the largest Christmas market in the UK, Oxford Christmas Market has a lot to offer.
It’s set on Broad Street, in the heart of Oxford City centre.
Oxford is such a beautiful town. It’s filled with historic buildings and stunning architecture. When December comes around, you get to walk around the city centre admiring all the lights and decorations… it’s simply magical.
It’s unarguable that the Christmas market is nestled in a wonderful setting in Oxford and that’s part of what makes it that unique.
You will love walking next to the cute wooden stall and getting delicious mulled wine. There also is an old vintage carousel (perfect photo spot!).
If you love Christmas carols, you will also be in for a treat as there are many choirs singing in Oxford.
Finally, if you want even more magic, you can go around Oxford and discover the Harry Potter filming locations. That’s the perfect activity for Harry Potter fans! You can even book a walking tour.
11. Nottingham Christmas market
Dates (2024): 13th of November 2024 to 31st of December
Entry fee: Free
If you are looking for a beautiful Christmas market in the East Midlands, this one is for you!
Nottingham is one of the most underrated cities in the UK but one thing is sure, it knows how to celebrate Christmas!
Nottingham isn’t home to a simple Christmas market but to a huge Winter Wonderland.
Rides, bars, ice rink… everything you can think of, you’ll find it here! Best of all? It’s entirely free!
While most Christmas markets are free, Winter Wonderlands tend to require a paying ticket. This is not the case here.
You can find the Christmas market on Old Market Square. There are dozens of chalets where you can grab food, drinks and buy presents.
You will also find a 32m-high big wheel as well as a giant Christmas tree.
Another cool thing about the Nottingham Christmas market is the Altitude bar. It’s the biggest mobile ice bar in the UK and the perfect place to go if you like unique spots.
They serve drinks in real ice glasses. How cool is that?!
12. Chester Christmas market
Dates (2024): 15th of November to 22nd of December 22
Entry fee: Free
Located in Cheshire, Chester is known for its beautiful timber houses, cathedral and Roman walls but it’s also a great Christmas destination.
It’s home to a fantastic Christmas Market. If you are looking for a magical experience, this will be it!
It’s not as big as the one in Manchester, London or Edinburgh but it’s definitely worth a visit if you prefer a more convivial feel.
It takes place in the city centre, on Town Hall Square and Northgate Street. You will find many wooden chalets selling all the usual Christmas treats.
You can also go on a walk around the city, on the walls and enjoy the beautiful views over the market.
If you are a couple looking for a romantic Christmas getaway, this will also be perfect!
13. Southampton Christmas market
Dates (2021): 15th November to 5th January 2025
Entry fee: Free
This one is much smaller than the markets previously mentioned. It’s only been on since 2015, making it a bit a newbie in terms of Christmas markets in the UK.
However, there is something very unique about the Christmas market in Southampton, Hampshire and that’s why it made the list.
It takes place on Above Bar Street and Bargate Street, in the heart of Southampton City centre. That’s where you will find all the shops as well.
There are many stalls and a couple of German bars that serve delicious mulled wine (you can even add a shot of Amaretto if you want!).
But the most remarkable event is flying Santa.
Yep, you read that right.
Each year, there is a zipline installed above the street and you can see Santa flying above the market twice a day!
After that, children can also meet Santa.
It is a pretty magical experience for kids and even adults love it. It’s a fun and unusual thing to see.
14. Lincoln Christmas Market
Dates (2024): 7th to 15th of December
Entry fee: Free. You do not need to book to visit the market itself however, it is essential for the Park and Ride.
The Lincoln Christmas market takes place over a three day period so while it might be different from others, it is still worth adding as a date to the diary.
Though it doesn’t stay on for long, you will find over 200 stalls!
It is set up outside the Lincoln cathedral and has a great selection of stalls and lots of events going across the three days to get you into the Christmas mood.
It is also a great one for kids as there are events running across the three days purely for the children, including writing letters to Santa. A lovely market with a great atmosphere.
15. York’s St Nicholas Christmas Fair
Dates (2024): 4th November to 22nd December 2024
Entry fee: Free
Just like the Christmas market in Bath, the market that goes up every year in York is simply stunning.
York is one of the most beautiful cities in the UK. Known for its Roman heritage, walls, minster, castle and beautiful medieval streets, it is only normal that it becomes a truly magical gem when Christmas comes around.
The pedestrianised streets make this the perfect location for Christmas. Allowing you to walk along the streets, enjoy the stalls and all the festive decorations.
Make sure to go to the Shambles. It’s the prettiest street in York and it’s absolutely stunning in December.
The St. Nicholas Fair runs for 6 weeks so it gives you plenty of time to visit. It takes place on Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square. You will find many wooden chalets where you can get drinks and food from all over the world.
The highlight is Thors Tipi which is erected every year at Christmas. Here you can enjoy a creamy hot chocolate or warming mulled wine.
16. Skipton Christmas Market, Yorkshire
Dates (2024): Sunday 1st and Sunday 8th December
Entry fee: Free
If you are looking for a lesser-known (but still amazing) Christmas market in the UK, head to Skipton.
Known as the gateway to the Yorkshire Dales, Skipton is a super cute small town. There are many things you can do here and around such visit Malham Cove for example.
In December, the town hosts a fantastic Christmas market. It’s only one for 2 days (the 2 first Sundays of the month) but it’s well worth a visit.
This is a great market with over 100 stalls for you to look at along the high street.
However, aside from wonderful things to buy and lots of delicious food and drink to enjoy, you also will enjoy a lovely atmosphere with music from brass bands playing as you walk along the street.
The town also takes Christmas seriously with some beautiful decorations.
17. The Hay Festival Winter Weekend in Hay-On-Wye
Dates (2025): Thursday 27 to Sunday 30 November 2025
Entry fee: the general entrance is free but you may need to book (and pay) for specific events.
If you were looking for some epic Christmas markets in Wales then Hay-on-Wye will be a great place to start.
Located in Powys county, at the border with the beautiful Brecon Beacons, Hay-on-Wye is a lovely location to visit.
It is at the border of England and Wales, making it easily accessible for everyone.
The winter weekend that takes place each year is where the vintage fair is erected and lots of Christmas magic and stalls are on hand to explore.
The town itself is lovely, so it is well worth a trip here during the festive period.
18. Cardiff Christmas market and Winter Wonderland
Dates (2024): Thursday, November 14 to Monday, December 23
Entry fee: Free
Heading to Wales soon? Perfect! Cardiff is home to one of the best UK Christmas markets.
It takes place in St John Street, Working Street, Trinity Street and the Hayes.
Here you will find wooden stalls filled with beautiful handcrafted items, yummy food, and not forgetting the mulled wine.
It’s a very pleasant market to visit as it’s located in the pedestrian heart of the city, meaning you won’t be bothered by the noise and traffic.
You will also be in the shopping streets which means you get easy access to all the high street stores, perfect to get your Christmas presents!
In Cardiff, you will also find that they have their very own winter wonderland which is full of fun and excitement to top off your festive experience in the city centre.
19. Aberdeen Christmas Village
Dates (2024): 15th November to Saturday 22nd December 2024
Entry fee: Free
There are many amazing Christmas markets in Scotland and while Edinburgh market might be your first port of call, there are a couple of others you might want to think about. Aberdeen is one of them!
Aberdeen Christmas Village is such a lovely event that takes place every year.
Perfect for families, couples, and friends to get together and would even entice the “Scroogest” of people to get into the Christmas spirit.
It has an open-air ice rink, as well as lots of lovely stalls and things to explore.
A great Christmas market to visit.
There also is a Santa and Reindeer Parade in December. That’s well worth your time if you are visiting with children.
20. Glasgow Christmas Markets
Dates (2021): 18th of November 2024 to 5th of January 2025
Entry fee: Free
Glasgow is home to one of the biggest Christmas markets in the UK and if you love everything Christmassy, you will be in for a treat!
The market is on for much longer than anywhere else in the UK as it’s on from the beginning of November until the end of December.
It’s split across two locations: St Enoch Square and George Square.
Here you will find the usual things you expect from a Christmas market along with a Victorian Carousel, a giant Advent Calendar and a vintage Helter Skelter.
You will find traders from over 30 countries which means loads of gorgeous food, yummy drinks, and beautiful things to look at.
Also, as you will be in the city centre of Glasgow, you will also have access to all the high street shops.
Between the unique craft stalls and the famous shops, you are bound to find some unique and beautiful gifts, so save that Christmas shopping if you love to buy different gifts for people.
Glasgow is a beautiful city to visit and if you’d like to learn more about it while visiting, you can also join the local guided tour of the city centre. See prices here.
Bonus: Conwy Winterfest
Dates (2024): 7th of December
Entry fee: Free
This one is a bit more unusual as it’s not a Christmas market per se but it’s still something you might be interested in.
Conwy is a beautiful medieval town located in North Wales.
Heading there will always be a treat, but at Christmas, it can be extra special.
That’s because over 90% of the shops in Conwy are independent retailers.
While each year there is a smaller market where you can buy Christmas goodies, the shops are the perfect place to find unique items. A great place to do your Christmas shopping.
Also, each year (around the 15th of December), there is the Winterfest which consists of a medieval parade in the town.
It’s a very unique thing to see so if you are up for something different, Conwy will be an excellent destination.
READ MORE: 19 Best Things To Do in North Wales
Tips for visiting the Christmas Markets in the UK
Now that you know exactly where to find the best Christmas markets in the UK, it’s time to get prepared!
You will find below some useful tips for visiting the UK Christmas markets.
- Bring cash. A lot of stalls don’t take cards so it’s always useful to carry some cash. It will save you time and hassle! Nobody likes to wait just to be done they can’t pay.
- Go to a cash machine before reaching the market. ATMs near the Christmas markets are always very busy. A lot of people realised they needed cash so they go to the first one they find. The queues can be insanely long so it’s better to go to a cashpoint before getting too close to the markets.
- Don’t bring your dog. Though most Christmas markets in the UK are dog-friendly, it’s not recommended to bring your furry friend. The markets get busy and you will be pushed around. People might step over your dog and that’s definitely something you want to avoid. Also, it would be very stressful for him / her.
- Don’t take a pram. If you are visiting with a baby, take a sling instead of a pram. As previously mentioned, it will be busy and literally impossible to walk around with a pram. A sling will come in handy. That having been said, it’s highly recommended to avoid peak hours as you don’t want to be squished in the middle of the crowd with your baby.
- Take public transport. Christmas markets are always located in city centres. You can easily get there with public transport and that’s what you should do. Although there are carparks, it will be expensive and quite busy. Buses and trains will be a better and cheaper option.
- Wear layers. Christmas markets take place outside and while you will find a few covered bars, most activities are outside. This means you will be spending most of your time, outside in the cold (let’s be honest, December in the UK is pretty cold). Make sure to wear several layers so you don’t get cold too quickly.
- Book in advance when needed. Some of the Christmas markets mentioned (such as London winter wonderland) require you to book your ticket in advance. Make sure to do so to avoid any disappointment.
We hope this has given you plenty of inspiration for some of the best Christmas markets in the UK.
