That magical time of year is fast approaching, and with it comes one of the best things about winter: Christmas markets! The build up to the festive season is certainly a pretty one, and a spot of shopping with a cheeky mulled wine or two is definitely the best way to prepare. Bright and busy Christmas markets pop up all over the country, but here are our top picks:
1. Cirencester Christmas Market
Situated in the heart of the Cotswolds, Cirencester is the quintessential Christmas town and its market does not disappoint. The traditional market stalls are a delight to wander. Starting on the 29th of November, the Christmas lights will be switched on and The Advent Market opened. Expect to browse a selection of stalls selling festive faire, clothing, crafts and foodie delights. Cirencester is a beautiful city to explore around Christmas and staying in a nearby Travelodge will top of a wonderfully heart-warming winter break.
2. Edinburgh Christmas Markets
Edinburgh hosts an array of Christmas markets, perfect for getting in the Yuletide mood. If you choose to visit Edinburgh during the lead up to Christmas, you can take your pick from a traditional German Market, Edinburgh’s Scottish Market (remember to try haggis!) and St Marys Christmas Market. St Marys is the most delightfully interesting market for children and a great opportunity to take part in a seasonal sing song. As well as visiting beautiful Christmas markets, don’t miss the Festive Ferris Wheel, ice skating, or the St Andrew’s day parade: a magical torch-lit procession through the old town on the 30th of November.
3. London Christmas Markets
The Capital is definitely at its best during the Christmas months and three of the most exciting markets include the Southbank Winter Festival, Winter Wonderland and Covent Garden. The Winter Festival on Southbank lights up the wintry nights with delicious treats, traditional gifts and a phenomenal line-up of entertainment. This year, why not team a visit to the market with a trip to see Slava’s Snow Show, A Christmas Carol of The Christmas No.1 Singalong. Thrill seekers must not miss a trip to Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, which is a Christmas lover’s paradise. Not only will you have plenty of opportunity to sample mulled wine and buy cinnamony foods, but the Christmas-time rides will have kids screaming with joy well into the night. No stay in London is complete without a visit to Covent Garden, which becomes the perfect destination for the Christmas shopper. Browse hand-made gifts and warm up in one of the many restaurants. The market is a gasp-worthy sight with all its twinkling Christmas lights.
4. Christkindelmarkt in Leeds
Leeds German Market is not to be missed and the perfect destination for families and foodies alike. Fill up on a tasty Bratwurst sausage while riding on the Christmas merry-go-round, before dancing to music from a live Bavarian band! Travelling to Leeds has never been easier and a short stay in a city Travelodge makes a perfect seasonal getaway. Millennium Square will be lighting up the winter nights with plenty of fun. If you fancy trying something extra special and are feeling like a trip to ‘the mountains’, why not book a table at the Alp Chalet, open especially for Christkinderlmarkt?
