The best Christmas markets in the UK

It’s ‘lights, carols, action’! 🎄

As the nation prepares for the most wonderful time of the year, it’s time for festive feasting and shopping sprees for that perfect unique gift.

So, to gear up for this gift-filled event, why not take a look at our list of the best Christmas markets in the UK?


Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market

1st November – 24th December 2024

Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas MarketThe Frankfurt Christmas market is the largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany or Austria and is a firm annual favourite among residents and visitors alike. Top up on the tempting traditional goodies and flavoursome treats, from pretzels and bratwursts to Weisbeer beer.

In addition to the enticing foodie goods, there’s a bandstand showcasing local talent and spreading festive musical joy, as well as the returning Ferris Wheel and ice rink to kick-start your awesome advent period.

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Liverpool Christmas Market

16th November – 24th December 2024

Christmas market gift stall

Returning for another year in the city’s gorgeous St George’s Hall and William Brown Street setting, Liverpool Christmas Market showcases a spectacular array of festive food offerings.

Named one of the best Christmas markets in the UK, Liverpool throughout the festive period can’t be missed. Alongside great food, a carefully selected range of crafters and makers will be selling quirky Christmas gifts, decorations and jewellery. Or take a break from shopping with a ride on the big wheel or Christmas snow slide!

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Christmas at Waddesdon

15th November – 22nd December 2024

Waddesdon Manor at ChristmasThis winter season, Waddesdon will be hosting its magical annual Christmas market. Peruse a plentiful supply of festive crafts and treat your senses to the tastes and smells of locally sourced food and drink from over 80 specially selected exhibitors. As the evening draws in, wander the light trail and marvel at the festive feast of light and colour taking place around the grounds of the house and the Stables.

Book ahead to explore the manor house during your visit. There will be Christmas trees aplenty with lots of intricate festive decorations that create a spectacular seasonal treat.

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Southbank Centre Winter Market

1st November – 26th December 2024

People walking through market stalls at Southbank Centre Winter MarketLondon’s riverside winter extravaganza is back for 2024 with the ultimate Christmas market experience. The Southbank Centre’s annual festive market is a big part of their annual winter festivities.

Picture endless wooden chalets along the bank of the River Thames overlooking London’s iconic skyline, each offering tasty festive goodies and cuisines. From cosy mugs of hot chocolate and succulent street food to cheeky cups of mulled wine and cider, this family-friendly food market is sure to get you in the Christmas spirit.

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Taking a Christmas tour of the capital this winter season? Click here to check out our 10 favourite must-visit Christmas markets in London.


Edinburgh’s East Princes Street Gardens Christmas Market

15th November 2024 – 4th January 2025

Edinburgh Christmas lightsThis Christmas Edinburgh’s East Princes Street returns with its wonderfully designed Christmas market event. With dozens of festive stalls offering everything from perfect Christmas prezzies and captivating crafts to scrumptious snacks to scoff. The Fourth 1 Big Wheel is back for another year to provide breathtaking aerial views over the market stalls and the city of Edinburgh.

Whatever you love about the winter season, this Christmas market is sure to cater for you.

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Bath Christmas Market

28th November – 15th December 2024

Bath Christmas MarketThis festive period, explore over 200 beautifully decorated stalls at Bath’s annual Christmas Market. Located in this historic spa town’s Milsom Street, York Street, Bath Street and Abbeygate Street, Bath is a gorgeous UK city to explore throughout Christmas.

Offering oodles of mouth-watering delights, including artisan decorations, handmade jewellery, festive drinks and delicious Crimbo food, what more could you ask for?

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Manchester Christmas Market

18th November – 22nd December 2024

Manchester Christmas marketsManchester’s highly-anticipated Christmas Markets are returning for 2024 with hundreds of stalls across the city. Open from November 18th, expect a diverse selection of food and drink vendors, an ice village at Cathedral Gardens, delightful rides for the kids (and adults too!) and more welcoming wooden chalets than you can shake a snow globe at.

And that’s not all! Add a Santa’s grotto and a spectacular ice skating rink and you’ll be in Christmas spirit in no time! 

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Nottingham Winter Wonderland

13th November – 31st December 2024

Nottingham Winter WonderlandThe festive season has arrived in Nottingham, with Winter Wonderland opening its doors. And there’s plenty to see and do! Explore traditional chalet stalls selling tempting confectioneries, the Helter Skelter bar serving steaming cups of mulled wine, fairground rides and, of course, a splendid 60ft Norway spruce Christmas tree.

Amongst this year’s attractions are the Après Ski Bar, the 33m observation wheel and an igloo village in Trinity Square – through a Christmas tree-lined entrance. So grab yourself a cheeky hot chocolate and get exploring this Christmas season.

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Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market

22nd November – 22nd December 2024

Christmas market giftsRecognised as one of the best in Europe, Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market is renowned for its bustling atmosphere, stunning location and handpicked vibrant market stalls.

Situated on Winchester Cathedral’s historic grounds, this festive market’s wooden chalets are inspired by traditional German Christmas Markets. With the dazzling light installations, the sound of Christmas carols and the aroma of mulled wine and cinnamon drifting in the air, prepared to be transported into a festive paradise. You might even find the perfect stocking filler for your loved ones!

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