What better way to get into the Christmas spirit than with a stroll around a magical market? From November onwards, whole streets, city centres and even stately homes are transformed into the best Christmas markets in the UK.
Charming wooden chalets. The scent of chestnuts roasting. The sound of Christmas carols. These scenes would fit perfectly in a Charles Dickens novel! They’re also what you can expect to experience at a Christmas market.
The UK has no shortage of excellent options too, from the bustling London Christmas markets to smaller affairs in historic settings. Ready to get into the festive spirit? Let’s take a look at KAYAK’s top picks to visit in 2023.
The best Christmas markets in the UK
Christmas markets in England
England has some of the best and biggest Christmas markets in the UK. The choice is varied and ranges from cities with multiple markets to charming country fairs within the most beautiful places in the UK. Here are my favourites.
1. Manchester Christmas Market
Manchester is home to one of the UK’s oldest and best Christmas markets. The first modern Christmas market in the UK started here in 1999. Now, the market gets over nine million visitors every year.
Manchester Christmas Market is right in the city centre, with a Victorian Town Hall standing guard, and features 300+ stalls selling anything and everything Christmas-related. There is also a designated family area with rides and entertainment, with a backdrop of Manchester Cathedral for added ambience.
To experience the markets properly, start your visit at Albert Square and walk along King Street (the best place for authentic European Christmas treats). Then, venture towards Exchange Square and Cathedral Gardens before heading back towards Piccadilly Gardens.
- 2023 dates: 11th November – 22nd December
- Where: Various venues, including Albert Square, Manchester M2 6LW
- Must try: Pick up a Christmas mug from one of the bars to fill with spiced mulled wine
2. Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market
You would never guess that the largest and most authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany and Austria is found in Birmingham. Yep, this northern metropolis with very humble beginnings receives over 5.5 million visitors a year.
If you’re fond of German festive food, head for the Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market which is usually spread across New Street, Victoria Square and Centenary Square. It’s the best place to purchase your Christmas gifts while getting into the spirit of the season.
Over 180 stalls sell crafts made by local artisans, including handmade soaps and candles. There are also joyful Christmas carols to listen to courtesy of the Christmas Moose, fondly nicknamed Chris Moose.
- 2023 dates: 2nd November – 24th December
- Where: Various venues, including Victoria Street, Birmingham, Midlands B1 1BD
- Must try: Sample the authentic Bratwurst from the Frankfurt Christmas Market area
3. London Christmas Markets
London doesn’t do things by halves – and it doesn’t hold back when it comes to Christmas markets.
London’s Winter Wonderland, with over 100 rides and attractions and one of the largest open-air ice rinks in town, has become a major winter destination. Spread across Hyde Park, it’s one of the closest things you’ll find to a German Christmas Market in the UK, with over 200 chalets to browse.
Meanwhile, over at the Angels Market, there’s a row of stalls exhibiting the most unusual handmade gifts, including ceramics and jewellery. It’s the best place to go if you want a hand-crafted nativity scene.
- 2023 dates: 17th November – 1st January
- Where: Hyde Park Corner
- Must try: Venture into the market’s Magical Ice Kingdom to admire various ice sculptures and tunnels
4. Covent Garden Christmas Market
For a magical foodie experience in London, visit the picture-perfect Covent Garden Christmas Market. This is as Dickensian as you can get but with a modern twist.
The Victorian market is usually decked out with garlands by a top designer, while a giant Christmas tree with over 300,000 lights adorns the centre of the square. You’ll find plenty of places to buy Christmas gifts, as well as gourmet food stalls.
- 2023 dates: November – January TBC
- Where: Covent Garden Market, London W2C 7QH
- Must try: Dine and drink in your very own wintery igloo
5. Southbank Market
The Thames never looks as enchanting as it does at Christmas. From late November, the twinkling lights of the Southbank Winter Festival markets add to the sparkling effect on the river’s surface. You’ll find them spread between the Southbank Centre and the London Eye. They offer plenty of Christmas cheer and heaps of tasty food. Look forward to tucking into gourmet cheese toasties, truffle burgers, fondue, and an eggnog (or two).
- 2023 dates: 2nd November – 26th December
- Where: Southbank Market, The Queen’s Walk, London SE1 8XX
- Must try: Go after dark to see the Thames lit up like a Christmas tree
6. Blenheim Christmas Market
This quaint corner of Oxfordshire is not only home to the Duke of Marlborough’s lavish home (and Sir Winston Churchill’s former playground). It’s also the setting of the Blenheim Christmas Market. One of the highlights in the UK calendar, the Great Court transforms into a fairy tale scene with dozens of wooden chalets selling craft vodka, cheeses and lots of other goodies.
The manor house’s picture-perfect gardens transform into a twinkling nirvana, while the lakeside is lit up with colourful cascades. You can also enter Blenheim Palace itself to explore its fairytale rooms, including the stunning Great Hall with its huge Christmas tree.
- 2023 dates: 17th November – 17th December
- Where: Blenheim Park, Woodstock OX20 1PP
- Must try: In 2023, Blenheim will host a magical light trail for visitors to follow featuring over 20,000 sparkling LED lights
7. Bath Christmas Market
Bath is perhaps the most romantic of settings and the home to one of the best Christmas Markets in the UK. It’s set among the city’s cobbled Georgian streets and close to its world-famous Roman baths.
Bath Christmas Market is easily one of the biggest markets in the Southwest of England and is often voted the best event in the UK. It typically hosts up to 170 twinkling wooden chalets, with high-quality products from exhibitors from across the region. It’s a fabulous place to grab authentic, locally made and produced products.
- 2023 dates: 23rd November – 10th December
- Where: Various venues, including York and Milsom Streets Bath, BA1 1DS
- Must try: Tuck into heaps of tasty homemade treats, including festive mince pies
8. Chester Christmas Market
For a truly magical, festive journey back in time, head to Chester Christmas Market. This authentic Christmas market hasn’t been bitten by the commercial bug yet, so it really is a bit of a hidden gem. There, you’ll find about 70 wooden chalets wrapped around a large Christmas tree in front of Chester‘s Victorian Town Hall.
Almost everything sold at Chester Christmas Market is handmade or locally produced. This includes everything from jewellery to clothing and scented candles. It’s the perfect place to get your stocking fillers! Once you’ve exhausted your shopping, grab a festive cocktail or pint of regional cask ale from one of the cosy bars. Chester Market (a permanent fixture in the city) is also just a stone’s throw away if you fancy a bite to eat indoors.
- 2023 dates: 18th November – 21st December
- Where: Northgate Street, Chester CH1 2 HQ
- Must try: Head into Chester Cathedral next door to the market to view its amazing Christmas trees display
9. Winchester Christmas Market
Down in Jane Austen country, in the heart of Hampshire, is perhaps one of the best Christmas markets in the UK. As far as settings go, Winchester Christmas Market is pretty special. The market is held in the inner close of Winchester Cathedral, once part of Winchester Castle. The landmark venue features a Round Table that’s believed to be where the legendary King Arthur held court with his knights.
Inspired by German markets, Winchester’s was started in 2006 with only 40 stalls. Today, it’s home to over 112 chalets showcasing hand-crafted wares and food to keep you sated for your shopping spree. The market has won several accolades for its festive atmosphere, so you’re almost guaranteed a good time.
- 2023 dates: 17th November – 21st December
- Where: Winchester Cathedral, 9 The Cl, Winchester SO 23 9LS
- Must try: Visit the ice rink where you can test your skating skills before grabbing a hot chocolate
10. Canterbury Christmas Market
With some of the finest medieval architecture in England and a UNESCO World Heritage Cathedral, Canterbury is a stunning setting for a UK Christmas market. It’s set within its award-winning shopping centre, the Whitefriars, and spreads out onto St George Street.
Expect to see colourful wooden huts displaying a range of gifts and food. There’s also live music to keep you entertained and lots of Christmassy distractions to keep the little ones occupied, including a Santa’s grotto.
- 2023 dates: 10th November – 24th December
- Where: Various venues, including the Whitefriars Shopping Centre, 14 Gravel Walk, CT1 2TF
- Must try: Stop off at one of the market bars to sample some local Kentish ale or gin
11. Cambridge Christmas Markets
Bursting with history, tradition and the world’s most prestigious university, Cambridge is worth visiting at any time of year. Adding to its awesome history are the Christmas markets and fairs dotted around Cambridgeshire from mid-November to December.
In Cambridge, Christmas cheer comes in the form of the North Pole Cam Festival at Parker’s Place. This large open green space in the city centre transforms into a large ice rink with different types of festive rides for the young and old alike. There are speciality food nights too, plus a Big Wheel offering spectacular views over Cambridge.
- 2023 dates: TBC
- Where: Various venues, including Parker’s Place, Parkside, Cambridge CB2 1AA
- Must try: Head to the Ice Bar for a festive tipple, including warming mulled wine
12. Burghley House
The idyllic surroundings of Burghley House, one of the grandest surviving houses of the 16th century in England, is Lincolnshire’s best Christmas fair. The venue is incredibly enticing, with heated marques and pagodas set within grand gardens.
If you’re searching for luxury goods, you’re bound to find them among Burghley Christmas Fair‘s 150 stalls. Browse goods from Christmas decorations and winter clothing to artisan food and drink. With Christmas carols playing in the background, it really is a brilliant place to begin the festive season.
- 2023 dates: 23rd – 26th November
- Where: Burghley House, Stamford, Lincolnshire P39 3JY
- Must try: Take a ride on the huge Victorian carousel that’s lit up at night
Christmas Markets in Scotland
Whisky, the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, hearty food, castles and the elusive Loch Ness monster are just some of Scotland’s claims to fame. It’s also home to some of the best Christmas markets in the UK where you’ll have no trouble getting in the festive spirit.
13. Edinburgh Christmas Market
Spread out across one of Edinburgh‘s famous gardens is where you’ll find one of the best UK Christmas markets. It’s Scotland’s answer to London’s Winter Wonderland and can be found at East Princess Street Gardens (also known as the First New Town).
The market comes complete with rides for all ages and a Santa’s grotto. You’ll even find some charming Harry Potter-themed gifts, plus vegan pigs in blankets for non-meat eaters craving some festive food. Since opening in 2003, it’s become part and parcel of Edinburgh, attracting people from all over. Why not sample the market’s unique mulled IrnBru (Scotland’s answer to mulled wine)?
- 2023 dates: 24th November – 3rd January
- Where: Various venues, including George Street, Edinburgh EH2 3BV
- Must try: Soak up sweeping vistas of the city from the market’s Big Wheel
14. Hopetoun House
The 17th-century Hopetoun House, one of Scotland’s finest stately homes, plays host to the Hopetoun House Christmas Fair every year. The event (which takes place just outside Edinburgh) is much loved by locals. The best part about it is the huge range of independent Scottish exhibitors. Every stall is totally unique, making the atmosphere less competitive and absolutely magical. It’s a great pick for those after a more intimate UK Christmas market.
- 2023 dates: 24th – 26th November
- Where: Hopetoun House, Edinburgh, EH 30 9RW
- Must try: Grab a bite to eat in the Stables Kitchen once you’re done shopping
15. Glasgow George Square Christmas Market
The second-largest Christmas market in Scotland is the perfect place to finish off your shopping. Glasgow‘s market in George Square offers lovely live music, heaps of hand-crafted gifts and an authentic German bar serving Glühwein.
The stalls host food and gifts from over 30 different nationalities, so there’s lots to choose between. Kids will love the market’s giant advent calendar that’s opened daily to reveal special treats. George Square is also ideally located next door to Queen Street Station for easy access.
- 2023 dates: 18th November – 8th January
- Where: George Square, Glasgow G2 1DH
- Must try: Check out Santa’s Snow Globe for some festive photo ops
Christmas markets in Wales and Northern Ireland
Not all the best Christmas Markets in the UK are found in England and Scotland. For a seasonal treat filled with festive food, idyllic ice skating and atmospheric Santa’s grottos, head to one of the following events in Wales or Northern Ireland:
16. Cardiff Christmas Market
The Welsh capital is no stranger to hosting a brilliant Christmas market. In late November, Cardiff‘s best-known streets become a festive playground filled with tempting food stalls, beer tents and other seasonal allures. A major highlight of Cardiff Christmas Market is the collection of traditional craft stalls where you can pick up all sorts of homemade gifts and original artwork for the family.
- 2023 dates: 10th November – 23rd December
- Where: Various venues, including St John Street, Working Street, Hills Street and Trinity Street
- Must try: Have a chilling (yet festive) drink at the market’s Ice Bar
17. Belfast Christmas Market
Heading across the water to Northern Ireland this Christmas? Check out Belfast‘s beautiful winter market. It takes place within the lovely grounds of Belfast City Hall, with food stalls, craft workshops and cosy pop-up bars galore.
Belfast Christmas Market is one of the longest-running markets in the country, with the first event hosted in 2004. You’ll find over 100 vendors selling their wares at the market, from those serving seasonal treats to others selling arts and crafts. There are often some great activities for kids too – think snow slides, a helter-skelter and classic carousels.
- 2023 dates: 18th November – 22nd December
- Where: Belfast City Hall, Donegall Square, Belfast BT1 5GS
- Must try: Take the kids to meet Father Christmas and his elves at the magical Santa’s grotto (all proceeds go to charity, too)
Christmas Market FAQs
What is the best Christmas market to go to in England?
England is home to some of the very best UK Christmas markets. You’ll find outstanding options scattered all over the country, from the brilliant Birmingham Christmas Market to the quaint York Christmas Market. For extreme festiveness though, head to one of the London Christmas markets such as the world-famous Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park.
Which is the most romantic Christmas market in the UK?
With their twinkling lights and festive atmospheres, pretty much every Christmas market has an aura of romance about it. Choosing one of the UK’s smaller, more intimate markets is a great shout if you’re hoping to surprise your other half. Chester and Bath Christmas markets are both set in enchanting historic cities featuring heaps of romantic appeal.
Feeling inspired to visit one of the UK’s best Christmas markets? Check out KAYAK’s guide to London’s top festive markets or book a mini break this December to visit Germany’s best Christmas markets.
