This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see the full Disclosure and Privacy policy for further information.
Looking for a festive way to celebrate Christmas in 2022? Then why not visit one of the UK’s many Christmas markets? From traditional German-style markets to more modern British ones, there’s something for everyone. This post will help you find the best UK Christmas markets. After all, what could be more festive than strolling around a market, sipping on mulled wine and nibbling on gingerbread?
Christmas markets are a fun and festive way to get into the Christmas spirit. They offer a unique shopping experience, with hand-crafted gifts and decorations available from local artisans. There are often many varieties of festive food and drink on offer, as well as music and entertainment, making it a great day out for all the family. If you’re looking to experience some of the best Christmas markets in the UK this year, then read on.
If you enjoy this post, please subscribe to Travelacrosstheborderline by email, leave a comment below, and share on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for visiting!
- Why visit Christmas markets in the UK?
- What makes a good Christmas market?
- London Christmas markets
- Best UK Christmas markets in the South of the UK
- Best UK Christmas markets in the Midlands
- Best UK Christmas markets in the North of the UK
- Conclusion to best UK Christmas markets
- You May Also Like These Posts…
Why not start planning your Christmas break now and head to one of these wonderful markets in 2022? You’ll be guaranteed a festive experience that you’ll never forget. Read on to find some of the best UK Christmas markets to visit in 2022
Why visit Christmas markets in the UK?
The UK is one of the best destinations to travel to in Europe. Tourists should visit the UK in winter because of the amazing Christmas markets that are held across the country each year. These markets offer a unique shopping experience, with hand-crafted gifts and decorations available from local artisans. There is also festive food and drink on offer, as well as music and entertainment, making it a really fun way to get into the Christmas spirit.
If you’re looking to experience some of the best Christmas markets in the world this year, then why not plan a trip to see some of the best Christmas markets in the UK?
What makes a good Christmas market?
There’s nothing quite like a festive Christmas market to get you into the holiday spirit. The sights and smells of the season are everywhere, from beautifully decorated stalls selling handmade gifts to the tantalizing aroma of roasted chestnuts to the sound of carolers singing all your favourite Christmas classics. And of course, no Christmas market would be complete without a selection of traditional festive foods and drinks. The best Christmas markets will have you sipping mulled wine and nibbling on mince pies as you stroll the stalls. Whether you’re looking for a unique gift for a loved one or simply want to soak up the atmosphere, a good Christmas market is the perfect place to do it.
Visiting a Christmas market is one of the best things to do in the run-up to Christmas day. The UK is home to some of the most charming and festive Christmas markets around. Whether you’re looking for a traditional German-style market or something more modern, there’s something for everyone.
London Christmas markets
Christmas is a special time of year, and in London, there are plenty of ways to get into the Christmas spirit!
There are markets all over the city, selling everything from handmade gifts to festive food and drink. You can also enjoy seeing London’s Christmas lights, listening to carols and Christmas music, as well as taking part in seasonal activities like ice skating.
So if you’re looking to get into the Christmas spirit this year, be sure to visit London and experience all that its markets have to offer. Also whilst you are there be sure to check out some of these great things to do in London.
You won’t regret it!
Here are a few of my favourite Christmas markets in London…
Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park, London
For a truly magical festive experience, head to Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, London. With over 100 traditional wooden chalets and stalls selling unique handmade gifts and decorations, you’ll find something to please even the most discerning of shoppers.
The market also offers plenty of festive entertainment, with an ice skating rink, Christmas parties, fairground rides, circus shows, and plenty of food and drink stalls to keep you going throughout the day.
Open: Winter wonderland is open from 18th November 2022 to January 2nd 2023. Open 7 days a week from 10 am-10 pm.
Admission: Entry tickets start at £5, certain events and activities require separate tickets.
book tickets for Hyde Park Winter Wonderland here
Parking Facilities: The nearest car park is Q-Park (Park Lane, W1K 7TY), this is a 24/7 secure car park.
Southbank Christmas Market
For a more traditional German-style market experience, head to Southbank Christmas Market.
This market is full of festive atmosphere, with a selection of stalls selling handmade gifts and decorations, as well as traditional German food and drink and lots of mulled wine! There’s also a carousel for the kids and plenty of live music and entertainment throughout the day. Plus you can enjoy beautiful views of the Thames, the London Eye, Big Ben and St Pauls Cathedral as you stroll along Southbank.
The Southbank Christmas market is truly one of the best Christmas markets in England 2022.
Open: The market is open from 11 am to 10 pm every day from November 3 2022 to January 8 2023
Admission: Admission is free for all visitors
Parking Facilities: There is no parking here. The nearest train and tube station to the Southbank Centre is Waterloo.
Leicester Square Christmas Market
For something a little different, check out Leicester Square’s Christmas Market. This vibrant market has over 100 stalls selling unique gifts from local arts and crafts makers, plus plenty of delicious street food to keep you going while you shop! There are also regular cabaret shows taking place throughout the festive season.
Open: The market is open every day from November 12th 2022 to January 9th 2023
Admission: Admission is free for all visitors
Parking Facilities: No parking. The nearest tube station is Leicester square.
You May Also Like These Posts…
Best UK Christmas markets in the South of the UK
If you’re looking for a festive Christmas market to get into the holiday spirit, the south of the UK is a great place to start. With charming markets in cities like Bristol and Bath, you’ll find something to please everyone.
So if you’re looking for a unique gift for a loved one or simply want to soak up the atmosphere, be sure to visit one of these delightful markets during your Christmas break this year!
Bristol Christmas market
Bristol’s Christmas Market is a German-style market located in the Bristol city centre. It is one of the best markets in the UK and is open from late November until Christmas Eve. The market features over 50 stalls selling a variety of goods, including German-inspired food such as curry bratwurst. As well as a selection of festive drinks, beautiful gifts and decorations.
Bristol’s Christmas Market is a great place to find unique gifts for friends and family, and the festive atmosphere is sure to get you into the Christmas spirit. There is also regular live music, a large bar area complete with fun igloos and even an animatronic singing reindeer to keep you amused!
So if you’re looking for a festive day out, be sure to check out Bristol’s Christmas Market.
Open: The market is open from November 4th until Christmas eve.
Admission: Admission is free for all visitors
Parking Facilities: Parking is available on Lower Castle Street But do be aware that the market is located within Bristol’s clean air zone so do consider leaving the car at home and using public transport instead.
Bath Christmas market
This historic city is home to one of the most atmospheric Christmas markets in the country. With over 100 chalets spread across Bath Abbey and The Roman Baths, it’s the perfect place to find unique presents and soak up the festive atmosphere.
Bath Christmas market is full of beautiful handmade gifts and decorations, plus a variety of delicious food and drink stalls. You’ll also find live music, festive workshops and even an ice rink to enjoy!
So if you’re looking for something special this Christmas, be sure to visit Bath’s Christmas Market. With its stunning setting and charming atmosphere, you won’t regret it!
Open: The market is open from Thursday 24th November 2022 to Sunday 11th December 2022
Monday to Wednesday: 10 am to 7 pm
Thursday to Saturday: 10 am to 8 pm
Sundays: 10 am to 6 pm
Admission: Admission is free for all visitors
Parking Facilities: If you are wanting to travel by car, the Park and Ride services offer an increased service throughout the event, and the bus stop is right by the market.
Best UK Christmas markets in the Midlands
The UK midlands are a great place to visit during the Christmas season.
There are a number of charming Christmas markets located in cities and towns like Birmingham and Leamington Spa, which are full of festive atmosphere and offer a variety of unique gifts for shoppers.
So if you’re looking for something special to buy for your loved ones this Christmas, be sure to check out one of the many wonderful Christmas markets in the Midlands!
Leamington Spa Christmas market
Did you know that Leamington Spa is a great town to visit at any time of the year? With lots of things to do and plenty of great places to eat and drink, Leamington is well worth a visit.
Leamington Spa’s Christmas Market is one of the most popular in the Midlands. This traditional market features over 70 stalls selling handmade goods and decorations, as well as plenty of delicious festive food and drink.
Plus you can enjoy live music, festive workshops, a fun fairground ride for the kids and an old bus that’s been converted into a bar!
Open: The market is open from 10 am to 5 pm every Sunday from November 6th until Christmas
Admission: Admission is free for all visitors
Parking Facilities: Royal Priors Car Park, Leamington Spa, CV32 4XT
Birmingham Christmas market
One of the largest and most popular Christmas markets in the UK, Birmingham’s Market Street is transformed into a winter wonderland for the Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas market. With over 120 wooden chalets selling everything from handcrafted gifts to delicious food and drink. You can munch on roasted chestnuts and dates whilst shopping for festive goods and admiring all the beautiful lights and the large Christmas tree and decorations.
Plus, there is live music, festive workshops and plenty of entertainment to keep you entertained throughout the festive period.
Whilst you are in Birmingham there are lots of things to do both in the city itself and in the surrounding areas. For example, you can visit the beautiful Dovedale stepping stones which are within easy reach on a day trip.
So don’t miss out on Birmingham’s Christmas Market this year – it’s sure to be a magical experience! It really is one of the best UK Christmas markets that you will experience.
Open: The market is open from 10 am to 9 pm From November 3rd to 23rd December 2022
Admission: Admission is free for all visitors
Parking Facilities: There is ample parking in the vicinity of the Christmas Market. Details of city centre car parks can be found here. But do be aware that the market is located within Birmingham’s clean air zone so do consider leaving the car at home and using public transport instead.
Stratford-upon-Avon Victorian Christmas market
This charming market takes place in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon, a beautiful town full of history and culture. With over 300 stalls selling everything from seasonal gifts to delicious festive food, it’s a great place to find unique presents for your loved ones this Christmas. Shoppers can find traditional gifts at the market as well as other festive items. You can also enjoy live music, mulled wine and other festive treats, as well as traditional Victorian-style entertainment and people in costumes.
Open: The market will be running for 4 days in December.
Thursday 8th December: 10:00 – 20:00
Friday 9th December: 10:00 – 20:00
Saturday 10th December: 10:00 – 20:00
Sunday 11th December: 10:00 – 17:00
Admission: Admission is free for all visitors
Parking Facilities: Parking is available in multiple locations around the town
Best UK Christmas markets in the North of the UK
The North of the UK is a great place to visit during the Christmas season and has some of the best UK Christmas markets in the country.
There are a number of charming Christmas markets located in cities and towns like Manchester and Glasgow, which are full of festive atmosphere and offer a variety of unique gifts for shoppers.
So if you’re looking for something special to buy for your loved ones this Christmas, be sure to check out one of the many wonderful Christmas markets in the North!
Manchester Christmas market
Manchester’s Christmas market is one of the largest in the UK, with over 220 chalets selling traditional treats, festive gifts and handmade crafts. You can also enjoy a mug of mulled wine as you browse through all the stalls. This year sees the return of the magical Manchester Christmas lights trail. It will illuminate the city centre throughout the festive season with its walk-through giant baubles, a Manchester bee, and of course Santa Claus. Plus, there are plenty of festive workshops to keep you entertained, such as wreath-making and glass bauble decorating.
If you are looking for other things to do whilst in Manchester then there are plenty of opportunities for day trips nearby. For example, you could visit the stunning Stanley Ghyll waterfall in the Lake District.
So if you’re in Manchester this Christmas, don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit this unique market – it’s sure to get you into the festive spirit!
Open: The Manchester Christmas Markets 2022 will run from Thursday 10th November until Thursday 22nd December. Open 11 am-9 pm daily.
Admission: Admission is free for all visitors
Parking Facilities: Parking is available nearby, with the nearest being Piccadilly Plaza and Chorlton Street
Glasgow Christmas market
For a Scottish twist on the traditional Christmas market, head to Glasgow’s George Square for Glasgow’s Christmas festival and markets. Here you’ll find around 50 chalets selling everything from shortbread to tartan scarves. There will also be live entertainment on the main stage.
Plus, you can enjoy a variety of festive workshops and activities such as stargazing and carol singing.
Open: 10 am – 10 pm, 18th Nov 2022 to 8th Jan 2023
Admission: Admission is free for all visitors
Conclusion to best UK Christmas markets
Christmas is a time for family, friends and fun – and what better way to enjoy it than by visiting one of the many wonderful Christmas markets in the UK?
These are just a few of the fantastic UK Christmas markets you can visit this festive season. So get out there and experience the magic – from London to Bristol and beyond! These 10 best UK Christmas markets are full of charming atmospheres and offer a variety of unique gifts for shoppers. So if you’re looking for something special to buy for your loved ones this Christmas, be sure to check out one of the many amazing Christmas markets in the UK! Happy shopping!
My Favourite Travel Resources
Travel Itineraries: I offer a range of pre-planned travel itineraries for many popular destinations. Use them to make planning your next trip a breeze!
Accommodation: I always use booking.com for hotels and Hostelworld for hostels. I’ve found some great bargains by using these sites!
Flights: My favourite tools to find the cheapest flights are WayAway, Expedia and Skyscanner
Ferries: For cheap ferry tickets I use Ferry Scanner
Activities: I use Viator and GetYourGuide to find the best tours and activities in every destination I visit. I’ve had some fantastic experiences using these sites!
Cashback: With the WayAway Plus membership plan, users get access to premium travel support, travel content prepared by locals, and cashback on flights, hotels, car rentals and other travel services. I love using Wayaway to get cashback on my travel expenses. In fact, it is one of my fave budget travel hacks 😉 Click here to get 10% off of a WayAway Plus membership
Foreign Currency: I highly recommend getting an international card to save you loads of money in expensive bank fees. The Wise Card allows you to spend in 150+ currencies and withdraw cash from ATMs anywhere in the world without paying any bank fees!
Travel Insurance: Never travel without proper travel insurance! I always use EKTA
Luggage Storage: Radical Storage is a Luggage storage network that operates in over 70 countries and 350 cities with more than 3500 storage points. I love using Radical storage to store my bags before or after checking in/out of my hotel as it gives me an extra day to explore without having to worry about dragging my luggage around with me.
Travel Planning services: Did you know that I offer travel planning services and custom itineraries? Let me plan your next trip for you!
Christmas time is such a special time of the year and this post shows so many beautiful markets around UK. I visited already the Christmas market in Glasgow and Edinburgh and can’t wait to vist more the next years.