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The days are getting shorter and the weather is getting a little bit nippy, which can only mean one thing: Christmas is on the way soon, and with it the endless options for Christmas Markets in Europe! Let’s be honest, summer this year in Ireland and the UK was a massive letdown, with overcast days, a chill in the air and rain… so much rain. So we’d be lying if we said it didn’t get us dreaming of the colder Christmas season, warming ourselves by the fire and sipping mulled wine. And with that, we’ve also begun to turn our minds to the traditional Christmas markets that will soon pop up all over Europe.
Traditionally, Christmas markets in the UK weren’t a patch on the ones you’d find in mainland Europe - in cities like Cologne or Brussels - but recently, they have upped their game, and now fit the image of ‘traditional’ rather than ‘tacky'... If you’d prefer to stay closer to home this year while checking out some market fun for all the family, we’ve got some cracking selections for you all over the UK; with just the right combo of artisanal crafts, hearty food options and wholesome activities for all the family.
1. York
When is it?
November 14 - December 22
Where is it?
Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square
Why we included it
The award-winning Christmas market of York is back again this year, kicking off early in mid-November. With its idyllic cobbled streets and stunning Gothic Cathedral, York Minster, in the centre of all the action, you won’t find a more picturesque place to explore a market. York Christmas Market boasts over 75 alpine chalets selling a wide variety of local crafts and boutique products.
As well as the usual wintertime favourites like tartiflette and mulled wine, this year sees the addition of traditional Swiss-style chalet restaurant, The Winter Hutte, run by Michelin-starred chef, Andrew Pern. Offering a fine dining style menu with some Swiss fusion, it’s not to be missed.
Families should check out the vintage carousel on King’s Square, which is sure to add some old-timey charm to the festivities. Or for bigger kids looking for some fun and frights, why not head over to York Dungeon, once you’re done perusing the market's wares.
2. Bath
When is it?
November 28 - December 15
Where is it?
This is one of the biggest markets in the South West, spread out over most of the gorgeous Georgian city centre.
Why we included it
With over 170 sparkling chalets offering present potential, you’ll be spoilt for choice if you’re in the market for handmade homewares, bespoke jewellery or personalised gifts - with a special focus on sustainability this year.
All your favourite winter warmers are on offer, but you can also find delicious artisanal cheese and homemade infused gin to take home.
One thing we like about the Bath Market is that it upholds the Christmas spirit of giving back to those less fortunate, by proudly supporting several local charities. Check out their stalls to show your support.
3. Birmingham
When is it?
November 1 - December 24
Where is it?
Victoria Square and New Street
Why we included it
As the second largest city in the UK, Birmingham’s famous Frankfurt Christmas market is no slouch. It also kicks off very early on the 1st of November and boasts over 100 stalls selling a range of handcrafted ornaments, traditional toys, leatherwork and everything else you can think of.
All the usuals are here to help you put on some holiday weight early this year, but with the market's German theme, it’s only right that firm favourites like gluhwein and schnitzel are on the menu.
Returning this year are Frankfurt's big wheel and ice rink, to help bring out your family's festive cheer. Just remember, it’s never too late to learn to skate…
4. Winchester
When is it?
November 22 - December 22
Where is it?
Winchester Cathedral - Inner Close
Why we included it
We love this one. The entire Christmas Market takes place on the grounds of the sumptuous Winchester Cathedral. This stunning setting features over 120 chalets of handpicked high quality exhibitors; including handcrafted soaps and toiletries, unique art and textiles and cutesy Christmas clobber like hats, jumpers and scarves.
With the heavy influence from traditional German Christmas markets, you’ll find classics like bratwurst and mulled wine to boost your shopping energy and keep you warm. Head to The Old Wine for their signature mulled cider.
The Winchester market has a strong focus on the traditional so you’ll find a number of Christmas services, caroling and festive light shows throughout its run.
5. Nottingham
When is it?
November 30 - December 1
Where is it?
Nottingham Castle
Why we included it
While the Nottingham Christmas Market is on the smaller side, with just 40 Nottinghamshire-based local businesses, it does boast the impressive setting of the Nottingham Castle’s grounds. Fingers crossed for some snow. You can expect all the usuals, with a wide choice of gifts, crafts, and speciality foods on offer.
The market will have dozens of street food options to keep you sated, and if it’s a tipple you’re after, there’s a fully licenced bar dishing out the mulled wine.
The market's bandstand will play host to festive music and carol services throughout the days, but uniquely, visitors are also invited to explore the castle’s galleries and grounds, for the low, low price of £1.
6. Covent Garden (London)
When is it?
December 7 - January 7
Where is it?
Covent Garden Piazza, Market Building, Neal's Yard, Seven Dials and surrounding streets
Why we included it
Late-night shoppers and fashionistas looking for some last minute gifts will be in heaven, as all the usual luxury fashion and beauty stores are open for business, with a uniquely beautiful Christmas setting as Covent Garden is transformed into a winter wonderland.
Whether it’s some simple street food to give you a boost, or fine dining Garden staples like Margot or Heliot Steak House, Christmas in Covent Garden has it all. Wash it all down with champagne or mulled wine.
Without doubt, the highlight of the Covent Garden Christmas Market is its world-famous festive installation with over 40 gigantic bells with bows, 12 giant baubles and 8 spinning mirror balls, all garishly displayed in the iconic Market Building. Bigger is always better!
7. Leicester Square (London)
When is it?
November 8 - January 7
Where is it?
Leicester Square, London
Why we included it
One of London’s most famous squares gets a festive makeover again this year, with scores of stalls selling handcrafted goods and crafts, as well as artisanal food. It can be hard to move in Leicester Square for people on a normal day, so this market does tend to pack out. Our advice is to head early to beat the crowds.
All the usual winter staples are here, but we have to give special mention to the mouthwatering piles and piles of homemade chocolate orange and flavoured fudge. Too tempting to resist…
As gorgeous as the dazzling lights and decorations are, the Leicester Square Christmas Market is in the heart of London’s Theatreland, and so its main draw is a theatrical affair. Every year, the market goes all out with its pop-up Belgian Spiegeltent, a 1920s style event space, playing host to cabaret shows all throughout the winter months. Performed by La Clique, this adult alternative cabaret is a veritable assault on the senses and sure to get you on Santa’s naughty list this year…
8. Cardiff
When is it?
November 14 - December 23
Where is it?
Cardiff City Centre
Why we included it
The Cardiff Market has been a mainstay for over 30 years, and with its commitment to always featuring the best new and returning artists and crafters, it’s easy to see why. With over 70 stalls to browse, we’re sure you’ll find that special something.
With the market fully outdoors, there’s a huge selection of hot food and drink to warm your cockles and help you spread Christmas cheer. All the usuals are on offer, but keep an eye out for Silly Season spins on hearty Welsh favourites like Rarebit and cawl.
One thing we love about the Cardiff market, is that its fully organised and curated by Craft*Folk, an organisation committed to providing a platform for artists, and crafts people to exhibit and sell their bespoke work directly to the general public, with no middle man taking a cut; thus directly promoting and protecting Wales’ rich arts and crafts heritage.
9. Cambridge
When is it?
December 14 - December 15
Where is it?
Parker's Piece, Cambridge
Why we included it
With a mixture of local and national traders, Cambridge Christmas Market is one of the UK’s most visited by tourists from outside the country, creating a diverse combo of cultures. You’ll find everything on offer here, from locally crafted arts and trinkets, boutique jewellery and a huge supply of second hand records for the music junkies in your family.
The Cambridge Market’s main bar, the Alpine Lodge, is really going all out this year. Don’t miss the chance to drink from steins of beer, beer towers, and of course, lovingly made mulled wine. There’s even unique ski gondola seating booths and a heated Christmas Tipi. Not a bad place to get festive.
There’s no shortage of family fun to get stuck into at the Cambridge Market. From a 36-metre Big Wheel to get a birds eye view of this University city’s architectural marvels and lush greenery, to Santa’s Grotto where your little ones can meet the Big Man himself (hopefully it won’t be as trauma-inducing as our childhood visit to the grotto was). There’s even a Christmas Tree Maze, where you and the kids can get lost on the trail of 300 Christmas trees. Because, why not!
10. Edinburgh
When is it?
November 17 - January 5
Where is it?
East Princes Street Gardens
Why we included it
Celebrate Hogmanay in style at one of the UK’s biggest and best Christmas Markets. With over 80 chalets to choose from and the city and castle all done up in dazzling lights, Edinburgh’s market is truly magical. From handmade gifts, clothing and handicrafts, to bespoke products, you’re sure to find something as you amble through Auld Reekie’s charming cobbled streets.
There will be a mix of traditional Yuletide tasters like tartiflette and bratwurst on offer, along with Scottish specialities like tatties and haggis. Don’t forget to protect yourself from the cold, Scottish nights with a nip of hot Scotch whiskey… Slàinte Mhath!
Definitely the highlight every year, the festival's Torchlight Procession, which kicks off Hogmanay every year, is a sight to behold. The procession weaves its way through the historic Old Town where the streets will come to life with street theatre and fire performers, pipe bands, drummers and even Vikings from Shetland making an appearance. One for all the family.
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