We have compiled the ultimate list of Christmas markets in the UK (over 50 markets in total across 9 articles). For a long time, festive markets have been a big part of Christmas celebrations in the UK – and with our guide, you never have to worry about your journey anymore.
For your convenience, here is the list of Christmas markets:
Christmas Markets in London
Step into the Christmas spirit in London with our curated list of the 12 best Christmas markets scattered across the city. From traditional winter wonderlands to quirky, offbeat finds, we’ve handpicked the merriest spots to embrace the holiday cheer in the heart of London.
Southbank Centre Winter Festival Christmas Market
The Southbank Centre Winter Festival, a cornerstone of London’s Christmas Markets, offers a unique experience with its festive charm and distinctive attractions.
- Located at Queen’s Walk, London SE1 8XX, UK
- Dates & Hours: Nov 1 – Dec 26, 2024.
- Sun-Thu: 11 AM – 10 PM | Fri-Sat: 11 AM – 11 PM.
- The Southbank Centre Winter Festival Christmas Market is known for its unique blend of music, markets, and performances.
Covent Garden Christmas Market
Shifting our focus to the Covent Garden Christmas Market with unique festive gifts, artisan crafts, and gourmet food.
- Located at Covent Garden, London, UK
- Dates & Hours: Nov 7, 2024 – Jan 3, 2025.
- Mon-Sat: 10 AM – 9 PM | Sun: 12 PM – 6 PM.
- The Covent Garden Christmas Market is known for being located in the famous Covent Garden and offering over 150 stalls that you can explore.
Here is our full article on the Complete List of Christmas Markets in London.
Christmas Markets in Birmingham
Step into the festive wonder of Birmingham as its Christmas markets come to life, offering a delightful experience for all. We have gathered the top 3 Christmas markets in Birmingham, plus bonus Christmas fairs, scattered throughout the city.
Cathedral Square Christmas Market
The Cathedral Square Christmas Market is a festive haven nestled in the heart of Birmingham. Immerse yourself in the merry atmosphere as you explore charming stalls adorned with twinkling lights, offering an array of delightful treats and handcrafted treasures.
- Located at Cathedral Square, Birmingham B5 5SQ
- Dates & Hours: Nov 13 – Dec 22, 2024
- Mon–Wed: 11 AM – 9 PM
- Thu–Sat: 11 AM – 9:30 PM
- Sun: 12 PM – 9 PM
- Cathedral Square Christmas Market is known for being in Birmingham’s architectural gem, the cathedral.
Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market
Step into the holiday enchantment at the Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market. Wander through the bustling stalls adorned with twinkling lights, where the air is filled with the aroma of sizzling bratwurst and the joyous sounds of carolers.
- Located at Victoria Square, Birmingham B1 1BB
- Dates & Hours: Nov 1 – Dec 24, 2024
- Mon–Thu: 11 AM – 9 PM
- Fri: 11 AM – 9:30 PM
- Sat: 10 AM – 9:30 PM
- Sun: 10 AM – 9 PM
- Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market is known for being the largest authentic German Christmas market outside Germany and Austria.
Here is our full article on the Complete List of Christmas Markets in Birmingham.
Christmas Markets in Edinburgh
Discover the festive spirit in Edinburgh as we unveil the city’s top 4 Christmas markets and an additional pair of enchanting Christmas fairs. From the historic charm of the traditional markets to the unique offerings at the fairs, we’ve curated the best holiday experiences Edinburgh has to offer.
East Princes Street Gardens Christmas Market
Nestled right in the heart of Edinburgh, this market is like stepping into a Christmas wonderland.
- Located at East Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh EH1 2EE
- Dates & Hours: 15 November 2024 – 4 January 2025
- Daily: 10 AM – 10 PM
- The East Princes Street Gardens Christmas Market is known for its stunning view of the castle.
West Princes Street Gardens Family Funfair
The West Princes Street Gardens Family Funfair offers a variety of rides and festive stalls. Zip around on the candy cane rollercoaster, test your skills on the dodgems, or grab a candy floss and watch the world go by from the giant observation wheel.
- Located at West Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh EH1 2EF
- Dates & Hours: 15 November 2024 – 4 January 2025
- Daily: 10 AM – 10 PM
- The West Princes Street Gardens Family Funfair is known for its rides and attractions.
Here is our full article on the Complete List of Christmas Markets in Edinburgh.
Christmas Markets in Manchester
Embark on a festive journey through Manchester as we unveil the city’s 7 best Christmas markets. From the iconic stalls of Albert Square to the hidden gems scattered across the city, immerse yourself in the holiday cheer.
Winter Gardens Christmas Market
Step into a fairytale wonderland filled with handcrafted gifts, sizzling sausages, and live music. It’s a cozy haven for gift-hunters and Christmas enthusiasts.
- Located at Piccadilly Gardens, Manchester
- Dates & Hours: November 8 – December 22, 2024
- Craft Stalls: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Food & Drink Stalls: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- The Winter Gardens Christmas Market is known for its fairytale-like atmosphere.
St. Ann’s Square Christmas Market
Embark on a global culinary adventure! From wood-fired pizzas to melt-in-your-mouth gyros, this market tantalizes your taste buds with flavors from around the world.
- Located at St. Ann’s Square, Manchester
- Dates & Hours: November 8 – December 22, 2024
- Craft Stalls: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Food & Drink Stalls: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- The St. Ann’s Square Christmas Market is known for being the original site of Manchester’s Christmas market.
Here is our full article on the Complete List of Christmas Markets in Manchester.
Christmas Markets in Glasgow
Uncover the festive magic in Glasgow with our guide to the 7 best Christmas markets across the city. From the twinkling lights of George Square to the hidden gems in various neighborhoods, explore the merry delights and seasonal wonders that Glasgow has to offer.
Christmas Fair at St. Enoch Square
Welcome to the Christmas Fair at St. Enoch Square, a magical haven in the heart of the city. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere as you explore charming stalls offering unique gifts, delectable treats, and seasonal delights.
- Located at 55 St Enoch Sq, Glasgow G1 4BW
- Dates & Hours: November 9 – December 29, 2024
- Daily: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- The Christmas Fair at St Enoch Square is famous because you can visit two markets at once, the nearby Christmas Fair at George Square.
Glasgow Fort Christmas Market
Dive into the holiday spirit at the Glasgow Fort Christmas Market, a festive extravaganza offering a unique shopping experience. Discover the magic as you stroll through stalls adorned with twinkling lights, showcasing a variety of handcrafted gifts and seasonal delights.
- Located at Junction 10 M8 Glasgow G34 9DL.
- Dates & Hours: November 22 – December 29, 2024
- Daily: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- The Glasgow Fort Christmas Market is known for its huge selection of over 100 stores, offering a wide range of shopping and dining options.
Here is our full article on the Complete List of Christmas Markets in Glasgow.
Christmas Markets in Leeds
Embark on a festive journey through Leeds with our guide to the 11 best Christmas markets in the city. From the historic charm of Millennium Square to the quaint stalls in various neighborhoods, discover the merry delights and seasonal wonders Leeds has to offer.
Leeds Main Christmas Market
- Located at Millennium Square, Leeds LS1 1QR
- Dates & Hours: Nov 24 – Dec 22, 2024 | Mon-Wed: 10 AM–7 PM, Thu-Sat: 10 AM–9 PM, Sun: 10 AM–6 PM
- The Leeds Main Christmas Market is renowned for its Bavarian theme with dazzling lights, a festive atmosphere, and a wide variety of stalls.
City Square Christmas Market
Be captivated by the festive joy of City Square Christmas Market, located in the heart of Leeds’ historic city center. This market boasts a vibrant atmosphere with a stunning backdrop of the Town Hall and other iconic buildings.
- Located at City Square, Leeds LS1 1PL
- Dates & Hours: Nov 24 – Dec 22, 2024 | Mon-Wed: 10 AM–7 PM, Thu-Sat: 10 AM–9 PM, Sun: 10 AM–6 PM
- City Square Christmas Market is known for the stunning views of the illuminated Town Hall and other historic buildings.
Here is our full article on the Complete List of Christmas Markets in Leeds.
Christmas Markets in Newcastle
Explore the festive charm of Newcastle with our guide to the top 3 Christmas markets in the city. From the iconic stalls of Grey Street to hidden gems in different neighborhoods, immerse yourself in the holiday cheer.
Newcastle’s Christmas Market
Dive into the heart of Newcastle’s holiday cheer at this sprawling market, where festive vibes fill the air like the scent of mulled wine.
- Located at Grey’s Monument, Grainger Street, and Old Eldon Square, Newcastle upon Tyne
- Dates & Hours: November 16 – December 22, 2024
- Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Weekday hours are 10 am to 8 pm, Sundays are 10 am to 5 pm.
- Newcastle’s Christmas Market is known for its central location, right in the heart of the city with over 100 stalls to choose from.
The Grainger Christmas Market
Step inside the Victorian splendor of Grainger Market transformed into a festive wonderland. Browse over 30 stalls brimming with local crafts, artisan goodies, and unique Christmas gifts, all bathed in the warm glow of fairy lights.
- Located at Grainger Market, Clayton Street West, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 6BU, UK
- Dates & Hours: November 24 – December 22, 2024
- Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- The Grainger Christmas Market is known for being home to hundreds of local traders and small businesses.
Here is our full article on the Complete List of Christmas Markets in Newcastle.
Christmas Markets in York
Uncover the festive allure of York with our selection of the top 3 Christmas markets in the city. Explore the merry delights and seasonal wonders that make these markets the pulse of York’s winter celebrations.
York Christmas Market
Hold onto your hats, Christmas cheer seekers, because the York Christmas Market is a whirlwind of festive fun waiting to sweep you off your feet!
- Nestled right in the heart of York, you’ll find the market stretching along Parliament Square and St. Sampson’s Square.
- Dates & Hours: November 14 – December 22, 2024
- Daily: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- York Christmas Market is known for being set against the backdrop of York’s historic city center, including the iconic York Minster and medieval architecture.
The Yorkshire Yuletide Village
Let’s step into a Christmas wonderland with a distinctly Yorkshire twist! This festive gem isn’t just about shopping, it’s about celebrating the region’s rich heritage and crafting traditions, all with a sprinkle of seasonal sparkle.
- Held at The Guildhall, a stunning medieval building in York
- Dates & Hours: December 2 – December 20, 2024
- Daily: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- The Yorkshire Yuletide Village is known for showcasing the work of talented Yorkshire designers and makers, offering unique, high-quality Christmas gifts.
Here is our full article on the Complete List of Christmas Markets in York.
Christmas Markets in Cardiff
Delight in the festive spirit of Cardiff as we unveil the city’s 4 best Christmas markets. Explore the merry delights, unique crafts, and seasonal treats that make these markets the heart of Cardiff’s winter celebrations.
Cardiff Christmas Market
The main Christmas market in Cardiff offers over 200 chalets filled with handcrafted gifts, festive food, and a cheerful atmosphere.
- Location: St John Street, Working Street, Hills Street, and Trinity Street, Cardiff City Centre
- Dates & Hours: Nov 9 – Dec 23, 2024 | Mon-Sat: 10 AM–6 PM, Sun: 10 AM–5 PM
- Highlights: Woolly hats from Wales, German gingerbread, mulled wine, and Spanish jamón amidst twinkling lights.
Cardiff Winter Wonderland
This festive hotspot combines shopping with thrilling attractions like a Ferris wheel and ice rink for family fun.
- Location: City Hall Lawn, Cardiff
- Dates & Hours: Nov 15, 2024 – Jan 7, 2025 | Daily: 11 AM–10 PM
- Highlights: Ice skating, bumper cars, hot chocolate, and magical Christmas vibes.
Here is our full article on the Complete List of Christmas Markets in Cardiff.
Final Thoughts
We’ve journeyed through the best Christmas markets in the UK. Each one, a unique blend of culture, tradition, and holiday cheer. So, if you’re in the UK during the festive season, make sure to visit at least one of these markets. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss.
Have a happy holiday!
Tom’s travel writings are a testament to his insatiable curiosity and love for the road less traveled. Eschewing the typical tourist spots, Tom has built a reputation for uncovering hidden gems known only to locals.
From secluded mountain villages in the Himalayas to untouched beaches in the South Pacific, his adventures have taken him to the world’s most undiscovered corners.