As the holiday season begins, it’s time to start thinking about Christmas shopping and finding the perfect gifts for your loved ones. What better way to shop and soak in the festive spirit than by visiting some of the best Christmas markets in the UK? Check out this list of top markets in 2024 and start planning your trip. Which one will you visit first?
Traveling to Europe this season? Don’t miss our list of the best Christmas markets in Europe too!
Edinburgh Christmas Market
When: Friday, November 15, 2024 – Saturday, January 4, 2025
Where: East Princes Street Gardens
Set against the stunning backdrop of Edinburgh Castle and the Scott Monument, Edinburgh’s Christmas Market feels like a fairytale. Located in East Princes Street Gardens, this iconic market features over 70 festive stalls and free entry. For a bird’s-eye view of the festivities, ride the LNER Big Wheel, Scotland’s largest Ferris wheel at 46 meters tall.
Glasgow Christmas Market
When: Saturday, November 23, 2024 – Sunday, January 5, 2025
Where: George Square
George Square transforms into a winter wonderland for Glasgow’s Christmas Market. Alongside delicious food, drinks, and gifts, enjoy rides like the 80m Drop Tower, a Helter Skelter, a carousel, and Santa’s train. Indulge in crepes and grilled specialties while exploring this festive wonderland.
Bath Christmas Market
When: Thursday, November 28 – Sunday, December 15, 2024
Where: City Centre
Known as one of the best Christmas markets in southern England, Bath’s market takes over the city’s historic streets. With over 170 chalets offering handmade jewelry, homeware, and other unique items, Bath is also striving for sustainability with minimal energy usage, moving closer to becoming a carbon-neutral Christmas market.
Winchester Christmas Market
When: Friday, November 22 – Sunday, December 22, 2024
Where: Winchester Cathedral
Located next to the stunning Winchester Cathedral, this market features over 100 chalets filled with handmade gifts and festive treats. Live music from local choirs adds to the charm, while the cathedral itself, with over 1,000 years of history, offers a picturesque setting.
York Christmas Market
When: Thursday, November 14 – Sunday, December 22, 2024
Where: Parliament Street & St. Sampson’s Square
York’s Christmas Market features 75 alpine-style chalets selling unique local goods and delicious treats. Enjoy the festive atmosphere and take a spin on the vintage carousel. Don’t forget to wear your favorite holiday knit for Christmas Sweater Day on December 12!
Liverpool Christmas Market
When: Saturday, November 16 – Tuesday, December 24, 2024
Where: St. George’s Hall
Set against the grandeur of St. George’s Hall, Liverpool’s market offers festive stalls, a giant Ferris wheel, Santa Land, and live entertainment. From food to handmade gifts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Chester Christmas Market
When: Tuesday, November 5 – Wednesday, December 22, 2024
Where: Town Hall Square, Northgate Street
Wander through Chester’s Victorian-style Christmas Market, featuring 70 wooden cabins and a giant Christmas tree perfect for festive photos. You’ll find handcrafted gifts and delicious food to make your holiday shopping magical.
Winter Wonderland, London
When: Thursday, November 21, 2024 – Sunday, January 5, 2025
Where: Hyde Park
London’s Winter Wonderland returns with over 200 stalls offering seasonal gifts, ice skating, a 70m observation wheel, and thrilling rides. Off-peak entry is free, and ticket holders get free entry with purchases of $25 or more on-site.
Leeds Christmas Market
When: Friday, November 22 – Sunday, December 22, 2024
Where: Millennium Square
Leeds’ Christmas Market includes festive stalls, street food, and a 400 sqm real ice rink with a covered marquee roof. Open daily except Christmas Day and Boxing Day, it’s a must-visit for holiday fun.
Nottingham Christmas Market
When: Wednesday, November 13 – Tuesday, December 31, 2024
Where: Old Market Square
Nottingham’s Christmas Market features 70 Bavarian-style stalls, an ice rink, and the Sky Skate Ice Path. Enjoy a mug of mulled wine or hot chocolate at the alpine-themed bars while taking in the festive sights.
Stay Cozy in Christmas Jumpers and Pajamas
Make the most of your Christmas market visits by staying cozy in Christmas jumpers. They’re perfect for keeping warm while you shop. After a day at the markets, relax at home in your Christmas pajamas and treat yourself to a holiday snack!
