Top 5 Christmas Markets in the UK

It’s coming up to that wonderful time of the year and, if you are like me, you might already be planning events and activities associated with Christmas.

The big event in our calendar, and perhaps yours, is the family day out to the local Christmas Market. However, why not think bigger this year? 

The UK has some amazing Christmas markets to offer so why not do something a bit special and go further afield. You’ll get a different taste of the wonderful world of Christmas markets that might not be so local to you. If you’re looking to explore the top Christmas markets in the UK - look no further as this article will go through 5 of the best Christmas markets to visit. Most of them run from around mid November until just before Christmas, but check the official websites for the precise opening times. Let’s get going!

Cardiff

Starting in November and continuing until just before Christmas, the Cardiff Christmas market is ideal if you want to pick up gifts and treats from independent local sellers. The market specialises in promoting local craftspeople - and makes a major effort to keep all of its stalls independent. This stops what we see far too often, which is big brands selling generic, mass-produced Christmas items. There are over 200 stalls spreading out across Trinity Street, St John Street and Working Street, so your quest to find the perfect Christmas decorations or some little stocking stuffers will almost definitely be achieved!

York

This Christmas market takes place between mid November and just before Christmas. York’s Christmas market takes place throughout the city’s beautiful mediaeval core and along its cobbled streets. Can you think of a better place to get an insight into an authentic and historical market experience? The fair takes over Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square, transforming them into a Christmas wonderland full of wooden chalet stalls, lights and the smell of candied almonds and chestnuts. It doesn’t stop there - the market stretches down to King’s Square which will contain a vintage carousel as well as a food market in the Shambles Market. York will provide you with the absolute best Christmas snacks and sights to post all over your social media!

Edinburgh

The exact dates for Edinburgh are yet to be confirmed but it is without a doubt going full steam ahead! This historic and prestigious city doesn’t need much selling, even outside of the Christmas season - so really the Christmas market is the cherry on top of your visit. This unique Christmas market is not a centralised event but is rather spread out across multiple markets in the city centre.

In the Mound Precinct, you will find the European market which will contain more traditional German, Austrian and Belgian market attractions. On Princes Street Gardens is the Children’s Market, with all the excitement and thrills that every child will love. Lastly, on George Street, you will find the Scottish Market, which contains traditional Scottish attractions associated with Hogmanay!

Winchester

Winchester’s market is much smaller than some of the ones already covered. But don’t let that stop you. This market more than makes up for it in charm and character. It takes place in the delightful Winchester Cathedral’s Inner Close (the little square attached to a cathedral) and is decorated with Christmas lights, traditional chalets and the smells of mince pies. Although small, Winchester market is definitely a big attraction!

Glasgow

Glasgow is the ideal market if you have a bit more of a stylish shopping experience in mind. The market contains a variety of colourful festive stalls and a wonderful selection of Christmas gifts, including many artisanal tokens. The village of wooden cabins offers a huge number of cuisines (including non-Christmas-y food), which can be a welcome change if you’re in the mood for something other than mince pies!

Photo by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash