Six of the best Christmas markets around the UK
From handmade crafts to artisanal food and dazzling light shows, we present some of the UK's best Christmas markets bringing festive cheer.
The festive season is upon us, meaning many of the UK’s towns and cities transform into cosy winter wonderlands. Under twinkling lights, high streets, town squares and stately homes are packed out with stalls; Christmas markets that offer cheer in the form of mulled wine, handmade gifts and artisanal food.
Here, we share some of the best Christmas markets around the UK running throughout the season.
Victorian Christmas Market, Stratford-upon-Avon
When: December 7-10, 2023
As if historic Stratford-upon-Avon didn’t feel magical enough, its central streets (Waterside, Bridge Street, Henley Street, High Street and Meer Street) will have added sparkle as its award-winning Christmas market and funfair returns. Of course, the Victorian theme extends to its stallholders, who don their finest bonnets and petticoats as they prepare to serve up festive food and crafts. Contact our Stratford-upon-Avon team
Bath Christmas Market
When: November 23 to December 10, 2023
Taking place over two weeks, Bath’s Christmas Market is not only one of the UK’s biggest, but it has also earned a reputation as one of the best in Europe. Over 200 stalls offering the best of the southwest line the pretty Georgian streets around the Bath Abbey and Roman Baths. Soundtracking the festivities are some of the UK’s top classical performers and chamber choirs - plus there's a turn from soul legends The Stylistics. Contact our Bath team
Christmas at Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire
When: November 17 to December 17, 2023
Every year, this Cotswolds landmark and home of the Duke of Malborough undergoes a remarkable transformation for the season. As is tradition, The Great Court is dotted with wooden chalets offering Christmas gifts and treats, while new this year is a mesmerising light trail that includes heart-shaped arches, glowing tunnels and plenty of other photo-worthy scenes. Inside, the palace has been decorated to tell the story of Sleeping Beauty – just watch out for the fluttering fairies. Contact our Oxford team
St Nicholas Fair, York
When: November 16 to December 22, 2023
York’s pretty central streets take on an almost otherworldly glow when the St Nicholas Fair arrives in town. The cobbled streets of St Sampson’s Square and Parliament Street are where you’ll find some of the finest Yorkshire produce in alpine-style chalets. When you’ve finished shopping, head to King’s Square for a ride on the vintage carousel. Contact our York team
Frankfurt Christmas Market, Birmingham
When: November 2 to December 24, 2023
When it comes to Christmas markets, many believe the Germans do it best. Birmingham’s festive event is a celebration of just that, and the results are pretty special. Mosey around the stalls on Victoria Square and New Street while eating bratwurst or a giant pretzel, washed down with a German beer or glühwein. What could be more Christmassy? Contact our Birmingham team
Edinburgh Christmas Market
When: November 17, 2023 to January 6, 2024
Add the Christmas market to the many reasons that make Edinburgh such a magical place year-round. Festive events take place across the city centre: the Mound Precinct hosts the European market, there’s a family funfair in West Princes Street Gardens, while George Street is where you’ll find the authentic Scottish market and ice rink. The celebrations continue throughout the season, building up to the iconic Hogmanay street party on December 31 before wrapping up on January 6. Contact our Edinburgh team