Best Christmas markets to visit in the UK for a magical experience
The sleigh bells are jingling in the distance, a faint whiff of warm mince pies is filling the air, and carolers are warming up their vocal chords which can only mean one thing – Christmas is around the corner.
You don’t have to get on a plane to experience an authentic Christmas market, as some of the finest in the world are located here in the UK.
From Bath to Glasgow, Cardiff to Edinburgh, these are the best UK Christmas markets to visit.
Bath Christmas Market (November 23 – December 10)
With over 200 stallholders, charities and community groups, Bath Christmas Market is one of the most popular Christmas Markets in the UK and it is easy to see why.
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Now in its 21st year, the market is set in a spectacular location with an easy-to-follow layout featuring vendors selling an array of festive treats.
Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market (November 2 – December 24)
Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market holds the title of being the largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany or Austria.
Save on the costs of flights and head to Birmingham this Christmas to experience traditional goods and gifts, as well as classic German food and drink.
Cardiff Christmas Market (November 9 – December 23)
Nearing its 30th year, the Cardiff Christmas market is highly regarded for its original and handmade gifts on offer for visitors, craft demonstrations and a varied mix of 70 new and returning exhibitors.
Buy a digital Railcard online with Trainline and store it directly in the Trainline app, so you can use it right away to get 1/3 off eligible journeys for a whole year.
Chester Christmas Market (November 17 – December 21)
Located in the heart of Chester, this festive market promises “a handmade, historical, magical experience” for all visitors. The 70 market stalls surround the city’s iconic sparkling tree.
Edinburgh Christmas Market (November 17 – January 6)
Edinburgh’s Christmas market is fun for all of the family and is set in the beautiful historic city centre. Meet Santa, explore the craft stalls or ride the Ferris wheel – there’s something for everyone. The Festival of Kindness offers an opportunity for visitors to donate food and gifts to vulnerable or homeless families and individuals.
Glasgow Christmas Markets (St Enoch Square: November 9 – December 22, George Square: November 25 – January 7)
The Christmas Market at St Enoch Square, Glasgow, will feature a beautiful Christmas village complete with a German windmill, beer halls and over 50 seasonal chalets serving delicious authentic food.
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Nearby, in George Square, is the iconic Christmas Ferris wheel ‘Big Wheel’, as well as a traditional carousel, family entertainment and a delightful ice rink – this fantastic set-up arguably makes Edinburgh the capital of UK Christmas Markets.
Manchester Christmas Markets (November 10 – December 21)
With over 225 stalls across nine sites throughout the city centre, Manchester’s Christmas Markets are some of the most impressive in the country. Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, the festivities are a hit with locals and visitors alike. An ice skating rink, dazzling Christmas lights and a heartwarming parade make this particular market a must-visit.
Rochester Christmas Market (November 25 – December 10)
Set over three consecutive weekends and featuring a brand-new Children’s Christmas Village for 2023, Rochester Christmas Market is a perfect family day out.
Taking place in the spectacular Rochester Castle gardens, it’s an ideal market to wander around and hunt for the perfect Christmas gift or stocking filler.
Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market (November 17 – December 21)
Inspired by traditional German Christmas Markets, Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market is a stunning and authentic Christmas experience. The scent of mulled wine and cinnamon in the air is enough to get even the most miserly of visitors in the festive spirit.
York Christmas Market (November 16 – December 22)
This enchanting market is home to more than 75 alpine chalets offering an array of locally crafted and artisan gifts. Atmospheric lights and cheerful carolers make the York Christmas Market a must-visit.
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