Top Christmas Markets in the UK
As the festive season approaches, towns and cities across the UK will transform into winter wonderlands, and there’s nothing like a visit to a Christmas market to get into the spirit. Sip on a warming hot chocolate or mulled wine while browsing handmade gifts. Enjoy traditional festive food and soak in the magical atmosphere with twinkling Christmas lights. From London to Edinburgh and everywhere in between, you can experience a festive family day out, a Christmas shopping spree or a romantic winter break.
To help inspire your next festive getaway, we've rounded up some of our favourite UK Christmas markets that are perfect for getting into the Christmas spirit (in no particular order!).
1. Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market
Christmas Markets in Birmingham
The largest authentic German Christmas Market outside of Germany and Austria, Birmingham’s famous markets stretch through the city centre, giving New Street and Victoria Square the feel of a traditional Alpine village. Visitors can enjoy a variety of traditional German delicacies like bratwurst, pretzels or a steaming mug of glühwein (mulled wine), all sold from wooden chalets.
With live music from singers and DJs, bustling markets and a vibrant atmosphere through the city, the lead-up to Christmas is one of the best times to visit the UK’s second city.
Why visit Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market? Birmingham’s Christmas market offers a taste of a traditional German Christmas in the heart of the Midlands.
Stay at Holiday Inn Express Birmingham Snow Hill, about a half a mile walk from the heart of the markets at Victoria Square.
or Hampton by Hilton Birmingham Jewellery Quarter and reach the city centre in 10 minutes by tram from right next to the hotel.
2. Edinburgh Christmas Market
Big Wheel and Christmas Markets in Edinburgh
Set against the backdrop of Scotland’s historic capital city, Edinburgh Christmas Market is widely regarded as one of the most picturesque festive destinations in the UK. With views of Edinburgh Castle and the Scott Monument, explore the market stalls selling handmade gifts, local arts and crafts and delicious delicacies.
Beyond the markets, other attractions in Edinburgh in the holiday season include the outdoor ice rink, thrilling funfair rides, a bar sculpted entirely from ice (!) and the giant Ferris wheel, offering panoramic vistas from the top of Edinburgh’s skyline.
No trip to Edinburgh at this time of year would be complete without experience Hogmanay, Scotland’s world famous New Year celebrations with street parties, fireworks and torch processions.
Why visit Edinburgh Christmas Market? Combine a festive trip with Edinburgh’s incredible landmarks and then stick around until New Year and experience the city’s famous Hogmanay celebrations.
Stay at Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh City West, in the quieter West End of the city with straightforward bus links to the city centre.
Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh Leith Waterfront, where you can hop on the tram directly to the city centre and experience all of the festivities.
or Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh Royal Mile, which is within walking distance of the city’s major attractions such as Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile and of course the Christmas Markets.
3. Manchester Christmas Markets
Christmas Lights in Manchester
Manchester Christmas Markets are spread across multiple locations throughout the city centre, creating one of the UK’s biggest and most vibrant festive destinations. For the first time, the market’s will come to Lincoln Square, alongside the regular locations in Market Street, Exchange Square and more! The city’s lively atmosphere with festive bars makes Manchester a must-visit city this December.
Manchester is also renowned for its shopping, making it ideal to pair with the Christmas markets for some last-minute present shopping. Visit the Manchester Arndale and the Trafford Centre for shopping and leisure.
While you’re in the area, be sure to check out the Lightwaves at Salford Quays, where illuminated artworks and interactive light installations are dotted along the waterfront. running from 23 November to 13 December this year.
Why is Manchester Christmas Market unique? Manchester’s markets stand out for the city-wide layout, spreading the festive atmosphere to every corner of the city and giving visitors the chance to explore everything Manchester has to offer.
Stay at Holiday Inn Express Manchester Salford Quays, with convenient public transport links to the city centre.
or Holiday Inn Express Manchester East, for a quieter stay outside of the centre, with free parking!
Read more about Manchester in our travel blog below:
4. Bath Christmas Market
Bath Abbey at Christmastime
Enjoy one of the most special festive settings in Bath, famous for it’s Georgian architecture. Bath Christmas Market surrounds the beautiful Abbey and Roman Baths in the city centre, and welcomes up to 250 vendors selling their crafts, and local food.
Nearby attractions include the ice rink in Royal Victoria park and a Christmas tree maze, as well as a Father Christmas grotto for a magical experience with the kids. After a day filled with festive fun, relax in the natural thermal baths in Thermae Bath Spa.
Why visit Bath Christmas Market? Feel the Christmas spirit surrounded by historic sights in this UNESCO World Heritage Site city.
Top tip: Bath Christmas Market can get very busy on Fridays and weekends.
Stay at Holiday Inn Express Bath, less than a 20-minute walk into the city centre and the Christmas markets.
5. Bristol Christmas Market
Clifton Suspension Bridge, Bristol on a snowy day
Located in the city centre, Bristol’s Christmas Market combines the traditional Alpine atmosphere with vibrant street food from around the world and a programme of live entertainment. Enjoy themed bars with private ski gondola booths for you and your friends or join the apres-ski party in Bristol.
Why visit Bristol Christmas Market? Bristol’s lively and creative character makes for a vibrant Christmas market with themed bars, live music and unique attractions like the Ferris wheel.
Stay at Holiday Inn Express Bristol City Centre in the heart of the city centre and a stone’s throw from Temple Meads station.
or Holiday Inn Express Bristol Filton, in a quieter location in the north of Bristol, a 6 mile drive into the city centre or catch the train from Filton Abbey Wood station.
6. Gloucester Quays Christmas Market
Christmas market decorations
Gloucester hosts its Christmas market at the historic docks and Gloucester Quays. Showcasing local produce and crafts, vendors travel from across the Southwest region every weekend. With more than 120 stalls, Gloucester has become of the most popular Christmas Market destinations in the area!
What makes Gloucester Quays Christmas Market unique? The waterside location at the historic docks is the perfect setting for a Christmas Market and gives a distinct Victorian vibe.
Stay at Holiday Inn Express Gloucester - South, with free parking, located outside the city centre and a 10 minute drive from Gloucester Quays.
7. Winchester & Southampton
Festive decorations in Winchester
Looking for a double Christmas market getaway? How about Southampton and Winchester, located just 20 minutes apart. Southampton is a perfect location for some last minute Christmas shopping in West Quay with dining and entertainment, as well as seasonal ice-skating next to the medieval city walls.
Nearby Winchester is well-known for its festive Christmas village set in the historic grounds of Winchester Cathedral. Inspired by traditional German Christmas markets, it has traditional wooden chalets selling hand-crafted gifts and local artisan food. Sip on a steaming mulled wine while exploring the Christmassy streets of this small Hampshire city.
Why visit Winchester and Southampton this Christmas? It gives the opportunity for two different festive experiences in two cities only 20 minutes apart by car.
Stay at Holiday Inn Express Southampton - West, a 15 minute drive from Southampton city centre where you can find shops and restaurants. Also, only 12 miles from South Winchester Park & Ride, perfect for visiting Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market.
8. Greenwich Christmas Market
The Cutty Sark in Greenwich decorated for Christmas
When the weather outside is frightful, the indoor Greenwich Christmas Market is so delightful. Enjoy a mince pie and a hot chocolate while shopping for presents from local jewellers, artists and craftspeople.
Greenwich provides a relaxed alternative to London’s busy and bustling Christmas market events, and the maritime district is an historic UNESCO World Heritage Sight. Combine visits to nearby sights like the Cutty Sark and the Old Royal Naval College with the markets for the ultimate Christmas shopping trip in London.
Why visit Greenwich Christmas Market? We all know what the weather can be like in December, but with its indoor setting, you can enjoy the festivities no matter the conditions outside!
Stay at Holiday Inn Express London Greenwich - Enjoy a riverside walk or take the bus from near the hotel to the Christmas Market in Greenwich.
9. Newcastle Christmas Market
Newcastle Gateshead Millenium Bridge at Night
Newcastle Christmas Market brings some festive cheer to the heart of the city with traditional wooden chalets, artisan gifts and delicious seasonal food and drink.
As you explore the market, you'll find everything from handcrafted Christmas presents and local specialities to warming treats and festive beverages, all set against the backdrop of Newcastle's vibrant city centre.
What makes Newcastle Christmas Markets unique? The festive atmosphere extends beyond the market itself. The city is renowned for its lively bars, restaurants and nightlife, giving visitors plenty of opportunities to continue the celebrations after a day of Christmas shopping.
Stay at Holiday Inn Express Newcastle City Centre - Conveniently located just 400m from the train station and within walking distance of the Christmas Markets, shopping, bars and restaurants.
Read more about Newcastle in our travel blog:
FAQs
When do UK Christmas markets usually open?
Most UK Christmas markets open between mid-November and late November and run until shortly before Christmas, with some continuing into early January.
Which UK city has the largest Christmas market?
Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market is widely regarded as the largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany and Austria.
What is the most picturesque Christmas market in the UK?
Many visitors consider Edinburgh Christmas Market and Bath Christmas Market among the UK's most picturesque, thanks to their historic settings and festive atmosphere.
Are UK Christmas markets family-friendly?
Yes, many Christmas markets feature family attractions such as ice rinks, fairground rides, Santa's grottos and festive entertainment, making them ideal for visitors of all ages.
Are Christmas markets free to visit?
Most UK Christmas markets are free to enter, although some attractions such as ice rinks, fairground rides and special events may require tickets.