‘Nothing else gives you that festive feeling quite like visiting a Christmas market. The smell of mulled wine wafting through the air, plenty of mince pies to keep you fuelled up and twinkling lights shining away. Many Brits plan on taking winter weekend breaks to enjoy a market, but they needn’t do as the UK has some of the best Christmas markets in the world.

We’ve put together a list of the best markets to visit in the UK this festive season.

Birmingham

Expect lots of schnitzels, bratwursts and Bavarian beers when you visit the Birmingham Christmas markets!

Beyond its impressive range of German delicacies and beverages, Birmingham's Christmas market offers a vibrant cultural experience. From live music performances featuring traditional and contemporary tunes to unique craft stalls selling handmade German Christmas decorations, the market is a festive hub of activity. Don't miss the chance to witness traditional Bavarian dancers and choirs filling the air with holiday cheer, making it a perfect spot for those seeking an authentic European Christmas market experience without leaving the UK.

Edinburgh

Famous for being one of the UK’s favourite Christmas markets, Edinburgh has one of the longest-running markets and is filled with both traditional European and Scottish crafts, gifts and food. If you’re visiting with family, explore the magical Santa Land, where you’ll find a Christmas grotto, festive-themed rides, a Christmas tree maze and a children’s market, all brightly lit with hundreds of lights.

Edinburgh's Christmas market is a wonderland of festive delights, extending beyond its Scottish and European offerings. For those interested in culinary adventures, there will be tastings of traditional Scottish Christmas delicacies, such as clootie dumpling and haggis, alongside whisky tasting sessions. The market's commitment to showcasing local talent means visitors can enjoy choirs, bands, and street performers, all adding to the enchanting atmosphere of this historic city.

Manchester

The award-winning Christmas market in Manchester takes place over an entire month and has an impressive 200 stalls to wander around. With international influences, visitors can expect to find gift, food and drink stalls that offer treats from France, Spain, Belgium and more.

Manchester's Christmas market is not just a place for shopping; it's an immersive experience that captures the spirit of the holiday season. The market is set to introduce a series of themed nights, including a Victorian Christmas evening and a festive lights switch-on ceremony that promises to be spectacular. For those with a competitive streak, there will be a Christmas market scavenger hunt, guiding visitors through the stalls and attractions while uncovering hidden treasures of the city. Additionally, the market will feature an array of workshops, from candle making to gingerbread house decorating, perfect for families looking to create their own Christmas crafts.

London

Our capital has an abundance of Christmas markets throughout the month of December! Take your pick from the best, including the South Bank’s traditional event with wooden chalets and the extremely popular Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, where visitors can ride a giant observation wheel, be in awe of circus performers and skate around the enormous ice rink.

London's Christmas markets offer something for everyone, but this year, they're taking it a step further with eco-friendly initiatives and an emphasis on sustainable shopping. From recycled and upcycled gifts to organic food stalls, visitors can enjoy a green Christmas. Furthermore, artisan workshops focusing on sustainable crafts and gift-wrapping techniques will be available, ensuring a festive experience that's not only enjoyable but also kind to the planet.

Belfast

Belfast's Christmas market transforms the City Hall gardens into a festive wonderland, and this season, it introduces an enhanced cultural experience. Alongside its traditional offerings, the market will feature a 'Taste of Belfast' section, where local chefs will showcase Northern Irish cuisine through live cooking demonstrations and tastings. A community choir competition will bring together voices from across the city, creating a heartwarming atmosphere. Additionally, an interactive nativity scene will offer families a chance to step back in time and experience the story of Christmas, making it a memorable visit for both young and old.

Cardiff

Come and visit Father Christmas as he rides through the town in a sleigh pulled by reindeers! Whilst you wait, you can wander the market, looking at the amazing range of artwork, crafts, toys and jewellery on offer, or race around the funfair and ice rink.

Cardiff's Christmas market is renowned for its festive spirit, and this year, it aims to offer even more. Alongside Father Christmas and his reindeer, the market will introduce a 'Welsh Winter Wonderland' section, highlighting local traditions and crafts. An outdoor cinema will screen classic Welsh Christmas films and documentaries, providing a cosy spot for families to gather. For those interested in Cardiff's history, guided tours around the market and surrounding areas will tell the tales of Christmas past in Wales, offering a unique insight into the country's festive heritage.

Winchester

Enjoy a Christmas market surrounded by the beautiful mediaeval city of Winchester. Over one hundred tiny wooden chalets surround the famous cathedral, as well as an open-air ice rink and lots of Victorian-style food and drink stalls.

Winchester's Christmas market, set against the backdrop of the stunning cathedral, is known for its charming setting. This year, it will feature a 'Medieval Christmas' section, where visitors can experience the traditions and festivities of mediaeval times. From jesters and minstrels to traditional mediaeval banquets, this addition will offer a fascinating glimpse into how Christmas was celebrated in the past. Artisans will demonstrate ancient crafts, and there will be opportunities for visitors to try their hand at making mediaeval decorations, ensuring an educational and entertaining experience for all ages.

Bath

Surrounding the beautiful Roman baths and abbey, the city’s Christmas market is one of the biggest in the UK, with over 170 stalls showcasing beautiful arts and crafts, toys, homeware, clothes and food and drink. There is even an ice rink and glow-in-the-dark crazy golf course to keep the rest of the family entertained.

Actors dressed in period costumes will roam the market, inviting visitors to learn about Bath's history during the Regency period. A Jane Austen-inspired Christmas ball, complete with Regency dancing lessons, will be a highlight for many. Additionally, the market will introduce a 'Literary Corner,' where local authors will read festive stories and poems, celebrating Bath's literary legacy and creating a tranquil retreat amidst the festive hustle and bustle.

Experience The UK’s Festive Magic

Santa's Grottos play a crucial role in the Christmas market experience, offering a special moment where children can share their holiday wishes and everyone can capture a memory that lasts a lifetime. The magic of the pop up Santa’s grotto lies in their ability to transport visitors away from the hustle and bustle of the market into a tranquil, joyous space where the magic of Christmas truly comes to life. Whether set against the backdrop of a mediaeval cathedral in Winchester or amidst the Regency elegance of Bath, each grotto brings its own unique charm, reflecting the character and heritage of its location.

It’s time to go out and embrace the UK’s festive markets with all the family!