‘Tis the season, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than with a Christmas market or two? Twinking lights, cosy alpine huts, handmade gifts, and oh the mulled wine and mince pies – Christmas markets really do have it all. With so many magical markets to choose from, we’ve rounded up our top UK picks to visit this year (including a few in the charming towns where our Piglet boutiques call home!).
1. Bath Christmas Markets
Best for: West Country waresWhen: 28 November 2024 – 15 December 2024
Bath is beautiful to visit year-round, but at Christmastime, its iconic market transforms the historic city into a bustling winter wonderland. Wander through the cobbled streets lined with over 250 stalls, each brimming with handmade crafts and festive delights. Proudly championing artisans from the southwest, this market is the ultimate celebration of shopping local.
Where: Milsom Street, Union Street, Bath Street, Kingston Parade and more
Website: bathchristmasmarket.co.uk
2. Edinburgh Christmas Markets
Best for: Thrilling rides and winter warmersWhen: 15 November 2024 – 5 January 2025
Edinburgh at Christmas is pure magic. Festivities centre around Princes Street, where there’s a traditional Christmas market, along with the thrilling Star Flyer and iconic Big Wheel. Warm up with a mug of spiced cider, mulled wine, or a twist on the Scottish favourite – mulled Iron Bru!
Where: Princes Street Gardens, George Street, St Andrew Square and more
Website: edinburghwinterfestivals.com
3. York Christmas Markets
Best for: Independent sellers
When: 14 November 2024 – 22 December 2024
York’s charming streets are even more magical at Christmas, with alpine chalets and festoon lights turning the city into a festive wonderland. Running for over 30 years, The York Christmas Market, also known as St Nicholas Fair, proudly supports local businesses, with 80% of traders hailing from Yorkshire. From handmade gifts to mulled wine, it’s the perfect spot to soak up the festivities.
Where: Parliament Street, St Sampson’s Square and King’s Square
Website: visityork.org/events/york-christmas-market-2024
4. Harrogate Christmas Markets
Best for: Festive foods and family fun When: 29 November 2024 – 15 December 2024
With an eclectic mix of local traders and traditional European Christmas stalls, this festive market offers everything from handmade crafts to unique gifts. Foodies will love the street food, while families can hop on the free Candy Cane Express train or take in the views from the giant Ferris wheel.
Address: Cambridge Street and Market Place
Website: visitharrogate.co.uk/events/harrogate-christmas-fayre
5. Winchester Christmas Markets
Best for: Glühwein and bratwurst When: 22 November 2024 – 22 December 2024
Winchester’s stunning Gothic cathedral is the perfect backdrop for this traditional German-inspired Christmas market. With over 100 wooden chalets, you can browse the stalls, soak in the sounds of the cathedral’s choir, all while enjoying a bratwurst and sipping on glühwein – cheers to that!
Where: Winchester Cathedral
Website: winchester-cathedral.org.uk/christmas
6. Cardiff Christmas Markets
Best for: Handmade treasuresWhen: 14 November 2024 – 23 December 2024
For over 30 years, Cardiff’s Christmas Market has filled the city with festive cheer. With a strong focus on handmade goods, 200 independent makers will showcase their creations across more than 70 rotating stalls. Plus, there’s plenty of food and drink stalls, so you can eat, drink and be merry as you celebrate the Christmas season.
Where: St John Street, Working Street, Trinity Street and Hills Street
Website: cardiffchristmasmarket.com
7. Tunbridge Wells Christmas Markets
Best for: The picturesque PantilesWhen: 15 November 2024 – 24 December 2024
Set against the historic background of The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells comes alive during the festive season. Twinkling markets stalls and wooden chalets line the iconic walkway, offering unique gifts and seasonal treats. Enjoy live performances from local choirs and musicians, or visit Santa’s Grotto for a truly magical Christmas experience.
Where: The Pantiles
Website: thepantiles.com/whats-on/the-pantiles-christmas-markets
