Top 21 Phenomenal UK Christmas Markets You Absolutely Should Not Miss Out On
Get ready for a festive adventure as we explore some of the best Christmas markets that the UK has to offer in 2023. From historic cities to vibrant markets, there's something for everyone.
Belfast Christmas Market
Located within the grounds of Belfast City Hall, the Belfast Christmas Market is a delightful festive experience not to be missed. Running from Saturday, November 15th until Sunday, December 21st, 2023, visitors can expect a variety of international food stalls, children's entertainment, live music events, and even Santa's grotto.
Winchester Christmas Market
Winchester Christmas Market, consistently voted one of the best in the UK, is set in the grounds of Winchester Cathedral. With over 100 traditional wooden stalls, you can shop for handmade crafts and gifts, enjoy delicious street food, and witness a life-size nativity scene, often complete with live animals.
Nottingham Christmas Market
Nottingham Christmas Market offers a wonderful blend of tradition and modernity. With live entertainment on weekends, an open-air ice skating rink, a helter-skelter (doubling as a bar), various fairground attractions, a ski lodge bar, and even an ice bar with a different theme each year, there's something for everyone.
Cambridge Christmas Market
Cambridge Christmas Market comes alive just when the winter chill sets in over the Cam River, bringing a festive atmosphere to the city. With no entrance fee, visitors can shop for unique gifts, enjoy delicious food, and even find one of the best places for coffee nearby.
London Winter Wonderland
London Winter Wonderland, located in Hyde Park, is a large open-air festival with heaps of attractions. While entry is free, some of the attractions inside need to be booked in advance, so it's advisable to check their website before you visit.
Stratford-upon-Avon Christmas Market
Stratford-upon-Avon Christmas Market takes place over two consecutive weekends in December, with 200 high-quality stalls. Visitors are asked to use the park and ride service from the Saxham Business Park or Bishopton when using their own transport.
Edinburgh’s Christmas Market
Edinburgh’s Christmas Market typically runs from mid-November to early January, with 2024 dates from November 15th to January 4th. The market features over 130 festive huts, rides, and a Santa’s grotto in Edinburgh city centre.
Manchester Christmas Markets
Manchester Christmas Markets usually open in early November. While exact 2023 dates are not confirmed, visitors can expect the markets to run mostly until before Christmas, with some areas staying open into the New Year.
For the most precise 2023 dates, it's advisable to check official city council or tourism websites closer to the autumn season.
Remember, each city offers unique accommodations to make your visit even more memorable. Whether you prefer a luxury hotel or a campsite, there's an option for everyone. So, get ready to immerse yourself in the festive spirit and create unforgettable memories at these top UK Christmas markets in 2023.
[1] City Council Website 1 [2] City Council Website 2 [3] Tourism Website [4] Hotel Website [5] Event Website
- At the Belfast Christmas Market, not only can you savor a variety of international food-and-drink options, but also experience children's entertainment, live music events, and even visit Santa's grotto, making it a complete lifestyle adventure.
- The Winchester Christmas Market offers more than just shopping for handmade crafts and gifts; it also features a life-size nativity scene, enhancing your entertainment and overall holiday experience.
- The Nottingham Christmas Market offers not only the traditional Christmas Market experience but also live entertainment, an open-air ice skating rink, food stalls, and even an ice bar, transforming a visit into a home-and-garden-friendly activity with a twist of excitement.
