20 of the best UK Christmas markets for 2024

Visit the UK's top Christmas markets this festive season

The festive season in the UK is always magical, with Christmas markets popping up across the country and filling the streets with twinkling lights, inviting scents and festive cheer. From bustling cities and stately homes to quaint towns and villages, these markets offer a wonderful opportunity to pick up one-of-a-kind gifts, gaze upon dazzling decorations, sing along to live music and carols, and savour delicious treats, all whilst creating wonderful Christmas memories with your loved ones.

Scroll down to discover our top 20 Christmas markets in the UK for 2024.

Looking to combine your trip to the Christmas markets with a stay nearby? Check out our selection of Christmas breaks.

1. Manchester Christmas Markets

Manchester's Christmas markets are one of the largest and most popular in the UK, with over 200 stalls spread across the city centre in nine key locations. Piccadilly Gardens will once again transform into the magical Winter Gardens, while Cathedral Gardens is the place to go for family fun, with an ice rink (open daily) and live entertainment from Thursday to Sunday. This year, due to how the dates fall, the markets will run over seven weekends, which is one more than usual!

Tip: Manchester's Christmas Parade takes place on Sunday 8th December 2024 at 1pm.

Dates: Friday 8th November-Sunday 22nd December 2024
Times: Most sites are open daily 10am-9pm, with craft stalls closing at 8pm
Location: Various locations in Manchester city centre, including Piccadilly Gardens, Market Street and Cathedral Gardens. Check out the Manchester City Council website for full information on what to expect at each location

2. Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market

If you're looking for a taste of traditional German Christmas markets right here in the UK, then this is the place for you! Another big hitter when it comes to UK Christmas markets, Birmingham serves up a festive extravaganza in the heart of the city, taking over Victoria Square and New Street with a huge choice of traditional gifts and seasonal treats. Enjoy a tasty German bratwurst and a glühwein as you browse for the perfect Christmas gift, then head over to Centenary Square for a ride on the big wheel or a skate around the ice rink!

Dates: Friday 1st November-Tuesday 24th December 2024
Times: 11am-9pm Monday-Thursday, 11am-9.30pm Friday, 10am-9.30pm Saturday, 10am-9pm Sunday (1pm-9pm on Remembrance Sunday, 10 November)
Location: Victoria Square and New Street, Birmingham B1 1BB

3. Edinburgh Christmas Market

Edinburgh is a beautiful city to visit at any time of year, but we think there's something extra special about a wintery weekend here, when the festive spirit is in full swing. With its traditional wooden stalls, twinkling lights, and delicious aromas of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts, Edinburgh's Christmas market creates a magical winter wonderland that is sure to fill you with festive cheer. And, unusually, they run into the beginning of January. Situated in the historic city centre, in the iconic East Princes Street Gardens, one of the best ways to take it all in is from the top of the Big Wheel - Scotland's largest ferris wheel at 46 metres high! Families should head to West Princes Street for funfair rides and attractions for all ages (from Saturday 16th November), plus, don't miss the undercover ice rink at George Street or the incredible Christmas tree maze at St Andrew Square.

Dates: Friday 15th November 2024-Saturday 4th January 2025
Times: 10am-10pm daily, except on Christmas Eve when they're open 10am-8pm, and Boxing Day and New Year's Day when they're open 12pm-8pm. The markets are closed on Christmas Day
Location: East Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh EH2 2EJ

Plan a festive break to one of our Edinburgh lodges and holiday parks.

4. Bath Christmas Market

Bath Christmas Market is renowned for its enchanting setting and range of handmade gifts, local produce and festive treats, and 2024 will be no exception! For just over a fornight this year, the streets will be lined with over 200 chalets, beautifully decorated with twinkling lights and festive decorations, to create a magical atmosphere for locals and tourists alike. Expect live music, local crafts, mulled wine and a chance to soak up the charming Christmas spirit in this historic city! Bath Christmas Market also prides itself on trying to be as sustainable as possible, always looking for ways to lower carbon emissions and reduce single-use plastic.

Dates: Thursday 28th November-Sunday 15th December 2024
Times: 10am-7pm Monday-Wednesday, 10am-8pm Thursday-Saturday, 10am-6pm Sunday
Location: Various locations in Bath city centre, including Bath Street, Milsom Street and the Abbey Quarter. View a map of the Bath Christmas Market.

Browse our Bath holiday homes to find a cosy home-away-from-home for your Christmas market escape!

5. Liverpool Christmas Market

The Liverpool Christmas Market is a festive favourite in North West England, featuring traditional German-style cabins alongside local artisans' creations. Set among the city's iconic architecture, right by St George's Hall, visitors can browse unique gifts, handcrafted decorations, and enjoy festive treats like mulled wine and roasted chestnuts. The market also offers an ice rink and live entertainment, creating a joyful atmosphere. It's a perfect spot for families, friends and couples to embrace the festive spirit and make lasting memories.

Tip: Liverpool Christmas Market is opposite Liverpool Lime Street Station, so it's easy to visit on the train.

Dates: Saturday 16th November-Tuesday 24th December 2024
Times: 11am-10pm daily
Location: St George's Plateau, Liverpool L1 1JJ

6. Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market

Surrounded by the stunning architecture of the cathedral and its grounds, Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market is a feast for the senses with its delightful sights and sounds. Often touted as one of the best Christmas markets in Europe, the market is renowned for its high-quality gifts, ranging from handcrafted decorations to artisanal foods and beverages. Visitors can stroll through the bustling market stalls, browsing unique items that make perfect Christmas gifts for loved ones or special souvenirs to cherish for years to come. The festive atmosphere is enhanced by the smell of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts, the sound of carol singers and the warming glow of fairy lights.

Dates: Friday 22nd November-Sunday 22nd December 2024
Times: 10am-6pm Sunday-Thursday, 10am-8pm Friday-Saturday
Location: The Close, Winchester SO23 9LS

7. York Christmas Market

The York Christmas Market - also known as St Nicholas Fair - is a beloved tradition in the city centre, with 75 alpine chalets offering a selection of handmade gifts, hot food and a cosy atmosphere. The market is all about supporting local businesses, with 80% of the traders hailing from Yorkshire. Wander through the winding streets as you browse unique Viking-style souvenirs, sample traditional festive food and delicious mulled wine, and admire the magical decorations.

Dates: Thursday 14th November-Sunday 22nd December 2024
Times: 10am-7pm daily
Location: Parliament Street and St Sampson's Square, York YO1 8QT

Stay nearby at one of our holiday parks and lodges in York.

8. Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market

Devon's biggest Christmas market is back for 2024, with over 100 stalls selling handmade gifts, festive food and drink, and more. As you wander through the market, soaking in the festive atmosphere, be sure to stop by the ice rink for a fun-filled skating session or visit Santa's grotto to whisper your Christmas wishes in his ear. The whole family will love spending the day exploring the market and indulging in the seasonal delights.

Dates: Friday 15th November-Sunday 15th December 2024
Times: 10am-7pm Monday-Wednesday, 10am-9pm Thursday-Saturday, 11am-5pm Sunday
Location: Cathedral Green, Exeter, EX1 1HS

9. Nottingham Winter Wonderland

Situated in the city centre and featuring a range of stalls, family-friendly rides and an expansive ice rink, the lively Nottingham Christmas market is a firm favourite of the festive season. Encircling the ice rink are traditional German Christmas stalls, illuminated with sparkling lights and stocked with distinctive gifts. Once you've explored the stalls, relax at the festive bar with a mug of hot mulled wine or an indulgent hot chocolate - the perfect companion to some live music.

Tip: The markets are free but some of the activities require a ticket. Find all the info on the Nottingham Winter Wonderland website.

Dates: Wednesday 13th November-Tuesday 24th December 2024
Times: 10am-6.30pm Sunday-Thursday and 10am-8pm Friday-Saturday in November; 10am-8.30pm Sunday-Thursday and 10am-9pm Friday-Saturday in December
Location: Old Market Square, Nottingham NG1 2DT

10. Chester Christmas Market

Chester Christmas Market offers a magical festive experience set against the backdrop of the city's historic buildings. On Friday 15th November, the Christmas lights will be switched on to mark the beginning of the markets, home to an array of traditional wooden chalets filled with unique handmade gifts, festive decorations, and delicious food and drink. With live music, entertainment and family activities, the market is a hub of holiday cheer, enhanced by twinkling lights and the aroma of mulled wine. It's the ideal spot to embrace the festive spirit and shop for special gifts.

Tip: As well as the markets, Chester has a packed calendar of Christmas activities and events that are perfect for families, from the vibrant 12 Days of Christmas Parade to a magical Santa's Grotto.

Dates: Friday 15th December-Sunday 22nd December 2024
Times: 10.30am-6.30pm Sunday-Wednesday, 10.30am-8pm Thursday-Saturday
Location: Town Hall Square, Chester CH1 2HJ

Make a proper trip of it by booking one of our holiday parks and lodges in Chester.

11. Cardiff Christmas Market

Cardiff Christmas Market is a beloved annual event in the Welsh capital, which has been running for 30 years and features over 200 individual businesses. Located in the middle of Cardiff's pedestrian shopping area, the market's vibrant atmosphere fosters community spirit, allowing you to explore decorated wooden chalets, sample Welsh delicacies and enjoy mulled wine as you catch up with friends.

Tip: You can view a map of the markets and find out more information, including specific 2024 exhibitors, on the Cardiff Christmas Market website

Dates: Thursday 14th November-Monday 23rd December 2024
Times: 10am-6pm Monday-Saturday, 10am-5pm Sunday
Location: St John Street, Cardiff CF10 1GL

Fancy popping to the markets on a weekend away? Check out our holiday homes in Cardiff.

12. Southampton Christmas Market

Another great UK Christmas market that's open into the New Year, the Southampton Christmas Market is back for 2024 with a whole host of festive fun, from street food stalls and alpine bars to a vintage carousel and live music. One of the highlights of Southampton Christmas Market is the opening night, which will take place from 6-9pm on Friday 15th November 2024 and showcases a variety of music, performances and light shows including the laser projection on the iconic Bargate - a Grade I-listed medieval gatehouse in the city centre.

Dates: Friday 15th November 2024-Sunay 5th January 2025
Times: 11am-10pm Monday-Thursday, 10am-10pm Friday-Saturday, 11am-7pm Sunday. The markets are closed on Christmas Day
Location: Above Bar Street, Southampton, SO14 7FP

Check out our holiday cottages in Southampton.

13. Blenheim Christmas Market

Blenheim Palace, a 300-year-old historic treasure in Oxfordshire, has become well-known for its annual Christmas spectacles, which include an illuminated trail and a seasonal village of around 70-80 wooden chalets. New for 2024, there's now also an ice rink! If you just want to visit the Christmas markets, then you can enter for free (there's a charge for parking), but you'll need to buy tickets for the light trail, the Palace and any other special events.

Tip: Christmas at Blenheim is extremely popular, so book early if you want to take part in any of the activities and events outside of just visiting the traditional Christmas market in the courtyard.

Dates: Friday 15th November 2024-Wednesday 1st January 2025
Times: 10.30am-8.30pm daily, except on non-trail nights when the market will close at 5.30pm
Location: The Great Court, Blenheim Palace, Oxford

Stay less than 30 minutes' drive from Blenheim Palace at Bluewood Lodges.

14. Chatsworth Christmas Market

Another English stately home that has become synonymous with Christmas over the years, is the beautiful Chatsworth House in Derbyshire. If you're planning a wintery weekend away in the Peak District, then this Christmas market is perfect for a festive evening of Christmas shopping, live music, and seasonal food and drink. There are an impressive 100+ stalls to explore, bursting with unique Christmas gifts and stocking fillers from local craft makers and small sustainable suppliers.

Tip: The market is free to enter but if you want to park at Chatsworth, you'll need to buy a car park ticket in advance. You'll also need to buy Christmas at Chatsworth tickets if you wish to enter the house, garden, farmyard and adventure playground.

Dates: Saturday 9th November-Sunday 1st December 2024
Times: 9am-5.30pm Monday-Thursday, 9am-6pm Friday-Sunday
Location: Lodge Hill, Chatsworth House, Derbyshire

Planning a romantic break with your partner to visit the Chatsworth Christmas Market? Why not book a hot tub hideaway at Hazelhurst Lodges, 20 minutes' drive away.

15. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

Home to the UK's largest open-air ice rink, Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park is one of London's most popular annual events, transforming the park into a festive fairytale complete with Christmas markets, carnival rides and shows. In 2024, the event promises to be bigger and better than ever before, with new attractions and even more holiday cheer. Visitors can expect twinkling lights, live music, delicious food and drink, and plenty of opportunities for shopping and entertainment. Whether you're looking to take a spin on the ice rink, ride the giant observation wheel or simply soak up the festive atmosphere, Winter Wonderland has something for everyone. Find out everything you need to know and book tickets on the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland website.

Tip: You need to book tickets in advance and you'll get a one-hour time slot to enter. There are free off-peak tickets available but these may get snapped up quickly!

Dates: Thursday 21st November 2024-Sunday 5th January 2025
Times: 10am-10pm daily
Location: Hyde Park, London W2 2UH

16. Stratford-upon-Avon Christmas Market

Taking place across two consecutive weekends in December, with over 200 festive stalls lining the Shakespearean streets, Stratford-upon-Avon hosts one of the biggest Christmas Markets in the West Midlands. The markets take place in the historic town centre, creating a magical atmosphere with twinkling lights, mulled wine and carol singers.

Dates: 7th-8th December and 14th-15th December 2024
Times: 10am-8pm Saturday and 10am-5pm Sunday
Location: Bridge Street, Waterside and Henley Street, Stratford-upon-Avon town centre CV37 6AB

Experience the best of this beautiful part of England with a stay in one of our Shakespeare Country lodges and holiday parks.

17. The Piece Hall Christmas Market

The Halifax Christmas Markets at The Piece Hall are back for 2024, with a wide array of stalls selling unique gifts, handcrafted decorations and delicious festive treats. The atmosphere at The Piece Hall during the Christmas season is truly magical. The historic architecture, twinkling lights, and the smell of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts combine to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere that is sure to put even the biggest Scrooge in the holiday spirit. Children can visit Santa's grotto, ride the carousel and enjoy seasonal entertainment throughout the market. There will also be live music and performances to add to the festive ambiance.

Dates: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only from 15th November-22nd December 2024
Times: 10am-8pm Friday-Saturday and 10am-4pm Sunday
Location: The Piece Hall, Halifax HX1 1RE

18. Glasgow Winterfest

The 2024 Glasgow Christmas Markets will see the city's streets transformed into a winter wonderland, with stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to mouth-watering street food. There will be plenty of opportunities to pick up some last-minute presents for loved ones, or simply treat yourself to a little something special. The markets will also feature live music, entertainment and activities for the whole family to enjoy. Children can visit Santa's Grotto, take a ride on a vintage carousel or try their hand at some festive arts and crafts. And of course, no visit to the Glasgow Christmas Markets would be complete without indulging in some traditional Christmas treats. From warm mince pies to sizzling sausages on a stick, there will be plenty of delicious food on offer to keep you fuelled as you explore all the markets have to offer.

Dates: Saturday 9th November-Sunday 29th December 2024 (St Enoch Square) and Saturday 23rd November 2024-Sunday 5th January 2025 (George Square)
Times: To be confirmed. The markets are closed on Christmas Day
Location: St George Square G2 1DH and St Enoch Square G1 4BW

Plan a Christmassy couple of days away to one of our holiday cottages in Glasgow.

19. Bristol Christmas Market

The Bristol Christmas Market in 2024 is set to be a festive extravaganza once again, with an array of stalls selling delicious food, unique gifts and handmade crafts. Sip on a warming hot chocolate from the Alpine Hütte as you admire the 30-foot Christmas tree in the centre of it all, or head to the Jäger Barn Bar to enjoy a mug of something stronger in one of the pop-up ski gondolas. Whether you're looking for the perfect gift for a loved one or simply want to embrace the party atmosphere, these city-centre markets are the perfect place to get into the Christmas mood.

Tip: Visit from Thursday to Sunday for live music at the Jäger Barn Bar.

Dates: Friday 1st November-Monday 23rd December 2024
Times: 10am-10pm (food stalls and bar) or 10am-7pm (festive stalls). The market closes at 6pm on 23rd December
Location: Broadmead in Bristol Shopping Quarter BS1 1UX

20. Norwich Winter Wonderland

If you're heading to Norfolk this festive season, don't miss a chance to visit the capital city's fun-filled Winter Wonderland in Norwich. Open from late November until early January, you'll have ample opportunity to visit the seasonal spectacle, which features a variety of Christmas market stalls and food vendors and bars, plus a Christmas tree maze, a funfair and the UK's largest covered ice rink. Whether you prefer sipping on Baileys as you browse for Bavarian delights, admiring the dazzling lights from Santa's Sleight roller coaster, or simply soaking it all in from the top of the giant observation wheel, the 2024 Norwich Winter Wonderland is set to be one of the best Christmas events in the UK!

Tip: You need to buy tickets if you want to visit the Christmas markets and any of the other attractions at Norwich Winter Wonderland. Certain tickets allow free return entry for the whole season so check out the website for full details.

Dates: Friday 22nd November 2024-Sunday 5th January 2025
Times: 10am-10pm daily
Location: Norfolk Showground, Norwich NR5 0TT

Stay nearby at one of our lodges and holiday parks in Norwich.

Let the festive fun begin!

Make sure to mark your calendars for these fantastic Christmas markets in the UK in 2024. Whether you're looking for unique gifts, delicious food, or simply a festive atmosphere, these markets have something for everyone. Embrace the holiday spirit and make the most of the season by visiting these magical markets.

Looking to treat yourself and your loved ones to a festive break this winter? Browse our Christmas holidays to find a huge choice of cosy cottages, luxurious hot tub lodges and family-friendly holiday parks - there's even a dedicated collection of dog-friendly Christmas breaks. We've also got great prices for New Year's Eve breaks, so you can see in 2025 in style!

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Image credits: Exeter Christmas Market by Alison Day (CC BY-ND 2.0); Southampton Christmas Market at dusk by Colin Smith (CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons); Chatsworth Christmas Market by Graham Hogg (CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons); Piece Hall by night by Craig Chew-Moulding (CC BY-SA 2.0)