It’s that time of year again and the countdown to Christmas has finally begun. Us Brits know how to celebrate and Christmas is no exception. It may be cold outside but there’s nothing like a warming glass of mulled wine and a mince pie to get you in the festive mood. So, if you’re crackers about Christmas or just need some inspiration for last-minute gifts, we’ve got you covered with our top 5 best Christmas markets in the UK, for a truly festive weekend break.
Famous for being the largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany and Austria, the Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market has a lot to offer. With over 80 stalls ranging from decorations, jewellery, hand-crafted leatherwork and edible delights, there really is something for everyone. Have an amble down the German-style chalets and gaze at the beautiful Christmas lights. Had enough shopping? Grab yourself a weissbeer (and a hot chocolate for the kids) and enjoy the merry live music in Victoria Square.
An essential part of any Londoner’s winter calendar, Southbank Centre Winter Market is a festive celebration of cultures. Overlooking the River Thames, the Nordic-themed wooden chalets house an array of delicious street food that you just can’t turn down! The stalls range from Asian, Indian and Greek treats to the traditional German favourites. Warm yourself up with a mulled cider in the heated chalet booths of Bar Under the Bridge or tempt yourself to a venison hot dog at Jimmy’s Lodge. After your visit, why not catch a show at the Southbank Centre and make an evening of it. Or even better, extend your trip and have Christmas in the capital at one of our luxurious London holiday homes!
Situated in the romantic cobbled streets and nestled among the Roman architecture, the award-winning Bath Christmas Market offers a selection of locally made goods and cheerful entertainment. Want to make it even more special? Book a Bath Christmas Market Experience and enjoy a two-course meal, a wreath-making workshop and a two-hour session at the Thermae Bath Spa.
It must be said that Edinburgh offers one of the most traditional surroundings for the festive period and that’s not the only reason it’s made the cut for our list of the best Christmas markets in the UK. Get the kids involved on the exciting fairground rides or take them for a magical visit to Santa’s Grotto. Or want to spice things up a bit? The Johnnie Walker Bothy Bar sits on the Mound and offers a variety of seasonal whisky cocktails to celebrate the traditional flavours of Scotland. If you’re looking for some family-friendly Christmas cheer in a picturesque setting then this market is the one for you! Why not treat yourself to a staycation at one of our delightful Edinburgh homes and apartments?
Voted the UK’s Most Festive City in 2017, York’s St Nicholas Fair is a must-see. Mosey on down to the Made in Yorkshire Yuletide Village to get your hands on some delightful Yorkshire crafted goods or feed your need for festive fun with a slide down the Helter Skelter. Then, head down to St Sampson’s Square rustic Yorkshire Barn and treat yourself to some hot chestnuts, washed down with a warming mulled wine.
Now that you’ve had a taster of the best Christmas markets in the UK, why not book one of our properties and make it a Christmas getaway? After all, it’s the most wonderful time of the year! We have a variety of Christmas cottages and houses to choose from all over the UK. If you have any questions, feel free to contact our concierge team and we will be happy to help.
Europe’s Best Christmas Markets
Top 10 Places to Stay for Christmas and New Years
If you're looking for the perfect luxury villa to rent for your big day, you've… Read More
Family holidays are always special – you get to spend quality time together (a rarity… Read More
Guest post by Dakota Murphey When you think of a perfect winter stay, cosy chalets with… Read More
It’s no secret that France is always a hit holiday destination for the whole family.… Read More
There’s more to Menorca than its historic twin cities and mysterious Neolithic monuments. Its 200km-long… Read More
Historical architecture, sandy beaches, plentiful national parks and homegrown wine – it’s not hard to… Read More