Tag: 2023

Pics of the lovely festive characters created for Winchester Cathedral Christmas market

Winchester Cathedral Christmas market 2023: A festive destination

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If you are looking for a magical and memorable way to celebrate the festive season, you should consider visiting the Winchester Cathedral Christmas market. This annual event is renowned for its unique location, quality exhibitors and lively atmosphere. Here, the Christmas.co.uk team explain what the Winchester Cathedral Christmas market is and why should think about visiting it. What is the Winchester Cathedral Christmas market? The Winchester Cathedral Christmas market is a seasonal event that takes place on the historic grounds of the Winchester Cathedral, one of the finest medieval cathedrals in Europe. The market features more than 100 wooden chalets, inspired by German Christmas markets, that sell a variety of products, such as crafts, jewellery, clothing, food and drink. The Cathedral’s market also has a spectacular ice rink, where visitors can enjoy skating under the stars. The market is open daily from mid-November to late December, with different opening hours depending on the day of the week. oooOooo Winchester Christmas Market: Christmas in England This is an interesting traipse around Winchester Cathedral’s Christmas market showing off the stalls and the food and drink – there’s a marvellous-looking raclette type of dish topped with a huge slice of melted cheese. Along with footage of the unique surroundings, there’s a professional stage for performers and footage of a massive vat of mulled wine. The Christmas lights and decorations also help to create an impressive festive destination. oooOooo How popular is the market? The Winchester Cathedral Christmas market is recognised as one of Europe’s best, attracting more than 400,000 visitors each year. Those visitors come for a variety of reasons, including its stunning location since it is set in the beautiful surroundings of the Winchester Cathedral, which adds to the charm and elegance of the event. The cathedral also hosts many Christmas services, carol concerts and events that visitors can attend. Another reason is for the handpicked high-quality exhibitors who offer a range of unique and original products that are not easily found elsewhere. The exhibitors are carefully chosen by the market organisers, who ensure that they meet the standards of quality, presentation and customer service. The result is a bustling atmosphere, and this is a Christmas market that is full of festive spirit, with festive lighting, Christmas carols, and the aroma of mulled wine and cinnamon filling the air. Visitors can enjoy browsing the chalets, sampling the delicacies, and mingling with the friendly stallholders and other shoppers. What’s on at Winchester Cathedral Christmas market? The attractions for people going to the Winchester Cathedral Christmas market include shopping for Christmas gifts – especially if you are after unique and personalised presents for loved ones. Or, if you want to treat yourself to something special. The products include handmade crafts, jewellery, clothing, accessories, toys, books and more. And there’s a great choice of festive food and drink too since the market offers a range of delicious options, such as hot chocolate, roasted chestnuts, crepes, waffles, sausages and cheese. You can also try some of the local specialities, such as Hampshire pies, cider and gin. There’s also the opportunity to have fun on the ice rink where visitors can skate under the stars and enjoy the views of the cathedral. The ice rink is suitable for all ages and abilities and has a separate area for children and beginners. You can also book a skating session online in advance to avoid the queues. This festive market also brings the chance to explore the culture and history of Winchester, which is one of the oldest and most historic cities in England. You can visit the Winchester Cathedral, which has a rich history and architecture, and see some of its treasures, such as the Winchester Bible, the Great Screen and the tomb of Jane Austen. Other attractions include Winchester Castle, the Great Hall and the Winchester City Museum. oooOooo Inside 900-Year-Old Winchester Cathedral’s Christmas Market | Times Travel This video comes from Times Travel in 2021 and shows the best side of the festive market. Antonia Windsor interviews one of the market’s organisers who explains the history and how much work goes into creating the market. Again, there’s a good look around the market and a look at the cathedral’s interior. She stresses that the market is compact and it’s certainly one worth visiting. oooOooo What makes Winchester Cathedral Christmas market so special? Launched in 2006, Winchester Cathedral’s Christmas market is now one of the longest-running and most successful Christmas markets in the UK. In that time, it has won several awards and accolades, such as being voted as one of the top 10 of Europe’s Christmas markets by the European Best Destinations organisation. The market is so special with so many other markets to choose from with its combination of factors, such as its location, quality, atmosphere and variety. Essentially, this Christmas market offers something for everyone, whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a family outing or a solo adventure. The market is also a part of the wider Christmas in Winchester programme, which includes other events and activities, such as the Winchester Lantern Parade, the Winchester Cathedral Carol Services, and the Winchester Christmas Lights Switch On. Visiting Winchester Cathedral’s Christmas market The Winchester Cathedral Christmas market runs from 17 November to 21 December 2023. The market has wooden chalets based on those found in traditional German Christmas markets in the historic Inner Close. The chalets showcase the talents of skilled artists and craftspeople who offer unique and customised products, such as knitted wool throws. Visitors can also enjoy listening to the local choirs performing Christmas carols and other live performances. Winchester Cathedral Christmas market can get very busy and does not require timed entry or tickets, but you may need to wait to enter. You can leave and re-enter at any time and tickets for Christmas concerts, special events and services can be purchased via the Winchester …

Pic of two ladies enjoying mulled wine at York Christmas market

York Christmas market 2023: A popular festive tradition

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York is a city that celebrates Christmas in style, with its historic streets and buildings adorned with lights, wreaths and garlands. But the highlight of the festive season is the York Christmas market, also known as the St Nicholas Fair, which attracts tens of thousands of visitors every year. Here, the Christmas.co.uk team look at the attractions and the reasons why people visit York Christmas market from far and wide. What is the York Christmas market? The York Christmas market is a six-week event that runs from mid-November until 22 December in 2023. It features more than 75 wooden chalets that fill the city’s pedestrianised streets, offering a range of locally crafted treasures, artisan gifts, seasonal food and drinks, and local produce. The market is divided into several sections, each with its own theme and atmosphere. For example, you can find traditional crafts and decorations at the Made in Yorkshire area, or sample delicious treats at the Taste of Yorkshire area. You can also enjoy live entertainment, carol singers and street performers throughout the market. oooOooo York Christmas Market – 2022 This is a great high-resolution video from TrottingMoose. It starts at dusk and shows the variety of cabins on offer in the historic city. These include a cabin selling Viking drinking horns – a nod to York’s famous Viking heritage – and lots of fudge and great food outlets. The video also shows off some of the architecture, busy streets and attractions. oooOooo Why is York’s Christmas market so popular? York’s Christmas market is one of the biggest and most popular free-to-enter Christmas markets in Yorkshire and among the best in the UK. It has won several awards, such as the Best Large Speciality Market in 2019 and 2020, and the Best Christmas Market in 2018. There are many reasons why people love the York Christmas Market, such as: The market showcases the best of York’s local businesses, traders and makers, who offer unique and quality products that you won’t find anywhere else. You can support the local economy and find some great gifts for your loved ones. York’s festive market creates a magical and festive atmosphere in the city, with its twinkling lights, cheerful carols and the delightful aroma of mulled wine, roasted chestnuts and mince pies. You can feel the warmth and joy of the season as you stroll through the market. The market is located in the heart of York, surrounded by its stunning medieval architecture, ancient walls and iconic landmarks. You can explore the rich history and culture of the city, as well as its many attractions, such as the York Minster, the Shambles, and the York Castle Museum. There’s also a variety of experiences for all ages and tastes, from Santa’s grotto and ice skating to festive afternoon teas and ghost tours. You can also enjoy the many events and activities that take place in York during the Christmas season, such as the York Christmas Festival, the York Advent Calendar, and the York Chocolate Story. How long has the York Christmas market been running? York Christmas market has been running since 1997, when it was first launched as a small event with 12 stalls. Since then, it has grown and evolved into a major attraction that draws over a million visitors every year. The market is named after St Nicholas, the patron saint of children, sailors and merchants, who is also associated with Christmas and gift-giving. The market coincides with the feast day of St Nicholas, which is celebrated on December 6th. oooOooo BEST Christmas Market in the UK – York Christmas Market 2022 Plus the Shambles at Christmas! Here’s another great video showing York’s Christmas market at its best – plus a bonus trip to the world-famous street called Shambles. It’s from Everyday I’m Eating who highlights that York’s festive market is one of the best rated in the country. There’s a good range of stalls among the scenic streets, with a great range of food. oooOooo What makes the York Christmas market so special? The York Christmas market is not just a place to shop, eat and drink, but also a place to experience the spirit and traditions of Christmas in York. The market reflects the city’s heritage, diversity and creativity, and offers something for everyone to enjoy. Some of the things that make the York Christmas market so special are: The market has a strong focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility, with measures such as using biodegradable packaging, recycling waste, and promoting local and organic products. It also supports various charities and causes, such as the York Food Bank, York Mind, and York Pride. The market has an exclusive offer for York residents, who can enjoy a 10% discount on all the market stalls by presenting their valid York Card or identity card with proof of a York address. This is a way of thanking the residents for their support and loyalty and encouraging them to shop local. The market has a virtual version, which allows people to experience the magic of the market from the comfort of their home. The virtual market features a selection of online stalls, where you can browse and buy products from the market traders, as well as watch videos and listen to podcasts about the market and the city. Visiting York’s Christmas market York’s Christmas market is a festive tradition that has been running for more than 20 years and has become one of the UK’s most popular and acclaimed Christmas markets. It is a great way to celebrate Christmas and to discover the city’s local businesses, attractions and events. Whether you visit in person or online, you will find something to delight and inspire you at the York …

Pic of Chester Cathedral and the Chester Christmas market

Chester Christmas market 2023: A festive experience in the heart of the city

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If you are looking for a magical way to celebrate the festive season, you should visit Chester Christmas market in 2023, one of the most popular and charming Christmas markets in the UK. Located in the historic city of Chester, this market offers a variety of stalls, food, drinks, entertainment and an atmosphere that will make you feel like you are in a winter wonderland. Here, the Christmas.co.uk team take a closer look at the attractions to be found at Chester’s Christmas market. What is Chester Christmas market? Chester Christmas Market has been running since 2012 when it was launched by the Chester and Cheshire West Council as part of the Chester Winter Festival. Since then, it has grown and improved every year, becoming one of the most popular and successful events in the city and the region. According to the Visit Cheshire website, the market was voted as one of the top 10 Christmas markets in the UK by the public in 2021. This annual event takes place from mid-November to late December in the Town Hall Square and Northgate Street, near the Chester Cathedral and the new Chester Market. It features more than 70 traders selling handmade, local and unique gifts, crafts, food and drinks that are perfect for Christmas shopping or treating yourself. You can find everything from jewellery, candles, ceramics, fudge, gin, cheese, chocolate, toys, clothing and more. There is also a bar where you can enjoy a hot mulled wine, a cocktail, a real ale or a hot chocolate while listening to live music and entertainment. The market is surrounded by a sparkling Christmas tree and festive lights that create a cosy and enchanting atmosphere. oooOooo Chester Christmas markets This video from Gimbal Walk TV shows exactly what is on offer at Chester’s Christmas markets and why the destination has become so popular. Along with the treats and gifts that are available for Christmas shoppers, the market also has a great range of food and drink stalls. There’s a great choice of gifts in the intimate and cosy setting of Chester’s city centre. oooOooo How popular is Chester Christmas Market? Chester’s Christmas market is one of the most popular Christmas markets in the UK, attracting thousands of visitors every year. According to the Visit Chester website, the market received more than 400,000 visitors in 2022, making it one of the busiest and most successful events in the city. The market is popular for many reasons, including its impressive location in the heart of Chester, a beautiful and historic city that has a lot to offer in terms of culture, heritage, shopping and dining. You can also explore the Roman walls, the medieval cathedral, the Tudor buildings, the Grosvenor Museum and Chester Zoo while visiting the market. There’s also the variety and quality of stalls, plus the food and drink, which cater to different tastes and budgets. You will find unique and original gifts from local artisans and producers. In addition, the atmosphere and entertainment will help make you feel festive and merry. oooOooo Is Chester Christmas Market one of the BEST in the UK? A video from Abby and Gaz shows Chester’s Christmas market in a great light – and there’s a good focus on other attractions. This includes impressive choirs singing carols and other entertainment. The presenters highlight how compact the festive market in the squares – more so than in Manchester – which makes the markets feel very busy. However, there are some very good snacking cabins and creative gifts too. The presenters also highlight that the permanent Chester market is not only indoors but has a very good food court too. And is it one of the best Christmas markets in the UK? Yes – and no. Watch the video to find out why! https://youtu.be/_D8-orgrIT8?si=YroMC93kFhuMGF6x oooOooo Why do people go to Chester Christmas market? What makes Chester Christmas market so special with so many other festive markets to choose from is its combination of tradition and innovation, quality and diversity, charm and convenience. Chester’s market offers a festive experience that is authentic, local and unique, while also being accessible, affordable and enjoyable. The market reflects the city itself, which is a blend of history and modernity, culture and commerce, beauty and vitality. Chester’s Christmas market Chester Christmas market really does offer an opportunity to enjoy the festive spirit in the heart of the city. Spanning three squares, visitors are surrounded by the historic Town Hall and the magnificent Chester Cathedral, the market offers a perfect setting for a merry celebration. Whether you are looking for handcrafted candles, mouth-watering fudge, exquisite jewellery, eco-friendly cups, or tasty mulled wine, you will find something to suit your taste at Chester Christmas market. The market opens at 10.30am on Friday 17th November and runs every day until 21st December 2023. On Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, you can enjoy the market …

One of the many bright attractions at Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas market

Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas market 2023: A great festive day out

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If you are looking for a way to get into the festive spirit, look no further than Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market. This annual event is the largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany or Austria and attracts millions of visitors every year. It is now one of the most popular Christmas markets in the UK. Here, the Christmas.co.uk team look at why the market has become so popular and what visitors can expect. What is the Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas market? Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas market has been a popular attraction in the city since 1997. The market is a result of the close partnership between Birmingham and its twin city Frankfurt, which has led to many joint projects and collaborations over the years. The market is in the heart of the city centre, on Victoria Square and New Street. It is open every day from 10am to 9pm, from 16 November to 24 December 2023. Admission is free and you can easily reach the market by public transport. oooOooo We Went To Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market 2022! Here’s a fun video from The Sanbrooke Adventures with a good tour of Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas market. It gives a good idea of the size and scope of the market – and why people make the effort to visit. The presenters enjoy the festive atmosphere, the range of food and drink stalls and the festive entertainment. Along with one set of parents, they also get to enjoy a German sausage and beer. oooOooo What is available at Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas market? At the market, you will find a wide range of traditional goods and gifts, such as wooden toys, candles, jewellery, glass ornaments and more. You can also enjoy delicious food and drink, such as pretzels, schnitzels, bratwurst (white or red sausage), roasted almonds, glühwein (hot mulled wine) and weissbier (which is wheat beer). There’s also brezel, which is a type of bread in the south of Germany and in Austria – it is also known as ‘laugenbrezel’ (lyle pretzel). There’s also the chance to sing along with the singing moose – the city’s singing Christmas moose (Chris Moose) is now a Christmas attraction. You’ll find him at the Council House entrance, the singing moose delivers a Christmassy atmosphere and lots of fun for everyone. Visitors can also enjoy traditional carols and Christmas songs, plus there are bands on every day at the festive stage and there’s the opportunity to ride on the ornate carousel. oooOooo Birmingham Christmas Market – Full Tour We also enjoyed this creation from Gimbal Walk TV that takes in a full tour of the Christmas market in Birmingham. There’s a pleasant wander around the stalls, a chance to see what is on offer food and drink-wise and reasons why visitors should make the effort to attend. Viewers also get to see the range of crafts available and there some very impressive creations from delicate glass baubles to crystal lamps (a favourite of the presenter, apparently). oooOooo Why visit Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas market? The market is a great place to soak up the Christmassy atmosphere and experience the best of German culture in Birmingham. Whether you are looking for a unique gift, a tasty treat, or a festive experience, you will find it at the Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market. Don’t miss this opportunity to have a merry and magical time – after all, there’s a good reason why more than 5.5 million people visit Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas market …

Bath Abbey lit up - the focus of the Bath Christmas market

Bath Christmas market 2023: An impressive festive offering

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Bath Christmas market is one of the most popular and enchanting Christmas markets in the UK. Every year, thousands of visitors flock to the historic city of Bath to enjoy the festive atmosphere, browse the handmade and local gifts, and indulge in delicious food and drink – and 2023 will be no different. But what makes this Christmas market so special and why should you visit it this year? Here, the Christmas.co.uk team offers some reasons to add Bath Christmas market to your festive itinerary. A long tradition of Christmas spirit Bath Christmas market has been running for more than 20 years, making it one of the longest-running Christmas markets in the country. It started in 2001 with just 30 chalets and has grown to more than 170 chalets covering the picturesque streets of Bath city centre. The market celebrates the local culture and heritage of Bath, as well as the creativity and craftsmanship of the stallholders. Many of the chalets are run by small businesses and independent artists from the South West and beyond, offering a unique and diverse range of products. You can find everything from jewellery, ceramics and candles to cheese, chocolate and gin at the market – making it the perfect place to find a special gift for yourself or your loved ones. oooOooo Bath Christmas Market by Casa Mia Vintage This video of Bath Christmas Market offers a quick romp of what is on offer. Starting in daylight, the video visits the cabins close to the Roman Baths and Bath Abbey. There’s a trip down the alleys where there are popular pubs, cafes and restaurants. The Christmas market in Bath is a relaxed affair with lots to see and do. oooOooo A magical setting and atmosphere Bath Christmas market is not just a market, it is an experience. The market is set against the stunning backdrop of Bath Abbey, the Roman Baths and other iconic landmarks of the city, creating a fairy-tale scenery. The market is also illuminated by twinkling lights and decorated with festive garlands and wreaths, adding to the charm and warmth of the event. As you walk through the market, you can smell the aroma of mulled wine, roasted chestnuts and mince pies, and hear the sounds of carols, bells and laughter as visitors and locals enjoy the wonderful surroundings. You can also enjoy live entertainment and performances from musicians, choirs and theatre groups, as well as join in the fun activities and workshops for all ages. A great opportunity to explore Bath Bath Christmas market is not only a destination in itself, but also a gateway to explore the rest of the city. Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its rich history, architecture and culture. You can visit the famous attractions such as the Roman Baths, the Royal Crescent and the Jane Austen Centre, or discover the hidden gems and quirky shops in the side streets and alleys. You can also relax and rejuvenate at the Thermae Bath Spa, the UK’s only natural thermal day spa, where you can soak in the mineral-rich waters and enjoy the views from the rooftop pool. Bath also has a vibrant and diverse culinary scene, with plenty of restaurants, cafes, pubs and bars to suit every taste and budget. oooOooo Bath Christmas Market: A holiday MUST-SEE This video from ‘Travel with Mansoureh’ starts with her drying hot cider (she later says it is ‘really nice’!) and she traipses around the market to show what visitors can enjoy. There are more than 170 chalets to enjoy with a range of seasonal food and drink, plus gifts. Mansoureh stresses that Bath offers one of the best Christmas markets in the UK to visit – and from the quaint streets and attractions, there is a lot to recommend it. oooOooo Do not miss Bath Christmas market Bath Christmas market is a must-see event for anyone looking for a festive and memorable place to visit for festive enjoyment. Whether you are a local or a visitor, a family or a couple, a shopper or a sightseer, you will find something to love and enjoy at the market. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the magic of Bath market at …

pic of a cabin selling warm drinks at a London Christmas market

London Christmas markets: A festive guide for 2023

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London is a magical place to visit during the festive season, with its streets and buildings adorned with sparkling lights, its shops and windows filled with tempting gifts, and its many attractions offering seasonal entertainment. But one of the most popular and enjoyable ways to experience the spirit of Christmas in London is to visit one of its many Christmas markets. Christmas markets are a tradition that dates to the Middle Ages when traders and craftsmen would gather in town squares to sell their goods and services in the weeks leading up to Christmas. Today, Christmas markets are a global phenomenon, attracting millions of visitors every year who come to browse the stalls, sample the food and drink, and enjoy the atmosphere. London has a variety of Christmas markets to suit every taste and budget, from riverside pop-ups to fine foodie festivals, from traditional wooden chalets to alternative arts and crafts. Whether you are looking for unique presents, delicious treats or festive fun, you will find it at one of these Christmas markets in London. The best Christmas Markets in London for 2023 Here is a list of some of the best Christmas markets in London for 2023 from the team at Christmas.co.uk. Southbank Centre Winter Market The Southbank Centre Winter Market is one of the most popular and picturesque Christmas markets in London, with its riverside setting offering stunning views of the Thames and the London Eye. The market features a range of wooden chalets selling handmade crafts, jewellery, accessories and more, as well as international food stalls offering dishes from around the world. You can also enjoy live entertainment, such as music, comedy and cabaret at the Southbank Centre’s Winter Festival, which runs alongside the market. Dates: 2 Nov-26 Dec 2023 Where: Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX Open: Monday to Thursday: 11am to 10pm. Friday to Sunday: 10am to 10pm. Christmas Eve: 10am to 5pm. Closed on Christmas Day. Boxing Day: 12pm to 10pm. Admission: Free Christmas lights: The market is illuminated by fairy lights and lanterns, creating a cosy and festive atmosphere. Santa: No Ice skating: No Accessible: Yes Pets: Yes – not recommended in busy periods. Why visit: The market is ideal for those who love to sample different cuisines and cultures, as well as enjoy live entertainment and stunning views. Specialities: Some of the food stalls include German sausages, Spanish paella, Indian curry, French crepes and Turkish delight. Covent Garden Christmas Market Covent Garden is one of the most iconic and historic areas of London, and it becomes even more enchanting during the Christmas season. The market offers a selection of gourmet foods and upmarket crafts, plus street artist performances and musicians. You can also admire the spectacular decorations, including the 60ft British-grown Christmas tree, which is covered with more than 30,000 lights and the giant mistletoe chandeliers. Don’t miss the Sandwich Festival, which features a variety of sandwiches from different countries and regions. Dates: November 2023 – 3rd Jan 2024 Where: The Piazza in Covent Garden, London WC2E 9DD Open: Monday to Saturday: 10am to 9pm. Sunday: 12pm to 5pm. Closed on Christmas Day. Admission: Free Santa: No Ice skating: No Accessibility: Yes Pets: Yes – not in busy periods. Why visit: The market is perfect for those who appreciate high-quality and luxury gifts, as well as street performances and stunning decorations. Specialities: Christmas pudding, mince pies, craft drinks, unique chutneys. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is more than just a Christmas market, it is a festive extravaganza that offers something for everyone. The market features more than 200 wooden chalets selling a variety of gifts, crafts and treats, as well as a host of attractions and activities, such as ice-skating, roller-coaster rides, circus shows and live music. You can also visit Santa’s grotto, the ice bar, the ice sculpture kingdom, and the giant observation wheel. Winter Wonderland is one of the most popular and crowded Christmas markets in London, so be prepared for long queues and high prices. Dates: 17 Nov-2 Jan 2023 Where: Hyde Park, London W2 2UH Open: Daily: 10am to 10pm. Closed on Christmas Day. Admission: Free, but some attractions require tickets, which can be booked online or on-site. Christmas lights: The market and the park are illuminated by millions of lights, creating a dazzling and festive display. Santa: Yes, in his grotto, which is free to enter, but requires a ticket, which can be booked online or on-site. Accessible: Yes, but some attractions may have limited access or require assistance. Ice skating: Yes, on the UK’s largest outdoor ice rink, which requires a ticket, which can be booked online or on-site. Pets: No, except for assistance dogs. Why visit: The market is ideal for those who are looking for a fun-filled and action-packed day out, with a variety of attractions and activities to suit all ages and interests. Specialities: Some of the food stalls include German bratwurst, Belgian waffles, Dutch pancakes and roasted chestnuts. Other great Christmas markets to visit in London for 2023 London has a great range of Christmas markets to enjoy and in addition to the ones described above, you could also spend visiting these markets too!       Leicester Square Christmas Market The Leicester Square Christmas Market, or ‘Christmas in Leicester Square’, is central London’s festive heart. There are more than 25 wooden cabins that have been decorated with fairy lights and which add a traditional charm. There’s also a ‘Spiegeltent’, which is tent filled with mirrors and is home to a range of festive shows, from cabaret to family-friendly shows. Dates: 8 Nov-7 Jan 2023 Where: Leicester Square, London WC2H 7NA Open: Monday to Saturday: 10am to 9pm. Sunday: 12pm to 5pm. Closed on Christmas Day. Admission: Free, but some attractions require tickets, which can be booked online or on-site. Santa: No Accessible: Yes Ice skating: No Pets: No Why visit: The market is perfect for those who appreciate high-quality and luxury gifts, as well as street performances and stunning decorations. Specialities: Some of the products include fresh mince pies and traditional Christmas pud. Trafalgar Square Christmas Market The Trafalgar Square Christmas Market is a unique market that features the lighting of the Norwegian Christmas tree, an annual gift from Norway to the UK. This iconic tree serves as a thank-you gift from Norway to the UK for the support provided during World War II and has done so since 1947. Dates: 10 Nov-2 Jan 2023 Where: Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN Open: 11am to 9pm. Closed on Christmas Day. Admission: Free Christmas lights: 7 Dec switch on Santa: Yes Accessible: Yes Ice skating: No, but there is skating at Somerset House (11 min walk from Trafalgar Square). Pets: Yes Why visit: The market is ideal for those who want to witness the lighting of the historic Norwegian Christmas tree and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Specialities: Some of the food stalls include hot chestnuts, mince pies, local craft ales, roasted hog, and Christmas pudding. Winter by the River at London Bridge City Winter by the River is a festive extravaganza that offers something for everyone. The market features more than 200 wooden chalets selling a variety of gifts, crafts and treats, as well as a host of attractions and activities, such as ice-skating, roller-coaster rides, circus shows and live music. You can also visit Santa’s grotto, the ice bar, the ice sculpture kingdom, and the giant observation wheel. Dates: 17 Nov-2 Jan 2023 Where: London Bridge, London SE1 2DB Open: Daily: 10am to 10pm. Closed on Christmas Day. Admission: Free, but some attractions require tickets, which can be booked online or on-site. Christmas lights: The market and the park are illuminated by millions of lights, creating a dazzling and festive display. Santa: Yes, in his grotto, which is free to enter, but requires a ticket, which can be booked online or on-site. Ice skating: Yes, on the UK’s largest outdoor ice rink, which requires a ticket, which can be booked online or on-site. Pets: No, except for assistance dogs. Accessible: Yes, but some attractions may have limited access or require assistance. Why visit: The market is ideal for those who are looking for a fun-filled and action-packed day out, with a variety of attractions and activities to suit all ages and interests. Specialities: Some of the food stalls include German bratwurst, Belgian waffles, Dutch pancakes, and roasted chestnuts. Spitalfields Christmas Markets Spitalfields Christmas Markets are a series of festive markets that take place in the historic and vibrant area of Spitalfields. The markets offer a range of upscale crafts and gourmet foods, as well as performances by street artists and musicians. You can also admire the spectacular decorations, including the 60-foot Christmas tree, which has more than 30,000 lights, and the giant mistletoe chandeliers. Dates: 7 Nov-3 Jan 2023 Where: Spitalfields Market E1, Brushfield Street, London E1 6AA Open: Monday to Saturday: 10am to 9pm. Sunday: 12pm to 5pm. Closed on Christmas Day. Admission: Free Santa: No Accessible: Yes Ice skating: No Pets: Yes – not in busy periods. Why visit: The market is perfect for those who appreciate high-quality and luxury gifts, as well as lively street performances and stunning decorations. Specialities: Some of the products include fresh mince pies, Christmas pudding, unique chutneys and craft drinks. Greenwich Christmas Market The Greenwich Christmas Market is a charming market that features more than 150 wooden Christmas stalls that are in a World Heritage site. This market offers handmade items, including crafts, jewellery, and clothing, along with a variety of food and drinks. Dates: 17 Nov-26 Dec 2023 Where: Greenwich Market, London SE10 9HZ Open: Monday to Thursday: 11am to 10pm. Friday to Sunday: 10am to 10pm. Christmas Eve: 10am to 5pm. Closed on Christmas Day. Boxing Day: 12pm to 10pm. Admission: Free Christmas lights: The market is illuminated by fairy lights and lanterns, creating a cosy and festive atmosphere. Santa: No Accessible: Yes Ice skating: No Pets: Yes – not in busy periods. Why visit: The market is ideal for those who love to sample different cuisines and cultures, as well as enjoy live entertainment and stunning views. Specialities: Some of the food stalls include German sausages, Spanish paella, Indian curry, French crepes, and Turkish delight. Kingston Christmas Market The Kingston Christmas Market includes a horse carousel, market trader stalls, lots of food and drink and a live music stage. The market is in the ancient marketplace and Jubilee Square, offering a historical setting. The market has winter cabins on the riverside, with street food, pop-up bars and crafts. Dates: 14 Nov-24 Dec 2023 Where: Kingston upon Thames, London KT1 1EU Open: Sunday to Wednesday: 10am to 6pm. Thursday to Saturday: 10am to 8pm. Christmas Eve: 10am to 5pm. Closed on Christmas Day. Admission: Free Christmas lights: Yes. Santa: No, but there is a carousel for kids. Accessible: Yes Pets: Yes – not in busy periods. Ice skating: Not at the market, but at Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink. Why visit: Historical setting; traditional and contemporary stalls; ice rink; live entertainment; authentic Christmas experience. Specialities: Artisanal mince pies, mulled wine and cider, gourmet British sausages and British …