UK Christmas Markets for a Festive Escape in 2025
It’s the most wonderful time of the year and what better way to enjoy the build-up to it than heading off to a Christmas Market to get into the festive spirit. As well as the many Christmas Markets located in Central Europe, there are so many in the UK that are definitely worth visiting.
London
Winter Wonderland
Arguably the biggest Christmas Market in London, Winter Wonderland is located in Hyde Park and runs from the last weekend of November to the first weekend of January. Hyde Park is located in the heart of London. Winter Wonderland is home to the world’s tallest transportable Observation Wheel, which offers spectacular views of the city, as well as the UK’s largest open-air ice rink with a new après ski bar this year. Check out the website for up to date opening times and to see this year’s theme.
Manchester
The Albert Square Christmas Market
The Albert Square Christmas Market runs from the second weekend of November to the last weekend before Christmas. The markets will also spread out to other locations including Exchange Square and St Ann’s Square. Manchester’s free and accessible to all award-winning Christmas Markets offer mouth-watering international food, drinks and delicately crafted German gifts with more than 300 beautifully decorated stalls spread across the city centre.
Ranked as Europe’s second-best Christmas market by Time Out magazine, Manchester Christmas markets have now become a beloved tradition, drawing hordes of visitors to the city centre. For those combining their market visit with other activities, there's no shortage of things to do in Manchester.
Birmingham
Frankfurt Christmas Market
Birmingham's Frankfurt Christmas Market, one of the popular Christmas markets in the UK, runs from the first weekend of November until the last weekend before Christmas. The market,
which is also the most authentic German market outside of Germany and Austria, offers a large range of traditional goods and gifts and a selection of enticing food and drink. Pretzels and schnitzels will tempt your taste buds, all of which can be washed down with glühwein, Weissbier or delicious hot chocolate.
Cardiff
Cardiff City Christmas Market
The Christmas Markets in Cardiff City Centre runs from the second weekend of November to the last weekend before Christmas. Mulled wine will keep you warm as you explore the stalls in the heart of Cardiff. If planning a weekend visit, check out our 48 hours in Cardiff itinerary.
Leeds
Christkindelmarkt
Located at Millennium Square is Christkendelmarkt, Leeds’ famous Christmas Markets which runs from the second weekend of November to the last weekend before Christmas. Turning the Square into a scenic winter village featuring a variety of authentic wooden chalet stalls, cosy indoor retreats and a traditional carousel.
Belfast
Belfast Christmas Markets
The Belfast Christmas Markets, located at the City Hall grounds runs from the last weekend in November to the last weekend before Christmas. With over 30 international food traders, exotic burgers to French crepes, you’ll be sure to be leaving with a full tummy.
FAQs: UK Christmas Markets
Some of the popular Christmas markets in the UK include London’s Winter Wonderland, Manchester, Birmingham, and Leeds.
Definitely. The UK is full of festive lights, decorations, and charming Christmas markets that make it magical in December.
Yes, it’s one of the most spectacular UK Christmas Markets, offering festive fun, ice skating, rides, and delicious food stalls.
UK Christmas Markets
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