10 Must-See Christmas Markets in the UK
Christmas is the perfect time to visit Britain and discover its many magical Christmas markets. With so many markets to choose from, your festive getaway starts in Britain! Ferry across with DFDS for easy access to the best Christmas markets in England and Scotland.
Here are some of the best ones we recommend:
Edinburgh (25 November - 3 January 2023)
Dreaming of a trip to Scotland this winter? Edinburgh's Christmas Markets are the perfect place for young and old to enjoy the festive season. Enjoy family fun, arts and crafts and delicious Scottish specialities at these world-famous markets. And who knows, a little snow might even add to the Christmas cheer. Enjoy a glass of hot apple juice as you take in this beautiful city.
Newcastle (19 November - 23 December 2022)
How about exploring a city where you can soak up the beautiful fairytale atmosphere? Discover the north of England this winter by visiting Newcastle, and enjoy delicious, traditional food under the twinkling lights of the historic cobbled streets. Located in the heart of the bustling city centre, these Christmas markets are filled with wooden chalets where local traders offer handmade decorations and other handicrafts. It's the perfect place to find unique gifts for your loved ones. Plus, you can go straight to Newcastle with our crossing from Amsterdam.
York (17 November - 23 December 2022)
If you visit York this Christmas, you'll find yourself immersed in a winter wonderland. 70 wooden chalets will be spread across the heart of this beautiful and historic city, offering an amazing variety of products, from toys and gifts to mittens, gin and even toffee... all made by hand. This year the city celebrates 30 years of the famous Christmas markets, so don't miss out on this great event!
Manchester (10 November - 22 December 2022)
Why not visit Britain's oldest and one of the largest markets? Manchester welcomes over 9 million visitors to its festive markets every year. These huge markets are located all over the city and are perfect for couples, groups of friends and families: this year marks the first time a dedicated family site has opened, with entertainment and shows for children. You'll be enchanted by the magic of Christmas in the city.
Winter Wonderland: Hyde Park (18 November 2022 - 2 January 2023)
In the heart of England's capital, one of its most spectacular parks is transformed into a festive paradise every winter. You'll be spoilt for choice with everything Winter Wonderland has to offer, from rides to incredible ice rinks. Why not take in one of the circus shows for a completely unique Christmas experience?
Bath (24 November - 11 December 2022)
Join tens of thousands of visitors and discover Bath's Christmas markets this winter. Take the opportunity to stock up on locally made gifts including jewellery, home accessories and art. Lose yourself in the romantic atmosphere and explore over 150 wooden chalets of fabulous crafts and food. Hurry, this market is only open for a fortnight of the year.
Brighton (18 November - 24 December 2022)
With a wonderfully charming atmosphere and a unique seaside location, Brighton's Christmas markets are a delight to visit. This winter wonderland offers products from all over the world. We recommend you try the delicious mulled wine and enjoy it while listening to the live music. Book a ferry from Dieppe to Newhaven and be in Brighton in no time.
Padstow, Cornwall (1 December - 4 December 2022)
Cornwall offers a unique 4-day extravaganza unlike any other Christmas market you've ever seen. In Padstow, England, you can enjoy free cooking demonstrations by celebrity chefs, as well as sampling local produce and drinks. In addition, the event features live music, a fireworks show and even a lantern parade. It's an experience not to be missed!
Rochester, Kent (3 consecutive weekends between 26 November and 11 December 2022)
In Rochester, Kent, a Bavarian food village awaits you. Set in the unique surroundings of Rochester Castle Gardens, these Christmas markets are a must for anyone visiting the south of England this winter. You'll find fair trade clothing, animal toys, homemade jams and many other special gifts. Don't miss out!
Canterbury (11 November to 24 December 2022)
Last but not least, we recommend visiting the Canterbury Christmas markets. Soak up the festive atmosphere and devour the delicious food on offer: sweets, cheeses and burgers... there's something for everyone. Canterbury is only half an hour from the Dover terminal, so it's easier than ever to get away for a Christmas break in Britain by crossing from Calais or Dunkirk. Take the opportunity to buy personalised decorations and other goodies from the wooden chalets of local artisans.
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