Ah, Christmas in London! A time when the city transforms into a winter wonderland, with twinkling lights, the scent of mulled wine wafting through the air, and the joyous sounds of carols echoing in the streets. But perhaps nothing captures the spirit of the season quite like London’s enchanting Christmas markets. Let’s dive into this festive world, shall we?
Christmas markets have been a beloved European tradition for centuries, originating in Germany and Austria before spreading across the continent. These magical pop-up villages bring together local artisans, food vendors, and entertainers to create a unique holiday atmosphere. In recent years, London has embraced this tradition with gusto, offering a plethora of markets that cater to every taste and interest.
From the grandeur of Winter Wonderland to the intimate charm of local markets, London and its surroundings offer a Christmas market experience for every taste. Whether you’re after unique gifts, delicious treats, or simply soaking up the festive atmosphere, these markets are sure to get you into the holiday spirit. So, bundle up, grab a cup of mulled wine, and lose yourself in the magic of London’s Christmas markets. Who knows? You might just find that perfect gift, taste a new festive treat, or create a cherished holiday memory.
Christmas markets in London
London’s Christmas markets are as diverse as the city itself, each offering its own unique charm and attractions. From the grand spectacle of Winter Wonderland to the intimate charm of local neighbourhood markets, there’s something for everyone. Let’s explore some of the must-visit markets in the heart of the city.
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
Winter Wonderland has been a staple of London’s Christmas scene since 2007. What started as a small collection of market stalls and rides has grown into one of the largest winter festivals in Europe. A trip to Winter Wonderland has been one of my favourite Christmas warmups for quite a while now.
What makes it special
This isn’t just a market; it’s a full-blown winter extravaganza! With over 200 stalls offering gifts, food, and festive drinks, it’s a shopper’s paradise. But that’s just the beginning. Ice skating, circus shows, a giant observation wheel, and an ice kingdom make Winter Wonderland a true festive playground for all ages.
Tips to make the most of it: Book tickets in advance for popular attractions to avoid disappointment. Visit during weekdays or earlier in the day to dodge the crowds and soak in the atmosphere at a more leisurely pace. Don’t miss the Magical Ice Kingdom – it’s a frosty wonderland that’ll transport you to another world!
📍 Address: Hyde Park, Serpentine Road, London, W2 2UH
🚇 Nearest Underground station: Hyde Park Corner – Piccadilly line / Marble Arch – Central line
🚍 Bus routes: 2, 6, 9, 14, 52, 74, 414 & 452
🕘 21st November 2024 to 5th January 2025: Monday to Sunday 10:00 until 22:00
🎟️ Save money & avoid queues,
Christmas in Leicester Square
Leicester Square, known for its bustling atmosphere and entertainment offerings, transforms into a cozy Christmas village during the festive season. Maybe not the biggest market but it’s a nice place to stop off and enjoy a bit of festive cheer when you’re in the West End.
What makes it special
This small but mighty market packs a punch with its traditional craft stalls and festive foods. The real star of the show? The Spiegeltent, hosting family shows and cabaret performances that add a touch of theatrical magic to your market experience.
Tips to make the most of it: Reserve tickets for the Spiegeltent shows early – they’re popular and often sell out. Combine your visit with a West End show for the ultimate London Christmas experience.
📍 Address: Shakespeare Water Fountain, 4 Leicester Square, London, WC2H 7DE
🏡 Neighbourhood: West End
🚇 Nearest Underground station: Leicester Square – Northern and Piccadilly lines
🚍 Bus routes: 12, 14, 24, 29, 88 & 94
🕘 6th November 2024 to 6th January 2025: Monday to Sunday 10:00 until 22:00
Southbank Centre Winter Market
The Southbank Centre, a hub of arts and culture, transforms its riverside location into a winter wonderland each year. The stalls for the festival weave their way around the buildings along the South Bank, making it a great place for a stroll. It’s certainly one that I have enjoyed over the years.
What makes it special
This vibrant winter market stretches along the Thames, offering stunning views of London’s landmarks. With a mix of craft stalls, street food, and live performances, it’s a feast for all the senses. The market is family-friendly with a range of activities for kids, making it a festive destination for all ages.
Tips to make the most of it: Visit in the late afternoon to catch the sunset over the river and see the festive lights come to life. Don’t miss the pop-up bars for seasonal cocktails with a view. Because it is near the river, you’re likely to get cold breezes, so dress up nice and warm.
📍 Address: The Queen’s Walk, London, SE1 8XX
🏡 Neighbourhood: South Bank
🚇 Nearest Underground station: Waterloo – Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern and Waterloo & City lines
🚇 Nearest station: Waterloo
🚍 Bus routes: 1, 11,76 77, 172, 341, 381 & C10
🕘 1 November to 26 December: Monday to Thursday 11:00 until 22:00, Friday & Saturday 11:00 until 23:00, Sunday 11:00 until 22:00
Winter by the River
Making a welcome return in 2024, Winter by the River has long been a visitor favourite for its stunning location and laid-back vibe. It’s great to wander along the south bank of the Thames, sipping some mulled wine as you browse the stalls.
What makes it special
Picture this: sipping mulled wine as you gaze at Tower Bridge and the City skyline, all lit up for Christmas. That’s the magic of Winter by the River. It offers a more relaxed shopping experience compared to some of the busier markets.
Tips to make the most of it: Don’t miss the festive decorations at Hay’s Galleria – they’re Instagram gold! Take a stroll along the Thames Path for some of the best views in London.
📍 Address: London Bridge City, Queen’s Walk, London, SE1 2AA
🏡 Neighbourhood: London Bridge
🚇 Nearest Underground station: London Bridge – Jubilee & Northern lines
🚇 Nearest station: London Bridge
🚍 Bus routes: 17, 21, 35, 42, 47, 78, 133, 343 & 381
🕘 13th November 2024 to 1st January 2025: Monday to Sunday 17:30 until 22:00
Spitalfields Christmas Market
Old Spitalfields Market has been a hub of commerce since the 17th century. Its Christmas market continues this tradition with a modern, eco-conscious twist. Shop unique fashion, accessories, kidswear, toys, jewellery, art, prints and homeware. Old Spitalfields Market is a great place to visit at any time of year and if you’re looking for a Christmas gift that you won’t find anywhere on the high-street, you’ll probably find it there.
What makes it special
If you’re after unique, sustainable, and zero-waste gifts, this is your spot. Local designers and makers showcase their wares, offering everything from handcrafted jewellery to artisanal foods.
Tips to make the most of it: Check out the live performances and workshops held on weekends – they’re a great way to get into the festive spirit. Keep an eye out for pop-up bars serving seasonal cocktails – perfect for warming up on a chilly day! Traders may change day to day, so check out the Spitalfields Market Instagram for details of special offerings.
📍 Address: 65 Brushfield Street, London, E1 6AA
🏡 Neighbourhood: Spitalfields
🚇 Nearest Underground station: Aldgate East – District line / Liverpool Street – Central, Elizabeth, Metropolitan and Hammersmith & City lines
🚇 Nearest Overground station: Liverpool Street – Weaver line
🚇 Nearest station: Liverpool Street
🚍 Bus routes: 8, 11, 26, 35, 42, 47, 78, 135, 149, 205, 242 & 388
🕘 13th November to 24th December 2024: Monday to Friday 10:00 until 18:00, Saturday 11:00 until 17:00, Sunday 10:00 until 18:00
Markets outside London, but worth a visit
Sometimes, the best Christmas experiences lie just beyond the city limits. Here are a few markets that are worth the short(ish) journey from London.
Kingston Upon Thames Christmas Market
Kingston Upon Thames, with its rich royal history, provides a picturesque backdrop for this charming Christmas market. Held in the Ancient Market Place, it’s a truly magical market with some great food & drink offerings.
What makes it special
Over 40 traditional wooden cabins sell festive treasures, handmade crafts, and unique gifts. The market’s pedestrian-friendly atmosphere and regular live entertainment create a perfect spot for families and those seeking a relaxed, charming Christmas experience. Wander around under twinkling fairy lights as you enjoy steaming mulled wine at one of the UK’s prettiest markets.
Tips to make the most of it: Explore in the early evening to catch the magical lighting and avoid the busiest times. Take a riverside walk to work up an appetite for the classic street food on offer.
📍 Address: Ancient Market Place, Kingston upon Thames, KT1 1JS
🚇 Nearest station: Kingston – direct train from London Waterloo, taking under 30 minutes
🕘 14th November 2024 to 5th January 2025: Monday to Wednesday 10:00 until 18:00, Thursday to Saturday 10:00 until 20:00, Sunday 10:00 until 18:00
Hampton Court Palace Festive Fayre
Hosted at Henry VIII’s famous palace, this market combines Tudor splendour with festive cheer. For two weekends in December the palace hosts a fantastic market that focusses heavily on food. It’s a favourite of my parents, who have regularly combined a trip to the festival with a pre-Christmas meet-up with me.
What makes it special
With over 100 artisan producers offering food, drink, and Christmas gifts, the Fayre is a feast for the senses. The palace’s architecture and gardens create a truly unique setting, transporting visitors to a Christmas of centuries past.
Tips to make the most of it: Book tickets in advance, as this popular event often sells out. Dress warmly – it’s mostly an outdoor event, and Tudor castles can be chilly!
📍 Address: Hampton Court Way, East Molesey, KT8 9AU
🚇 Nearest station: Hampton Court – Direct train from London Waterloo, taking 35 minutes
🕘 6th to 8th & 13th to 15th December 2024 Friday to Sunday 10:00 until 17:00
🎟️ Buy your Hampton Court Palace Festive Fayre tickets now
Bath Christmas Market
Bath’s Christmas Market has been running since 2000 and has quickly become one of the most popular in the UK, thanks to its stunning Georgian backdrop. While it may be a bit of journey from London, it’s worth the effort and a visit to bath is a good day out. Another favourite of my parents, they’ve already booked their train tickets for their December 2024 visit.
What makes it special
Over 170 craft and food stalls set against Bath’s UNESCO World Heritage architecture create a truly magical atmosphere. The focus on local artisans and sustainable products makes it a great place to find unique gifts. You’ll find handmade gifts, local artwork, designer jewellery, and more from stalls featuring artisan jewellers, cheesemongers, and homewares.
Tips to make the most of it: Visit on weekdays to avoid the crowds and have a more relaxed experience. Take note of the dates – it closes mid-December, earlier than most other markets.
📍 Address: Streets surrounding Bath Abbey, Abbey Street, Bath, BA1 1LT
🚇 Nearest station: Bath Spa – Direct train from London Paddington takes around 90 minutes
🕘 28 November to 15 December 2024: Monday to Wednesday 10:00 until 19:00, Thursday to Saturday: 10:00 until 20:00 and Sunday 10:00 until 18:00
Not strictly Christmas markets but definitely festive
Some of London’s most magical Christmas experiences aren’t traditional markets, but they’re too good to miss. Here are a couple of my festive favourites:
Skate at Somerset House
Somerset House, a grand Neoclassical building, has been hosting ice skating since 2000, quickly becoming a beloved London Christmas tradition. Even if you don’t want to venture onto the ice, it’s still a lovely place to enjoy some mulled wine.
What makes it special
Skating in the beautiful Edmond J. Safra Fountain Court, with a giant Christmas tree at its centre, is a truly magical experience. The “Skate Lates” with DJ sets add a contemporary twist to this classic winter activity.
Tips to make the most of it: Book tickets in advance, especially for popular evening slots. Try the Skate School if you’re new to ice skating – it’s a great way to build confidence on the ice.
📍 Address: Strand, London, WC2R 1LA
🏡 Neighbourhood: Strand
🚇 Nearest Underground station: Temple – Circle and District lines
🚇 Nearest station: Waterloo
🚍 Bus routes: 1, 9, 15, 23, 26, 59, 68, 76, 87, 91, 139, 172, 176, 188, 243, 341 & SL6
🕘 Monday to Sunday 08:00 until 19:00 or dusk, whichever is earlier
🕘 Best times to visit: Weekday lunchtimes to see city workers enjoying this urban oasis
🎟️ Buy your Skate at Somerset House tickets now
Borough Market at Christmas
Borough Market has been feeding London for over a thousand years. At Christmas, it takes on a special magic, blending its usual gourmet offerings with seasonal specialties. At any time of year, exploring the gastronomic delights is a joy. With the addition of Christmas goodies there’s even more tempting than usual. For the month of December, it’s open seven-days-a-week.
What makes it special
This is foodie heaven! From artisanal cheeses to fine wines and seasonal delicacies, Borough Market is the place to stock up for your Christmas feast or find the perfect edible gift.
Tips to make the most of it: Don’t miss the Evening of Cheese event – it’s a cheese lover’s dream come true. Visit on weekdays for a more relaxed experience and the chance to chat with vendors.
📍 Address: 8 Southwark Street, London, SE1 1TL
🏡 Neighbourhood: Bankside
🚇 Nearest Underground station: London Bridge – Jubilee and Northern lines
🚇 Nearest station: London Bridge
🚍 Bus routes: 17, 21, 34, 35, 43, 47, 133, 141, 149, 288, 343, 344, 381 & 388
🕘 December: Monday to Saturday 10:00 until 17:00, Sunday 10:00 until 16:00
Wrapping up the festive fun
Remember, the true magic of Christmas lies not just in the gifts we buy, but in the memories we make and the joy we share. So gather your loved ones, brave the crisp winter air, and immerse yourself in the wonderland that is London at Christmas.
We’d love to hear about your favourite Christmas market experiences in London! Have you visited any of the markets we’ve mentioned? Or do you have a hidden gem to share? Leave a comment below and let’s keep the festive spirit alive!
I moved to London in 1991 ‘for a couple of years’ in search of a new career. More thirty years later I continue to enjoy being in the city, sometimes seeing it through the eyes of a local and sometimes with eyes of a tour guide as I share places I love with family & friends. From bar food in Borough to Michelin-starred meals in Mayfair and from market stalls in Soho to the shameless extravagance of Selfridges, I love the rich variety London has to offer and sharing that with others.