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Looking to try out the best christmas markets in London? Look no further.
The winter season is here and we all know what that means — it's time to get festive. The best way? To head out to one of the magical Christmas markets in London.
Nothing gets me in the festive mood quite like cosplaying that I'm in a Netflix Christmas rom-com, and a Christmas market offers the perfect setting. I grab a steaming hot chocolate or mulled wine, I browse the artisanal craft stalls for cute wooden ornaments, I sample the Christmassy food. It's a whole ritual.
Luckily, there are plenty of Christmas markets in London where all of my most festive daydreams can come true. From the famous sprawling Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park to the adorable stalls along the Southbank to foodie heaven at Borough Market, here are our picks.
Winter by the River
What is it? A winter festival set on the Thames, this market promises a “labyrinth of bustling market stalls” where you'll find sweet festive gifts for everyone on your list. A highlight of this market is the Glasshouse pop-up bars, which feature views of the river and plenty of activities, ranging from wreath making to cocktail masterclasses to gingerbread decoration.
When is it? 12 November to 5 January, open daily 11:00 - 22:00
Where is it? London Bridge City Pier, SE1 2PR
Find out more here.
King's Cross
What is it? The lovely Coal Drops Yard is transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with lights and decorations. You'll find a festive neon light installation, a giant 50-foot Christmas tree, live music and, of course, plenty of delicious food and drink.
When is it? 8 November to end of December
Where is it? Coal Drops Yard, Stable St, London N1C 4DQ
Find out more here.
Borough Market
What is it? Borough Market is kind of the year-round Christmas market, but in December, the bustling stalls are decked out with hundreds of fairy lights, while many of the stalls offer special festive food and drink. Be sure to catch the yearly Evening of Cheese on 11 December.
When is it? Every day apart from 25, 26 and 27 December
Where is it? Borough Market, London SE1 9AL
Find out more here.
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Southbank Centre
What is it? The winter market outside of the Southbank Centre offers iconic views of the London city skyline from the south side of the Thames, along with dozens of alpine-style chalets selling food, drinks and gifts. Plus, you're just steps from dozens of other restaurants that line the Southbank in case you get chilly.
When is it? 1 Nov to 26 Dec, Sun – Thu, 11am – 10pm, Fri –Sat, 11am – 11pm
Where is it? Queen's Walk, London SE1 8XZ
Find out more here.
Spitalfields Market
What is it? Spitalfields Market is famous for its food, vintage clothes, artisanal goods and retail shops, and every Christmas, it gives everything the festive treatment. There will be live music, festive decor and a lot to see — namely, 42 food and drink vendors and 54 shops and stalls.
When is it? From 13 November
Where is it? Spitalfields Market, 65 Brushfield St, London E1 6AA
Find out more here.
Trafalgar Square
What is it? This relatively little Christmas market is a more relaxed, less overwhelming alternative to the busy and big markets in Hyde Park or on the Southbank. Outside the National Gallery, you'll find a few cute festive stalls for all of your wintery needs — food, drinks and presents! And, of course, the towering spruce tree in Trafalgar Square is transformed into a stunning Christmas tree to add a little atmosphere.
When is it? November 9th to January 2nd
Where is it? 5 Trafalgar Sq, London WC2N 5DS
Greenwich Market
What is it? Did you know that every year the Cutty Sark is transformed into a nautical Christmas boat complete with light up sails? Well, it is. And there's also an adorable Christmas market right next door, where you'll find festive wooden stalls, Christmas carollers, a lantern parade and more.
When is it? 20 November to end of December
Where is it? Greenwich Market, 5B Greenwich Market, London SE10 9HZ
Find out more here.
Kingston
What is it? A classic “European-style” Christmas market complete with charming little wooden stalls, warm fairy lights, mulled beverages and good vibes. In addition to food, drinks and stocking stuffers, you'll find carol singers, live music and even Bavarian Curling lanes.
When is it? 14 November to 5 January
Where is it? Kingston Ancient Market Place, Kingston-Upon-Thames, London KT1 1JS
Find out more here.
Winter Wonderland
What is it? The big one! Think rides, DJs, skating, a festive railway. Every year, Hyde Park is transformed into a true winter wonderland — the Christmas market is only a small part of it. Safe to say, you'll be blown away.
When is it? 21 November to 5 January
Where is it? Hyde Park, W2 2UH
Find out more here.
Leicester Square
What is it? Head to Leicester Square in the middle of Soho to take in this cosy little Christmas market. Surrounded by cinemas and theatres, this market feels like a festive little oasis in the heart of the city. You'll find pretty lights, cute trinkets, festive music and more.
When is it? From 6 November
Where is it? Leicester Square, London WC2H 7LU
