Top five Christmas markets to visit this Winter
Can you believe that it’s almost November? This year has certainly flown by, but with Autumn/Winter brings about one of our favourite parts of the seasons, festive markets in London. We find pure joy in seeing all of the interesting nick-nacks that independent retailers have in their stalls and the smell of festive food and mulled wine just warms our cockles.
One issue that can arise around this time of year is figuring out which of the festive markets to go to, with there increasing popularity over the years the amount of markets popping up all over the place can be dauting. To make it easier for you to decide which market suits your needs the most we’ve compiled a ‘short-list’ of the most popular top festive markets in and around the city of London.
- Covent Garden Christmas Village
Every year Covent Garden has one of the most spectacular Christmas Markets in the city, with the return of it’s impressive 60ft Christmas Tree and decorations galore set to engulf the Piazza it really is a sight to behold. You can expect the village to be packed with quirky independent stalls, pop-up mulled wine bars of varying kinds and all the festive food you can indulge in.
Dates and times are still to be confirmed.
- Kingston Christmas Market
Kingston’s Christmas Market is one with a twist, merging traditional British style with a European style making it one of the most interesting markets around London. Steeped in history the Ancient Market Square has hosted markets since the 1200’s.
The festive décor is truly magical with the whole market being made up of wooden huts and adorned with decorations it’s hard to not get in the spirit, the food offering is truly something else with Bratwurst grills, hog roast wraps and a German-style bar providing steins of beer or mulled wine you will be spoilt for choice. Whilst you’re enjoying your selected food and drink of choice you’ll be able to enjoy a programme of live entertainment which takes place on the stage set up in the centre and there’s even a carousel that children can enjoy.
Market Stalls opening dates: 10th November – 24th December 2022
Bar, Food & Entertainment: Open until 2nd January 2023
- Selfridges Christmas Market
After a successful inaugural year, Selfridges Christmas Market makes a strong comeback intended to be bigger and better than it’s debut. The market is presented in collaboration with founder of Street Feast, Dominic Cools-Lartigue, meaning you can expect some mouth-watering experiences whilst you enjoy the market which is set to take up the entirety of Edward Mews.
Selfridges have really set the bar high this year and you can expect beautiful gifts from independent retailers as well as your classic favourites, performances from Santa and friends, a helter-skelter that was designed to amaze, sustainably grown Christmas trees and the best street food that London has to offer.
When: 5th November – 23rd December, 4–9pm on weekdays & 12–9pm at weekends
Where: Edwards Mews, at the rear of Selfridges London
- Southbank Centre Winter Market
Over the years Southbank really have come into their own when it comes to providing a festive market for all. As you navigate your way down the Thames you’ll get to witness all of the wonder of the twinkling lights of the festive trail that leads you to the winter market and upon arrival be awe-struck by the festive pop-up bars where a selection of winter warmers are available including hot chocolate for the little ones. The alpine-style chalets are really the show stealer though, there is something truly magical about enjoying food and drinks in your own personal dome under twinkling lights in the evening watching people pass you by.
Opening dates: 3rd November – 26th December
Opening times: Sunday – Thursday 11am – 10pm, Friday & Saturday 11am – 11pm
- Winter Wonderland Christmas market
Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park boasts 100 stalls and counting, the wooden cabins are packed with everything you could imagine and more although considering that it’s one of the biggest festive markets in London that’s hardly a shock. You’ll be able to find amazing gifts ranging from beautiful craftwork to handmade pieces of jewellery and so much more. The market is located directly next to the ice rink for anyone wishing to make a b-line for the stalls and enjoy the rest of the Wonderland after.
Opening dates: 18th November – 2nd January 2023
Opening Times: 10am – 10pm daily
Planning on coming to London over the festive period and need somewhere to stay? Look no further than Mercure London Hyde Park, where we have fully customisable amenities and extras enable you to have the perfect festive family holiday.
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