Nothing ushers in the holiday season quite like a visit to one of London’s magical Christmas markets. These festive markets offer seasonal shopping, delicious food and drinks, entertainment, and plenty of holiday cheer that the whole family can enjoy.
Read on for the details on the top Christmas markets to check out in London this year!
Christmas markets have long been a cherished tradition across Europe, and London eventually adopted the festivities in the early 2000s. While markets had occasionally popped up in past years, London started consistently hosting several large Christmas markets in London annually beginning in the early 2000s.
Over the decades these London holiday markets have expanded to become a central part of Christmas in the city. Locals and tourists alike now can’t imagine the season without sipping mulled wine and shopping for presents among twinkling lights at one of London’s many Christmas markets.
The markets open from late November through December, filling London with holiday spirit.
Winter Wonderland – A London Christmas Tradition
Of course, no discussion of London’s Christmas markets is complete without mentioning the iconic Hyde Park Winter Wonderland. Since 2007, this massive Christmas attraction has become synonymous with the holidays in London.
Winter Wonderland offers over 100 rides and shows, festive foods and drinks, and an expansive Christmas market with over 200 wooden chalets selling presents, ornaments, toys, clothing and more. It’s a one-stop holiday extravaganza and must-do London Christmas event.
Charming Christmas Market at Southbank Centre
Nestled along the River Thames, the Southbank Centre Christmas Market hosts 80+ festive chalets selling unique artisan gifts from local designers. This mid-sized market also features classic Christmas foods like bratwurst, mulled wine, and roasted chestnuts. Live music fills the air to enhance the festive ambiance.
Family-Friendly Greenwich Christmas Market
For a cosy, family-friendly experience, head to the Greenwich Christmas Market. This smaller market has a village-like feel with about 150 vendors selling handmade crafts, artisan foods and drinks, home decorations, and more. Grab some mulled wine and listen to carolers while finding lovely presents.
Lively Market in Leicester Square
The popular Leicester Square Christmas Market features over 40 charming chalets decorated with twinkle lights. Vendors sell unique Christmas-themed presents, ornaments, clothing, art, and more. You can also satisfy your holiday cravings with German sausages, waffles, gingerbread, and mulled wine.
Riverside Market with Tower Bridge Views
Nestled next to the Thames with iconic Tower Bridge views, the Christmas by the River market at London Bridge boasts over 50 chalets full of gifts. This scenic market with London Christmas ambiance is great for finding crafts, clothing, jewellery, decorations, and foods.
Plan your magical London Christmas market adventure this holiday season!
