Christmas market season is almost here. From grand German-style markets to historic city squares strung with lights, these are the UK’s best festive markets to visit in 2026.
Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market
The largest authentic German Christmas market outside Germany and Austria returns to Victoria Square and New Street. With dozens of stalls selling bratwurst, gluhwein, stollen and handcrafted gifts, plus live music on the bandstand, it remains the benchmark for UK Christmas markets.
Bath Christmas Market
Set among Bath’s honey-coloured Georgian streets and the Abbey, this is one of the most beautiful market settings in the country. More than 170 chalets line the streets selling local crafts, food and drink, all within walking distance of the Roman Baths.
Edinburgh’s Christmas
East Princes Street Gardens transforms into a winter festival with markets, rides and an ice rink, all beneath the castle. The setting is unbeatable, and the market pairs perfectly with a weekend exploring the Royal Mile and the city’s pubs.
Manchester Christmas Markets
Spread across the city centre in themed zones, Manchester’s markets are among the biggest in the UK. The French, German and world food sections make it as much about eating as shopping.
Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market
Smaller and more traditional, Winchester’s market sits in the cathedral close and is known for its curated British craftspeople and artisan food producers. Ideal if you prefer atmosphere over scale.
London options
In the capital, Winter Wonderland returns to Hyde Park, the Southbank Centre Winter Market lines the Thames, and Leicester Square hosts its traditional market. Each has a different feel, so pick the one that suits your evening.
Tips for visiting
- Go on a weekday evening if you can. Weekends, especially Saturdays, get extremely busy at the big markets
- Book accommodation early for Bath, Edinburgh and Winchester, as market weekends sell out
- Wrap up warm and wear proper shoes. You will be standing and walking on cold ground for hours
- Bring cash as well as cards. Most stalls take cards now, but a few traditional ones still prefer cash
