The Very Best Of The UK’s Christmas Markets

Nothing beats getting into the festive spirit than grabbing your woolly hat and gloves and heading to one of the UK’s many Christmas Markets. Colourful lights illuminate traditional wooden chalets, while the smell of chocolate, mulled wine and Bratwurst sausages fill the air, all adding to the festive atmosphere.

While there are some amazing markets all over the world, there are some equally as magical Christmas markets right on your doorstep here in the UK.

So why not treat yourself to a staycation this year and enjoy the following great little breaks in the some of the UK’s most vibrant cities.

Birmingham

Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market 

Birmingham city hosts the largest authentic German Christmas Market outside of Germany or Austria and attracts thousands of visitors from all over the UK every year.

This year will be a particularly special one as the Frankfurt Christmas Market will be celebrating the 50 year anniversary partnership between Birmingham and Frankfurt – a collaboration which has resulted in many exciting projects and initiatives.

Where and when

Dates: 17 November to 29 December 2016, except Christmas Day
Times: 10am to 9pm
Location: Victoria Square and New Street

Edinburgh 

Edinburgh European Christmas Market 

Edinburgh is a city steeped in history, providing visitors with the perfect place to embrace the magic of Christmas while enjoying the sights. Offering an array of tasty European treats (including traditional foods such as haggis), fairground rides, circus performances and a wealth of live music, this market has plenty of things going on to keep you entertained!

Where and when

Dates: 19 November 2016 to 7 January 2017, except Christmas Day
Times: 10am to 10pm (please note markets close at 8pm on 24 December and open at 11am on 26 December and 1 January).
Location: East Princes St Gardens

Manchester

Manchester Christmas Market

With over 300 stalls spread across several markets in the city centre, Manchester’s Christmas Market is a great place to soak up the festive atmosphere while hunting for those last minute presents. Unlike most markets, Manchester embraces an international approach offering crafts, clothes, toys, gifts and food from all corners of the globe.

Where and when

Dates: 10 November to 21 December
Times: 10am to 9pm
Location: Main market is found on Albert Square (visit website for other locations)

York 

York St Nicholas Fair 

York is a truly great destination at any time of year, but there is something particularly Dickensian about the city during the festive season.  As the city transforms into a winter wonderland you’ll almost certainly feel as though you have taken a step back in time to the real life version of A Christmas Carol.

Where and when

Dates: 17 November to 23 December
Times: Sunday to Wednesdays: 10am – 6pm and Thursdays – Saturday: 10am – 8pm
Location: Parliament Street, St Sampson’s Square and The Judge’s Lodging.

Which UK Christmas Markets will you be visiting this year? I’d love to hear your recommendations below! 

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Disclaimer: This post was brought to you in partnership with Great Little Breaks, but as always all opinions and views expressed in this post are my own 🙂