A Christmas market can be a lovely day out as we approach the festive season.
Uplifting music, comfort food, and mulled wine are all on offer, along with a variety of entertainment options. Plus, you can enjoy a leisurely browse to find some unique gifts.
While Europe is home to many beautiful markets, the UK also has plenty, so you won’t have to travel too far to find one.
Dating back to the 14th century, Christmas markets are now a global tradition
The first historical record of a winter market, the precursor to today’s Christmas counterpart, is that of Munich in 1310. This was followed by Bautzen in 1384 and Frankfurt in 1393, with this centuries-old festive tradition now reaching right across the world.
Historically, Christmas markets were held on a church square, intended as a post-worship activity. The markets would usually sell simple handmade toys, along with sweets and locally made crafts.
These traditions remain today, and Christmas markets are held all over the world.
If you fancy a trip out to get you feeling in the festive mood, take a look at six Christmas markets you can enjoy in the UK.
1. Edinburgh
Scotland’s capital boasts a world-renowned Christmas market, located on East Princes Street, full of festive spirit. Browse the colourfully decorated chalets for some original gift inspiration, or to stock up on handmade decorations from crafters, artists, and independent retailers.
Festive food and drink are in plentiful supply, so you can stay warm with a comforting hot chocolate or spiced mulled wine. If you’re taking your grandchildren, they can even meet the big man himself, as Father Christmas and his elves host the popular Santa’s Stories experience for little ones.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, the 80-metre high Starflyer offers a birds’ eye view of the city skyline and rooftops as you whizz around.
For a more sedate experience, the LNER Big Wheel features enclosed pods to protect you from the elements as you take in the glittering views.
Open daily from 10 am, 15 November 2025 – 4 January 2026 (closed Christmas Day).
2. Manchester
With over 200 stalls set across 10 sites, Manchester’s Christmas Markets transform the city centre over the festive season.
Albert Square
Albert Square’s Taste of Christmas is perfect for foodies. Sample some traditional German bratwursts, or if you have a sweet tooth, try the delicious waffles and pancakes, washed down with a classic German beer. You’ll also find fairground attractions, with the Ferris wheel taking you soaring high to enjoy some spectacular views.
Open daily from 10 am, 7 November until 4 January (closed Christmas Day).
Piccadilly Gardens
The beautiful Winter Gardens are a firm favourite for festive visitors to the city and locals alike.
With food from around the world, including Greek gyros, Yorkshire pudding, and Chinese dumplings, there’s something to suit every taste. Wander around the gift stalls, with pottery, jewellery, and handmade crafts, perfect as stocking fillers or a treat for yourself. Plus, Bar Hutte’s karaoke huts will be playing classic Christmas songs, so get ready to sing along!
Open daily from 10 am, 7 November until 22 December.
Other venues in Manchester include:
- Market Street
- Cathedral Gardens
- St Ann’s Square
- Exchange Street
- New Cathedral Street
- Exchange Square
- King Street
- The Corn Exchange
3. Winchester Cathedral
Attracting visitors from all over the world, Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market has all the hallmarks of an authentic festive celebration.
Set within the picturesque grounds of the historic cathedral, it features glittering lights and decorations, traditional wooden chalets selling high-quality goods, and a wide range of classic Christmas food and drink.
For a truly immersive experience, step into the cathedral itself to take part in one of its Christmas services, carol concerts, or seasonal events.
Open daily from 10 am, 21 November until 22 December.
4. Birmingham
The famous Frankfurt Christmas Market in Birmingham is a firm favourite with residents and visitors alike.
Boasting the accolade of being the largest authentic Christmas market outside Germany or Austria, this expansive market stretches across Victoria Square and New Street in the city centre. You’ll find all kinds of tempting treats, including pretzels, bratwurst and roasted almonds, and traditional drinks such as glühwein, weissbier, and hot chocolate.
There’s plenty of live music to keep you entertained, with returning favourites from Germany and Birmingham, plus choirs from local community groups, schools, and charities.
And, of course, beautifully lit stalls line the streets and the square. Here, you can pick up festive lights, handmade wooden decorations, intricate glass baubles, as well as the ever-popular crystal lamps.
Chris Moose is the market’s famous singing moose, so if you fancy singing along with him then head over to the Council House, where you’ll find him at the entrance. For traditional music lovers, listen to some beautiful carol singing, or take in the bands playing on the stage.
Plus, it wouldn’t be the Christmas market without the carousel – a fun, uplifting experience at any age!
Open weekdays from 11 am, weekends from 10 am, 1 November to 24 December.
5. Cardiff
Held in the Welsh capital for over three decades, the Cardiff Christmas Market is situated right in the heart of the city.
Renowned for its lively, vibrant atmosphere, the market features 70 stalls, with its programme showcasing over 200 individual businesses.
Discover an eclectic range of traditional gifts, contemporary crafts, and handmade decorations, all brought to you directly from the small business owners themselves.
You can also enjoy a delicious mulled wine, the perfect winter warmer, along with a wide selection of festive food.
Open daily from 10 am, 13 November until 23 December.
6. Belfast
Belfast City Hall creates a beautiful backdrop for this dazzling outdoor market held in its grounds, showcasing over 100 international and local traders.
Perfect for an unhurried day trip, you can take a leisurely browse around the stalls, featuring a Christmas fayre, artisan goods, and handcrafted gifts.
Traditional food and drink on offer include delicious bratwurst and warming glühwein, plus you’ll find indulgent Italian chocolates and speciality cheeses to taste or take away.
Children love having a go on the vintage helter-skelter, which offers great views from the top, while the traditional carousel is a must for everyone.
Open Monday to Saturday from 10 am, Sunday from noon, 15 November until 22 December 2025.
Get in touch
We can’t do your Christmas shopping for you, but we can help you with your financial planning. Email hello@intelligentpensions.com or call 0800 077 8807.
Please note
This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.
All information is correct at the time of writing and is subject to change in the future.