Almost before we’ve fully recovered our waistlines from last year’s excesses, Christmas is on the horizon again!
While it’s now fashionable to decry the commercialisation of the festival, most of us will probably admit to enjoying a bit of immersion in the spirit of things. Christmas markets can play a big part in that.
What are Christmas markets?
For reasons that are not clear (though Oliver Cromwell is often blamed), after some centuries, these markets fell out of fashion in the UK and virtually disappeared. The tradition was preserved though in central and eastern Europe, in countries such as Germany, Denmark, Poland and so on.
Over recent decades, they have been re-introduced with enthusiasm in the UK and they’re a welcome addition to the Christmas season.
They’re now once again a big attraction and that ties in nicely with the increasing interest in short Christmas caravanning breaks.
Where to find the Christmas markets
Of course, few of us perhaps relish the prospect of lots of long driving over the Christmas break to get to a site.
Fortunately, these markets now are spread all over the country so there’s bound to be one not that far from you. Here are a few ideas for specific destinations:
York Christmas Market (North Yorkshire)
York’s Christmas Market will be open from November 14 to December 22, 2024. With 75 alpine chalets in Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square, York’s Christmas market offers local crafts, artisan goods, and seasonal treats.
The vintage carousel adds festive charm, perfect for families. With 80% of traders from Yorkshire, it’s a great way to support local businesses. The market promotes sustainability and inclusivity, featuring quieter periods, seating for those with mobility issues, and the Safe Space Scheme. Convenient public transport makes accessing the festive fun even easier.
Bath Christmas Market (Somerset)
This is an incredibly beautiful town at any time, but it really is especially attractive as a backdrop for the Christmas market. Running from November 28 to December 15, 2024, you can wander through the charming streets of Bath – illuminated by over 170 sparkling chalets – and explore some of the finest independent businesses from the South West and beyond. From stylish homeware and handmade jewellery to personalised gifts and more, soak in the festive sights and scents of Christmas while checking off everything on your shopping list.
Leeds Christmas Market (West Yorkshire)
In the centre of Leeds, this is a very large market running from 22 November to 22 December 2024. Leeds hosts the Christkindelmarkt, a traditional German Christmas market, in Millennium Square. With wooden stalls offering authentic German food, drinks, and gifts, the market brings a taste of Bavaria to the city. Enjoy bratwursts, gluhwein, and handmade crafts while soaking in the festive atmosphere. A carousel, traditional music, and twinkling lights make it an ideal spot for families and friends looking for a cosy holiday experience.
Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market (West Midlands)
Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market, the largest authentic German market outside Germany and Austria, is a festive highlight for locals and visitors alike. Set in Victoria Square and along New Street, it offers traditional goods, handcrafted gifts, and delicious food like pretzels, bratwursts, and roasted almonds, paired with gluhwein, weissbeer, or hot chocolate.
Enjoy live music, meet up with family and friends, and shop for unique presents, including handcrafted decorations, jewellery, and toys.
Manchester Christmas Markets 2024 (greater Manchester)
Manchester’s Christmas markets span across multiple locations, including Albert Square and St Ann’s Square, offering a wide variety of festive delights. The markets feature international food, traditional gifts, and artisan crafts. With its lively atmosphere, unique street food, and festive bars, Manchester’s Christmas markets are perfect for both families and friends looking for a memorable holiday experience in one of the UK’s most vibrant cities.
Blenheim Palace Christmas Market (Oxfordshire).
Immerse yourself in the festive spirit at Blenheim Palace in 2024. The historic Palace and Gardens will once again be transformed by thousands of twinkling lights, the aroma of seasonal delights, sparkling decorations, and the warmth of holiday cheer. It runs from November 15, 2024, to January 1, 2025.
Cardiff Christmas Market 2024 (Wales)
Located in the heart of the city, Cardiff Christmas Market offers a range of local artisan products, crafts, and festive treats. Stalls are set up along St John Street, Working Street, and the Hayes, providing a festive atmosphere with Welsh produce and handmade gifts.
With street entertainment and seasonal food and drink, it’s a charming market to explore, whether you’re looking for unique gifts or simply soaking in the Christmas spirit.
Winchester Christmas Market 2024 (Hampshire)
Held in the shadow of Winchester Cathedral, this festive market is one of the most beautiful in the UK. Inspired by traditional German markets, Winchester’s stalls offer handcrafted goods, Christmas gifts, and delicious seasonal food and drink. The ice rink adds to the festive experience, making it a popular destination for families and friends. With its charming atmosphere and historic surroundings, it’s a perfect Christmas day out.
London’s Winter Wonderland 2024 (London)
Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland is a festive extravaganza, featuring one of the UK’s largest Christmas markets. Alongside traditional stalls selling gifts and food, visitors can enjoy ice skating, circus shows, roller coasters, and the famous Magical Ice Kingdom. With festive bars, live performances, and a magical setting, Winter Wonderland is a fun-filled holiday destination for all ages, attracting visitors from across the UK and beyond
There are plenty of other destinations too, should you be looking for one that’s really close.
Top tips
If you’re thinking of visiting a market as part of a Christmas caravanning break, don’t forget:
- make sure your caravan insurance is up to date;
- check that your planned site is fully open and available. If your caravan insurance has conditions relating to on-site security, make sure that will be fully operational over the holiday;
- bring plenty of warm clothes;
- take especial care with your valuables on your person when in the markets. Though not usually a major problem, pickpockets love crowds.
Above all – enjoy yourself!
Disclaimer: The information provided above should be used as a guide to what’s on and when. Details and events may change without our knowledge.