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Are you able to immerse your self within the enchanting world of Christmas magic? London, the center of Europe, is gearing as much as dazzle you with its festive splendour this yr. As town’s streets gentle up with a symphony of twinkling Christmas lights, the aroma of mulled wine fills the air, and the sound of carolers warms your coronary heart, you’ll know that the Christmas Markets in London have actually come to life.
From the bustling Borough Market to the enduring Trafalgar Sq., London’s Christmas markets are a tapestry of joyful sights, scrumptious meals, distinctive presents, and a lot extra.
This yr, we’re excited to information you thru the “5 Greatest Christmas Markets in London for 2023.” Whether or not you’re an area Londoner searching for new vacation locations or a traveller in search of the quintessential Christmas expertise, our curated record of must-visit markets guarantees to be your winter wonderland.
From the magical Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park to the charming Leicester Sq. Christmas Market, we’ll discover essentially the most festive and well-known Christmas markets that London has to supply. So, seize your scarf and mittens, sip on some mulled wine, and let’s go on a journey by way of London’s most iconic Christmas markets. It’s time to unwrap the vacation season and uncover the perfect locations to make your Christmas market 2023 expertise actually unforgettable.
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The BEST Christmas Markets in London 2023 + Dates and Ideas
London‘s Christmas Markets are an absolute delight, providing a wealth of festive experiences. Right here, it’s not nearly indulging in mulled wine, savouring mince pies, relishing German sausages, or taking thrilling rides on the fairground. London’s Christmas Markets are a treasure trove of uniquely handcrafted presents that you just received’t discover wherever else. Amidst the myriad choices, I’ve handpicked 5 of the easiest Christmas Markets in London so that you can discover.
Winter Wonderland, Leicester Sq., Covent Backyard, Trafalgar Sq., Southbank Centre London and a bonus tip for a really unmissable Christmas Market in London.
1. Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park, London
Winter Wonderland is considered one of London’s largest and most iconic Christmas markets, remodeling Hyde Park right into a magical wonderland. It options a wide range of points of interest, together with an ice skating rink, circus reveals, fairground rides, and a Christmas-themed circus.
Location: Hyde Park, London ( Nearest London Tube Station is Hyde Park Nook)
Winter Wonderland Dates: Presumably November 17, 2023 to January 2, 2024.
Opening Instances: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Christmas Day: Closed.
Admission: Previous to your go to, it’s important to amass a ticket, which falls into considered one of three classes: off-peak, commonplace, or peak. These tickets embody the doorway charge solely; rides and points of interest include a further value. Whereas off-peak tickets can be found at no cost, they’re nonetheless a prerequisite for entry. Yow will discover out extra right here.
Highlighted Points of interest at Winter Wonderland:
- Santa at Santaland.
- Ice skating on the open-air rink with gorgeous views of Hyde Park.
- Discover the Christmas Market with over 200 charming Bavarian-style picket chalets.
- Witness the fascinating Ice Sculpting Workshops.
Distinctive Options:
- Huge ice sculptures that create a fascinating winter environment.
- The Magical Ice Kingdom, a mesmerizing ice and snow sculpture expertise.
- An in depth number of worldwide meals and festive drinks.
Advisable Meals and Drinks:
- Attempt basic festive treats like mulled wine and roasted chestnuts.
- Pattern worldwide cuisines from the numerous meals stalls.
Procuring Ideas: Go to throughout weekdays to keep away from the weekend crowds. Ebook tickets for in style points of interest prematurely to safe your spot.
Accessible: Sure
Pet-Pleasant? No.
The place to Keep:
Advisable Tour:
The place to Keep in London throughout Christmas
For the perfect festive season experiences in London, selecting the best place to remain is essential. Listed below are three classes to think about, luxurious, mid-range and finances. I’ve chosen these resorts for greatest expertise and by evaluations the place friends have rated both excellent or wonderful. These properties are provided by reserving [dot] com which is my go to useful resource for lodging.
Luxurious: Deal with your self to a keep at considered one of London’s iconic five-star resorts like The Ritz or The Savoy. These institutions go all out in the course of the festive season with lavish decorations, world-class eating, and gorgeous views of town’s Christmas lights. Staying right here ensures a really magical and indulgent vacation expertise within the coronary heart of London. Alternatively, nonetheless inside the luxurious vary, chances are you’ll favor:
Midrange: Go for a snug and well-located midrange resort in Covent Backyard. Staying on this full of life district means you’re simply steps away from charming Christmas markets, theaters, and beautiful eating choices, offering an ideal stability between consolation and comfort.
- The Henrietta Lodge is a stunning boutique resort and restaurant that features breakfast each morning. Situated inside metres away from the Royal Opera Home and Covent Backyard Market.
- ME London by Melia within the coronary heart of Strand, London overlooks the spectacular Somerset Home which is legendary for its ice-rink at Christmas. Situated at simply 2 minutes’ stroll from the River Thames, Covent Backyard, Somerset Home and Soho, Melia ME is nice resort to remain at to expertise all issues Christmas.
Finances: Keep at a comfy and inexpensive resort in areas like Paddington, close to Hyde Park which is inside quick access to Winter Wonderland and to central London.
Greatest Excursions for Christmas in London
The Christmas season in London is a time of surprise and enchantment, the place town’s rooftop bars and historic landmarks come alive with festive decorations, twinkling lights, and vacation cheer. To take advantage of your go to throughout this magical time, think about exploring the perfect Christmas excursions that London has to supply.
Whether or not you’re keen to find the highlights of London’s iconic landmarks, immerse your self in Christmas-themed occasions, or embark on a pleasant culinary journey, there’s a tour to go well with each festive inclination. Right here, you’ll discover excursions that can guarantee your Christmas expertise in London is nothing in need of extraordinary:
1. Highlights of Landmarks and Sights: Throughout the festive season, these excursions will lead you on a fascinating journey by way of London’s most iconic landmarks and historic neighbourhoods, all dressed of their vacation finery. From the dazzling lights on Oxford Road to the grandeur of Trafalgar Sq.’s Christmas tree, these excursions are good for these in search of a festive immersion within the metropolis’s wealthy historical past and tradition. Discover out extra and e book right here.
2. Foodie Excursions: For culinary fans, London provides a tantalising array of Christmas-themed meals excursions. From savouring conventional mince pies and mulled wine to indulging in festive afternoon teas and gourmand dinners, these excursions promise a tasty exploration of London’s wealthy and various meals scene in the course of the vacation season.
Whichever class appeals most to you, these excursions will allow you to create cherished reminiscences and be sure that your Christmas in London is a really unforgettable expertise.
PRO TIP: Take a look at this bumper record of 72 Magical Issues to Do at Christmas in London.
2. Leicester Sq. Christmas Market, London
Leicester Sq. transforms right into a festive market, providing a pleasant Christmas expertise within the coronary heart of London’s West Finish. Guests can expertise a harmonious fusion of basic allure and up to date leisure on the coronary heart of London.
A particular characteristic of Leicester Sq. Christmas Market is the presence of a Spiegeltent, a mirrored tent that doubles as a stage for an array of performances. Right here, you possibly can get pleasure from a various vary of reveals, from family-friendly daytime acts to fascinating cabaret-style performances within the evenings. The market additionally options a phenomenal Christmas tree and a wide range of stalls promoting distinctive presents and treats.
Location: Leicester Sq., London (Nearest London Tube Stations are Leicester Sq. Station on the Northern Line or Piccadilly Circus on the Piccadilly Line).
Leicester Sq. Christmas Market Dates: Presumably from November 8, 2023 to January 7, 2024.
Opening Instances: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Christmas Day: Closed.
Admission: Free. Discover out extra about tickets to Spiegeltent right here.
No Santa and No Ice-skating.
Highlighted Points of interest: Quite a few stalls with artisanal crafts, decorations, and seasonal presents.
Distinctive Options:
- Proximity to West Finish theaters for a pre- or post-show go to.
- A comfortable, intimate environment within the coronary heart of London’s leisure district.
Advisable Meals and Drinks:
- Take pleasure in a glass of mulled wine or sizzling chocolate as you discover the stalls.
- Savour conventional British treats like mince pies and gingerbread.
Procuring Ideas: Test the market’s opening hours as they might fluctuate. Mix your go to with a present within the West Finish for an entire night of leisure.
Accessible: Sure.
Pet-friendly: No
3. Covent Backyard Christmas Market, London
Nestled within the coronary heart of considered one of London’s most famous districts, Covent Backyard transforms right into a festive wonderland with enchanting decorations, twinkling lights, and an enormous Christmas tree in the course of the festive season. The market is thought for its boutique shops and designer boutiques. The Covent Backyard Christmas Market showcases top-tier craftsmanship and an in depth number of artisanal culinary delights.
Londoners usually say that Covent Backyard is the place to search out the perfect presents for somebody and the last word assembly level for mates. Thus, Covent Backyard is likely one of the hottest procuring locations in London at anytime of the yr. It’s distinctive as a result of it’s one place the place you will discover highend trend names alongside market merchants, all providing a really particular procuring expertise. There are over 200 shops and every supply their very own speciality together with a variety of distinctive handmade crafts and items. From jewelry and prints to watercolours, soaps and candy treats – all presenting an ideal alternative to buy below one roof for that particular present at Christmas to your family and friends.
Whereas strolling alongside the historic cobblestone sq., you’ll encounter an abundance of stalls that includes one-of-a-kind presents and will even be entertained by road performers, including to the colourful ambiance.
Past the handcrafted treasures, a tantalizing array of artisanal meals awaits, promising a thoughtfully curated epicurean journey.
Location: Covent Backyard Piazza, London (Nearest London Tube Station is Covent Backyard on the Piccadilly Line).
Covent Backyard Christmas Market Dates: Presumably from November 8, 2023 to January 3, 2024.
Opening Instances: Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM; Sunday 12 PM to five:00 PM
Christmas Day: Closed.
Admission: Free.
Christmas Lights Swap-on date: Presumably on November 8, 2023.
Highlighted Points of interest:
- The 60-foot British grown grand Christmas tree within the historic piazza, adorned with over 30,000 lights.
- Distinctive boutique procuring experiences in Covent Backyard’s shops. Freshly baked mince pies, distinctive flavoured chutneys, and a variety of plant-based meals.
- Numerous Christmas occasions akin to The Christmas Sandwich Competition.
Distinctive Options:
- An enthralling, historic setting with road performers and entertainers.
- Excessive-end looking for these searching for distinctive presents.
Advisable Meals and Drinks: Take pleasure in gourmand eating choices in Covent Backyard’s famend eating places. Sip on champagne or cocktails in one of many trendy bars.
Procuring Ideas: Covent Backyard can get crowded, so think about visiting throughout weekdays or earlier within the day for a extra relaxed expertise.
- An enthralling, historic setting with road performers and entertainers.
- Excessive-end looking for these searching for distinctive presents.
Advisable Meals and Drinks: Take pleasure in gourmand eating choices in Covent Backyard’s famend eating places. Sip on champagne or cocktails in one of many trendy bars.
Accessible: Sure
Pet-friendly: Sure however not advisable on account of giant crowd.
Test right here for the newest data.
4. Trafalgar Sq. Christmas Market, London
Trafalgar Sq. hosts an enthralling Christmas market with conventional picket chalets, providing a festive environment in a historic setting. It’s identified for its Norwegian Christmas tree, gifted to London by Oslo as an emblem of gratitude.
Located on the terrace in entrance of The Nationwide Gallery, this compact market is considered one of my London favourites for its intimate setting, charming ambiance by the fountains, pleasant music, and cultural spirit. It provides a singular and heartwarming festive expertise. Inside the stalls, you’ll uncover an assortment of Christmas ornaments, cozy hats and gloves, an array of delectable road meals choices, and an array of distinctive present concepts preferrred to your family members. And, whilst you’re right here, don’t miss the chance to admire the magnificent Trafalgar Sq. Christmas tree.
Location: Trafalgar Sq., London; a brief stroll from Charing Cross Station (served by Bakerloo and Northern Strains on the London Tube system) or Leicester Sq. Station (served by Northern and Piccadilly Strains).
Trafalgar Sq. Christmas Market Dates: Presumably from November 10, 2023 to January 2, 2024.
Opening Instances: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Christmas Day: Closed.
Admission: Free
Highlighted Points of interest:
- The long-lasting Norwegian Christmas tree in Trafalgar Sq..
- The Christmas market’s distinctive Scandinavian-themed presents and crafts.
Distinctive Options:
- A deal with Nordic and Scandinavian traditions and merchandise.
- A cultural expertise with Nordic meals, music, and crafts.
Advisable Meals and Drinks: Savour Scandinavian delicacies like æbleskiver (Danish doughnuts) and sizzling cider. Take pleasure in a style of gløgg, the Scandinavian mulled wine.
Procuring Ideas: Go to the market in the course of the tree lighting ceremony for a particular expertise. Discover the Scandinavian-themed presents and crafts for distinctive vacation presents.
Accessible: Sure.
Pet-Pleasant: Sure however not advisable on account of giant crowds and the compactness of the realm.
5. Southbank Centre Christmas Market:
The Southbank Centre Christmas Market is a beloved vacation vacation spot positioned alongside the Southbank of the River Thames. It’s considered one of London’s most iconic Christmas markets, identified for its gorgeous riverside setting and vibrant environment. This iconic market boasts charming Alpine-inspired picket chalets and all kinds of road meals distributors. providing a singular outside festive expertise within the coronary heart of London. Common dwell performances additional improve the colourful ambiance.
Location: The Queen’s Stroll, close to The London Eye.
The Southbank Centre Christmas Market Dates: Presumably from November 2, 2023 to December 26, 2023.
The Southbank Centre Winter Competition Dates: From October 28, 2023 to January 7, 2024.
Opening Instances: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Christmas Day: Open
Admission: Free
Christmas Lights Swap-On Date: Presumably November 2, 2023.
Highlighted Points of interest:
- The market boasts over 80 festive chalets, adorned with twinkling lights, promoting all kinds of vacation presents, decorations, and crafts.
- Guests can discover distinctive artisanal merchandise, together with handmade jewellery, art work, clothes, and extra.
Distinctive Options:
- Spectacular Riverside Setting: The market’s location alongside the Thames provides breathtaking views of London’s skyline and iconic landmarks, such because the London Eye and Huge Ben.
- Festive Leisure: The Southbank Centre is thought for its cultural occasions and performances in the course of the vacation season, together with concert events, theater reveals, and seasonal exhibitions.
- Meals and Drink: Bask in a culinary journey with a variety of worldwide road meals stalls and revel in warming mulled wine, sizzling chocolate, and different festive drinks.
Advisable Meals and Drinks: Sip on mulled wine or spiced cider to maintain heat within the winter chill. Pattern a wide range of worldwide road meals, together with German sausages, Belgian waffles, and British pies. Don’t miss out on the candy treats like gingerbread cookies and crepes.
Procuring Ideas: Go to in the course of the late afternoon or early night to benefit from the magical ambiance because the market lights up. Be ready for crowds, particularly on weekends and nearer to Christmas. Take into account combining your go to with a present or exhibition on the Southbank Centre for an entire festive expertise.
Accessible: Sure
Pet-Pleasant: Sure, however preserve canine on lead.
The Southbank Centre Christmas Market is a superb place to immerse your self within the vacation spirit, store for distinctive presents, get pleasure from scrumptious meals and drinks, and take within the gorgeous views of London’s riverside. It’s an expertise that captures the magic of Christmas within the coronary heart of town.
BONUS TIP
Borough Market, close to London Bridge
Borough Market provides a singular Christmas market expertise with its deal with gourmand meals and artisanal merchandise. It’s a meals lover’s paradise in the course of the vacation season.
An unlimited number of gourmand meals stalls, providing all the pieces from artisanal cheeses to freshly baked pastries. A festive environment with vacation decorations and music. Emphasis on high-quality, domestically sourced meals and elements. Excellent for foodies and people searching for distinctive culinary presents.
Come hungry! Be ready to pattern a variety of worldwide cuisines and gourmand treats. Discover the mulled wine and craft beer choices. Weekdays are usually much less crowded than weekends.
Associated Articles for Christmas Inspiration
Earlier than you go, check out a few of our articles about Christmas:
Go to additionally the resourceful pages about England and Scotland. For travels within the EU, go to our Europe pages which embrace highlights about Lake Como, Amsterdam, Budapest, Bordeaux, Milan and Verona.
FAQs
Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park is London’s most well-known Christmas market. Its sheer measurement, number of points of interest, ice skating, and leisure make it an iconic vacation vacation spot, drawing guests from around the globe.
The period of Christmas markets in London can fluctuate relying on the particular market. London’s Christmas markets usually run from mid/late November to early January, providing about seven to 6 weeks of festive enjoyable and vacation procuring alternatives for guests and locals alike.
Christmas markets are pleasant each day and evening. Daytime provides a stress-free procuring expertise, whereas the night enchants with magical lights. You may discover within the day and return at evening for a fascinating and comfortable ambiance.
London shines throughout Christmas with its various and enchanting markets, from Winter Wonderland’s grandeur to cozy squares’ intimacy. Town’s historic backdrop, cultural range, and festive ambiance make it an distinctive vacation spot for vacation markets.
Borough Market in London is at its liveliest and greatest from Thursday to Saturday when all kinds of distributors supply their best recent produce, road meals, and artisanal items.
In sum…
Spending the vacation season in London and exploring its enchanting Christmas markets is a really worthwhile expertise, particularly once you select to remain within the coronary heart of town.
Staying centrally permits you to effortlessly entry town’s most iconic websites, benefiting from your time on this vibrant metropolis. As you wander by way of the cobblestone streets of Covent Backyard or savour delectable treats at Borough Market, the comfort of being within the coronary heart of London turns into abundantly clear. It’s the proper base to your vacation adventures, guaranteeing you possibly can simply discover different vacation highlights just like the dazzling Christmas lights on Oxford Road, the festive window shows of Harrods, and the enchanting ice rink at Somerset Home.
For a unbelievable Christmas expertise, think about becoming a member of a Christmas spotlight tour. These excursions will take you on a magical journey by way of London’s most fantastically adorned neighbourhoods and landmarks, offering perception into town’s wealthy vacation traditions and historical past.
For all of the meals fans on the market, don’t miss the chance to embark on a Christmas foodie tour. London’s culinary scene actually shines in the course of the vacation season, providing all the pieces from festive afternoon teas to gourmand Christmas dinners. Exploring town’s various culinary choices is an expertise in itself, and it’s a pleasant strategy to heat your coronary heart and style buds in the course of the chilly winter days.
So, whether or not you’re admiring the twinkling lights, indulging in seasonal delights, or discovering distinctive presents on the markets, London throughout Christmas is a metropolis that comes alive with festive magic. Profit from your go to by staying centrally, taking within the vacation highlights, and savouring town’s culinary delights.
Completely satisfied holidays and will your London Christmas be full of heat, pleasure, and fantastic reminiscences!
Completely satisfied and Protected Travels All the time, Wherever Journey Takes You xx
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This publish was first printed in October 2021, and final up to date on September 17, 2023.
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