11 Christmas Markets in London

Today I want to share my guide to the best Christmas markets in London with you. From east to west, these festive places pop up throughout the UK capital each year. They bring seasonal cheer, fun gifts, and special foods and drinks with them. If you want to visit the city’s most exciting ones this winter, read on for my top picks. I’ve included a map, too.

Christmas Markets in London

There are lots of Christmas markets in Britain. From Edinburgh to Exeter, there’s one (or 10) in seemingly every town and city. London is no exception.

The UK capital comes alive during the festive season. Lights, decorations, and carolers bring cheer to the city’s streets, squares, and shops. The markets are a highlight, not least because they’re places people can spend time soaking up the atmosphere.

Whether you prefer a big market, a local one, a market on the river, or one front of an iconic attraction or landmark, there’s something for everyone. They’re a must on any London Christmas itinerary.

You can take a guided tour to see them, too. Whether you prefer a walking tour, a cycling tour, or a bus tour, there are plenty of options. You can see a range of tours and book one here.

Tips for Visiting the Markets

Visiting the Christmas markets is one of the best things to do in London in winter. If you want to go to one or more of them, there are a few things that are good to keep in mind.

First, make sure to check opening dates before you go. The markets generally run from early November to early January, but each one has its own dates. Additionally, some are open daily, while others are only open on certain days. Most are closed on Christmas Day, too.

Along those lines, be sure to check each market’s hours before visiting. Some markets have longer opening times than others or are only open at specific times of day.

The markets usually announce their schedules a month or two in advance. I share the opening dates and times on my Instagram and TikTok, so you can follow me to be the first to find out.

Beyond timing, try to arrive early or go on a weekday afternoon if you want to avoid the crowds. A lot of them get very busy on evenings and weekends. Going at the beginning of the season can help, too.

Lastly, if you’re planning to shop for gifts (and you should), make sure to bring a reusable shopping bag with you. It’s a great way to be environmentally conscious as you pick up presents for friends and loved ones.

1. Trafalgar Square Christmas Market

My favorite Christmas market in London is the one in Trafalgar Square. Not only does it benefit from the stunning backdrop of the National Gallery, but it also has a great mix of chalets and food stalls.

Rows of stands fill the area at the top of the steps in front of the museum. They sell everything from candles to toys, ornaments, hats, and other fun gifts.

There’s also an area with vendors selling all kinds of seasonal drinks and food. Whether you opt for a mulled wine or a hot chocolate, a bratwurst or chunky chips, it’s a fun spot to sit down and soak up the festive atmosphere.

Add to that the annual giant Christmas tree and live carol singers, and it’s a great place to be during the festive season.

2. London Bridge Christmas Market

Next on my list is the London Bridge Christmas market. Officially called Winter By the River, this festive place is home to a long row of chalets stretching from City Hall to Hay’s Galleria.

Right on the Thames between Tower Bridge and London Bridge, it’s one of the biggest Christmas markets in the UK capital.

In addition to vendors selling gifts and food, there are Christmas trees and other seasonal decorations dotted throughout the area. As if that’s not enough, there are great views of the Tower of London and Tower Bridge.

In the middle of it all, there’s a big structure with an indoor bar area. It’s a fun place to get a drink or food and watch the world go by after shopping at the market. Not far away, The Horniman at Hays is a great Christmas pub on the river.

3. South Bank Winter Market

Another of the best Christmas markets in London is the one that takes place annually on the South Bank. You can find the Southbank Centre Winter Market on the Queen’s Walk between the Royal Festival Hall and Jubilee Gardens.

Right on the river, this festive market offers all kinds of Christmas gifts and food. From chocolate to jewelry, art, and Christmas tree ornaments, there’s a lot on offer.

Additionally, there are pop-up bars and street food stalls to indulge in. Whether you want a truffle burger, duck wrap, or cheese toastie, you can get it here. Add to that mulled wine and hot chocolate, and you’re set.

But that’s not all. The complex next to the market features everything from DJs to events and parties all season long. From a festive winter garden serving hot negronis and seasonal cocktails to a club with apres-ski vibes, there’s plenty to get excited about all day and night.

4. Leicester Square Christmas Market in London

Another of my favorite Christmas markets in London is the one in Leicester Square. This festive number pops up right in the middle of the famous plaza each year, and it’s a fun one to explore. It can easily be combined with a trip to the market in Trafalgar Square, too.

This one is unique in that a circle of chalets surrounds an ice skating rink. The stalls sell seasonal gifts at Christmas in Leicester Square. You can find everything from art prints to decorative lamps, candy, traditional decorations, fudge, and other fun items.

There’s food, too. From sausages to crepes, galettes, and pasta, there’s a wide variety of cuisines to choose from. Add to that festive drinks, and you’re all set for a good time.

5. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

Perhaps the most famous Christmas market in London is the one at Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. This market is one of the biggest and most popular in the UK capital each year. Tickets are free, and it’s a good idea to book them well in advance.

Winter Wonderland transforms a huge area near Hyde Park Corner into a fun fair filled with festive chalets, carnival rides, live performances, ice skating, and larger-than-life displays.

The Christmas market here offers a range of seasonal gifts and handicrafts from all over the world. Everything from warm winter hats to lights and wooden toys can be found.

There’s also mulled wine, hot chocolate, crepes, waffles, and traditional British Christmas foods and drinks to enjoy.

6. Belgravia Christmas Market in London

If you’re looking for something local, Belgravia is home to one of the best Christmas markets in London. It takes place over 2 days in November, and it sees the neighborhood’s tucked-away Eccleston Yards come to life with festive stalls selling food, drinks, and artisan gifts.

Just down the road, the famous floral facades on Elizabeth Street are augmented by Christmas displays, decorations, lights, and caroling while the market is on. There’s a lively atmosphere and the shops offer special deals for the occasion.

The annual Belgravia Christmas Lights Switch-On Party takes place on the second day of the market. It’s the ideal event to attend if you like a local celebration with a neighborhood feel.

7. King’s Cross Christmas Market

Another great Christmas market in London can be found in King’s Cross. The Christmas Under the Canopy market takes place in the covered outdoor area just off Granary Square near Regent’s Canal.

Christmas under the Canopy is a great place to pick up gifts for family and friends. It has everything from packaged goods from independent producers to crafts, original designer-maker items, and street food stalls.

This market isn’t just about picking up presents, either. It also features live music, festive lights, and performances. It’s a fun one if you’re looking for a place where you can immerse yourself in the seasonal spirit.

8. Paternoster Square Christmas Market

Another smaller Christmas market in London is the one next to St Paul’s Cathedral in the City. Called Christmas at Paternoster, this one takes place in the big square to the north of Sir Christopher Wren’s famous church.

Christmas at Paternoster features a cluster of chalets selling all kinds of delicious street food. Whether you’re in the mood for dumplings, tacos, or pitas, you’ll find it here. There’s also a bar selling mulled wine and festive cocktails.

Note that this market has a shorter run than some of the bigger ones. It’s usually open from mid-November until Christmas Eve, so be sure to check opening dates and hours before you go.

9. West Hampstead Christmas Market

The annual West Hampstead Christmas Market is another great local one. Taking place in West End Green and Emmanuel Church, this 1-day market is a fun one if you want to check out a neighborhood celebration in north west London.

The market features stalls selling jewelry, cards, clothing, accessories, local handicrafts, art, food, drinks, and more. Christmas trees and other decorations add to the festive atmosphere.

Beyond the stalls, there are fun things to do for the whole family. These include free children’s activities, face painting, a magician, and carol singing.

10. Kingston Christmas Market

Out in Kingston-upon-Thames, the annual Kingston Christmas Market is a good one to visit if you’re looking for something big but local.

The market bills itself as a “European-style Christmas market in a traditional British setting.” With enchanting fairy lights, mulled wine, and delicious food, this one is perfect for getting into the seasonal spirit.

Set in the ancient Market Place, it also features live entertainment. From Christmas choirs to local bands and an open-mic night, there’s a lot to get excited about.

11. Wimbledon Christmas Market

Another local favorite is the Wimbledon Christmas Market on The Piazza. Right near the area’s train station, this one takes place on weekends.

If you’re up for a trip to Wimbledon, you’ll find artisan stalls selling all kinds of original art, home goods, unique jewelry, clothing, candles, and more.

There are also plenty of vendors offering hot foods and drinks at the market. It’s a great place to get into the festive spirit in south west London.

Christmas Market Map

Best Christmas Markets in London

I hope my blog post has inspired you to go to one or more of these festive markets this season. Visiting them is one of my favorite things to do in London at Christmas, and I hope the same is true for you.

There are a lot more festive markets dotted throughout the city, too. Seasonal decorations and events take place at Greenwich Market, Old Spitalfields Market, Borough Market, and others. Pop Brixton hosts a Christmas market, too.

Additionally, just outside the city, places like Hampton Court Palace have Christmas markets each winter. The Hampton Court Palace Festive Fayre makes for a great Christmas day trip from London. But with all the fun going on in the city, there’s no reason to leave.

Find this post helpful? Buy me a coffee!

New here? Join thousands of others and subscribe to the A Lady in London blog via email.

Pin it!