Traditionally the best Christmas markets were found in Europe in places like Germany and Poland. Whilst doing a spot of Xmas shopping abroad can still be great fun and a wonderful chance to buy unusual gifts and products that you can’t easily find back home, Britain’s Xmas markets have got better and better over recent years and the UK is now a strong contender when it comes to great destinations for Christmas market shopping.
London
London is home to a great many Christmas markets and events nowadays, from craft events to markets by London’s famous landmarks. Although not that extensive, the market at the Southbank has plenty of appeal with its stunning riverside location and has the added advantage of plenty of Christmassy events going on at the Southbank Centre. Enjoy meandering around the Christmas stalls whilst having some of London’s best sights such as the London Eye, the River Thames and the Houses of Parliament within view.
Year round, there are a variety of market stalls to be found at London’s Covent Garden but come December this place is lit up beautifully with fantastic Christmas lights that really add a touch of magic to this market. Each year the Christmas lights and display are that bit different and more inventive! From mulled wine to beautiful Xmas gifts, you won’t be disappointed at Covent Garden and its indoor too so come rain or shine, you can happily shop and browse.
Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a beautiful city to visit at any time, the city’s fine historical architecture and Scottish charm hold their allure whatever the season. December though can be a particularly magical time to visit Scotland’s capital city. The Christmas Market in Princes Street Gardens with the shacks and Xmas lights is a truly pretty sight and a great place to shop for gifts that can be that bit different from the usual wares available on the High Street. Edinburgh always offers entertainment along with shopping and this holds true for the Xmas markets where there is a Big Wheel, Christmas Tree Maze and Santa’s Grotto too to keep all of the family entertained.
Winchester
An absolute treat to visit at any time of year, Winchester becomes particularly magical in December when the Christmas lights sparkle and light up the city’s fine historical buildings. The Christmas market at Winchester is particularly special with its setting right next to historic Winchester Cathedral. The market usually runs from the end of November to around the 22nd of December and there are food and drink stalls as well as plenty of stalls selling wonderful Xmas gifts.
So should you prefer shopping at home in the UK, Britain really does have some wonderful Christmas markets to discover nowadays. Just which one will you discover this year?