Christmas Markets in the UK 2025

Christmas markets in the United Kingdom have become an essential aspect of the country’s holiday traditions. In 2025, these enchanting events will once again light up cities with the warm glow of lanterns, the aroma of mulled wine, and the melodies of Christmas carols. From the grandeur of London to the charm of medieval York, each market presents a distinct experience that blends traditional European elements with British flair.

In this guide, we will share insights on the most popular and vibrant Christmas markets in the UK, including their dates and unique features.

Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, London

Dates: November 14, 2025 – January 1, 2026
Location: Hyde Park, Central London
Opening Hours: Daily 10:00-22:00 (closed on Christmas Day)
Closed: December 25

Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park is a winter paradise located in the heart of the British capital. This is not just a Christmas market; it’s an entire festival town featuring over 100 wooden chalets, rides, and entertainment for the whole family.

Highlights include the UK’s largest outdoor ice rink, a giant Ferris wheel, and the renowned Ice Kingdom, home to intricate ice sculptures. Visitors can explore unique handmade gifts, savor delicacies from around the world, and enjoy festive performances.

Important: Entrance fees apply; tickets must be booked in advance.

Manchester Christmas Markets

Dates: November 7 – December 22, 2025 (main markets), “A Taste of Christmas” at Albert Square – until January 4, 2026
Opening Hours: Craft stalls: 10:00-20:00, food stalls: 11:00-21:00
Location: Albert Square, King Street, St Ann’s Square, Cathedral Gardens, and other sites across the city center

The year 2025 is particularly significant for Manchester, as the Christmas markets return to the iconic Albert Square for the first time in six years following the town hall restoration. More than 240 traditional wooden chalets will be set up across nine different locations in the city center.

A major highlight will be a 50-meter Ferris wheel in Albert Square, along with a vintage carousel for children. The expanded Winter Gardens in Piccadilly will provide more covered space for visitors, as well as a stage for live music and DJs.

Frankfurt Christmas Market in Birmingham

Dates: November 1 – December 24, 2025
Opening Hours: Mon-Thu: 11:00-21:00, Fri: 11:00-21:30, Sat: 10:00-21:30, Sun: 10:00-21:00
Location: Victoria Square and New Street, Birmingham city center

The largest authentic German Christmas market outside Germany and Austria opens particularly early this year. Over 100 stalls will feature traditional German goods, from wooden toys and leather items to bratwurst and stollen.

Authentic German cuisine is a highlight here, where you can enjoy traditional glühwein, pretzels, and schnitzel. The market also features classic attractions, including a large Ferris wheel and an ice rink.

Edinburgh Christmas Markets

Dates: November 15, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Location: East and West Princes Street Gardens, George Street, St Andrew Square

The Edinburgh Christmas Markets transform the Scottish capital into a stunning winter wonderland. The main market is situated in the East Princes Street Gardens, offering breathtaking views of Edinburgh Castle and the Scott Monument.

Approximately 70 stalls showcase goods primarily sourced from local Scottish producers, ranging from cashmere to whisky. The LNER big wheel, standing at 46 meters, provides exceptional panoramic views of the city. A covered ice rink on George Street ensures skating is possible, even in inclement weather.

York Christmas Market (St. Nicholas Fair)

Dates: November 13 – December 21, 2025
Opening Hours: Daily 10:00-19:00
Location: Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square

The York Christmas Market is one of the most atmospheric markets in the UK, set against a backdrop of medieval architecture. Between 75 to 100 Alpine chalets line the historic streets, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere.

With over 80% of traders being local Yorkshire producers, this market is an excellent opportunity to support local businesses. Be sure to visit Thor’s Tipi Bar, a Viking tent featuring a real fireplace where you can warm up with hot chocolate or mulled wine.

Bath Christmas Market

Dates: November 27 – December 14, 2025
Opening Hours: Daily (times to be confirmed)
Location: Historic city center of Bath

Celebrating its 25th anniversary, the Bath Christmas Market will take place amidst the stunning Georgian architecture of the UNESCO World Heritage city. 180 chalets will feature over 230 traders, with 80% hailing from South West England.

A unique aspect of this market is its charitable focus, as many stalls support local charities. Expect to find one-of-a-kind handmade gifts while enjoying live music and Christmas performances.

Chester Christmas Market

Dates: November 19 – December 22, 2025
Opening Hours: Daily (times to be announced)
Location: Town Hall Square, next to Chester Cathedral

Chester’s historic center will host over 70 stalls around a beautifully decorated Christmas tree. The market offers a wide selection of Christmas gifts, handmade items, fudge, local spirits, and various festive treats.

In addition to the stalls, you’ll find food vendors serving everything from hot dogs to roast pig, along with a bar where cocktails and real ale are available.

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Liverpool Christmas Market

Dates: November 15 – December 24, 2025
Opening Hours: Daily 11:00-22:00

Location: St Johns Gardens, William Brown Street, north entrance to St George’s Hall

This year, the Liverpool Christmas Market has relocated and features a wide variety of festive goods, personalized decorations, and delicious street food. Families will enjoy Santa’s Village, which includes a slide and a big wheel for children.

The Bavarian bar will serve German beer and hot cider, while an array of food stalls—ranging from Yorkshire Pud Wraps to vegan dishes—will cater to diverse tastes.

Cardiff Christmas Market

Dates: November 13 – December 23, 2025
Location: Cardiff city center

Though smaller than other city markets, the Cardiff Christmas Market offers a unique atmosphere filled with Welsh hospitality. Visitors can discover distinctive gifts made by local craftsmen and indulge in traditional Welsh delicacies.

Glasgow Christmas Markets

Main Markets:

• St Enoch Square: Saturday, November 9 – Sunday, December 29, 2025
• George Square: Saturday, November 23 – Sunday, January 5, 2026

Locations:

• St Enoch Square: Situated in the city center, adjacent to the metro station of the same name and the St. Enoch Centre shopping complex.
• George Square: Located in the heart of Glasgow, next to Glasgow Central railway station.

Glasgow hosts two significant Christmas markets. At George Square, over 50 stalls set up beneath a 5-meter Christmas tree offer mulled wine and German beer. Meanwhile, St Enoch Square’s Christmas Village serves roast pork and other festive delicacies.

Leeds Christmas Market

Dates: November 14 – December 22, 2025
Opening Hours: Daily (times to be announced)
Location: Millennium and City Squares

This year, Leeds has expanded its annual Christmas market, centering it around two main locations. The beloved Ice Cube ice rink remains the highlight, complemented by numerous new trading stalls offering festive gifts, hearty food, and warming drinks.

Practical Tips for Visiting

Trip Planning

Best Time to Visit: Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends. Early mornings (10:00-12:00) or weekday evenings typically offer a quieter experience.

Transport: Most markets are centrally located with excellent transport links. It is advisable to use public transportation, as parking in city centers can be limited.

What to Bring

Clothing: British winters can be cold and wet, so be sure to wear:

• A warm, waterproof jacket
• Comfortable shoes with non-slip soles
• Gloves and a hat
• An umbrella

Money: While most stalls accept card payments, it is recommended to carry cash for small purchases and tips for street performers.

Food and Drinks

Traditional Treats:

• Mulled wine—an essential try in every city
• Roasted chestnuts
• Mince pies—traditional British Christmas pastries
• German sausages and pretzels

Tip: Many stalls sell mulled wine in special mugs that make great souvenirs.

Shopping

Unique gifts: Seek out local artisan products, such as ceramics, jewelry, and handmade textiles.

Food products: Consider local jams, chutneys, cheeses, and confectionery—perfect gastronomic souvenirs.

Christmas decorations: Each region features its own traditional decorations and ornaments.

Family Entertainment

Most markets provide family-friendly entertainment, including:

• Ice rinks
• Carousels and children’s rides
• Santa’s grotto
• Wreath and decoration-making workshops
• Live performances and Christmas carols

Special Events

Each market hosts special events, such as:

• Edinburgh: Torchlight procession on December 29 and Hogmanay celebrations
• York: Quiet hours for families with young children (10:00-12:00)
• London: Ice sculptures and circus performances
• Manchester: Christmas parade featuring 400 participants in early December

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