I’ve always had a soft spot for Christmas, whether it’s a sunny celebration in Bali, a snowy holiday in New York, or a cozy Christmas in the UK. As long as there’s plenty of mulled wine, binge-worthy TV, and lots of family time, I’m all set! Speaking of which, 2023 has a bunch of Christmas markets to explore. Lately, I’ve been getting really excited about the lead-up to Christmas – all the preparations, festive food, gift-giving, and of course, the Christmas Markets, which are a must-visit for me. Some of the best Christmas markets are ready to bring joy this year as we approach the festive season.
So, let’s check out some of the UK’s top Christmas Markets in 2023 that you should visit. Edinburgh is one of my favorite cities in the UK. Its festive atmosphere during Christmas and Hogmanay is amazing. The city has two fantastic Christmas markets this year, one near Princes Street and the other just a short walk from George Street. Both spots are perfect for grabbing a mulled wine or hot cider before hitting some of the city’s best bars. The Princes Street market opens around November 18th and runs until January 6th, while the George Street market opens around November 17th and closes on December 24th.
In Manchester, the city doesn’t slow down for Christmas. Instead, it gets even more lively with numerous Christmas Markets across the city. Albert Square Market is typically the largest, with St Ann’s Square offering a German vibe. For a French flair, you can head to King Street Market or explore markets on New Cathedral Street, Market Street, Cathedral Gardens, The Corn Exchange, Exchange Square, Brazennose Street, and Exchange Street. With so many options, planning ahead is wise, especially since they open on November 11th.
London is teeming with Christmas Markets in 2023, from small and cozy to vast and crowded. For a busy and entertaining experience, visit Winter Wonderland, which runs from November 17th to January 1st, though it’s not my top choice due to the crowds and costs. For a quieter scene, go to the Christmas Market between London Bridge and Tower Bridge on the south side of the Thames. It offers around 60 stalls and stunning views over the City of London. Further out, places like Greenwich and Kingston-Upon-Thames have lovely markets, with activities like a Santa’s Grotto and an alpine village.
One of my favorite pastimes in London is walking along the Thames from the London Eye to Tower Bridge. Southbank Christmas Market opens around November 10th, and you can continue to the London Bridge Market, which starts around November 30th. It’s perfect for a winter evening stroll.
Bath takes on an extra charm at Christmas, making it a delightful day trip destination with its Christmas market running from November 23rd to December 10th. The city will have around 200 wooden stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to hot mulled wine.
Liverpool hosts its Christmas market in 2023 at St George’s Plateau, starting November 17th and running until just before Christmas. It’s a lovely spot, especially if you fancy a German bratwurst or a hot toddy at the windmill bar.
In Nottingham, the city transforms into a festive wonderland with two Christmas Markets at Market Square and Long Row. These run from November 17th to December 31st and include the region’s largest ice rink.
Plymouth’s city centre becomes a Christmas paradise filled with stalls and entertainment from November 30th to December 21st. Don’t miss the Bavarian Bar or the chance to try some treats from stalls like Loco About Cocoa and Hunters Brewery.
Leeds is home to the Christkindelmarkt, one of England’s most iconic Christmas Markets. Situated in Millennium Square, it offers log cabins, pop-up bars, and family-friendly entertainment, opening around November 10th.
York is hosting the St Nicholas Fair from November 16th to December 22nd. The fair spreads across Parliament Street, St Sampson’s Square, and The Judge’s Lodging, with local treats and York’s finest beers available.
Chester’s Christmas market kicks off around November 16th and ends on December 20th, featuring over 70 festive stalls and a lively parade, making it a must-visit.
Cardiff brings a Welsh touch to its Christmas Market, running from November 9th to December 23rd across the city centre. Be sure to check out local crafts and the cheese from Snowdonia Cheese Company’s stall.
Oxford’s Christmas Market is short but sweet, from December 7th to 17th, located on Broad Street. Enjoy the log cabins offering delightful treats like the Charcuterie Board and Glühwein.
Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city, has Christmas Markets to enjoy, set in George Square and St Enoch Square. The George Square market opens around November 25th, while St Enoch runs from November 9th to December 22nd.
Finally, Belfast’s Christmas Market 2023 opens around November 18th to December 23rd and is nestled within the Belfast City Hall grounds. With over 20 chalets, it’s a cozy place to soak in the festive spirit, especially if you’re traveling with family.