Explore the Best London Christmas Markets
My fondness for London during the Christmas season is profound. The chilly winter air, warm mulled wine from the city’s festive markets, and the enchanting London Christmas markets scattered throughout make this city magical.
Regardless of whether you are staying in central London or venturing into surrounding neighborhoods, you will discover numerous festive markets, charming stalls, and winter wonderlands waiting to be explored.
Below, I’ve rounded up some of my top Christmas markets in London that are sure to get you in the holiday spirit, each offering a unique experience and ambiance.
1.) Winter Market at the Southbank Centre
Each year, the Southbank Centre hosts a vibrant Winter Market that stretches from the iconic London Eye to the site itself. This market offers an extensive variety of carousels, bars, handcrafted stalls, and elegant wooden cabins, serving scrumptious treats from across the globe.
Take a leisurely stroll along the Thames, relishing the festive atmosphere—with a mulled wine in hand, if you please. The market radiates a special charm in the evening, with fairy lights illuminating the festive stalls.
The Winter Market is typically operational from early November until just after Christmas, ending on the 27th of December.
2.) Borough Market at Christmas
While Borough Market is operational year-round, its festive spirit elevates during Christmas. This remarkable market extends their hours to allow for cozy evenings filled with delectable seasonal treats, eggnog, mulled wine, and comforting turkey and cranberry rolls.
Borough Market also hosts several events throughout December, enhancing the holiday experience. Make sure to check their revised opening hours for this festive season.
3.) Winterville in Clapham Common
Located south of the Thames, Winterville is a vibrant market situated in Clapham Common. It features entertainment options like roller skating parties, Mexican wrestling, and a charming fairground atmosphere with numerous stalls and activities to enjoy.
Winterville is usually open from mid-November to just before Christmas and promises a fun-filled day for everyone!
4.) Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park
Winter Wonderland is a polarizing venue in London; you either adore it or avoid it. For enthusiasts, this expansive Christmas market is brimming with countless stalls, thrilling performances, and rides. It’s one of the biggest markets in London, providing an entire day of joyful activities.
However, it’s worth noting that it can get quite crowded, attracting thousands of visitors, and expenditures may quickly add up as you wander through the array of attractions at Hyde Park.
Don’t forget to engage in activities like ice sculpting, catching a show of *Peter Pan on Ice*, or relaxing at the ice bar—just be sure to dress warmly as it gets chilly!
The market is generally open from late November until early January.
5.) City Hall Christmas Market
Located between London Bridge and Tower Bridge on the City Hall side of the Thames, this smaller-scale Christmas market provides a delightful experience. While it may not match the grandeur of Winter Wonderland, it offers a charming atmosphere ideal for a quick festive visit while you admire Tower Bridge.
6.) Christmas in Leicester Square
Leicester Square is often bustling, but this shouldn’t deter you. When time doesn’t allow for a trip to Winterville or Winter Wonderland, you can swing by to explore this compact Christmas market.
With about 30 stalls and a small fair, what sets the Leicester Square Christmas market apart from others is its fabulous shows. This year, audiences can enjoy performances including the *Burlesque Carol Concert*, *Briefs: Close Encounter*, and *Brat Kids Carnival*.
7.) Somerset House at Christmas
Somerset House is one of the most picturesque venues to relish the yuletide cheer in London. This year, the stunning ice rink reappears in the central courtyard along with captivating winter exhibitions featuring *Charlie Brown*, *Fortnum’s Lodge*, and *Fortnum’s Christmas Arcade*.
Your festive experience at Somerset House runs from mid-November up to the 13th of January, so remember to arrange your skating session in advance!
8.) Kingston-Upon-Thames
For those preferring a less hectic atmosphere, Kingston-Upon-Thames hosts a delightful festive market from the 16th of November. This charming market features an array of stalls, an alpine village, and an ancient marketplace that delights visitors.
