Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market

The Best Christmas Market Near You in 2024

the best christmas market near you in 2024 the three drinkers

No one loves the long winter nights that bring darkness by the afternoon, but in the build up to Christmas, this darkness is filled with the glimmering twinkle of Christmas markets. Come November, Britain’s towns and cities burst into full festive mode with chalets selling their wares, pop-up bars bustling with life and all manner of entertainment from giant wheels to magical ice rinks. There’s something special going on almost everywhere, but these are the Christmas markets that take things to that next level.

Hyde Park, Winter Wonderland, London

Hyde Park, Winter Wonderland, London the best christmas market near you in 2024 the three drinkers

We can’t not include Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland, promising, yet again, a festive dreamland that keeps visitors of all ages entertained. Home to the UK’s largest open-air ice-skating rink, carnival rides galore, and a sprawling Christmas market, this attraction is a London winter must-see on a scale not seen anywhere else. Not only are there the Bavarian stalls for handcrafted gifts and tasty treats like churros, bratwursts, and warming mugs of mulled wine, but other gates grant access to much more; the 70m observation wheel, a grotto, live music, ice bars, sculptures and fire pits to name a few. In terms of tickets, entrance costs between £5 and £7.50 (it’s London guys!), but there are a few different options and discounts depending on when you go and whether you pre-book rides – take a look on the site below. It’s also worth mentioning that it’s a stone’s throw from the incredible window displays of Regent and Oxford Street.

Dates: November 21 2024 - January 5 2025
Nearest station: Victoria and Paddington
Nearest tube: Hyde Park Corner and Marble Arch
Nearest car park: Q-Park
Website

South Bank, London

South Bank, London the best christmas market near you in 2024 the three drinkers

Right by the London Eye, the South Bank Winter Festival brings unique stalls offering global food delights, the Rekorderlig Cider Lodge, and a breathtaking riverside view. Alongside the market, there’s a full line-up of festive shows and events to catch nearby, making it an ideal stop for a festive night out in the capital. Look out for multi-sensory experiences, exhibitions, live podcasts and more.

Dates: November 1 2024 –  26 December 2024 (though some events continue after this)
Nearest station: Waterloo and Southwark
Nearest tube: Waterloo, Southwark and Embankment
Nearest car park: APCOA South Bank
Website

Frankfurt Christmas Market, Birmingham

Frankfurt Christmas Market, Birmingham the best christmas market near you in 2024 the three drinkers

If you want a huge Christmas market to explore, look no further. Birmingham’s festival is the biggest outside of Germany and Austria, bringing Bavarian charm and festive cheer to Victoria Square and New Street. Known for traditional bratwurst, gluhwein, and stollen, it is teeming with handcrafted gifts, charming chalets, and carol singing. Expect big wheels, ice rinks and a singing Christmas moose called ‘Chris Moose’ too.

Dates: November 1 2024 –  24 December 2024
Nearest station: Birmingham New Street
Nearest car park: Swallow Street/Town Hall
Website

Edinburgh Christmas Market, Edinburgh

Edinburgh Christmas Market, Edinburgh the best christmas market near you in 2024 the three drinkers

Of course, this festival hotspot has a cracking Christmas Market. In recent years, it’s expanded across Princes Street Gardens to The Mound and up the Royal Mile, all set against possibly the best-looking backdrop in the UK. Expect stalls full of artisan crafts, gourmet foods, and Christmas magic including Santa’s stories, the big wheel, illuminated paths, and a 450 strong Christmas Tree maze. And all for free!

Dates: November 15, 2024 - January 4, 2024
Nearest station: Edinburgh Waverley
Nearest car park: Castle Terrace
Website

Winter Wonderland, Nottingham

Winter Wonderland, Nottingham the best christmas market near you in 2024 the three drinkers

Positioned underneath one of the most impressive giant Christmas trees is East Midlands’ largest Christmas market, lighting up Nottingham’s Old Market Square with 70 Bavarian-style stalls, fairground rides, and live music. Grotto, ice rink, observation wheel, rides and a stunning ice bar – it’s the complete package.

Dates: November 13, 2024 – December 31, 2024
Nearest station: Nottingham
Nearest car park: Lace Market, Trinity Square and Broad Marsh
Website

Manchester Christmas Market, Manchester

Manchester Christmas Market, Manchester the best christmas market near you in 2024 the three drinkers

One of the UK’s longest-standing and largest Christmas markets, Manchester’s festive zones take over nine city locations, with Albert Square’s grand setting leading the way. Visit Exchange Square, Cathedral Gardens, and Piccadilly Gardens to experience the best of European market flair, with everything from handmade crafts to mulled wine… and we mean everything – the variety is remarkable. Bear in mind that many stalls here are cash-only!

Dates: November 8, 2024 – December 22, 2024
Nearest station: Victoria, Piccadilly, or Oxford Road Station
Nearest car park: King Street West and China Town (parking in Ancoats is quieter and cheaper, and still within walking distance)
Website

Bath Christmas Market, Bath

Bath Christmas Market, Bath the best christmas market near you in 2024 the three drinkers

Nestled within UNESCO World Heritage site Bath’s Georgian streets, the Christmas market is beloved for its distinctive artisan crafts, handmade gifts, and local food and drink options. The 150+ chalet stalls, all locally sourced, reflect the market’s commitment to quality and authenticity. With Bath Abbey as a backdrop, it’s a truly scenic holiday setting, and the perfect stop for a day of festive shopping, then unwinding at Bath’s famous spa. This market is consistently recognised as one of the UK’s best.

Dates: November 28, 2024 – December 15, 2024
Nearest station: Bath Spa (it’s also not far from London)
Nearest car park: Manvers Street, Avon Street and Kingsmead Square
Website

Cardiff Christmas Market, Cardiff

Cardiff Christmas Market, Cardiff the best christmas market near you in 2024 the three drinkers

Named The Times’ Number One market in the UK, Cardiff’s Christmas Market has been perfecting its festive charm for 30 years this year, so it’s a big anniversary! Celebrating handmade craftsmanship, it features unique items from local artisans, whether that’s stunning glasswork, intricate ceramics, or beautifully crafted jewellery. Vendors change every 5-10 days, so you’ll find new treasures every week. Stroll through Hayes, Trinity Street, St. John, and Working Street to enjoy seasonal aromas and the sparkle of one-of-a-kind gifts, all in charming pedestrian-only areas.

Dates: November 14, 2024 – December 23, 2024
Nearest station: Cardiff Central and Queen Street
Nearest car park: NCP Westgate Street, NCP Cardiff Rappots
Website

Winchester Cathedral, Winchester

Winchester Cathedral, Winchester the best christmas market near you in 2024 the three drinkers

Winchester Cathedral’s enchanting Christmas market has earned its place among Europe’s Top Ten and was named the UK’s second-best Christmas market in 2018. With around 100 thoughtfully chosen chalets, it transforms the Cathedral grounds into a festive wonderland, filled with tempting treats and unique gifts. The atmosphere is completed by the Cathedral Choir’s uplifting carols, adding an unforgettable, magical touch to this historic setting.

Dates: November 22, 2024 – December 22, 2024
Nearest station: Winchester (near Southampton, and 1hr from London)
Nearest car park: Barfied P&R and St. Catherines P&R
Website

St Nicholas Fair, York

St Nicholas Fair, York the best christmas market near you in 2024 the three drinkers

York’s beautiful Christmas Market is set against a backdrop of historical charm, making it a must-visit during the festive season. Stroll past alpine-style chalets filled with locally crafted gifts, artwork, and delicious seasonal treats. The towering Christmas tree and talented buskers fill the streets with holiday spirit, while the twinkling lights set a cozy, magical mood. York’s compact layout makes exploring on foot easy, with highlights like The Shambles Market adding an extra touch of medieval allure. This award-winning market is a true festive gem.

Dates: November 17, 2024 – December 23, 2024
Nearest station: York
Nearest car park: Coppergate or Q-Park, but York Park & Ride is free, with £3.60 buses every 12mins.
Website

If you really want to embrace the Christmas countdown, how about a Wine Advent Calendar?