‘Tis the season to enjoy magical Christmas markets in London.
When it comes to Christmas shopping, explore beyond the department stores and high street, and embrace the magic of markets. Christmas markets in London sparkle with artists, bakers and candlestick makers. Discover foodie delights at Borough Market, handmade crafts at Old Spitalfields Market, and riverside stalls at the Southbank Centre. And, when you are shopped out, refuel with mulled wine and mince pies. Here are the best Christmas markets in London.
Borough Market
Borough Market is famous for its food – you’ll smell it before you see it. Located in Southwark, the stalls come merry and bright and showcase seasonal food. On 10 December, the annual event, An Evening of Cheese, takes place. The local community of cheesemongers come together and offer advice on how to curate the ultimate Christmas cheeseboard. If you’re after food after the fun, head to the FACT Dining Award winners Bread Ahead and Oma.
GO: Visit https://boroughmarket.org.uk for more information.
Camden Market
Rock around the Christmas tree in Camden. The area is famous worldwide for its music scene, and Amy Winehouse, Madness, and The Clash have been associated with it. From 1 December, Camden Market goes full festive with a grotto, ice rink, and meet-and-greet with Santa. When it comes to shopping, explore artisan goods and seasonal treats.
GO: Visit https://camdenmarket.com for more information.
Chelsea Physic Garden
Christmas comes early at Chelsea Physic Garden. Running from 27 to 30 November, the event features more than 100 independent sellers. Taking place in London’s oldest botanic garden, it includes clothing, homeware, fine food, and speciality drinks. As you are in a garden, after all, make sure you check out the botanical decorations and winter plants.
GO: Visit www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk for more information.
Columbia Road
Columbia Road traditionally goes in full bloom with its famous flower market. On Wednesdays, it gets into the Christmas spirit. The market includes more than 60 independent businesses, including cupcake shops, small art galleries, and vintage clothes. The market stays open late from 5 pm to 9 pm on 26 November, 3, 10, and 17 December. Once you’re done shopping, raise a glass to yourself at one of the old-school pubs nearby.
GO: Visit https://columbiaroad.info for more information.
Covent Garden
Covent Garden’s theme this year is The Theatre of Christmas. Drawing on the West End’s shows, the celebration invites visitors to step behind the curtain and into a world of magic. The experience takes over the Piazza, Market Building, Neal's Yard, Seven Dials, and surrounding streets. From 8 to 30 November, The Chalet of Play includes fairground challenges, a LEGO Minecraft Zone, and a Christmas market.
GO: Visit www.coventgarden.london for more information.
Greenwich Market
All aboard. Greenwich Market draws inspiration from its nautical history with its Christmas market. The gifts include artwork, crafts, fashion, and stocking fillers. The Lantern Parade takes place on 19 November. Wander around the historic maritime neighbourhood, lit with lights and a tree, and admire the historic ship. Events include an ice rink, grotto, and stories by the fireplace.
GO: Visit www.rmg.co.uk for more information.
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland turns 18 years old. Running from 14 November to 1 January, the site spreads Christmas cheer by the sleigh-load. While most people come for the rides, don’t miss the market stalls. Set inside traditional chalets, the items include food, drink, and plenty of seasonal treats. Get there early to avoid the crowds.
GO: Visit https://hydeparkwinterwonderland.com for more information.
Leicester Square
Leicester Square is traditionally home to red carpet film premieres. From 1 November to 4 January, it rolls out the white carpet with snow. The centre of town is transformed with a newly created ice rink, bar, and, of course, markets. Set inside traditional chalets, guests can pick up seasonal treats, which help you (and your loved ones) remember the occasion.
GO: Visit www.skateleicestersquare.co.uk for more information.
London Bridge
London Bridge’s Winter by the River event feels like it’s straight out of a Richard Curtis film. Running from 13 November to 4 January, it is set against the beautiful backdrop of Tower Bridge and the Tower of London. The two-storey après-ski-themed venue includes a heated rooftop, seasonal food and drinks, and, of course, handmade crafts.
GO: Visit www.londonbridgecity.co.uk for more information.
King's Cross
King's Cross knows how to get you from London to Europe. For the festive period, it goes international with its Christmas market. Browse Japanese- and Mexican-themed stalls. NF Makers’ Market was founded by women and aims to champion independent creators. The site includes arts and crafts, affordable gifts, and both emerging and established creators.
GO: Visit www.kingscross.co.uk for more information.
Old Spitalfields
Old Spitalfields has Christmas all wrapped up. On 12 November, there is a gospel choir for the switch-on of its lights. The historic site welcomes shops and stalls that get into the festive spirit. If you want something special, head to this part of town. Expect handmade, seasonal gifts that add a one-of-a-kind element to your shopping.
GO: Visit https://oldspitalfieldsmarket.com for more information.
Southbank Centre
Step into a riverside experience at Southbank Centre’s Winter Market. Running from 3 November to 4 January, it offers a traditional artisan Christmas market. Wooden chalets line the Thames, offering seasonal treats and handmade crafts. It's perfect for postcard views of the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye and the River Thames. Plus, you can pick up winter food and drink, from mulled wine to Yorkshire puddings.
GO: Visit www.southbankcentre.co.uk for more information.
