We round up our favourite Christmas Markets happening around the UK this year… read more
Whilst it may be a little early to kick-start the Christmas count down, it’s never too soon to plan your festive diary. To help ease you into the merry spirit we’ve rounded up our guide of the UK’s best Christmas Markets, our pick of the must-visit winter wonderlands…
Bath Christmas Market
Taking place within the heart of Bath, this majestic setting plays host to the Bath Christmas Market. During this time the quaint Georgian streets of the city, between the Bath Abbey and the renowned Roman Baths are transformed into a festive delight. Putting a thoroughly British spin on the traditional German markets, the Bath Christmas Market showcases the very best of Bath and South West produce, each housed in the 150 traditional wooden chalets that adorn the streets. Take time out to enjoy a hot mulled wine at one of the many inviting cafés as you soak up the romantic atmosphere, listening to the festive carols echoing around the Abbey.
Don’t miss the Holburn Museum Lantern Procession taking place on opening night (28th November). Watch the dazzling spectacle, as hundreds of hand-made lanterns are carried through the streets of Bath to the sound of merry music.
Bath Christmas Market runs from 28th November – 15th December, for more details click here.
Leeds Christmas Market
Experience the taste of a traditional German market at the Leeds Christkindelmarkt. Now in it’s twelfth year, the city centre square will once again be transformed into a scenic winter wonderland village. Bringing the festive sights and sounds straight from Germany, traders will be travelling into Leeds to set up shop in the forty traditional chalets. Featuring handcrafted gifts and decorations; sample the range of traditional German delicacies on offer including Stollen, gingerbread and the famous bratwurst sausages. A true family festive atmosphere, this cosy retreat offers the most authentic German market feel.
Don’t miss the family fun-taking place on Sunday mornings. Including Santa, live music, magical performances and baking. Should you fancy an evening out, the popular German show band will be on stage to serenade you after dining out at the German eatery, Alp Chalet Bavarian.
Leeds Christmas Market runs from the 8th November – 18th December, for more details click here.
Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park London
Crowned London’s most popular Christmas destination, once again a festive extravaganza is set to take over the iconic Hyde Park. With an exciting line up of merry activities, there is no shortage of fun to be had! Cast your eyes upon the breathtaking winter wonderland sculptures in The Magical Ice Kingdom, handcrafted entirely out of snow and ice. From there take a stroll over to the UK’s largest outdoor ice-rink, glide along to the sound of live music in this magical setting. For the best views of the park, take a flight on the Giant Observation Wheel to experience the stunning panoramic sights of London skyline. After a fun-filled day don’t forget to visit the famous Bavarian Village, serving up an array of culinary treats with bratwurst, bars and live bands!
Don’t miss the famed Zippo’s Christmas Circus, a treat for the entire family. Experience the thrilling performances from world-class jugglers, comical clowns and show-stopping aerialists.
Winter Wonderland runs from the 22nd November – 23rd December, for more details click here.
Leeds Castle in Kent
For the twelve days of Christmas, the festive spirit is set to come alive at Leeds Castle. During this time the castle will be magnificently decorated, with a number of events on the line up. Explore the castle, soaking up the historic atmosphere whilst admiring the festive décor adorning each room. With toasty log fires, twinkling lights and traditional decorations this is your chance to explore the castle in it’s finest Christmas grandeur, discovering the Medieval and Tudor history. Taking residence outside the castle, a pack of huskies have set up home waiting to take young ones on an exciting sleigh ride to the woodland trail, where Father Christmas will be waiting in his enchanted forest grotto.
Offering the chance to create your very own handmade Christmas wreath, book a place at one of the many workshops taking place at the Castle Florist, using materials taken from the garden grounds. A fabulous opportunity to add a personal touch to your Christmas décor!
Don’t miss the Christmas Market where local suppliers will be serving up a treat for foodies! Offering home-made pies, cheese, fudges, chutneys and more – perfect for a Christmas feast.
The Twelve Days of Christmas at Leeds Castle runs from 7th – 24th December, for more details click here.
Manchester Christmas Market
Celebrating 15 magical years, Manchester Christmas Market is back, bigger and better than ever before. Being the very first UK town to adopt the continental style Christmas market from Europe, we will see the return of market traders from all over Europe. To celebrate this festive mile stone, Manchester Christmas Market have minted thousands of special Christmas shillings that can be used as fun currency or kept as a token memento. Spread over nine sites, look out for the beautifully crafted windmill crowning the popular bratwurst stand. Feast on the many European culinary delights on offer, including Gluhwein, coffee, sweet macaroons and delicious crepes. Head on over to the Christmas Vintage Lounge and take time out at the tea room, cocktail bar or the microbrewery listening to live music and performances taking place.
Don’t miss the giant Santa taking his place above Albert Square, he’s hard to miss!
Manchester Christmas Market runs from the 15th November – 22nd December, for more details click here.
Will you be visiting any Christmas Markets this year? We can’t wait to kick-start our preparations for the Christmas festivities, browse the Laura Ashley Christmas shop for gift ideas, decorations and party wear.