There’s no better way to ease yourself into the winter festivities than to wander round the UK’s best Christmas markets. Each Christmas market has something a bit different to offer than the next so we’ve put together our top list of favorites to make you decision a bit easier.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh Christmas Markets are world renowned for bringing Christmas cheer to the Scottish capital. It’s a great opportunity to embrace the annual festivities with a bit of Scottish flair. There are opportunities to meet Santa in his grotto, fairground rides for all ages and events on the Royal Mile featuring works from Edinburgh’s young artists. For the adults, the entire event is yet again partnering with Johnnie Walker which can be enjoyed at a themed bar on the Mound and across the markets.
From mulled Irn Bru, handmade produce and Harry Potter themed gifts from the city that started it all there’s something for all of the family.
Winchester Cathedral, England
Widely recognised as one of the best in Europe, the Winchester Cathedral Christmas Markets is known for it’s picturesque location and handmade, high quality displays. Visitors come from all around the world to enjoy shopping in charming wooden chalets in the historic grounds. Inspired by traditional German Christmas Markets, Winchester Cathedral gives off a classy, traditional feel with carols, mulled wine, and festive lighting.
If you’re looking for an authentic festive outing to get you in the Christmas spirit, Winchester Cathedral Markets are the perfect choice.
Manchester, England
Manchester’s Christmas Markets span over 220 stalls across 9 locations within Manchester’s city centre. The first ever markets in Manchester were held in 1998 and since then have continued to grow and welcome Mancunians to enjoy the abundance of festive treats on offer. The magical Christmas lights trail illuminate the city through out the winter season and a family friendly skate rink situated in its normal location at the Cathedral Gardens is perfect for those looking to have a glide around the ice. For the younger visitors there is also an opportunity to meet Santa who oversees the entire site from the front of Central Library on St Peter’s Square.
This year they also have special events on Sundays. The streets are filled with a little extra Christmas magic with some unmissable features such as puppets, bands, and extra-large penguins.
Belfast, Ireland
Attracting visitors from across the globe, Belfast Christmas Markets contributes significantly to the local economy. With a keen focus on supporting local food and craft you will find yourself taken in by the Jolly Big Business Boost competition pitting local businesses against each other for the grand prize.
In addition to the showcase of local goods, the markets feature a selection of goods from over 20 nationalities such as crepes, Belgian chocolates, and bratwurst to name a few. The Belfast markets attract over one million visitors every year boasting a well-organised and citywide benefitting event.
Don’t forget to grab a warming pint of ‘Hug in a Mug’ of Gluhwein from award winning Kochem vineyard, Germany to keep off the December chill.
Cardiff, Wales
The well-established Cardiff Christmas Markets have been successfully operating for 30 years and are located in the heart of Cardiff City Centre. Every year they have an extensive list of businesses selling widely diverse selections from arts to food and drink. They offer the unique opportunity to see the crafts of local artists and craftsmen and women ‘in-action’. They believe nothing boost the promotion of their work than for the public to see them in action creating and personalising gifts. Although the Cardiff markets have operated for 30 years they know how to put a modern twist on tradition as individual vendors add to the festive atmosphere of outdoor contemporary free fairs and festivals for all to enjoy.
With the wealth of experience in holding the Christmas Markets in Cardiff it’s evident that this event is a well-oiled machine.
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