13 Best Christmas Markets UK 2025 Top Festive Shopping Spots

Are you looking for the most magical Christmas markets in the UK? You are not alone many people face the same problem because the country has many markets, but not all of them feel truly festive.

This guide to the best UK Christmas markets in 2025 shows you the top places to visit during the holidays. Here you can shop for unique gifts for your friends and family. Enjoy tasty festive food, watch entertainment, and enjoy the holiday calm atmosphere.

Estate Agents Ilford shares the 13 best Christmas markets in the UK for 2025, perfect for shopping and seasonal cheer. These markets will help make your festive season truly memorable.

Christmas Market UK 2025: Dates and Opening Hours

Planning your visit to a Christmas Market in the UK becomes easier when you know the exact dates and times. Most markets run from mid-November until just before Christmas, with a few staying open into early January. Below is a quick guide to the main cities, their festive dates, and opening hours.

Find a Christmas market near you

No matter where you are in the UK, there’s likely a magical Christmas market just around the corner. So find the Christmas market near you and enjoy all the twinkling and charm of the market.

Manchester Christmas Market

The famous Manchester Christmas Markets will return from 8th November to 22nd December 2025. You can enjoy tasty food like bratwurst and warm drinks such as mulled wine and hot chocolate. You will also find unique handmade gifts at the busy market stalls across the city that you can buy for your relatives and friends. 

Anglian Potters Fayre

The Anglian Potters Fayre will take place at the West Wing Gallery, Ickworth Estate, on 4th and 5th October 2025, from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm. This free event (normal venue admission applies) brings together talented potters showcasing beautiful handmade ceramics.

Edinburgh Christmas Market

The Edinburgh Christmas Market runs from 15th November to 4th January in Princes Street Gardens. It offers family-friendly rides, festive stalls, and nearby hotels for a convenient stay.

Winchester Christmas Market

The Winchester Christmas Market takes place from 22nd November to 22nd December at Winchester Cathedral. It’s known for its open-air ice rink alongside the festive stalls.

Birmingham Christmas Market

The Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market takes place from 1st November to 24th December in Victoria Square and New Street. You can enjoy German food, drinks, and festive gifts at the largest German market outside of Germany.

York Christmas Market

The York Christmas Market runs from 14th November to 22nd December on Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square. You can explore local crafts, food, and entertainment, with hotels nearby for a comfortable festive stay.

Bath Christmas Market

The Bath Christmas Market runs from 28th November to 15th December, offering you festive stalls with gifts, food, and drinks in the heart of the city.

Liverpool Christmas Market

The Liverpool Christmas Market runs from 16th November to 24th December near St George’s Hall. You can enjoy festive snacks, crafts, rides, and nearby hotels for a convenient stay.

Belfast Christmas Market

The Belfast Christmas Market takes place from 16th November to 22nd December next to Belfast City Hall. It offers festive food, Santa’s Grotto, and easy access to local hotels.

Why Christmas markets are special in 2025?

The Christmas markets of 2025 are set to be even more enchanting, embracing traditional customs. Many of these markets are becoming increasingly interactive, featuring stunning light installations and sustainable decorations. They also present handcrafted, locally-sourced goods, reflecting the UK’s heightened awareness of environmental issues.

Each city presents its own distinct theme, including delightful Victorian-inspired festivities. Some even create enchanting palace environments reminiscent of a winter fairy tale. In addition to honoring their historical roots, the markets will introduce contemporary attractions and enjoyable activities for families. This year’s festivities promise to create unforgettable holiday experiences for visitors of all ages.

Tips for Visiting UK Christmas Markets

The magic of the festive season with our guide to the best UK Christmas markets, filled with twinkling lights, handmade gifts, mulled wine, and seasonal treats. Follow these top tips to make your visit unforgettable

Dress in warm and comfortable clothing

UK Christmas markets are primarily held outdoors, meaning the weather can be brisk, windy, and occasionally rainy. Wear cozy and comfortable dresses that help you to stay calm.. If you intend to stay into the evening, consider bringing an additional layer, as temperatures can drop quickly after dark.

Optimal Times To visit to avoid crowds

Markets generally become very busy during evenings and on weekends, particularly in December. For a more peaceful and enjoyable experience, consider visiting during weekday mornings or early afternoons. Arriving right when the market opens is often the best way to experience the stalls without long waits. The beginning of December is also less populated compared to the days leading up to Christmas.

How to plan your budget for food and shopping  

It’s simple to get swept away by festive goodies and handmade gifts. Many vendors accept card payments, but it’s wise to keep some cash available for smaller stalls. A helpful tip is to research average prices online ahead of time mulled wine, hot chocolate, and holiday snacks typically range from £3–£6 each.

Best Christmas Market Holidays in the UK

Top cities for a festive weekend break

Some of the best cities to enjoy a Christmas market weekend are Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Bath, and York. Each city has its own charm. Manchester is known for its large market spread across the city. Whereas. Birmingham brings a taste of Germany with its famous Frankfurt Christmas Market.

Hotels near the biggest markets

Staying close to the market saves time and lets you enjoy the evening lights without worrying about long journeys back. In Manchester, hotels around Piccadilly Gardens are a perfect choice. In Edinburgh, look for stays near Princes Street Gardens. For Bath, hotels near the Abbey and city centre keep you right in the middle of the action.

Entry Fees and Accessibility

To make your trip planning easier, here’s a detailed breakdown of the entry fees, venues, and timings for the top Christmas Markets in the UK 2025.

Conclusion

UK Christmas markets in 2025 give you the chance to enjoy good food, unique gifts, and festive lights. Exploring the best Christmas markets in the UK will make your holidays unforgettable, and with tips from Estate Agent Ilford.

Frequently Asked Questions