The festive season is just around the corner, and you may be thinking about all the fun Christmas activities you can get involved in. Throughout November and December, towns and cities across the world set up stalls and hang festive decorations to create magical Christmas markets.
While some people like to travel to places like Germany or Belgium to visit their world-famous festive markets, there are plenty of great events happening right here at home.
Here are five of the best UK Christmas markets to visit this year.
- Lincolnshire Food and Gift fair
After the disappointing announcement that the Lincoln Christmas market would be cancelled in 2023 and beyond, you may be looking for other events in the area.
While there are lots of smaller events happening, the Lincolnshire Food and Gift Fair is a great choice if you want an alternative to the big Christmas market.
On 25 and 26 November 2023, the Lincolnshire Showground will play host to a huge selection of stalls selling delicious locally-produced food items, handmade crafts, and unique gifts. There will also be an excellent Santa’s Grotto for the kids, and performances from some brilliant local choirs to get you in the Christmas spirit.
As it is a food and gift fair, you can expect to see lots of top chefs cooking up a festive feast and handing out some mouth-watering samples too.
- The “Twelve Days of Christmas” at Belvoir Castle
Between 18 November and 31 December 2023, Belvoir Castle will play host to a unique Christmas event.
You are invited on a tour of the incredible Belvoir Castle, which will be decorated in the theme of the Twelve Days of Christmas, with each room depicting a different day. The beautiful light installations and intricate decorations create a traditional Victorian Christmas atmosphere to immerse yourself in.
As you move through the castle and into the Old Kitchen, you will find a range of stalls selling handcrafted gifts that are perfect for the festive season.
If you are looking for an alternative to the traditional Christmas market this year, don’t miss this spectacular event.
- Liverpool Christmas market
The Liverpool Christmas market is a favourite for locals and visitors alike, and it is back again between 18 November and 24 December 2023.
As usual, the market is situated in front of St George’s Plateau and William Brown Street, against the backdrop of the impressive concert hall. Expect to find lots of amazing food and drink stalls, including a Bavarian bar and a ski bar. A range of local performers will play at these bars throughout the event.
The live festive music and bustling atmosphere bring this Christmas market to life, and you can enjoy a ride on the big wheel for incredible views over the city too.
- Chester Christmas market
The Chester Christmas market is surprisingly large, with roughly 70 different market stalls, all set around the sparkling tree in the city centre.
The market takes place between 17 November and 21 December 2023. You can expect to find all manner of traditional festive treats such as mulled wine and gingerbread men, as well as some great gifts from local vendors.
While you are visiting the market, you could also take the opportunity to see The Snowman live at Chester Cathedral.
5. Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market
Set in the grounds of the stunning Winchester Cathedral, this market is recognised as one of the best in Europe. It takes place from 17 November until 21 December.
With wooden chalets inspired by traditional German Christmas Markets, traders will be offering clothing & accessories, arts & crafts, homeware, games & toys and food & drink. With the festive lighting, Christmas carols and the aroma of mulled wine, visitors will be in the Christmas spirit in no time!
The Cathedral also hosts a series of Christmas services, carol concerts and events and is well worth a visit. There is an admission charge for the cathedral which allows you to visit for 12 months however, admission to the Christmas market is free of charge.
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