The best Christmas markets in the UK
Penned on the 18th November 2024
Winter in the UK is an enchanting time to embark on a seasonal escape. As the year draws to a close, festive spirit sweeps across the nation, transforming quaint towns and historic cities into twinkling winter wonderlands. For those looking to capture the magic of Christmas with a spontaneous getaway, there’s no better way than to explore some of the country’s best Christmas markets.
Immerse yourself in local culture, indulge in festive treats, and experience the heartwarming traditions that make Christmas in the UK so special. Whether wandering through charming chalet-style stalls, sipping mulled cider, or finding handcrafted treasures, these magical markets paired with a cosy stay in a hidden hideaway provide the perfect centerpiece for a truly enchanting winter getaway.
Fowey Christmas Market, Cornwall
22nd November to 24th November 2024
A highlight of Cornwall’s festive calendar, the Fowey Christmas Market transforms this idyllic harbour town into a winter wonderland. Nearly a hundred local traders set up along the picturesque cobbled streets, with the serene River Fowey as a stunning backdrop and the town's charming Georgian architecture adding to the magic.
Discover artisan gifts, hand-crafted ornaments, delicious local produce, and seasonal tipples as you explore the bustling stalls. Plus, plenty of independent shops lining the local high street.
Entertainment and family-friendly activities add to the festive atmosphere for all ages. Don’t miss Santa’s arrival by tugboat on Friday evening, followed by a cheerful parade through the streets led by the Fowey Town Band.
Where to stay: Little Lesquite | A cosy hideaway nestled in the Cornish countryside, with far-reaching views over Bodmin Moor.
Mapperton Christmas Market, Dorset
23rd November to 24th November 2024
In the heart of the Dorset countryside, Mapperton Christmas Market is hosted at one of the UK’s most exquisite manor houses. Here, you will find a curated selection of locally sourced gifts, including natural soaps, luxury leather goods, handmade jewellery, artisan skincare, Dorset-poured candles, and botanical liqueurs. Also included are Santa’s grotto, live music and the opportunity to explore the surrounding gardens.
Where to stay: La Cabine Francaise | Set amidst the Dorset countryside this cute shepherd’s hut offers a romantic escape with a French twist.
Hay-on-Wye Christmas Markets, Powys
November and December 2024
Famed for its literary heritage, Hay-on-Wye is also a wonderful destination for festive cheer. The town’s weekly market, a tradition for nearly 800 years, takes place every Thursday, offering a variety of local produce, artisan gifts, vintage finds, and more.
From the 28th of November to the 1st of December, the market extends into the weekend to coincide with the Hay Festival Winter Weekend, featuring additional markets at Hay Castle, the Cheese Market, Buttermarket Halls, the Mad Hatter’s Craft Market, and the Fairtrade Hay Winter Fair.
On the 14th of December, the festive Christmas Fayre adds even more magic, with over sixty traders joining Hay’s charming independent shops. Visitors can enjoy unique gifts, delicious food and drink, carol singing, mulled wine, twinkling lights, and a children’s Christmas trail.
Where to stay: Mrs Higgs | Nestled within the depths of an ancient woodland, this historic stone house offers both comfort and charm.
Truro Christmas Market, Cornwall
22nd November to 24th December 2024
Bringing 33 days of festive cheer to Cornwall, Truro Christmas Market is a hidden gem in the UK’s most southerly county. With over fifty artisan traders showcasing their creations from charming wooden cabins, the market transforms Cornwall’s capital into a magical festive hub.
Visitors can browse handcrafted gifts, local crafts, and seasonal treats, each lovingly made by talented regional artisans. However, if you’ve already got your Christmas shopping covered, it’s still worth a visit for the sparkling lights, mouthwatering food stalls, and festive music. Tie it in with a trip to Cornwall’s stunning coastline, where you can enjoy long beach walks and impressive winter wave watching.
Where to stay: Skylark | This tiny house boasts mesmerising sea views, silent surroundings, and upcycled interiors for the perfect nature-filled escape.
Pembroke Castle Christmas Market, South Wales
29th November to 1st December 2024
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Pembroke Castle, Pembroke Castle Christmas Market has been delighting visitors for twelve years. Nestled within the castle’s sheltered walls, it brings together eighty local traders selling a variety of gifts, toys, clothing, jewellery, and local produce – perfect for last-minute present ideas. The festive atmosphere is elevated by carol singers, live music, a magical Santa’s grotto and as night falls, the castle’s walls are illuminated. For a perfect winter escape, pair your visit with a coastal walk along Pembrokeshire’s stunning shoreline, to combine festive cheer with the beauty of the great outdoors.
Where to stay: Officer’s Mess | This restored former WWII military building offers a cosy retreat next to some of Pembrokeshire’s most spectacular coastline.
Durham Christmas Festival, County Durham
6th December to 8th December 2024
An up-and-coming favourite, Durham Christmas Festival remains a hidden gem compared to many of the more renowned festive markets in the UK. Running across one weekend in early December, it promises over two-hundred traders across three separate markets, whilst still retaining a lovely local feel. Markets include the Craft & Producers’ Marquee, where you’ll find handcrafted items, gift ideas, festive decorations and seasonal food. There’s also a Festive Outdoor Market selling imaginative gifts, vintage clothing and handcrafted homeware. Plus plenty more at Durham Market Hall.
Where to stay: Cinnabar Nest | An off-grid cosy cabin, where you can slow down and connect with nature.
North Devon Christmas Market, Devon
7th December 2024
One of the county’s largest Christmas markets, the North Devon Christmas Market is set in the picture-perfect village of Braunton, yet remains a delightful surprise for many. Despite its impressive size, this festive market still manages to fly under the radar.
Boasting over 130 traders, it offers a fantastic variety of products, from handmade jewellery and sweet treats to Somerset cider, bespoke clothing, and top-tier crafts from the West Country. For food lovers, there’s a huge selection of global cuisines, including traditional hog roasts, fragrant curries, and tempting churros.
The market also features live entertainment, with choirs, dance performances, and fairground rides adding to the festive atmosphere.
Where to stay: Straw Cottage | A quirky bolthole lovingly created by local craftspeople with an outdoor hot tub and cosy interiors.
Conwy Winterfest, North Wales
7th December 2024
Experience a festive celebration with a mediaeval twist at Conwy Winterfest, set within the historic walls of one of Britain’s best-preserved mediaeval towns. The event features Morris dancing, sword fighting, jesters, and armoured knights, culminating in a spectacular torch-lit parade through Conwy’s atmospheric streets.
Whilst not a traditional Christmas market, Conwy’s charm lies in its spectacular choice of independent shops, with only three chain stores in the entire town. Offering everything from a toy emporium, to a fine wine shop, and even a store selling suits of armour, much of the high street stays open late through December.
Where to stay: Cwt Elsi | This beautifully handcrafted cabin boasts spectacular views across Eryri National Park.
Wells Christmas Market, Somerset
14th December 2024
Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Bishop’s Palace Green, Wells Christmas Market offers a magical festive experience in England’s smallest city. This one-day event is a seasonal highlight, featuring over a hundred stalls brimming with local food, drink, and unique gifts, perfect for completing your Christmas shopping.
As you wander through the market, enjoy the aromas of mulled apple juice and other seasonal treats whilst soaking up the sounds of live music and carol singers. Stalls showcase everything from artisan crafts and handmade decorations to delicious local produce. Afterwards, explore Wells’ famous cathedral and mediaeval streets to make the most of your visit.
Where to stay: The Crook | Perfectly situated in a peaceful paradise, this gorgeous hut is full of little luxuries in the heart of Somerset.
Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market, Devon
15th November to 15th December 2024
Though it continues to grow each year, Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market retains its friendly local charm. With over a hundred festive chalets offering local gifts, produce, bars, and global street food, the market is set against the stunning backdrop of Exeter Cathedral, making it a Christmas experience to remember.
This year, a brand-new festive area in the Cloister Garden introduces even more stalls from independent local businesses, adding to the market’s offering. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Exeter Cathedral itself, with its Entry By Donation offer, where you can immerse yourself in the breathtaking architecture and uncover a thousand years of history and splendour.
Where to stay: Annie’s View | Perched atop a peaceful meadow, with glorious views as far as the eye can see, this hideaway is the epitome of tranquil escapism.
Embrace the season’s festivities and explore our full collection of dreamy hideaways for your next winter getaway.