From twinkling lights to the aroma of mulled wine and the joyous sounds of carolers, there’s no better way to immerse yourself in the festive spirit than by visiting some of the best Christmas markets in the UK.
So if you are searching for that perfect magical experience to begin the season, we have gathered some of the best Christmas Markets to inspire you...
Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market - (Friday 17th November - Sunday 17th December)
Photo copyright Alison Day and licenced for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.
In the heart of Devon, Exeter hosts a captivating Christmas Market within Cathedral Square, drawing visitors with its festive allure. Amidst the historic streets, the market showcases local artisans’ crafts and delectable treats, with over a hundred festive chalets. Enjoy free entry into Exeter Cathedral, including a look at the Light of Hope Star installation by artist, Peter Walker. With its charming setting and array of season delights, Exeter’s Christmas Market offers a delightful experience for all who visit.
If you want to enjoy the delights of the beautiful Cathedral and market, why not explore some of our nearby cosy cottages?
Padstow Christmas Festival - (Thursday 7th December - Sunday 10th December)
Photo copyright Andrew Gustar and licenced for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.
Painted along Cornwall’s coast, Padstow hosts its enchanting Christmas Festival, a magical blend of culinary wonders, festive markets, and coastal charm. In early December each year, the town buzzes as food experts and renowned chefs from far and wide take part in showcasing their skills amidst a bustling Christmas market offering artisanal delights and unique gifts. Foodies will be in their element as festive food takes forefront, with a whole host of mouth watering treats. Enjoy a wonderful Lantern Parade on the Friday, created by local school children before a colourful fireworks display to end the night.
If you’re already dreaming of Padstow's tasty treats, then why not check out our range of luxury cottages within easy reach of this coastal wonderland.
Winter Wonderland Norwich - (Friday 17th November - Wednesday 3rd January)
Photo copyright Martin and licenced for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.
During the festive season, Norwich transforms into a captivating Winter Wonderland, offering a delightful array of markets, thrilling fairground rides, and enchanting entertainment. Enjoy wonderful views on the Giant Observation Wheel, or get lost within the Giant Christmas Tree Maze. Get your skates on in the ice rink and enjoy the new clear span cover - perfect for all weather skating! Filled with festive food, licensed bars, live music and even a visit from Santa, Norwich Winter Wonderland has something for everyone to enjoy.
Want to get the whole family in on the fun? Why not check out our luxury holiday cottages within the region and enjoy a festive getaway!
Bath Christmas Market - (Thursday 23rd November - Sunday 10th December)
Photo copyright Cloud and licenced for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Bath's historic streets, the Bath Christmas Market is renowned for its picturesque setting and high-quality artisanal products. With over 200 chalets selling unique gifts, decorations, and local produce, this market exudes charm and traditional festive cheer. Around 90% of the vendors at the market are from the South-West, allowing you to enjoy the charm of unique local goods. The fun doesn’t have to stop as you can also enjoy ‘Bath on Ice’ in Royal Victoria Park, with its ice-skating rink and 18 hole mini golf course - it even glows in the dark!
If you’re tempted to pay a visit to the market this year, then we have a great selection of luxury cottages to choose from within easy reach of Bath!
Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market - (Thursday 2nd November - Sunday 24th December)
Photo copyright John James and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.
As the largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany and Austria, Birmingham’s Frankfurt Market is a must-visit for those seeking an authentic taste of Germany’s festive traditions. Indulge in the enticing food and drink whilst winding through the traditional vendor stalls. Pretzels, schnitzels, bratwursts, and roasted almonds will delight your taste buds, waiting to be mulled wine or a relaxing hot chocolate. With an eclectic mix of musicians taking centre stage in the heart of Victoria Square, this traditional experience is sure to entertain!
If the ambiance of this unique market is calling your name, then why not enjoy a day trip to Birmingham from one of our cosy cottages within the region?
Manchester Christmas Markets - (Friday 10th November - Thursday 21st December)
Photo copyright Andrew Stawarz and licenced for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.
Widely acclaimed as one of the largest and most diverse Christmas markets in the UK, Manchester’s festive offering spans several locations throughout the city centre. Visitors can wander through over 225 beautifully adorned stalls offering everything from handcrafted gifts to mouthwatering international cuisine as its 25th anniversary is celebrated. Follow the wonderful Christmas lights trail as you search for those hidden treasures, or bring the family along for Festive Sundays as the streets are filled with family friendly entertainment pop-ups!
If this is now on your must visit list, then why not browse our gorgeous cottages within the region?
Edinburgh Christmas Market - (Friday 17th November - Saturday 6th January)
Photo copyright Alasdair and licenced for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.
Located in the heart of Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh transforms into a winter wonderland for seven weeks of festive fun. Praised as one of the best Christmas markets in Europe, spread over three levels in Princes Street Gardens, this is not one to miss. Boasting a fairytale setting, visitors can enjoy traditional vendors, funfair rides, spectacular live outdoor events and a variety of delicious food and drink. Complete with a panoramic Ferris wheel and an ice-skating rink, there's something for everyone to enjoy!
If this sounds like somewhere you’d love to go, then why not make the trip from one of our luxury holiday cottages in Scotland? The closest is the gorgeous Airhouses, which is only 23 miles from Edinburgh, so an easy day trip.
York Christmas Festival - (Thursday 16th November - Friday 22nd December)
Tucked within the historic streets of York, this Christmas market is set against the backdrop of the magnificent York Minster. Experience one of the UK’s most festive cities as the restaurants, shops and attractions transform, beautifully decorated to provide its own winter wonderland. Stroll through quaint stalls selling handcrafted gifts, sip on mulled wine, and savour Yorkshire delicacies while enjoying a range of live music and entertainment.
Looking for any excuse to visit the stunning streets of York? Why not allow yourself more time to explore by staying in one of our luxury 4* & 5* holiday cottages. York Old Brewery has a fantastic central location close to York Minster - ideal for a spot of festive mooching!
Christmas Getaways at Premier Cottages
If you’re unsure on your Christmas and New Year’s Eve plans, then why not choose one of Premier Cottages 4* and 5* cottages as your festive destination? Return from your market adventures to cosy cottages with real fires, or sit back and enjoy the soothing hot tub bubbles. From spacious retreats for the whole family (including those four-legged friends), to romantic boltholes for two, you’ll be able to find just the right setting for your festive season.