London Christmas markets are brimming with festive scents of fir trees, roasting chestnuts, spices and mulled wine. Adding a touch of cold air makes it the ultimate festive experience.
There is nothing quite like Christmas in London. Nearly every street and building in the city is decorated with festive lights and elaborate displays.
There are plenty of Christmas activities in London for kids to enjoy, such as polar train rides, tree-lighting ceremonies, festive tours and ice skating. The city transforms almost instantly when Halloween is over.
If you are looking at other European destinations, check out this guide to European Christmas Markets.
Christmas Markets In London
The Christmas markets in London are extensive and exciting. Including the Winter Market at Southbank Centre, the Christmas Market at Leicester Square, the Hyde Park Market and more.
Most London Christmas markets have plenty of activities and mini carnivals to keep little ones entertained.
A tour of the London Christmas markets is perfect for those seeking to explore the most festive parts of the city. A local guide leads a small group through some of the city’s best Christmas markets.
Check out this fantastic Christmas market tour in London.
1. Southbank Centre Winter Market
Experience a winter wonderland on the South Bank’s riverside, where artisan Christmas markets and global cuisine come together for Southbank Centre’s Winter Festival.
Walk along the River Thames along the South Bank is one of the best free attractions in the capital, especially at Christmas.
The area is decorated with Christmas lights and traditional wooden chalets selling festive foods like mulled wine, Christmas decorations and delicious food.
Aside from homemade crafts, warm beverages, and German snacks, there are rides and carols to keep everyone entertained.
Take the opportunity to walk between the Southbank Centre and Tate Modern Christmas markets – the views along the way are stunning, and each has its distinct festive atmosphere.
It’s worth noting, unlike most of the other Christmas markets in London, the one at the Southbank Centre stays open until the beginning of January. The markets are beside The London Eye and have views of Big Ben!
When: 3rd November 2025 – 4th January 2026
Where: The Queen’s Walk, London SE1 8XX, United Kingdom
2. Christmas Market At Leicester Square
The bustling Leicester Square is a hub of London’s arts and theatre scene, surrounded by cinemas, casinos and cultural spaces in the West End. The area attracts thousands of tourists every day.
With alpine lodges, bars, pop-up theatres and events set up around the fountain, Leicester Square turns into a vibrant European winter wonderland during the holiday season.
The London Christmas markets at Leicester Square has a wonderful selection of crafts and treats. It’s like a festive playground. Not to mention variety shows, musicals or comedy at the Belgian 1920s-styled Spiegeltent afterwards.
Visiting Leicester Square’s Christmas markets around sunset is a fantastic time to see the area turn from day to night.
When: 1st Nov 2025 – 4th January 2026
Where: Leicester Square, London WC2H 7DE, United Kingdom
3. Hyde Parks Christmas Markets
London has many Christmas markets, but Hyde Park Christmas market and Winter Wonderland are by far the biggest.
Angel Christmas market features over 100 beautifully decorated wooden chalets with unique gifts, handmade Christmas decorations and festive treats. It is most certainly one of the top London Christmas markets.
Other attractions also include:
- The UK’s largest outdoor ice rink.
- A 230-foot observation wheel
- A top-notch Winter Wonderland Christmas show.
Winter Wonderland is free to enter off-peak. However, tickets are required during peak hours. For a more affordable ticket and less crowded experience, consider visiting early in the day during the week.
When: 14th November 2025 – 4th January 2026
Where: Hyde Park, Park Lane, London, United Kingdom, W1K 7TY
4. Greenwich Christmas Market
The Greenwich Market is one of our favourite markets in London. Even though it is open throughout the year, there is something magical about it in December.
Featuring more than 100 stalls with a wide selection of Christmas goodies, artisan food, crafts and delicious treats, it is less touristy than other London Christmas Markets.
Since it is a bit further away from the city, it’s easier to navigate the markets as the crowds are smaller.
Taking the Thames Clipper is a lovely way to travel to Greenwich. It leaves Westminster and stops at multiple places along the river. The view of the city from the water is mesmerising. Particularly cruising under Tower Bridge and past Canary Wharf.
There will be a big light switch-on event on the 19th of November, while children from local schools will parade their lanterns to begin the festivities.
It is the perfect place to wander around while sipping hot chocolate or mulled wine, listening to Christmas tunes setting the festive atmosphere. Watch for the Christmas carolers from the 1st – 31st December 2024.
Christmas markets: Trading continues at the market following the lantern procession, selling a range of artisan goods, unique arts and crafts and clothing.
When: from 19th November 2025
Where: 5B Greenwich Market, London SE10 9HZ, United Kingdom
5. Kingston Christmas Market
While Kingston’s market runs throughout the year, Christmas is a lovely time to visit. With over 40 vendors setting up shop, the festival boasts twinkling fairy lights, mulled wine, and delicious food.
Those visiting get to experience European-style Christmas markets in a traditional British setting, with continental bratwurst to hog roasts and street food from across the globe.
The Kingston Christmas Market takes place in the town’s Ancient Market Place, visitors can find a variety of unusual Christmas gifts.
There are fun-fair-styled activities to entertain the little ones. From a carousel to classic Christmas carol singers and live music to keep all ages entertained.
Hampton Court Festive Fayre and Kew Gardens Christmas light trail are not too far away. However, tickets for Kew lights book up months in advance so worth securing them earlier in the year.
When: 13th Nov – 28th December 2025
Where: Market Pl, Kingston upon Thames KT1 1JS, United Kingdom
6. Canopy Christmas Market At King’s Cross
Keeping with its name, the King’s Cross Canopy market is located under a large roof, so you can visit it no matter the weather.
Visitors can experience Christmas under the canopy through craft workshops. Among the highlights of this Christmas market are stalls, carol singers, food tastings, mulled wine and masterclasses.
Christmas shoppers can browse a line-up of London’s best artisan traders, a charming covered market just off Granary Square. A new theme will be unveiled every weekend in December.
From farm-fresh produce to beer, wine and cheese, exquisite desserts, jewellery, ceramics, accessories and homewares crafted by independent designers, there is plenty of Christmas produce.
With Christmas lights, decor, and festive entertainment, this Christmas market has fantastic festive vibes making it ideal for weekend shopping and a deserving spot on our list of London Christmas markets.
When: 28 Nov – 22 Dec 2025
Where: West Handyside Canopy, 2 Granary Square, London N1C 4BH, United Kingdom
7. Christmas By The River at London Bridge
The Christmas By The River event features spectacular views of the Tower Bridge and Tower of London. Wooden pop-ups adorned with Christmas lights and festive decor with an array of original gifts and handmade crafts.
A total of 60 stalls sell food, drinks, perfect stocking fillers, and unique gifts for friends and family.
In order to retain the title of the nation’s best Christmas market, the organisers get creative with their theme every year to entertain visitors.
There will be a full line-up of Christmas delicacies from across the globe competing to win over the crowds. A useful tip is to arrive hungry so you can sample everything.
Visitors can enjoy a range of delicious foods and sip mulled wine while taking in one of London’s most iconic skylines.
The markets are located between London Bridge and Tower Bridge’s southern entrances. A visit to this particular London Christmas market, filled with classical music, good food, and the festive holiday spirit, is the perfect way to welcome the festivities.
Entry: Free Admission
When: from 13th November 2025
Where: London Bridge City, London SE1 2RR, United Kingdom
8. Trafalgar Square Christmas Market
Besides the huge Christmas tree, Trafalgar Square also has a Christmas Market. The upper tier is lined with around 25 to 30 Christmas market stalls and festive huts, with an outdoor seating area looking over the main square.
Many places throughout the city will be singing Christmas carols during the holiday season. Various special ceremonies occur in churches and cathedrals throughout the festivities.
In Trafalgar Square, however, there is nothing better than listening to a choir singing under the famous Christmas tree.
Over 40 choirs perform in Trafalgar Square in the weeks leading up to Christmas. This is a welcome addition to Trafalgar Square from the organisers of Underbelly and a nice Christmas place to buy crafty gifts or indulge in holiday fare and drink mulled wine.
Entry: Free Admission
When: TBC
Where: Trafalgar Sq, London WC2N 5DN, United Kingdom
9. Covent Garden Christmas Market
Visiting Covent Garden Markets at Christmas is truly one of the highlights and a must-visit when exploring London Christmas markets.
A beautiful array of decorations, giant baubles, twinkling lights, and mistletoe chandeliers adorn the covered market and piazza.
Throughout the festivities, seasonal goods are sold, performances are taking place, and festive bites and drinks are plentiful. All in addition to the regular market stalls and shops open throughout the year.
Besides the thousands of lights, giant baubles, and wreaths, Covent Garden is home to other Christmas events that will not disappoint.
In front of the legendary covered market is one of London’s tallest Christmas tree, standing at 55 feet and adorned with over 30,000 lights and ornaments.
Visitors can explore the traditional winter town, filled with art and craft stalls, fir trees and the Ramsbury Bauble Forest Domes (giant igloos). Guests can dine in luxury for that extra oomph during the holiday season.
Stroll through the Christmas village, savour scrumptious festive delicacies, and sip over 25 varieties of mulled wine while absorbing the holiday spirit.
Entry: Free admission
When: from 12th November 2025
Where: Covent Garden, London
10. Borough Market
Explore Borough Market’s historical arches decked out with lights and decorations while listening to choirs and buskers singing holiday tunes.
One of the most popular festive events, the Evening of Cheese is held at the market, distinguishing it from the rest of London Christmas markets.
Borough Market has some amazing Christmas treats and drinks. Customers are able to interact with vendors to learn about the produce on sale.
Within a historical setting, sample a variety of international treats as well as festive foods from all over Britain and surrounding regions.
Every item has a story to tell, and the vendors at the markets will gladly fill visitors in with information and facts about what’s in store.
Although Borough Market is open all year round to browse and lap up all of the delicious food, we are patiently awaiting when it will be decked out for Christmas. We are keeping our eyes peeled too!
When: 1st – 31st December 2025
Where: 8 Southwark St, London SE1 1TL, United Kingdom
11. Country Living Christmas Fair
The Country Living Christmas Fair has all the newest trends and styles, hence giving it a spot in the must-visit London Christmas markets list.
There will be an array of local and regional food artisans, distributors, and designers exhibiting and selling their produce. Vendors share secrets through talks, demonstrations, and hands-on workshops held during the show.
In the Crafting Studio, a variety of activities are available for a fee, including decorating gingerbread, block printing Christmas cards, weaving with sari strips, and many more.
Entry: Standard Entry for £25. VIP Entry for £75 offering priority entry, a goodies bag worth £25, bottomless prosecco and much more.
Luxe VIP Entry for £200 offering a luxe hamper worth £200, reserved seating in theatres, bottomless proseccos to name a few.
When: 12th – 15th November 2025
Where: Business Design Centre, 52 Upper Street, Islington, N1 0QH, United Kingdom
12. Hampton Court Palace Festive Fayre
In the setting of a beautiful palace amidst gardens, the Christmas food festival and market take place. It was once a favourite of Henry VIII.
Take a stroll through the courtyards at Hampton Court Palace Festive Fayre for an afternoon filled with a variety of delicacies, cooking demonstrations, and beautiful carols sung by the artists.
At this amazing festival, enjoy artisan food and drinks, and Christmas shops filled with gifts making the event a stunning London Christmas market.
The East Front bandstand hosts entertainment throughout the festival with spaces to dine, drink and shop.
For ticket details and more information
When: 5-7 and 12-14 December 2025
Where: Hampton Ct Way, Molesey, East Molesey KT8 9AU, United Kingdom
13. Christmas At Wembley Park
One of Londons newest neighbourhoods Wembley Park is hosting Festive London Christmas Markets this year with over 25 artisan stalls. With vendors selling everything from mince pies to mulled wine, locally hand made gifts and much more.
From sparkling lights and street performances to festive markets, great food and family fun, Christmas at Wembley Park has everything you need to feel the magic of the season.
When: 27 Nov 2025 – 03 Jan 2026
Where: Wembley Park, London, HA9 OFA
14. Rochester Christmas Market
Rochester Christmas Markets are a great option if you don’t want to venture into London and live in the Kent area.
Discover unique gift ideas and unusual stocking fillers among the variety of stalls set in the beautiful surroundings of Rochester Castle Gardens.
Both kids and grown-ups will have a blast wandering the Bavarian food village and hopping on rides at the funfair.
There will be a number of live performers throughout the festival. The cathedral and castle will be beautifully draped in snow and is worth a visit from London.
Besides the Christmas market, there is a Dickens Christmas Festival in the town. Everyone dresses up in Victorian outfits and relives old times.
On the high street, there are lots of parades taking place. Keep a lookout for some famous characters during the event. Santa has been known to pay a visit to the town!
Entry: Free Admission
When: 28th November – 14th December 2025
Where: Garth House, The Precinct, Rochester ME1 1SX, United Kingdom
15. Selfridges Christmas Market On The Mews
Selfridges’ 2025 Christmas Market transforms the store’s underground floor into an immersive indoor festival, featuring curated stalls, designer brands, and limited-edition holiday goods within a cohesive, contemporary holiday design.
The experience feels refined and atmospheric, with more seasonal installations than traditional market. With impeccable taste and the finest ingredients, there’s something for everyone.
When: from mid November 2025
Where: 400 Oxford St, London W1A 1AB
16. Old Spitalfields Christmas Markets
The Old Spitalfields is just a delightful place to wander at Christmas time. Although the markets run all year round, there will be extra festive magic with these East London Christmas markets.
With a choice of over 40 food stalls and 50 vendors selling unique fashion, accessories, homeware, art and more – this is the perfect place to browse for gifts for your loved ones.
When: from 12th November 2025
Where: Old Spitalfields Market, 16 Horner Square, London E1 6EW
17. Columbia Road Christmas Wednesdays
Shop in calm away from the west end crowds, from a wealth of independent retailers on Columbia Road this Christmas. As in previous years, the independent shops on Columbia Road will open for late-night Christmas.
Experience this delightful Victorian street which positively sparkles with Christmas lights, festive shop windows and good cheer. Please note there will be no carols or other entertainment.
When: Wednesday 26th November, and Wednesday 3rd, 10th and 17th December from 5pm-9pm
Where: Old Spitalfields Market, 16 Horner Square, London E1 6EW
To Sum Up London Christmas Markets
There are plenty of London Christmas markets across the city from the suburbs to the centre of town.
Make sure to have a peek at our curated list on how to spend Christmas in London with kids for insider ideas.
Take a look at the best family hotels. Have you enjoyed this post about London Christmas Markets? Leave a comment in the post, we love to hear from you.
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