UK’s best Christmas markets without crowds that still fly under the radar (Image: BlenheimPalace)
While travelling by train to the UK’s largest Christmas market is often more convenient and faster, there are numerous lesser-known markets and festive events across the UK that can be reached by bus or car, offering a less crowded experience.
Turo, a car-sharing platform, has compiled a list of ideal destinations best accessed by car. Rory Brimmer, director at Turo, stated: “The UK is home to incredible rural destinations that oftten get overlooked because they’re difficult to reach without a car.
“Combine that with the challenges of travelling during the busy Christmas period, and it can quickly become overwhelming.”
“Hiring a car through Turo offers the ultimate flexibility to travel on your terms – when and where you want. With thousands of cars available to book over the festive season, you can explore the country in comfort and style, making your holiday journeys stress-free and memorable.”
One such destination is the Lost Gardens of Heligan in St Austell, Cornwall. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the festive spirit with a magical Christmas display of lanterns and installations. The lost gardens are an ideal spot for a winter picnic, so remember to park your car accordingly, reports the Mirror.
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There are numerous lesser-known Christmas markets and festive events across the UK (Image: Blenheim Palace)
There are over 200 acres of gardens and estate to explore, including a jungle filled with exotic plants and breathtaking views. Adult tickets start from £20.50 and the event runs until January 4.
Another Cornish Christmas event takes place at Trelissick, Cornwall.
Another delightful spot in Cornwall to include in your itinerary is Trelissick, a National Trust estate boasting breathtaking maritime views. The house is splendidly adorned for Christmas, complete with choirs and festive foods.
Although public transport access may be challenging, a car ferry service is available to this destination.
This year, the National Trust property will be beautifully decorated, drawing inspiration from a Cornish Christmas, featuring performances from local choirs and weekend visits from Father Christmas leading up to the holiday.
Lost Gardens of Heligan are an ideal spot for a winter picnic (Image: The Lost Gardens of Heligan)
Expect floral arrangements, festive choir performances, a pop-up stableyard, craft fair, and second-hand bookshop. It is available until January 5.
The Yorkshire Christmas Adventure at Stockeld Park is another must-visit. This North Yorkshire location offers a woodland illuminated light show, an ice rink, and cosy holiday markets, making it a favourite among families.
Stockeld Park is more accessible by car, with parking available, allowing you to explore without worrying about bus schedules.
You can also purchase a Christmas tree to take home, with trees up to 30 feet available. It’s open until January 6.
Christmas at Castle Howard in North Yorkshire, although slightly off the beaten path, is magical.
The seasonal market transforms the grounds into a Christmas wonderland with lights and decorations.
There are food vendors, craft stalls, and live music. Limited public transport options make it best to drive for a seamless trip.
This year’s theme is ‘Alice’s Christmas Wonderland’. The castle’s grand halls and regal rooms have been transformed into a festive spectacle, with visitors also able to enjoy the Mad Hatter’s Afternoon Tea.
There are plenty of Christmas Markets across the UK that benefit from being a little less crowded (Image: Ironbridge)
A new addition this year is The Chess Club, an adults-only secret dining room serving Wonderland-themed cocktails and sharing platters.
Adult tickets range from £21 to £36 when booked in advance, while children’s tickets are half the price of adult admission. The event runs until January 5.
Blenheim Palace Christmas Market transforms the palace into a Christmas wonderland every December. Visitors can enjoy ice skating, a Christmas market in The Great Court, and a Neverland light show inside the palace.
Follow Tinkerbell through the State rooms and experience magical settings. In 1929, JM Barrie gifted the rights to Peter Pan to Great Ormond Street Hospital, which Blenheim Palace will be supporting this Christmas.
Adult admission for £67, which includes a ticket to Neverland in the Palace, the illuminated light trail and 12 months free entry to Blenheim Palace. Christmas market is on December 15. Illuminations run until January 1.
