Winter is almost here and so is the festive season; many people will already be planning to head to a Christmas market. Not only is it a great way to immerse yourself in the Christmas magic, it is also a great way to pick out unique, handmade presents for your loved ones.
Express.co.uk has put together a list of the top eight Christmas markets across the UK, from the cosy to the extravagant. Whether you prefer handcrafted goods and picturesque backdrops, or delicious food stalls and jaw-dropping rides, there’s a Christmas market for you.
Bath Christmas Market is known as one of the best in the UK and in Europe. It is located in the UNESCO World Heritage city and visitors can enjoy the charming cobbled streets and the picturesque Bath Abbey, which adds to the magical atmosphere.
This year’s event will run from November 27 to December 14. From Monday to Wednesday the opening hours are 10am to 7pm, and from Thursday to Saturday the market remains open for an hour later, closing at 8pm.
The market promises “twinkling chalets, unique gifts, and gourmet food and drink to tantalise the tastebuds”.
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Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market is the largest authentic market outside of Germany or Austria. Visitors can enjoy foods like pretzels, bratwurst or roasted almonds, and drinks on offer include gluhwein (i.e. mulled wine), weissbeer and hot chocolate.
There will be live music and a range of stalls selling everything from handmade Christmas decorations to crystal lamps and toys.
This year it will be held from November 1 to December 24, and it will be open every day. On Monday to Thursday the market will be open 11am to 9pm; on Fridays it will be open 11am to 9.30pm; on Saturdays it will be open 10am to 9.30pm; and Sunday’s hours will be 10am to 9pm.
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Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland is a Christmas experience, featuring a market, funfair, and a range of eateries and bars. This year it will run from November 14 to January 1.
Rides include the Haunted Mansion, Helter Skelter, Snow Jet, and The XXL, and there are a slew of different places to enjoy festive food from Bar Ice and the Bavarian Village to Candy Cane Lane and the Carousel Bar.
The Scandinavian-theme market features a range of stalls selling handmade crafts as well as “Christmas shopping staples and delicious food and drink options”.
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Edinburgh’s Christmas Market offers visitors the chance to explore the beautiful chalets selling unique gifts as well as food and drink. Held in the East Princes Street Gardens, the market will run from November 15 to January 4, and it will be open daily.
Visitors can also take a ride on the LNER Big Wheel and the Around the World Star Flyer, which offers views of the breathtaking city centre skyline.
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