Lady’s 7 Best Christmas Markets in London

Christmas gets bigger every year in London. From lights to trees, markets to skating rinks, the UK capital rings in the season with ever-increasing festive cheer. Since markets are one of my favorite things about the city’s festivities, I want to share the best Christmas markets in London with you today.

Best Christmas Markets in London

London has a lot of great Christmas markets, and more pop up every year. From Hyde Park to City Hall, there’s a market in every corner of the city center. They’re a must on any London Christmas itinerary.

Some are big, some local, some are on the river, others in front of iconic London attractions. But what they all have in common is that visiting them is one of the best things to do in London in winter.

Tips for Visiting Christmas Markets in London

If you want to go to one or more of these markets, make sure to arrive early or go on a weekday afternoon to avoid the crowds. A lot of them get very busy on evenings and weekends.

It’s also worth checking opening hours and dates before you visit. Some markets are open every day, while others are only open on certain days or at specific times.

1. Trafalgar Square Christmas Market in London

One of the best Christmas markets in London is the one in Trafalgar Square. It’s full of festive fun and seasonal cheer.

Two rows of chalets fill the area in front of the National Gallery, meaning there are great views of the market and even better ones from it.

The market itself is full of stalls selling all kinds of Christmas gifts. In the middle of it all, there’s an area with hot drinks and food. It’s a great place to warm up and get into the festive spirit.

2. South Bank Christmas Markets in London

Another of the best Christmas markets in London is the one on the South Bank. The annual Winter Market spans the area in front of the Royal Festival Hall and under the Hungerford Bridge and Golden Jubilee Bridge.

Running alongside the Thames, this market offers all kinds of Christmas gifts and goodies. From chocolates to crafts and London Christmas tree ornaments, there’s a lot to browse and buy here.

And there’s more, too. The Underbelly Christmas Market is right next door, and it has everything from a cider lodge to stalls selling seasonal foods and gifts.

3. Winter Wonderland Christmas Market in London

Third on my list of of the best Christmas markets in London is the one at Winter Wonderland. This market is one of the biggest and most popular, and for good reason.

Winter Wonderland takes over Hyde Park each Christmas season, transforming the area around Hyde Park Corner into a magical place filled with market stalls, amusement park rides, live performances, and an ice skating rink.

The market offers all kinds of seasonal gifts from across the globe. Everything from winter hats to lights and wooden toys can be found here.

There’s also mulled wine and hot chocolate, as well as sausages and other Christmas food to enjoy.

4. Belgravia Christmas Market in London

On the smaller end of the spectrum, Belgravia is home to one of the best Christmas markets in London for locals.

This market takes place for one day in December, and it brings the area’s famous Elizabeth Street and hidden Eccleston Yards to life with seasonal cheer.

Elizabeth Street’s beautiful floral facades are accented by craft stalls, mulled wine stands, and carol singers. There’s a great festive atmosphere and local shops get into the spirit by offering their wares outside.

Belgravia Christmas Sunday is a great market to come to for a local celebration with a neighborhood feel.

5. Leicester Square Christmas Market in London

Back in the heart of the UK capital, another of the best Christmas markets in London is in Leicester Square. This one takes over the middle of the square with circles of chalets offering seasonal goods and fare.

This market is great for its convenient location, and it can easily be combined with a visit to the nearby Trafalgar Square Christmas market.

6. King’s Cross Christmas Market in London

King’s Cross is home to another of the best Christmas markets in London. The Christmas under the Canopy weekend market is a great place to pick up a themed gift.

The market has a different focus each weekend, from ceramics to craft beer, so there’s a lot of variety on offer.

The Christmas under the Canopy market isn’t just about picking up presents, though. It also features creative activities, seasonal food and drink, carolers, and festive lights. It’s a fun one for immersing yourself in the seasonal spirit.

7. City Hall Christmas Market in London

Right on the Thames by Tower Bridge, the festive market at City Hall is another of the best Christmas markets in London. Called Christmas by the River, it’s home to chalets and mulled wine, Christmas trees and seasonal decor.

This is a great market to come to if you want one with a view. The views of the Tower of London and Tower Bridge are spectacular from here, and it’s fun to pick up a drink or some food and watch the world go by on the river.

Christmas Markets in London

I hope you’re able to get around to all of these markets this season. Visiting them is one of the best things to do in London at Christmas.

There are a lot more dotted throughout the city, too. From Greenwich to Wimbledon, Kingston to Brixton, the best Christmas markets in London can be found across the capital. Happy Christmas!

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