Escape the flurry of the crowds and inflated prices with these underrated Christmas markets.
December brings with it an overwhelming desire to get into the Christmas spirit. Though, if you visit any of the UK’s mainstream Christmas markets, it seems everyone has the same idea. The result is stretching queues, extortionate food options and often too many people pushing and shoving – which puts a bit of a damper on the whole experience.
For those looking to actually enjoy their festive outings this season, we’ve rounded up some of the lesser-known – and dare we say, better – Christmas markets in the UK.
Foodie Christmas Markets
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Tod’s Festive Feast Market, London
Sick of paying sky-high prices for average food? Content creator, Toby Inskip – otherwise known as Eating with Tod – has created a wonderland for foodies in central London, just steps away from Tottenham Court Road.
Here, you can find the best items from restaurants across London, with cuisines from all over the world including Mestizo, Chin Chin and Roll Boys.
It’s free entry, but opening hours vary according to the day. See more at todsfestivefeast.com
Christmas at St John’s, Manchester
This new experience from GRUB and Allied London is bringing together eight of Manchester’s hottest independent food traders for a range of festive one-offs. Savour the offerings from Soots, a 100% plant-based restaurant in the Northern Quarter, as well as BAB, a mezze restaurant also located in the Northern Quarter. See grubmcr.com
Read more: The best extreme Christmas European day trips from the UK
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Maltby Street Market, London
Festive Friday’s at Maltby Sreet Market are not to be missed this festive season. Open until 9pm, this market is a 10-minute walk from Bermondsey station. The hidden gem is serving up fare from across the world, from lamb biryani by Degchi to duck fat-fries topped with shredded duck and raclette from Duck Frites – indulgent, but so worth it.
Discover at maltbystreetmarket.co.uk
Christmas Craft Markets
Salad Days Market, London
If you’re in a rush to tick off the last few names on your Christmas list, the Salad Days Market at Battersea Power Station is a one-stop shop. This award-winning pop-up market features 35 small business (which vary each day of the market).
Categories include jewellery, fashion accessories, ceramics, beauty, candles and more.
Entry is free, but market is only open on select weekend days. If you prefer quiet shopping, come after 4pm. saladdaysmarket.co.uk
Read more: The best places to eat on Christmas day in London for every budget
Hackney Bridge Makers Market, London
This makers market at Hackney Bridge brings together the best of London’s independent craft, food and music scene to make for a wonderful day out. Expect a treasure trove of items from independent makers, making it easier than ever to find the perfect gift for your loved ones.
It’s free entry and open on select weekend dates from 12pm to 6pm. See more at hackneybridge.org
N4 Art + Design Xmas Market, London
The Christmas edition of this pop-up market returns on the second weekend of December. Discover unique gifts like art prints, ceramics, jewellery, homeware and more. It’s located on Stoke Newington Church Street, packed full of coffee and brunch spots – ideal for refuelling after a morning of festive shopping. This market is dog friendly so be sure to bring your four-legged friends, too.
Free entry, but tickets should be booked in advance. Visit n4makersmarket.co.uk
Read more: The ultimate guide to festive entertaining
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Crafty Fox Christmas Market, London
Another dog friendly craft market is held by Crafty Fox, a year-round collective for UK designers and markets. Similar to Salad Days, this market has a different line-up every day. Some of our favourites include Nina Bombina, a South London based designer and The Happy Stuff Studio. Find out more at craftyfoxmarket.co.uk
Traditional Christmas Markets
Chelsea Winter Village & Illuminations, London
Step into a Christmas at the Royal Hospital Chelsea and wander through a magical 1.5km trail of glowing gardens, sculptural light installations and immersive soundscapes. Touch, play and activate as your journey around, with interactive orbs, neon trees and bubbling installations, and the scent of mulled wine guiding your way.
As part of the Chelsea Winter Village, enjoy Christmas markets, artisan workshops, curated street food, seasonal bars including an après-ski bar, live music at the bandstand, and traditional fairground rides for the perfect festive afternoon with family and friends.
Tickets start from £15 per person, visit Chelsea Winter Illuminations for more information or to book.
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The Piece Hall Christmas Events, Halifax
Taking place for six weekends in the lead up to Christmas, this market showcases the best of local producers and markets from homeware and jewellery to food. Attendees can find multiple workshops for children and adults, like festive wrath making, drop-in crochet sessions and more.
Entry is free. See more at thepiecehall.co.uk
Holkham Christmas Market, Norfolk
For bakes and makes to street food and music, this will be sure to get you in the Christmas mood. Street food vendors setting up shop include Phat Khao, serving punchy Thai street food, and Bucket List, offering a selection of loaded fries – by the bucketload.
There are over 60 producers with stalls at Holkham’s Christmas market, so be sure not to miss it.
Visit holkham.co.uk to find out more
Feature image: Pexels
