Are These the Best Christmas Markets in London?
London is known for its beautiful Christmas lights. But in the run-up to Christmas the Thames metropolis is not only known for its lights. Here are the most beautiful Christmas markets in London.
November 22, 2023
London is always worth a visit, but particularily in December, the city shines in a magical glow. Besides all the Christmas decorations, however, there's much more to discover. Here are the most beautiful Christmas markets in London.
Trafalgar Square Christmas Market
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In the heart of the city, Trafalgar Square Christmas Market probably has the most beautiful backdrop of any Christmas market in London. In addition to stalls with delicacies and Christmas decorations, there's also a giant Christmas tree, a gift from Norway to the United Kingdom. Every year, a Christmas tree is cut down in the forests around Oslo and sent to London as a thank you for the UK's active support during the Second World War. The tradition has existed since 1947 and continues to inspire every year.
Trafalgar Square Christmas Market
5 Trafalgar Sq, London WC2N 5DS, United Kingdom
Open until: January 2, 2024
Web: london.gov.uk
South Bank Winter Festival
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The South Bank Winter Festival and associated Winter Market gets both Londoners and tourists into the Christmas spirit. Located directly on the River Thames, the festival offers Christmas delicacies in an Instagram-worthy setting, plus Christmas music with choirs, light art installations and special pop-up stalls. If you're in London in the run-up to Christmas, don't miss this market!
South Bank Winter Festival
The Queen's Walk, London SE1 8XX, United Kingdom
Open until: January 7, 2024
Web: southbankcentre.co.uk
Christmas at Borough Market
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Borough Market is one of the oldest markets in London and is located in the Soutwark district. Its history can be traced back to the 13th century. It is open all year round and is especially popular with gourmets. Here, you can find products from all over the world and before Christmas the market is transformed into a Christmas wonderland - their picnic baskets full of delicacies are particularly popular, the perfect gift for foodies.
Christmas at Borough Market
London SE1 9AL, United Kingdom
Open until: January 9, 2024
Web: boroughmarket.org.uk
Christmas in Covent Garden
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Like Borough Market, Covent Garden is open all year round, but you should definitely go during the Christmas period: Because then you will not only be captivated by all the stalls, but also by the extraordinarily beautiful Christmas decorations. Silver and green mistletoe with red baubles transform the historic West End market into one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in London.
Christmas in Covent Garden
London WC2H, United Kingdom
Open until: January 7, 2024
Web: coventgarden.london
Camden Market Christmas
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Camden Market in the trendy district of the same name offers very special attractions in the run-up to Christmas and is considered one of the coolest Christmas markets in London. You can admire the fairy lights and decorations of North London on an ice rink. Afterwards, restaurants and special Christmas parties offer an entertaining evening. For example, you can drink and eat at Dingwalls and later dance to your favorite Christmas hits. If you want something a little quieter, you can have a good time in the Cheese Bar. Tip: There's always Fondue Thursdays here.
Camden Market Christmas
Camden Lock Place, London NW1 8AF
Open until: December 23, 2023
Web: camdenmarket.com
Greenwich Christmas Market
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In south-east London, Greenwich enchants visitors all year round with its charming coffee shops, pubs and breathtaking sights. A visit to the market is particularly worthwhile before Christmas. The historic market hall is festively decorated and special antiques are on sale. Foodies also get their money's worth here - Greenwich Market offers a selection of 48 food stalls with something for everyone.
Greenwich Christmas Market
5B Greenwich Market, London SE10 9HZ, United Kingdom
Open until: December 23, 2023
Web: greenwichmarket.london
Where to Stay
Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane
© Four Seasons Park Lane
The London at Park Lane is particularly impressive due to its central location: Situated right next to Piccadilly Street, Buckingham Palace and Piccadilly Circus are just a few minutes' walk away. The Christmas Market in Trafalgar Square is also within easy reach, and the best way to get there is to walk from Buckingham Palace along the famous Mall, past St. James's Park towards Charing Cross. The hotel itself more than lives up to the Four Seasons reputation, with amenities such as a spa with views over the rooftops or the Michelin-awarded French restaurant Pavyllon by celebrity chef Yannick Alléno. In winter, there are also special Christmas offers in both the restaurants and the spa area. Christmas spirit is guaranteed throughout December!
Four Seasons Hotel London Park Lane
Hamilton Place, Park Lane, W1J 7DR London, England
Tel.: +44 20 7499 0888
Web: fourseasons.com
Price: Doubles from € 1585
Special tip
Fortnum & Mason
© Fabian Sindelar
If you're out and about on Piccadilly Street before Christmas, you should definitely pay a visit to the traditional department store (since 1707!) Fortnum & Mason. It's so festively lit that it's hard to miss. Christmas is a big deal here! For example, an entire floor is transformed into a winter wonderland, where you can probably buy the most beautiful Christmas decorations in all of London. A special Christmas Tea Time is of course also offered in the Parlour Restaurant on the second floor and in the Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon.
Fortnum & Mason
181 Piccadilly, St. James's, London W1A 1ER, United Kingdom
Web: fortnumandmason.com