Get into the Holiday Spirit! A Guide to Christmas Markets in London

Soak up the festive atmosphere and enjoy fun shopping at London’s Christmas Markets

There’s no place better than London to count down the days until Christmas. If you’re looking for a festive holiday experience with great shopping, seasonal food and good cheer, then look no further than the Christmas Markets in London. They’re a fun spot to find unique gifts, handmade crafts and warm up with a mulled wine. From the biggest and boldest to the best views, here’s a look at London’s Christmas Markets.

Southbank Centre Christmas Market

A striking setting for the Southbank Christmas Market along the Thames

11 November – 4 January

If you only have time to visit one Christmas Market during your stay in London, make it this one. The Southbank Centre Christmas Market may not be the biggest in the city, but what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in location. Occupying an enviable stretch of the Thames, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and countless other London landmarks as you browse 70 different wooden chalets offering all manner of Christmas treats, decorations and gifts.

Like most other Christmas markets in London, Southbank’s is modelled after a traditional German market. If you like German food, you won’t be disappointed! There is plenty of bratwurst, garlic mushrooms and mulled wine to go around. Younger children will love the vintage-style carousel here, and the London Eye and its seasonal ice rink are also right next door!

Find out more about the Southbank Centre Christmas Market.

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

Sweet treats at Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park

21 November – 4 January

Hyde Park puts holiday festivities into overdrive each year with its spectacular Winter Wonderland event. This is a one-stop Christmas destination the whole family will enjoy. Christmas shoppers will have lots to choose from — there are over 200 lovely Bavarian style chalets where you’ll have your pick of an endless assortment of different seasonal goodies.

Winter Wonderland is perfect if you want to mix your shopping with other fun festive activities. In addition to the market, it has dozens of amusement park rides, a Magical Ice Kingdom, pop-up restaurants and beer hall and a beautiful ice rink.

Find out more about Hyde Park Winter Wonderland.

Christmas at Covent Garden

Christmas cheer and fun at Covent Garden for the holidays

6 November – 24 December (reindeer petting every Saturday from 9 November to 21 December)

Covent Garden is already one of London’s premier shopping areas year round, but it really comes alive during the festive season. While it doesn’t host a traditional Christmas market, it offers plenty of shopping opportunities and also boasts a magnificent 60-foot Christmas tree. The whole neighborhood is aglow with lights and kids can even pet Santa’s reindeers every Saturday from 9 November to 21 December.

Canary Wharf Christmas Market

Head to Canary Wharf for ice skating and fun shopping at the Christmas market

17 November to 24 December

If your travels take you near Canary Wharf in East London, make it a point to pop into the Canary Wharf Christmas Market. Situated in the heart of London’s bustling new financial centre, get into the Christmas spirit with a hot cup of mulled wine as you peruse through the many stalls on hand. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, head underground into Jubilee Place for popular British brand names and global retailers.

Find out more about the Canary Wharf Christmas Market.

(Image Credits: Dave Pearce, Herry Lawford)