Best Christmas market weekends in the UK
13 destinations picked for this guide.
- Independent UK guide
- Free to use
- Affiliate links clearly labelled
- Updated October 2026
A Christmas market weekend is a festive tradition, with stalls, mulled wine and lights in a historic setting. These are some of the best places in the UK, though dates vary each year, and the biggest markets are very busy at weekends.
A friendly city of Titanic history, murals and the Causeway Coast
CardiffWales · Mid-rangeA compact Welsh capital with a castle in the city centre
ChesterCheshire · Mid-rangeRoman walls, medieval Rows and a riverside setting
DurhamCounty Durham · Mid-rangeA cathedral and castle on a wooded river bend
LincolnLincolnshire · Mid-rangeA hilltop cathedral city with a medieval castle
LiverpoolMerseyside · Mid-rangeA waterfront city of music, museums and football
ManchesterGreater Manchester · Mid-rangeA big, creative city of music, football and industrial heritage
NewcastleTyne and Wear · Mid-rangeA friendly quayside city of bridges and big nights out
NorwichNorfolk · Mid-rangeA medieval city of cobbled lanes, a castle and a cathedral
CanterburyKent · Higher-pricedA medieval cathedral city with a UNESCO World Heritage cathedral
YorkNorth Yorkshire · Higher-pricedMedieval walls, a magnificent minster and cobbled streets
BathSomerset · PremiumRoman baths, Georgian crescents and thermal spas
EdinburghScotland · PremiumA dramatic castle city of cobbled lanes, festivals and whisky
Frequently asked questions
When do Christmas markets open?
Most open in mid or late November and run until Christmas, though dates vary, so check each market's website.
Which Christmas market is best?
Bath, York and Lincoln are among the most atmospheric, with historic settings.
Search stays across the UK. This is an affiliate link.
More guides
Last reviewed October 2026. Prices and journey times are estimates, so check before you book. Report an error or share a tip.