Best London Christmas Markets for All That Suits Your Fancy
Christmas is coming and you cannot miss the best London Christmas markets. Lights are everywhere and the atmosphere is truly magical. When I travel, going to markets is one of the things I love more. I’ll talk you about the charm of many other markets around Europe such as the ones in the beautiful cities of Munich and other Bavarian cities, Salzburg. Today I will show you the best London Christmas markets, a city I love and where I have lived for a few months. I also spent a great weekend in London at Christmas. During this period, London is enchanting and markets intensify its charm. London is one of those cities in Europe when you can enjoy picturesque British markets over the year.
Best London Christmas markets 2016: check out last updated dates!
For everyone (adults and children):
– Winter Wonderland. It is my favorite market. This Bavarian-style market, which takes place in Hyde Park, with 200 wooden chalets and stalls, is lit by thousands of tiny lights that will catapult you into a fairytale world. The entrance to the market is free, but you have to pay for the attractions. Lycamobile is a glittering ice rink. The Magical Kingdom Ice is a kingdom of ice with a forest and a castle, very nice both for kids and adults. Giant Wheel is a stunning 60-metres-high wheel where you will enjoy an enchanting view of London. It is also accessible to wheelchair users. Then there are Zippos Circus and the Ice Bar. If your kids want to meet Santa Claus they can do it at Santa Land. It is free!
– Southbank Centre’s Christmas Market. This London Christmas market takes place at the Southbank Belvedere Road, along the Thames.
TIP: Southbank Centre’s Christmas Market is right next to the Southbank Centre’s Book Market, under the Waterloo Bridge, a market where you can buy old and second-hand books.
– Winterville 2016. This is a really great event held at Victoria Park. The entrance to the village is free. You can take part to free and paid events. There is a Ice Rink and you can also buy the ticket for the pantomime of Robin Hood, which is held at the Spiegeltent, a pavilion created for events. The cost of the pantomime is £10 per adult and £7 per child. If you are interested look at the dates here. Horse-drawn carriage rides through the Victoria Park. One of the most interesting attractions is the Wall of Death, a motordrome where Motorcycle stunt riders perform. More info here. Photo credit winterville.co.uk
– Leadenhall Market. It is a very ancient market with Victorian glass roof and cobbled walkways. In the past it was used to sell cheese and poultry. There are many shops, restaurants and pubs. Some scenes of Harry Potter have been shot here. You can buy accessories, handmade toys. What I like about this market is that there are live choral music and Christmas decorations that will make you feel the Christmas spirit.
– Apple Market. I love the atmosphere of Apple Market, the permanent market in Covent Garden. During Christmas time, there are big red balls hanging from the ceiling. You can buy accessories, jewelry, handmade items, souvenirs London at stalls.
For all designer and art lovers:
– Dazzle @ Oxo. This is the market for jewelry lovers. It is held at Oxo Tower Wharf, in South Bank. Jewelry designers from around the world show their unique pieces of jewelry. The designers are just graduates but they have a great talent. More details.
– The White Christmas Fair. This is a really nice market with 40 stalls for lovers of fashion, home accessories and design. You can also taste pizza and champagne and visit the London Gin Distillery Company (tour with free gin tastings are organized). It is held at 21-23 Tooting High Street. The event will raise money for charity. More details.
For food lovers:
– Real Food Christmas Market. Don’t miss this market! It takes place at South Bank just behind the Royal Festival Hall. It is a triumph of flavors. You can taste seasonal products such as cheese, ham, cakes, pies. More info about this event.
Are you ready for your best London Christmas markets tour? Let me know if you have visited other markets in London around Christmas time. 🙂
This article totally suits my fancy! Thanks Travellector! 🙂
I’m happy that your mind travelled for a while 😉
That sure makes me miss London. It has got such an amazing Christmas spirit. I didn’t know about Winterville at Victoria Park – so thanks for sharing.
Hi Julia!!! I agree! Christmas itself has something magical. Then, if you spend your time in such a beautiful city, Christmas is special! Winterville is a new event and it will take place at Victoria Park for the first time! This is why you didn’t know about it 😉
Cool! I’ve been to the Southbank one since it’s right on my doorstep. Need to check the other ones.
Absolutely Hugo! Each market has something different to offer! You will enjoy them 😉
Excellent post Maria. I’m going to have to go to London and try some of these markets.
Thank you Andy! I really enjoyed these markets when I traveled to London! Let me know about your trip 😉