Christmas markets pop up across the city, offering twinkling lights, festive treats, unique gifts, and the unmistakable scent of mulled wine. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring London’s Christmas markets is a must-do activity to soak up the festive spirit. Here’s a guide to the best Christmas markets in London.
1. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
Arguably the most iconic Christmas market in London, Winter Wonderland is an expansive festive extravaganza held annually in Hyde Park. It’s more than just a market—it’s an all-in-one Christmas festival featuring an ice rink, circus shows, live music, and even an ice sculpture exhibit.
The Christmas market has hundreds of wooden chalets offering everything from handcrafted gifts to festive decorations. You’ll find an array of international foods, including German sausages, churros, and plenty of mulled wine and hot chocolate to keep you warm.
Highlights:
- Largest ice rink in the UK
- Bavarian Village with live music
- Magical ice kingdom featuring ice sculptures
- Family-friendly Santa Land
Dates: 21st November – 5th January
Location: Hyde Park, London, W2 2UH
2. Southbank Centre Winter Market
Set against the backdrop of the River Thames, the Southbank Centre Winter Market is a more relaxed Christmas market. The market features cosy wooden cabins selling crafts, festive gifts, and delicious street food. As you wander along the Thames, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of landmarks like Big Ben and the London Eye.
The market’s focus is on artisanal products, so expect to find unique handmade items that make great Christmas gifts. Foodies will be in heaven here, with stalls offering everything from gourmet cheeses to sweet treats like caramel brownies and mince pies. There are also mulled wine stands to warm you up on chilly evenings. The Southbank Centre often hosts other winter-themed activities, including Christmas concerts, film screenings, and pop-up performances, making it an ideal spot for a festive evening out.
Highlights:
- Riverside views of the Thames and iconic London landmarks
- Handcrafted gifts from local artisans
- Gourmet street food stalls
- Winter performances and events at Southbank Centre
Dates: 1st November – 26th December
Location: Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, SE1 8XX
3. Covent Garden Christmas Market
Covent Garden is magical year-round, but during the Christmas season, the central piazza is adorned with sparkling lights, a giant Christmas tree, and an impressive 18-foot mistletoe chandelier. This market has a more luxurious feel, offering high-end boutiques alongside traditional festive stalls.
The Christmas market features vendors selling everything from luxury beauty products to handmade jewellery and artisan candles. After browsing, enjoy one of the many street performances which Covent Garden is famous for. The market is also home to several festive pop-up bars and eateries, so you can sip on some mulled wine or hot cider while taking in the surroundings.
Highlights:
- Giant Christmas tree and stunning festive decorations
- High-end and artisanal gift stalls
- Pop-up bars offering seasonal cocktails and hot drinks
- Festive street performances
Dates: From 12th November
Location: Covent Garden, London, WC2E 8RF
4. Greenwich Christmas Market
For a Christmas market with a local, authentic feel, head to Greenwich. The historic Greenwich Market is open year-round, but from November, it embraces the Christmas spirit. The market is famous for its unique handmade gifts and crafts, making it the perfect spot to find one-of-a-kind presents.
You’ll find a mix of vintage stalls, contemporary designers, and independent traders selling everything from clothing and accessories to homewares and artwork. The market is smaller than some of London’s larger Christmas markets, but the live music and carol singers make up for it. Plus, after you’ve shopped to your heart’s content, you can explore the surrounding area, including Greenwich Park and the Cutty Sark.
Highlights:
- Unique, handmade gifts and crafts
- Live music and Christmas carol singers
- Quaint and cosy atmosphere
- Close to Greenwich’s famous landmarks
Dates: From 20th November
Location: Greenwich Market, SE10 9HZ
5. Leicester Square Christmas Market
Leicester Square is a bustling hub in central London, known for its theatres and cinemas, but during the Christmas season, it’s also home to a delightful Christmas market. The market may be small, but its central location makes it a convenient stop if you’re already exploring the city’s holiday attractions.
In the heart of Leicester Square, a festive grotto hosts Santa, making it a great destination for families with children. Surrounding the grotto, wooden chalets offer everything from festive treats to handmade gifts and decorations.
Top Highlights:
- Centrally located in one of London’s most famous squares
- Santa’s Grotto is perfect for families
- Wooden chalets selling festive treats and gifts
- Easy to combine with a theatre visit or nearby attractions
Dates: 6th November – 5th January
Location: Leicester Square, London, WC2H 7NA
6. King’s Cross Christmas Market
King’s Cross has undergone a major transformation in recent years, becoming one of the most vibrant areas in London. The King’s Cross Christmas Market at Coal Drops Yard offers a contemporary festive experience with a trendy, creative edge. The area is beautifully lit with artistic light displays, and the stalls here focus on design-led gifts and artisan products.
You can expect a range of independent traders selling quirky, original items perfect for gift-giving. Alongside the market, there are plenty of pop-up food stalls offering street food from around the world. Coal Drops Yard also often hosts festive workshops, from wreath-making to Christmas card crafting, adding an interactive element to your visit.
Top Highlights:
- Design-led, artisan gifts and unique shopping experience
- Festive workshops and interactive activities
- Stylish festive decorations and light displays
- Contemporary street food options
Dates: Mid-November to early January
Location: Coal Drops Yard, King’s Cross, London N1C 4DQ