BEST 5 Christmas Markets in London 2021
The best Christmas Markets in London are a total treat and it has so much to offer. Not just mulled wine, mince pies, German sausages and fairground rides but also unique gift stalls of beautifully handcrafted gifts. There are several Christmas Markets in London but below, you will find five of the best Christmas markets in London.
1 | Best Christmas Markets in London at London’s Winter Wonderland
Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park, London. November 19, 2021- January 3, 2022 [Opens 10.00 a.m. to 10.00 p.m. daily except Christmas Day]
Winter Wonderland London 2019 | © timelesstravelsteps.com
Winter Wonderland is the biggest and one of the best Christmas Markets in London. Popularly described as the biggest fun fair in London at Christmas, Winter Wonderland draws thousands of visitors, both near and far. Host to the largest outdoor ice rink, festive food stalls and the many different rides, roller coasters and ferris wheel. There is an IceBar that serves unique festive cocktails,. The one attraction which is highly recommended is Santa Land, an enchanting experience for both young and old. Walk around the stalls for some beautiful handcrafted gifts.
Entry to the park is FREE. Attractions and activities will incur a fee. Prior booking is recommended for some attractions.
Getting here: Nearest station is Marble Arch, Bond Street, Hyde Park Corner, Green Park.
For more information on Winter Wonderland, check their official website here.
Recommended read:
2 | Best Christmas Markets in London at Leicester Square Christmas Market
Leicester Square Christmas Market, London: November 12, 2021 to January 3, 2022 [Opens: 12.00 p.m – 10.00 p.m Mon – Fri 10.00 a.m – 10.00 p.m Sat-Sun
best Christmas markets in London | Handpainted ceramics at Leicester Square Christmas Market
Located in the most vibrant part of the city, Leicester Square Christmas Market is in the heart of London, in theatre land and just a stone’s throw from China Town. It is small compared to Winter Wonderland but the festive vibes are very present. You will find plenty of food stalls, handcrafted bespoke gifts stalls, festive ornaments and variety shows. There is more of a traditional feel than any of the other Christmas Markets in London. The stalls are authentic Bavarian-style wooden huts and this, adds to the warmth of the Christmas cheer.
Entrance is FREE. Santa’s Grotto is £11.50 and the Cabaret Shows are ticketed.
Getting here: Nearest stations are Leicester Square, Piccadilly Circus.
For more information on Leicester Square Christmas Market, check their official website here.
3 | Best Christmas Markets in London at Covent Garden
Covent Garden Christmas Markets, London. November 9, 2021 to January 3, 2022.
best Christmas Markets in London | Covent Garden Market, London | © Image: georgina_daniel
Londoners often say that Covent Garden is the place to find the best gifts for someone and the ultimate meeting point for friends. Thus, Covent Garden is one of the most popular shopping destinations in London at anytime of the year. It is unique because it is one place where you will find highend fashion names alongside market traders, all offering a very special shopping experience. There are over 200 stores and each offer their own speciality along with a wide range of distinctive handmade crafts and goods. From jewellery and prints to watercolours, soaps and sweet treats – all presenting a perfect opportunity to shop under one roof for that special gift at Christmas for your friends and family.
Apple Market, Covent Garden | © Image: georgina_daniel
Christmas is especially beautiful here when the Apple Market is decorated (don’t forget to look up). The Market pulls out all stops when the Christmas decorations go up making Covent Garden a magical haven and an instagrammable hotspot!
The 60ft Christmas tree at Covent Garden piazza | 2020 | © Image: georgina_daniel
Another main attraction at Covent Garden is the massive 60ft British grown Christmas tree illuminated with 30,000 little sparkles with a perfect huge red bow. The lights will be shining in the famed central piazza as from November 9, 2021
Free event.
Getting here: Nearest station – Covent Garden
For more information on Covent Garden, check their official website here
4 | Best Christmas Markets in London by the River at London Bridge City
Set against incredible views of the Tower of London and Tower Bridge, Christmas markets usually comes with chalet style stalls. All selling gifts, drinks and food to mark the festive season.
Dates: TBC
For more information, check their official website, londonbridgecity.co.uk here
5 | Christmas Markets at London Greenwich Market
Christmas late markets – every Wednesday in December before Christmas
Greenwich Market, London | Image: georgina_daniel
Greenwich Market is a World Heritage Site and is a great destination all year round. It is especially magical with Christmas lights and mulled wine. There are 120 stalls offering a range of handmade gifts, food and drink.
Getting here: Nearest station – Cutty Sark
For more information on activities at Greenwich Market, check their official website
Recommended: How to spend one day in Greenwich and enjoy 45 experiences
4 practical considerations to think about …
1 | Pre-book activities
Book things to do in London at Christmas so you don’t miss out on the magical experiences. When you join a tour group, you will be guided to experience the best highlights as well as some of the hidden gems accompanied by the many tales of Christmas. A tour at Christmas covers more than one experience and is usually great value for money. Here is a list of all the magical experiences to get into which I highly recommend:
1 | London Christmas Lights bus tour
2 | London Christmas Walking Tour
3 | London by Night Sightseeing on the Open-Top bus tour
4 | Afternoon Tea Bus Tour in London
5 | Christmas Lights tour in a London’s Black Cab
6 | London Christmas Lights Bike Tour
More timeless things to do at Christmas in London …
7 | London’s Festive Sights and Christmas Lights
8 | Personal Travel and Photographer in London
9 | River Thames City Highlights Cruise
10 | London Vintage Bus, Thames Cruise and Fish & Chips at a Traditional London Pub
No Christmas is complete without a visit to the extraordinary magical scene of Harry Potter, especially so for Harry Potter fans:
2 | Book your stay in the heart of London for best experiences during Christmas
London may be an expensive metropolis to visit but if planned well and ahead of time, you are certain to find some great accommodations for a good price, even during the festive season. Take a look at the following best deals in the City of London:
3 | Buy a London City Pass
Pre-order your London Pass, an all -encompassing City of London attraction pass which is a money saver for tourists. The London Pass gives you access to 80+ attractions for one low price. Plan ahead and select the number of days you need it for. Click on the link below to learn more about the London Pass.
Recommended read: 7 Key benefits of the London Pass
4 | Train travel
If you are planning on travelling to London by train or if you are visiting London and wish to see some of the English countryside by train, consider using Trainline for purchasing your tickets. Trainline offers the widest choices on train tickets in the UK and you are sure to find one within budget for your journey.
Finally …
What do you think? Is this post helpful to plan your visit to our pick of the best Christmas markets in London during this festive season? Do let us know in comments.
Please know that I recommend suppliers and brands that I personally use and am happy with. These recommendations are shared to enhance your experiences when travelling. If you find the articles valuable and recommendations helpful, use the links embedded to book your accommodations and activities. I earn a commission from qualified bookings upon completion at no cost to you at all. Your support helps to keep the blog going, and as always I appreciate your continued support. Alternatively, you may wish to support in other ways as well.
Have an awesome time this Christmas in London.
Georgina xoxo
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