Will you be in England this winter and want to visit the Best Christmas Markets of 2025? One of the most enjoyable parts of the colder season is the festive cheer of a traditional English Christmas market. They’re bursting with tasty treats, spiced mulled wine to sip, and various local products to buy for the perfect gift. Get in the spirit of the season and find the nearest market near you! We’ve included our favourites in this short guide.
Bath Christmas Market
Bath has been voted the best Christmas Market in the UK in 2025! And even before this award, it has been one of the most famous in England for 25 years. Bath’s beautiful Georgian architecture and cobbled streets make for the perfect festive atmosphere. Over 200 wooden chalets fill the city centre, packed with treats, gifts, crafts and more for you to enjoy. They surround popular attractions such as Sally Lunn’s, Bath Abbey and the Roman Baths Museum. It’s the perfect way to do some sightseeing while you get into the Christmas spirit.
Oxford Christmas Market
Oxford’s Christmas Market is located on Broad Street, leading into the very heart of the city. Alongside the wooden stalls with tasty food, hot drinks and souvenirs, there’s also a carousel and ferris wheel! These are especially popular with families with young children, giving the little ones a magical Christmas experience. You’ll also find carol singers and choirs performing on the streets, filling the air with festive music. Nearby, the various libraries and colleges of Oxford University are decorated with Christmas trees, lights and ornaments to welcome the season.
Canterbury Christmas Market
Canterbury’s Christmas Market is one of the largest in the south-east of England, with over 170 stalls. Located along St George’s Street, the huts are surrounded by gorgeous illuminations and live music performances. There’s a Santa’s Grotto, where kids can tell Santa their Christmas Wish. And even four-legged friends are welcome! Dogs and their owners are invited to Santa Paws, where they’ll receive a puppuccino and a special gift for every pup. There’s also an opportunity for photos with Santa and your furry friend, a truly unique Christmas gift. Alongside the market, consider a visit to Canterbury Cathedral for a choir service or to light a candle.
Southbank Centre Winter Market
One of London’s most well-known Christmas markets is by the Southbank Centre on the bank of the River Thames. You can find it tucked away beneath Hungerford Bridge, along the Queen’s Walk, festive lights reflecting off the water surface. There are unique pop-ups and craft stalls which are ideal for finding the perfect present. The market is generally open from 10 AM until 10 PM. Since the walkway lined with stalls is narrow, it can sometimes be a bit crowded, especially on weekends. For a calmer experience, arrive earlier in the morning on weekdays. However, the late closing time also makes it a great spot for grabbing dinner or as an evening activity.
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
Set in the central scene of Hyde Park, the Winter Wonderland is the biggest Christmas event in London. There’s stalls, ice-skating, rides, an ice kingdom filled with frozen sculptures, circus shows, an ice slide, and so much more! Kids and thrill-seekers are sure to love the fairground, while couples can share glasses of mulled wine. Because it’s incredibly popular, it’s best to plan your visit and book any must-do activities in advance. Also, go during off-peak time if you can – not only can you avoid the worst of the crowds, but the tickets at these times are free! This is a place everyone can find something to enjoy, from friends, to families, to couples.
Plan a trip to your nearest market today!
Christmas markets are undoubtedly the best way to enjoy the winter season. Wherever you choose to go, you will be warmed from the inside out with their bright lights and cheerful atmosphere. Nibble on tasty treats, finish that last bit of Christmas shopping, spend time with your loved ones in festive surroundings.
To see the Christmas markets in Bath, Oxford and Canterbury, check out our amazing Day Tours from London. This way, you can also visit some nearby attractions in these cities alongside enjoying the markets! We hope to see you on tour soon this winter season.
