13 Best London Christmas Markets 2023

Here are the best London Christmas markets to visit over the festive season, from Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, Southbank Christmas Market, and Leicester Square Christmas to the alternative Christmas market in London Winterville in Clapham Common. These are Christmas markets in London you shouldn’t miss.

Covent Garden Christmas Village London

Christmas is one of my favourite seasons, and Christmas in London is something special. Of course, there are several reasons why it is my favourite season. 

Sorrel (a Jamaican Drink) and Bailey’s will be flowing by the barrel. There will be endless parties to attend, sparkly dresses to wear, and Christmas lights dancing along Regents and Carnaby street. But the most Christmassy thing to do in London is to visit the various Christmas markets throughout the city, which will be open from mid-November to early January 2023.

Best Christmas Markets in London

In the post, I’ve picked out the very best Christmas markets in London to visit that will cheer up even the grumpiest amongst us. These are the best London Christmas markets explore.

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland Christmas Market London

Best London Christmas Markets

Winter Wonderland Christmas Market is open from 17 November 2023 – 1 January 2024.

The Winter Wonderland is London’s largest Christmas market and for good reasons. It has everything Christmassy that you could have ever wanted all in one place, and it’s free to enter.

The winter market transforms the quiet Hyde Park into a bustling fairground with delights for children and adults. I’ve visited this Hyde Park Christmas market a few times and would recommend the following: 

Go early in the evening if you’re going with children because this Hyde Park Christmas market gets a lot busier during the night. 

Bavarian village

With large crowds queuing for rides and at food stalls, it becomes intense for small children. If you’re an adult with your colleagues or friends, then you should hit up the Bavarian village and wear your best Christmas jumper.

The Bavarian village is where the party happens at Winter Wonderland, where beers and shots flow like a never-ending river, and there’s non-stop music to keep you dancing into the night. It’s precisely the place to visit in the run-up to Christmas. Winter Wonderland is one of the best London Christmas markets.

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland Christmas Market

The ice bar will be back again this year, along with the large ice skating rink and the magical ice kingdom. Plus, acrobatic wonders at Zippos Circus, a carousel, run-around funhouses and roller-coaster rides. It will all be on hand for your enjoyment.

There will be an endless array of German-style stalls selling sausages. Almost 150 chalets of the Angels Christmas Market to explore and shop for items such as jewellery, decoration, and crafts. 

Rides At Winter Wonderland Christmas Market To Try

Winter Wonderland Christmas Market

There are two rides you must try at the Winter Wonderland Christmas Market. One is the signature ride of the Christmas market, ‘The Giant Observation Wheel’. This ride will give you a great view of London covered in its Christmas best.

I discovered that the best time to visit for a great view is around 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm. However, my favourite ride is the ‘Star Flyer. I lost my voice because of all the screaming I did on this ride, and I might have peed on myself a little on the ride’s descent.

But the view of the London skyline and the cold winter air hitting your face will be worth it. This is the kind of ride that you want to try again as soon as it’s finished (one for the adrenaline junkies – not for people with weak hearts or bladder).

Winter Wonderland is a London Christmas market you should miss. It’s one of the best Christmas markets in London.

Nearest Tube Station to Winter Wonderland Christmas Market: Knightsbridge, Marble Arch, or Green Park

Southbank Centre Winter Market

Southbank Centre Winter Market is open from 3 November 2023 – 26 December 2023.

Southbank Centre Winter Market

During Christmas, there will be plenty to see and do along the Thames. The top one is London Southbank Christmas market. There will be wooden huts selling food, drinks, gifts and pop-ups under the bridge. This London Christmas market is great if you are a foodie as they always have unique foods to try from around the world.

It’s a Christmas market near the London Eye want more could you want?

Throughout the duration of the Christmas market, there will be festive shows and family entertainment. You can even experience some festive alpine cheer in Jimmy’s Lodge next to Waterloo Bridge. All these festive activities with the London Eye and the London city skyline as an illuminating backdrop. This one of the top London Christmas markets to visit during the festive season.

For more inspiration read my guide on Christmas in London

Southbank Centre Winter market

You can read more about the Southbank Christmas market on their website.

Southbank London Christmas Market Nearest Tube Station: Waterloo

Location: Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, Lambeth, London, United Kingdom.

Southbank Christmas market opening times: Sunday -Thursday: 11:00am – 10:00pm Friday – Saturday: 11:00am – 11:00pm

Leicester Square Christmas Market

Leicester Square Christmas Market is open from 8 November 2023 to 7 January 2024.

Leicester Square Christmas Market is a must-see for anyone visiting London during the holiday season. The market is transformed into a Christmas wonderland, with handcrafted gifts, jaw-dropping shows, and a traditional 1920s-style Spiegeltent.

It’s located in the heart of London. Christmas in Leicester Square includes live music, comedy and cabaret, carnival rides, and Santa’s grotto.

Christmas in Leicester Square is brought to you by the team behind Underbelly Festival. You can peruse the market’s wooden chalets selling handcrafted goods and treats. The Leicester Square market is a Christmas market in London that also offers performances from top acts (past performers include Adele).

For more inspiration read my guide on things to do in Leicester Square

Nearest Tube Station to Leicester Square Christmas Market: Leicester Square or Piccadilly Circus

Leicester Square Christmas market opening times: Weekdays from 12 pm-10 pm and weekends from 10 am-10 pm.

Trafalgar Square Christmas Market

Trafalgar Square Christmas Market is open from 12 November 2023 to 5 January 2024.

Trafalgar Square Christmas Market

Trafalgar Square comes alive during Christmastime with Underbelly’s pop-up Christmas Market. 

This market is filled with handcrafted goods, from candle holders to festive food offerings. You can also find all of your Christmas ornaments here. 

Come and enjoy the festive atmosphere of the Trafalgar Square Christmas Market! The market stalls are adorned with twinkling lights and mulled wine or cider is available to keep you warm. This is a one of the smaller London Christmas markets with over 20 stalls to explore, so you’re sure to find something special for everyone on your list.

Nearest Tube Station to Trafalgar Square Christmas Market: Charing Cross Station

Selfridges Christmas Market

London during Christmas

Selfridges Christmas Market is open (TBC), 4–9pm on weekdays & 12–9pm at weekends.

Selfridges Christmas Market is a must-visit for anyone in London during the holiday season. Founded by food market pioneer and founder of Street Feast, Selfridges Christmas Market is an annual event that takes over the mews outside Selfridges department store on Oxford Street.

Whether you’re looking for unique gifts or just want to enjoy the holiday atmosphere, Selfridges Christmas Market is the place to be. The Christmas market features a variety of festive gifts, including personalised wreaths and excellent street food. There are also fairground rides for kids and adults and an impressive Helter Skelter.

Located: Edwards Mews, at the rear of Selfridges London 

Nearest Tube Station to Selfridges Christmas Market: Bond Station

Covent Garden Christmas Village

Covent Garden Christmas Village is open from early 7 November 2023 to January 2024.

Covent Garden is a world-famous shopping district in Central London, open year-round and plays host to a festive Christmas Village every year. 

Covent Garden Christmas Village

The Christmas market is a must-visit for anyone spending the holidays in London, as it offers a genuinely festive experience with all the trimmings. The Christmas village is in the open air, pedestrianised Piazza – making it the perfect place to enjoy some mulled wine and soak up the festive atmosphere. 

The Covent Garden Christmas Tree is the village’s centrepiece, and it’s one of the largest Christmas trees in London. Covent Garden is also famous for its iconic Christmas decorations, which adorn the streets and shops throughout the festive season.

For more inspiration read my guide on things to do in Covent Garden

London Covent Garden Christmas Village

Located: Covent Garden Piazza 

Nearest Tube Station to Christmas Market: Covent Garden

Somerset House at Christmas

Somerset House at Christmas is open from 15 November 2023 to 14 January 2024.

Somerset House at Christmas is one of the most unique places in London. The magnificent ice rink, the glorious 40ft Christmas tree, and the pop-up alpine restaurant make it the perfect place to enjoy all the highlights of winter in London. 

Somerset House at Christmas

And with Hotel Chocolate’s perfect gift selection, trailblazing DJs, and Moët & Chandon on tap, it’s also the ideal place to celebrate the festive season in style. So whether you’re looking for a magical day out with family or friends, or a unique night out on the town, Somerset House at Christmas is the place to be.

Located: Somerset House

Nearest Tube Station to Somerset House: Covent Garden and Waterloo Station

Christmas at Borough Market – Borough Market Christmas Market

Borough Market Christmas dates 2023 (TBC) .

Borough Market is one of the oldest and most extensive food markets in London, and every December, it transforms into a festive Christmas market.

The market is located beneath the historical arches of Borough Market, and it’s decorated with lights, Christmas decorations and twinkling ornaments. You can find the most refined seasonal foods at the market, including Christmas pudding, mince pies and mulled wine. 

There are also choirs and buskers singing festive tunes throughout the market, and you can find plenty of festive events to enjoy. If you’re visiting London during the holidays, be sure to add Borough Market Christmas Market to your itinerary, as it’s one of the best Christmas markets in London.

For more inspiration read my guide on things to do near London Bridge

Located: Borough Market

Nearest Tube Station to Borough Christmas Market: Borough and London Bridge

Christmas by the River at London Bridge City 

Christmas by the River at London Bridge City is open from 14 November 2023 to 1 January 2024.

Christmas by the River is set against the unbeatable backdrop of Tower Bridge, River Thames and the Tower of London, making it one of London’s most picturesque Christmas markets. 

tower of london christmas market UK

Running along the River Thames between the Pier and Tower Bridge, with almost 70 chalet-style stalls covered with twinkling fairy lights selling everything from food and mulled wine to artisan Christmas gifts at this London Christmas market. 

Throughout December, the market will also host events and workshops to prepare you for the holiday season, from food and drink tastings to arts and crafts and storytelling. Christmas by the River is one of the best Christmas markets in London.

Nearest Tube Station to Christmas by the River: London Bridge

Location: Christmas by the River at London Bridge City, SE1 2DB 

Greenwich Christmas Market

Christmas by the Greenwich Christmas Market is open from 16 November 2022 to 3 January 2023.

Greenwich market is one of the top markets in London and should be high on the list of markets to visit in London. The market is open year-round, but at Christmas, there are added lights to make the world heritage site feel festival. 

This festive market features Christmas lights, a spectacular lantern parade, and festive performances. Father Christmas Grotto is also a popular attraction at Greenwich Christmas Market. Visitors can enjoy shopping for unique gifts, photographing Father Christmas, and sampling traditional holiday foods. 

The markets open on Wednesday, 16 November, with an annual Lantern Parade and official Christmas Lights being turned on. There are 120 different stalls to peruse, offering shopper souvenirs, snacks, mulled wine and gift ideas for all your loved ones.

For more inspiration read my guide on things to do in Greenwich

Nearest Rail to Greenwich Market: Greenwich

Location: Greenwich High Road SE10 9HZ

Website: greenwichmarketlondon.com

Winterville Clapham Common

Winterville Clapham Common dates (TBC).

Winterville Christmas market is an alternative Christmas market in London. Think live DJs, comedy, musical bingo, roaming magicians, kid’s raves, Mexican wrestling and an outdoor Ice Rink.

Plus sensational food from Street Feast and even a Christmas maze from Backyard Cinema. Don’t forget you can also go raving at club nights in the Roller Disco. This is not your granny’s Christmas market, this is a one of the top alternative London Christmas markets to visit.

Location: Winterville is on Clapham Common in South London at Windmill Dr, London SW4 9DE.

Kingston Christmas Market

Kingston Christmas market is open from 16 November 2023 to 31 December 2023.

Many Londoners aren’t aware of the Kingston Christmas market in picturesque Kingston upon Thames, but having gone to Kingston University in Surrey. I’ve experienced this fantastic London Christmas market every Christmas for four years. 

You can browse the traditional wooden chalets that line the ancient marketplace and surrounding streets in Kingston for Christmas gifts and handmade decorations.

At the Kingston upon Thames Christmas market, there is plenty to see at the Alpine Village, where you can grab a glass of mulled wine or peruse some German-style street food from the many outdoor stalls selling food (try the German sausage here – some of the best in London).

There’s even a Candy Cane Forest! This opens on 15 December. If you’re visiting with kids, stop by the Bentall’s grotto to say hello to Santa. You can also pick up any last-minute Christmas shopping while there.

If you’re planning to visit the Kingston Christmas Market on the weekend. Make sure that there are no planned engining on that weekend from Waterloo to Kinston or Surbiton to avoid disappointment.  This is one of the top family friendly London Christmas markets to visit.

If you’re looking for things to do in London, why not check out ‘things to do in London‘.

Kingston Christmas Market Opening Hours

Sunday – Wednesday from 10.00 am – 6.00 pm

Thursday – Saturday 10.00 am – 8.00 pm

Candy Cane Forest will be open from Saturday, 15 December.

Location: Kingston upon Thames Clarence Street Kingston upon Thames, London KT1 1BW

Transport: Kingston upon Thames

Canopy Christmas Market – King’s Cross at Christmas

Canopy Christmas Market is a festive pop-up market located in King’s Cross. The market features a variety of handpicked designer-makers, selling everything from handmade crafts to street food. There is also a vegan Christmas market, offering festive produce and treats for those with dietary restrictions. In addition to the market stalls.

King’s Cross at Christmas also features a stunning 28 feet tall Christmas tree in Coal Drops Yard. The installation is covered in angled lights and mirrors, making it a truly magical sight. Kings Cross Christmas Market is definitely worth visiting if you’re looking for unique gifts or simply want to soak up the festive spirit.

For more inspiration read my guide on things to do in near Kings Cross Station

London Christmas Market FAQ

What is the famous Christmas market hosted annually in London’s Hyde Park called?

The famous Christmas market in London Hyde Park is called Winter Wonderland and is open from 18 November 2023 – 2 January 2024.

When do Christmas markets start in London?

Christmas markets in London usually start from early to mid-November of each year, and while the exact dates varies from year to year, most markets generally open in early to mid-November and remain open until early January.

London’s Christmas Markets Wrap-Up

London has a wealth of Christmas markets to explore, each with its own charm and festive offerings. If you’re looking for the best of the best, though, we’ve got you covered. Are there any other Christmas markets in London that you love? Let us know in the comments below.


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0 Comments

  1. I would LOVE to visit all three of three of these Christmas Markets! They look absolutely magical! I have a few friends that have already gone to Winter Wonderland this year, and I am more than a tad envious. All those rides look like such fun!

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