As winter settles over the charming streets of London, the city transforms into a magical wonderland, adorned with twinkling lights, festive decorations, ice rinks, and the scent of spiced mulled wine in the air. One of the most delightful traditions during this time is visiting the enchanting Christmas markets that dot the cityscape. From traditional treats and delicious hot chocolates to unique handmade crafts, London’s Christmas markets offer something for everyone. In this article, I’ve compiled a list of the best Christmas markets in London for the winter 2023 season, ensuring you make the most of this joyful time. Please note that their dates may be subject to changes, so be sure to check out their official websites for updates. Don’t forget to also follow me on Instagram to accompany the best attractions of this year’s Christmas markets
Christmas Tours in London
Before we dive into the best Christmas Markets in London, consider joining one of the tours below to make the most of your festive experience in the city!
Magical Christmas Markets in London To Visit in 2023
Winter Wonderland (Until January 1)
Undoubtedly one of London’s most iconic Christmas experiences and marking the end of autumn in Hyde Park, Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park has been enchanting visitors for over a decade. This sprawling event features an array of attractions, including a giant observation wheel, thrilling rides, and a Bavarian Village with live music. You can indulge in festive food stalls, explore German beer tents, and even book a karaoke hut for some musical fun. The market stalls offer an eclectic mix of handmade gifts, festive decorations, and delectable treats. Don’t miss out on trying the mouthwatering bratwurst and sipping on a steaming cup of mulled wine as you soak in the festive atmosphere. Drawing visitors from near and far, this grand Christmas funfair boasts the UK’s largest outdoor ice rink! Free entry during off-peak hours; standard tickets start from £5, peak tickets from £7.50. Find more info and secure your tickets here.
View this post on Instagram
Location: Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, Louisa Duckworth Walk, London W1K 7AN
Christmas in Leicester Square (Until January 7)
For a taste of a traditional European Christmas market, look no further than Leicester Square. This delightful market exudes old-world charm, featuring wooden chalets adorned with twinkling fairy lights. Here, you can peruse a selection of handcrafted gifts, enjoy festive treats, and take a spin on the vintage carousel. Located in the heart of London’s tourist district, the joyful ambiance of Leicester Square Christmas Market is sure to leave you feeling full of holiday cheer. Browse through beautiful food and gift stalls, then enjoy award-winning performances. From variety shows to fire-breathers and cabaret sensations, there’s entertainment for everyone. The highlight, perhaps, is the presence of circus performers within the ‘Spiegeltent’ – a mirrored tent hosting an array of enchanting festive shows. While entry is complimentary, tickets are necessary for access to the Spiegeltent shows. For more info and tickets, check out their official website.
View this post on Instagram
Location: Shakespeare Water Fountain, 4 Leicester Square, London WC2H 7DE
Southbank Centre Winter Market (Until January 7)
Nestled along the picturesque Southbank of the River Thames, the Southbank Centre Winter Market is the perfect place for arts and crafts enthusiasts. Here, you’ll find a curated selection of artisanal goods, from handmade jewelry to beautifully crafted ceramics. The market also boasts a delectable array of international street food vendors, perfect for indulging your taste buds while enjoying the stunning views of the city skyline. Experience the magic of the riverside South Bank Christmas market, not far from the London Eye. Enjoy a selection of festive fare from the perennial Southbank street food vendors, along with other wooden huts offering gifts and goodies. And don’t forget to check out the enchanting igloos for that perfect London Christmas experience. Discover more here.
View this post on Instagram
Location: The Queen’s Walk, London, SE1 8XX
Christmas in Covent Garden (Until January 3)
Covent Garden transforms into a winter wonderland, featuring festive markets, towering Christmas trees, and mulled wine stalls. This year, the famous decorations and pop-up food stalls return, creating a truly Christmassy atmosphere. Be sure to capture a photo with their festive sleigh for a memorable moment. Many of their amazing restaurants are offering festive dinner menus, but there are also so many options for breakfast, brunch and afternoon tea in the area.
View this post on Instagram
Location: Covent Garden Market, London, WC2E 7QH
Borough Market at Christmas (Until January 9)
Borough Market dons a festive garb of mistletoe, twinkling lights, and charming ornaments. This foodie haven is perfect for savoring the holiday spirit. Alongside Christmas-themed treats, enjoy special events like ‘An Evening of Cheese.’ More information can be found here.
View this post on Instagram
Location: 8 Southwark Street, London, SE1 1TL
Trafalgar Square Christmas Market
Beside the unique Christmas tree at its center, Trafalgar Square now hosts its own Christmas Market. Located in front of the National Gallery, one of the top art museums in London, it offers crafty gifts and spots for indulging in mulled wine. A delightful addition to your holiday itinerary.
View this post on Instagram
Location: Trafalgar Square, London, WC2N 5DX
Kingston Christmas Market (Until December 31)
Filling the town centre with festive cheer, Kingston’s traditional Christmas market will have hand-crafted gifts and mulled wine galore! The market stalls are all housed in lovely wooden cabins adorned with Christmas decorations. It’s the perfect place to get into the festive spirit and start looking for those stocking fillers! The market opens on November 16. More information here.
View this post on Instagram
Location: 35 Market Pl, Kingston upon Thames KT1 1JQ
Winter by the River (Until January 1)
Set against the iconic backdrop of Tower Bridge and the City skyline, 2023 introduces the Winter by the River market. Previously known as ‘Christmas by the River’ for eight years, this year’s event embraces a more diverse wintry theme, promising an even broader range of activities, sights, flavors, and discoveries! Within Winter by the River, a charming cluster of winter cabins graces the riverside, brimming with handcrafted treasures, inviting pop-up bars, and delectable street food stalls. Among the new additions for 2023 is the enticing ‘Karaoke at the Pier’ experience, a space where vibrant music, delightful cocktails, and bottles of Prosecco await to be savored. With amazing views of Tower Bridge and the Thames, this is for sure one of the prettiest Christmas markets in London!
View this post on Instagram
Location: The Queens Walk, London SE1 2AA
Christmas at Greenwich Market
Greenwich Market is fantastic all year round, boasting tens of stalls within a World Heritage site right in historic heart of Greenwich. However, during the winter season, it truly comes alive with an array of festive stalls offering handmade crafts, artisanal foods, and unique gifts. The market’s charming cobblestone streets and historic surroundings add to the enchanting atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination for any Londoner or visitor during the holiday season.
View this post on Instagram
Location: 5B Greenwich Market, London, SE10 9HZ
Flat Iron Square, Southwark Quarter
A flutter of festivity is stretching all the way through the Southwark Quarter this winter. Flat Iron Square will install over 40 pine trees, heaps of gorgeous twinkling lights, and even an aprés lodge for their Winter Garden. There’ll also be a winter drinks menu where favourite tipples will be given a festive twist such as the gingerbread old fashioned, along with events running from November to December, with dates still to be confirmed.
View this post on Instagram
Location: 45 Southwark Street, London, SE1 9HP
Short-Running Christmas Markets
Mayfair Christmas Market 2023 (November 23-25)
The Novikov Restaurant in Mayfair, one of the most famous restaurants in the area, will feature several stalls offering an array of seasonal dishes, each infused with delightful flavors and a touch of merriment. Guests can revel in the elegance of the Louis Roederer Champagne Ice bar, perfect for a moment of respite. Additionally, there will be stalls offering mulled wine, filling the air with the nostalgic fragrance of Christmas. Throughout the three-day event, a diverse range of entertainment awaits, including enchanting performances by carol singers, wandering minstrels, lively DJs, and the presence of Santa Claus himself. For a touch of whimsy, live reindeer will also be present, providing a charming backdrop to this merry and magical celebration for all to enjoy!
Location: 50A Berkeley St, London W1J 8HA
Chelsea Physic Garden Christmas Fair (November 23-26)
Experience a quiet and peaceful, yet no less Christmassy, affair at the Chelsea Physic Christmas Fair. There’s over 100 handpicked stands selling everything from ceramics to cheese to jewellery to children’s toys. After you’ve picked up some Christmas gifts, you can enjoy the vast array of food and drink on offer before heading home full of festive cheer.
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
Location: 66 Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea, London, SW3 4HS
Crafty Fox Market (December 16 and 17)
Although they’re around all year, Crafty Fox run some charming Christmas markets across town – and they’ve got a festive spread planned over at King’s Cross.
View this post on Instagram
Location: Granary Square, King’s Cross St. Pancras, London, N1C 4AA
Christmas Under The Canopy (November 23 – December 23)
Independent food and crafts haven, Canopy Market, also gets into the Christmas spirit with festive fare, crafty workshops, carols and live music, and a mulled wine bar. You’ll find it all besides a giant tree, decorated with twinkly lights and garlands.
View this post on Instagram
Location: Granary Square, King’s Cross St. Pancras, London, N1C 4BH
Visiting the Christmas markets in London is a cherished tradition for both locals and visitors alike. The winter 2023 season promises an array of delightful experiences, from traditional treats to unique handmade crafts, in some of the city’s most iconic locations. So, wrap up warm, bring your festive spirit, and embark on a magical journey through the enchanting Christmas markets of London. Happy holidays!
