Christmas markets 2024
Twinkly lights, rousing carols and sizzling bratwurst sausages... There’s nothing quite like a Christmas market for getting you in the festive spirit.
Start planning your 2024 winter getaway with our guide to Christmas markets near our hotels that are perfect for soaking up the magical atmosphere.
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Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market
22 November - 22 December
Set within the grounds of Winchester’s magnificent cathedral, this German-inspired Christmas market has it all. An electric atmosphere, a stunning backdrop and a medley of festive treats… Little wonder it’s considered one of the best in the UK.
Breathe it all in as you stroll around the traditional wooden chalets, marvelling at the wide range of unique handmade gifts on display that you won’t find on the high street. Add to that the sound of Christmas music and the aroma of cinnamon wafting through the air, and you’ll be in festive heaven.
Stay at Norton Park Hotel, Spa & Manor House, Winchester
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Manchester Christmas Markets
8 November - 22 December
Manchester pulls out all the stops for the festive season, with Christmas markets popping up all over the city centre throughout November and December.
From the main market opposite the town hall on Albert Square to the continental foodie delights of King Street, each site offers its own unique atmosphere. Soak up the festivities as you browse the hundreds of wooden chalets selling everything from handmade candles and tweed hats to freshly made churros and spiced rum.
For families, the winter wonderland at Piccadilly Gardens is a must-visit, with its popular ice rink, funfair rides and Santa’s Grotto.
Stay at The Park Royal Hotel & Spa, Cheshire
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Norwich Christmas Markets
Various dates between November and December
Like Manchester, Christmas in Norwich isn’t confined to one big centralised market event. The East Anglian city prefers to hold a series of intimate artisan Christmas markets to showcase the talents of its local communities, with many themed events held.
The largest, Festive Fair at The Forum, spills out onto the amphitheatre in front of the iconic building. Seasonal songs ring out around the stalls selling handmade crafts, art, food and drink. Other events throughout the festive period showcase LGBTQ+ crafts, Fairtrade goods and more.
Stay at Dunston Hall Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort, Norfolk
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Blenheim Palace Christmas Market
15 November - 22 December
If you want to escape the festive frenzy of the high street, the grand surroundings of Blenheim Palace offer a more refined yule experience. This impressive stately home in the Oxfordshire countryside is being transformed into a seasonal village, with dozens of wooden chalets dotted around the Great Court.
Here you can stock up on festive goodies, buy unique gifts for loved ones and fill up on tempting treats. Other festive highlights at the famous country estate include an illuminated trail through the gardens and the story of Neverland told through the palace’s state rooms.
Stay at DoubleTree by Hilton Oxford Belfry, Oxfordshire
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Cambridge Winter Wonderland
Mid-November - January 2025
After a two-year hiatus, Christmas returns to Parker’s Piece for 2024, promising more festivities than ever. The much-loved grassy common near the centre of Cambridge is the setting for a fabulous winter wonderland, complete with ice rink, cool games and a Christmas tree maze.
At its heart is a Christmas market with wooden chalets offering street food and novel gifts – perfect for those family members who are difficult to buy for. For your festive tipples – think mulled wine and steins of beer – head to the indoor Alpine Lodge bar.
If you want to get cosy, why not book a heated dome to enjoy warming drinks and a charcuterie sharing board?
Stay at Cambridge Belfry Hotel & Spa, Cambridge
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Newcastle Christmas Market
16 November - 22 December
Step into Christmas in the heart of Newcastle. Grainger Street and other areas of the city centre will again be abuzz with stalls selling everything from handmade jewellery and pottery to artisan cheeses and chutneys.
If you’re after a stocking filler with a difference, you can pick up gifts with a distinctly Geordie flavour here.
Stay at Slaley Hall Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort, Northumberland
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Stratford-upon-Avon Christmas Market
7 - 8 and 14 - 15 December
Although this year’s market has been scaled back to minimise disruption to the town, you can still expect a magical shopping experience full of festive treats in Stratford-upon-Avon.
The town is a wonderfully historic setting for a Christmas market, with around 200 stalls selling a smorgasbord of unique gifts, artisan crafts and delicious street food. Live entertainment and captivating lighting add to the Christmas cheer.
