Best London Christmas Market 2023 Dates and Locations

London transforms into a winter wonderland each December, making it an ideal destination for Christmas enthusiasts.

The city’s historic landmarks and vibrant neighbourhoods provide a perfect backdrop for some of the country’s best Christmas markets.

In this guide, I share the best London Christmas Market locations, along with 2023 dates, opening hours and local specialities.

London Christmas Market 2023

London hosts several renowned Christmas markets, each with its own unique appeal.

Covent Garden stands out for its curated selection of high-quality crafts and a range of artisanal food items, making it a go-to spot for discerning shoppers.

Southbank offers a global flair with its variety of international cuisine, balanced with a selection of traditional crafts that showcase local culture.

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is London’s biggest Christmas event. It takes the traditional Christmas market experience up a notch by incorporating an extensive range of rides and attractions.

After exploring numerous markets throughout the city over the years, the following make my list of the best London Christmas markets.

1. Covent Garden Christmas Market

Located in one of London’s most iconic areas, Covent Garden Christmas Market is home to high-quality crafts and a wide array of artisanal food items.

As you wander through the cobbled piazza, you’ll see stalls brimming with unique gifts, and you’re likely to encounter street performers contributing to a lively atmosphere.

In addition to handcrafted items, a range of artisanal food beckons, offering a curated gastronomic experience.

Dates are listed here, or head to the full Covent Garden Christmas Market guide for more information.

Covent Garden Christmas Market dates: Likely dates: 8th November 2023 to 3rd January 2024.
Location: Covent Garden Piazza.
Opening times: Monday to Saturday: 10am to 9pm. Sunday: 12pm to 5pm.
Christmas Day: Closed.
Admission: Free.
Christmas lights: Yes, switch on date: 8th November 2023.
Santa: No.
Ice skating: No.
Accessible: Yes.
Pet-friendly: Yes, but not recommended during busy periods.
Reason to visit: The 60-foot British grown Christmas tree is decorated with over 30,000 lights, unique luxury gifts, lively street performances.
Recommended tour: This tour of the top 20 sights in London is a great for first-time visitors.
Specialities: Freshly baked mince pies, traditional Christmas pudding, unique flavoured chutneys, plant-based meals, craft drinks.
Where to stay: The Lanesborough is a highly-rated hotel in Central London.

Where to Stay in London for the Christmas Markets

A central location is advisable for easy access to London’s Christmas markets. Staying near Hyde Park Corner puts you in proximity to various markets, including Hyde Park Winter Wonderland.

I recommend The Lanesborough for its excellent location and popularity among visitors.

Recommended Walking and Food Tours

A city tour of London provides an excellent opportunity to explore the city’s diverse history and culture. The capital is brimming with iconic landmarks, world-renowned museums, and vibrant neighbourhoods, making it a must-visit at any time of the year.

This tour of the top 20 sights in London is a great place to start.

A guided tour is particularly beneficial for first-time visitors, as it covers key sights such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the London Eye. But even if you’re a local, you might find these tours offer fresh perspectives and lesser-known facts about the city you thought you knew well.

For something different, try this Secret Old London walking tour.

If you’re interested in the culinary aspect of London, a food tour is a compelling alternative. This is a hugely popular London food tour. These tours are gaining in popularity and provide an informative and delicious way to understand local culture and flavours.

2. Southbank Winter Market

The Southbank Winter Market, part of the longer-running Winter Festival, provides a distinct outdoor market experience in central London.

Lining the Thames, the market features traditional Alpine-style wooden chalets and diverse street food stalls. Live entertainment is a regular feature, adding to the atmosphere.

Read the Southbank Winter Market guide for full details and what to expect.

Southbank Winter Market dates: Likely dates: 2nd November to 26th December 2023.
Winter Festival dates: 28th October 2023 to 7th January 2024.
Location: The Queen’s Walk, not far from the London Eye.
Opening times: 11am to 10pm. Closes at 11pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
Christmas Day: Open.
Admission: Free.
Christmas lights: Yes, switch on date: 2nd November.
Santa: Yes.
Ice skating: No.
Accessible: Yes.
Pet-friendly: Yes. Dogs are allowed on a lead.
Reason to visit: Unique performances, street food, hot toddies, cosy wooden chalets and pop-up bars. Not to mention the brilliant location on the River Thames.

3. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland sets up in central London, transforming Hyde Park into a festive hub replete with activities and attractions.

The space features a large open-air ice rink around a Victorian bandstand, the Giant Wheel offering expansive views of the city, and various thrill rides like the Ice Slide, Ice Mountain, and Wave Swinger.

The Christmas market, filled with hundreds of stalls, has become emblematic of London’s holiday festivities.

Additionally, the Magical Ice Kingdom presents an annually changing theme, while live music, including choir and caroler performances, creates an ambient atmosphere.

Finally, a visit to Santaland gives you a chance to spot Santa amidst all the other festivities.

Read the guide to visiting Hyde Park Winter Wonderland.

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland dates: Likely dates: 17th November 2023 to 2nd January 2024.
Location: Hyde Park, London (near Hyde Park Corner).
Opening times: 10am to 10pm.
Christmas Day: Closed.
Admission: You must purchase an off-peak, standard, or peak ticket before you go. Tickets prices only include the entrance fee, rides and attractions are additional. Off peak tickets and times are free but tickets are still required. Full details here.
Santa: You might see Santa at Santaland.
Ice skating: Yes, the ice rink surrounds the Victorian bandstand.
Popular rides: Giant Wheel, Ice Slide, Ice Mountain, Wave Swinger.
Popular attractions: Magical Ice Kingdom, Christmas Circus, Ice Sculpting.
Accessible: Yes.
Pet-friendly: No.
Reason to visit: Giant Wheel with unmatched views; largest open-air ice rink in the UK; high-energy rides and attractions; the heart of London location.

4. Leicester Square Christmas Market

At Christmas in Leicester Square, you can expect a blend of traditional charm and modern entertainment right in central London.

Unique to this market is a Spiegeltent, a mirrored tent that serves as a venue for a variety of performances. You’ll find shows that range from family-friendly acts during the day to cabaret-style performances in the evening.

Read the guide to Christmas in Leicester Square.

Leicester Square Christmas Market dates: Likely dates: 8th November 2023 to 7th January 2024.
Location: Leicester Square.
Opening times: 10am to 10pm.
Christmas Day: Closed.
Admission: Free. Tickets required for Spiegeltent shows.
Santa: No.
Ice skating: No.
Accessible: Yes.
Pet-friendly: No.
Reason to visit: Bustling London location; unique artisan gifts; mulled wine; festive food; lively street performers.

5. London Bridge Christmas Market

At the London Bridge Christmas Market, known as Christmas by the River, you can expect a range of festive stalls offering food, drink, and a variety of unique gifts perfect for stocking fillers.

As you walk through the market, you can enjoy the impressive views of the River Thames, Tower Bridge, and the City skyline, a setting that sets it apart from other markets in London.

Read the full London Bridge Christmas Market guide here.

London Bridge Christmas Market dates: Likely dates: 14th November 2023 to 2nd January 2024.
Location: London Bridge near the Jubilee Walkway along the Thames.
Opening times: Sunday to Wednesday: 11am to 9pm. Thursday to Saturday: 11am to 10pm.
Christmas Eve: 11am to 5pm.
Christmas Day: Closed.
New Year’s Eve: 11am to 10pm.
2nd January: 11am to 5pm.
Admission: Free.

6. Camden Christmas Market

At Camden Christmas Market, you’ll encounter a blend of diverse London cultures melded with holiday traditions.

The market features a popular ice rink and Santa’s Grotto for the younger visitors, and seasonal music sets the tone.

You can also enjoy snow flurries and Christmas parties that punctuate the atmosphere.

Find out what to expect at the unique Camden Christmas Market. The dates are as follows:

Camden Christmas Market dates: Likely dates: 16th November to 24th December 2023.
Location: Camden Lock Market and Camden High Street, North London.
Opening times: 10am to 6pm.
Christmas Day: Closed.
Admission: Free.
Santa: Yes, at Santa’s Gingerbread Grotto.
Ice skating: Yes, North London’s longest ice rink is at Camden Christmas Market.
Accessible: Yes.
Pet-friendly: No.
Reason to visit: Santa’s Grotto, lengthy ice rink, unique vegan options, fusion cuisine and eclectic gifts.

7. Borough Market Christmas

At Christmas at Borough Market, you’ll find a food-centric experience, unlike other markets in the city.

Known for its year-round focus on high-quality produce and artisanal goods, the market shifts into holiday mode with special seasonal items.

You’ll come across stalls brimming with fresh, locally sourced ingredients for your holiday meals and traditional Christmas foods and treats.

Read the full guide to the Borough Market Christmas event.

Borough Market Christmas dates: Likely dates: 8th November 31st December 2023.
Location: 8 Southwark Street, near London Bridge Station.
Opening times: 10am to 6pm.
23rd December: 8am to 5pm.
Christmas Eve: 9am to 3pm.
Christmas Day: Closed.
Boxing Day: Closed.
27th December: Closed.
28th December: 10am to 5pm.
29th December: 10am to 5pm.
30th December: 9am to 5pm.
New Year’s Eve: 10am to 3pm.
Admission: Free.

8. King’s Cross Christmas Market

At King’s Cross Christmas Market, you can expect a modern twist on the traditional holiday market experience.

Set across from the iconic King’s Cross Station, this market features a curated selection of crafts, designer goods, and artisanal food items.

The market’s proximity to the station makes it easily accessible, ensuring you can fit it into even the tightest holiday schedule.

King’s Cross Christmas Market dates: Likely dates: 30th November to 22nd December 2023.
Location: West Handyside Canopy, King’s Cross.
Opening times: Tuesday to Thursday: 12pm to 7pm. Friday: 12pm to 8pm. Saturday and Sunday: 12pm to 6pm.

9. Trafalgar Square Christmas Market

At Trafalgar Square Christmas Market, you’ll find yourself amid iconic London landmarks while exploring a selection of stalls.

The market sets up shop in this historic square, providing an assortment of crafts, traditional holiday treats, and decorations.

It’s an easily accessible location, just a short walk from Charing Cross and Leicester Square stations.

While you shop or dine, you might witness the lighting of the famous Norwegian Christmas tree, a yearly gift from Norway to the United Kingdom.

Learn more about the lighting of the Christmas tree in this guide to Trafalgar Square Christmas Market.

Trafalgar Square Christmas Market dates: Likely dates: 10th November 2023 to 2nd January 2024.
Location: Trafalgar Square.
Opening times: 11am to 9pm.

10. Greenwich Christmas Market

The Greenwich Christmas Market features an eclectic mix of stalls located near the Cutty Sark and the Royal Observatory. The market also integrates antiques and collectibles on specific days.

Easily accessible by DLR, it’s a shopping experience that combines traditional and modern elements right beside the River Thames.

Read our guide to Greenwich Christmas Market for more details.

Greenwich Christmas Market dates: Likely date: 16th November 2023.
Location: Greenwich Market, southeast London.
Opening times: 4pm to 6pm.

Christmas in London

The following video gives an of Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, London’s most popular Christmas event.

If you fancy visiting further afield, my guide to the best UK Christmas markets 2023, details where to go this year, curated to help you plan your holiday getaway.

Or if you’re thinking about travelling abroad this winter, my guide to the best Christmas markets in Europe should give you plenty of ideas on where to go.

Christmas Specialties in London

Mulled Wine: A classic winter warmer, mulled wine is often served in London’s Christmas markets. The drink typically combines red wine with various spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and orange zest. You might even find variations at some stalls that include a splash of brandy or amaretto for an extra kick.

Mince Pies: A quintessential British Christmas snack, mince pies consist of a shortcrust pastry filled with a mixture of dried fruits, spices, and often a touch of alcohol. They’re usually dusted with icing sugar and are best enjoyed warm.

Roast Chestnuts: A popular traditional snack sold by street vendors. Roast chestnuts are usually cooked on an open flame, giving them a smoky flavour, and are a convenient, warm snack to enjoy while you stroll through the market.

Bratwurst Sausages: Despite their German origin, you’ll find bratwurst sausages at many London Christmas markets. These are commonly served in a bun with a variety of toppings like onions and mustard. They’re a filling and satisfying option if you’re looking for something more substantial.

Churros with Chocolate: A Spanish favourite, churros are fried dough pastries, often sprinkled with sugar and served with a cup of thick, hot chocolate for dipping. They offer a sweet and slightly crunchy alternative to more traditional British Christmas fare.

Fish and Chips: Representing traditional British cuisine, some stalls serve freshly fried fish with a generous portion of chips. While not exclusive to the Christmas season, the street food dish is popular year-round and also finds a place in the seasonal markets.

Hot Apple Cider: Another drink option, hot apple cider is both sweet and tart, usually spiced with cinnamon and cloves. Some vendors might offer an alcoholic version, providing a gluten-free alternative to mulled wine.

Gingerbread People and Houses: A fun and decorative snack, gingerbread creations are often elaborately decorated with icing and candy. Whether shaped like men or intricately constructed houses, these are often as much a feast for the eyes as they are for the palate.

Turkish Delight: Originating from the Middle East but often found at the Christmas markets in London. Turkish Delight is a confection made from sugar and starch, flavoured with various ingredients like rosewater, lemon or mastic. It provides a different, more exotic, sweet option.

Stollen: This German bread-like fruitcake is filled with dried fruit, nuts, and marzipan. It’s covered with a dusting of powdered sugar and provides a hearty, chewy snack that contrasts nicely with the other lighter fare available.

Eggnog: Creamy and rich, this spiced milk and egg beverage is often fortified with rum, whisky, or brandy. Though it’s more commonly associated with American Christmas traditions, you can find it as a luxurious treat in some of London’s Christmas markets.

Cheese and Charcuterie Boards: These boards typically feature a variety of cheeses, cured meats, and sometimes olives or pickles. While cheese boards are popular throughout Europe, the specific selection often reflects British cheese-making traditions.

Oysters and Champagne: Some high-end stalls serve freshly shucked oysters alongside miniature bottles of champagne. This combination provides a luxurious twist on Christmas market dining, often appealing to those looking for something out of the ordinary.

Yorkshire Pudding Wraps: A modern British twist on a classic, some stalls offer roast meat and vegetables wrapped in a large, flat Yorkshire pudding. These wraps are a full meal in handheld form, merging convenience with traditional flavours.

Christmas Gifts and Stocking Fillers

British Tea Selection: Many stalls focus on Britain’s tea culture, offering a variety of blends ranging from classic Earl Grey to herbal infusions. These often come in beautifully designed tins or boxes, making them a perfect gift for the tea lover in your life.

Custom Illustrations: Some artists set up shop, offering to draw custom illustrations or portraits. Whether it’s a sketch of a loved one or a London landmark, these illustrations provide a personalised gift option.

Ornamental Glassware: Exquisite glass items like vases or Christmas ornaments can be found at certain specialty stalls. These are often hand-blown and come in a variety of colours and designs, offering an elegant decorative gift.

Hand-Knitted Scarves: You can find a range of scarves, often knitted by local artisans. These are warm and come in patterns that are unique to the individual maker, making each scarf a one-of-a-kind gift.

Vintage Antiques: Some vendors offer vintage items like old maps, rare books, or antique jewellery. These make intriguing gifts for people who appreciate history or unique artefacts.

Personalised Baubles: These Christmas tree ornaments can often be personalised on the spot, making them a sentimental addition to anyone’s Christmas decor. They range from traditional designs to more modern aesthetics.

Artisanal Jams and Chutneys: Gourmet food stalls often offer a selection of homemade jams, chutneys, and marmalades. These are usually made with locally sourced ingredients and come in an array of unique flavour combinations.

Local Craft Beer: Several stalls feature craft beers from local breweries. Available in single bottles or gift sets, these beers provide a taste of the local brewing scene and make a great gift for enthusiasts.

Ceramic Pottery: Unique bowls, mugs, and plates can be found at some specialty stalls. Often handmade, these ceramic items serve both a practical and decorative purpose.

London Merchandise: From miniature red buses to replicas of the Tower Bridge, you can find various London-themed merchandise. These items make for easy and recognisable gifts for friends and family abroad.

Things to Do in Winter

For the most current information on winter activities and upcoming events in London, I recommend checking out Visit London, the city’s official tourism website.

Sustainable Christmas Tips

Here are some suggestions for travelling more responsibly in London this Christmas season.

Eco-Friendly Hotels: When booking your accommodation, look for hotels that are committed to sustainability. Many hotels in Central London have adopted renewable energy sources, like solar and wind power, to minimize their carbon footprint.

Reducing Food Waste: The Christmas markets are a feast for the senses, but it’s easy to overbuy. To reduce food waste, consider sharing dishes with your travel companions. Many vendors also offer smaller portion sizes, which allow you to taste a variety without wasting food.

Ethical Consumption: While the Christmas markets are tempting, buying only what you truly need or will use is important. Many local artisans sell their wares, from crafts to handmade soaps, and purchasing from them supports local businesses as well as reduces the need for mass-produced items.

Sustainable Diets: As you explore London’s food scene, opt for plant-based or locally sourced meals when possible. Borough Market, for example, has several stalls that focus on locally grown or organic produce.

Sustainable Transport: London’s public transport system is one of the most extensive in the world, making it easy to get around without a car. The Tube, buses, and even boats on the Thames can get you close to all the major Christmas market locations. Walking or cycling is also a great way to see the city while reducing your carbon footprint.

FAQ

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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. This post contains affiliate links to hotels and tours in London, United Kingdom. This means I get a small commission from any bookings at no extra cost to you.