Held over 2 Sundays in December, Skipton Christmas Market is a small event that is popular with the local community. Even though it only takes place over two days, more than 100 Christmas stalls will be located along Skipton High Street.
Read on for all the essential details, including confirmed market dates for 2023, opening times and what you can expect to find when you’re there.
Santa Fun Run: The Christmas season in Skiptons begins on 26th November, with the Santa Fun Run at 10am.
Christmas Lights Switch-On: Later that day, the Christmas Lights Switch-On will take place at 4pm.
Christmas carols, brass bands and swing bands contribute to the festive atmosphere of the Skipton markets.
Skipton Christmas Market 2023
At the Christmas market in Skipton, you’ll find a huge array of local independent businesses with stalls along with regionally based artisan makers, bakers and craftspeople. A music stage with festive entertainment is located in the centre of the markets.
Dates and Location
Skipton Christmas Market dates: 3rd and 10th December 2023.
Location: Skipton High Street.
Opening times: 10am to 4:30pm.
Admission: Free, no tickets required.
Santa Fun Run: 26th November at 10am.
Christmas lights: Yes, switch on date: 26th November at 4pm.
Santa: No.
Ice skating: No.
Vegetarian: Yes, plenty of options.
Vegan: Yes, plenty of options.
Gluten free: Yes, but limited.
Accessible: Yes.
Pet-friendly: Yes, but not recommended.
Reason to visit: A traditional, local market held in Skipton city centre.
Specialities: Fruit mince pies, freshly roasted nuts, traditional mulled wine and German-style bratwurst.
Where to stay: The Woolly Sheep Inn is a highly-rated inn, located just off the High Street, minutes from the Christmas market.
Hotels near Skipton Christmas Market
Most places to stay in Skipton are small, locally owned bed and breakfast or inn-style accommodations. The Woolly Sheep Inn is one of the most well-known and is highly rated for its central location, excellent food and comfortable rooms.
Location of Skipton Christmas Market
Plan your Christmas holiday with my Christmas markets 2023 UK guide. Discover where to go, things to do and the best ways to experience local food, history and culture.
Food at the Christmas Market
Yorkshire Pudding Wrap: Wrap yourself up in the warmth of Skipton’s own spin on the Christmas market snack. Yorkshire pudding wraps are filled with tender roast meat and crispy roast potatoes and drenched in rich gravy. It’s the entire Sunday roast, all bundled up in a handy-to-hold wrap.
Mulled Wine: A sip of mulled wine is bound to keep your spirits high as you explore the Skipton Christmas Market. This drink, typically made with red wine and various mulling spices and raisins, is served hot and is a Christmas market staple across Europe.
Bratwurst Sausages: In a nod to the German origins of Christmas markets, Skipton vendors often serve up classic bratwurst sausages. These are typically grilled and served in a bun with a choice of sauces. It’s simple but undeniably satisfying on a cold winter’s day.
Roasted Chestnuts: Roasted on an open fire, chestnuts are a Christmas market classic. These warm, slightly sweet nuts are an absolute delight to munch on as you stroll through the bustling market.
Wensleydale Cheese: Hailing from the nearby town of Hawes, Wensleydale cheese is a local specialty that often finds its way to Skipton’s Christmas market. This cheese, known for its crumbly texture and slightly sweet flavour, is often paired with fruit such as cranberries for a festive touch.
Mince Pies: Traditional British mince pies are a must-try when visiting the Christmas market in Skipton. These small pies are filled with a mixture of dried fruits and spices and taste absolutely divine when freshly baked.
Hot Chocolate: Nothing beats hot chocolate to keep warm while enjoying the market, especially if it’s topped with whipped cream and marshmallows. It’s a comforting treat that both adults and kids alike can’t resist.
Artisan Breads: At Skipton’s Sunday Christmas Market, you’ll often find a stall or two selling fresh, artisan bread. It could be a traditional sourdough loaf, a moreish focaccia or a speciality festive bread – I love getting a loaf to take home from the markets.
Local Ale: Skipton and the surrounding area are known for their breweries. Some stallholders might offer local ales, providing a great opportunity to sample the local brewing scene. There might even be some festive brews with seasonal flavours.
What to Buy
Yorkshire Dales Wool Products: Bundle up this Christmas with wool products from the Yorkshire Dales. Handwoven scarves, mittens and hats are common finds. Each piece is crafted with care and will keep you toasty throughout winter.
Handmade Chocolates: Indulge your sweet tooth with local handmade chocolates. Often crafted in small batches by skilled chocolatiers, these treats can come in a variety of festive flavours and make for a decadent gift or personal treat.
Locally Brewed Beers: Take a piece of Skipton’s brewing scene home with you with some locally brewed beers. Many local breweries offer special edition festive ales that make for the perfect Christmas gift for the ale enthusiast in your life.
Handcrafted Pottery: You’re likely to come across stalls selling locally made pottery. Whether it’s an ornate vase, a charming teapot, or a set of rustic mugs, these handcrafted items often carry the artist’s unique touch and make for a truly special gift.
Yorkshire Tea: It’s no secret that folks in Yorkshire love their tea. Pick up a box of locally sourced Yorkshire Tea as a reminder of your time at Skipton Christmas Market. Perfect for a cosy afternoon brew, it’s a taste of Yorkshire in a cup.
Local Honey: Support local beekeepers by purchasing a jar of local honey. It’s not only a sweet treat but also an eco-friendly gift choice.
Artisan Cheese: Skipton is in the heart of the dairy country, and that means cheese. You’ll find a variety of local artisan cheeses at the market. Creamy Wensleydale, tangy Yorkshire Blue, or a classic cheddar are all delicious, and packaged cheese makes for a fantastic gift.
Traditional Christmas Decorations: No Christmas market would be complete without a selection of festive decorations. Expect to find a variety of handcrafted ornaments, wreaths and Christmas lights that can bring a little piece of Skipton into your own home this festive season.
If you’re visiting Skipton, you might also be heading to the nearby Yorkshire Dales. The local national parks website has plenty of information to help you plan a trip.
Sustainable Travel Tips
The choices we make have an environmental and social impact on the places we visit. Try to implement these responsible travel measures when visiting the Christmas markets.
Take the Train to Skipton: Let’s reduce our carbon footprint by opting for public transport. You’ll find that Skipton is well connected by train services, making it a straightforward and sustainable way to travel to the Christmas market if you’re travelling from afar.
Supporting Local Producers: When you buy local, you’re not just supporting local businesses. You’re also helping to cut down on carbon emissions associated with long-haul transportation of goods. Enjoy the artisanal cheese, local brews and handcrafted items at the Sunday Christmas Market, knowing you’re making a sustainable choice.
Tote Your Own Bag: I suggest bringing your own reusable shopping bag to the Christmas market. It’s a simple way to reduce the need for single-use plastic bags as you wander from stall to stall.
Feast on Plant-Based Options: You’ll find a wide variety of local foods at the market. Look out for plant-based options that are not only delicious but also have a lower environmental impact than meat-based dishes.
Responsible Energy Use: As you wander the charming streets of Skipton, remember to switch off the lights in your hotel when you’re out. Many hotels in the area use renewable energy sources, so by using energy consciously, you’re contributing to Skipton’s commitment to green energy.
Avoid Food Waste: Consider the portion sizes when ordering food at the market. If the portion is too large, share it with a friend. It’s a great way to reduce food waste and try a variety of dishes.
Stay at Eco-Friendly Accommodations: Yorkshire has a selection of green hotels and bed & breakfasts that are making efforts to be more sustainable. Make a point to support these establishments.
Buy Wisely: Be mindful of overconsumption during the festive season. Think twice before you buy. Choose products that are made to last and consider if they will be used and appreciated.
FAQ
Skipton Christmas Market is held on Sunday, the 3rd and 10th December 2023.
The Christmas markets in Skipton are held on Skipton High Street.
The Christmas market in Skipton opens at 10am.
The Christmas market in Skipton closes at 4:30pm.
If you want to leave a review of Skipton Xmas Market, please comment below.
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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 Skipton, UK. This means I get a small commission from any bookings at no extra cost to you.
Hello is there any availability left for the market on 10th December ?
Availability for what? Tickets are not required.
Can you tell me wen the brass band and bagpipes will be playing on the Christmas Market
Thankyou
I’m not sure. Maybe ask on their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/skiptonchristmasmarket
Is this year will have a scotland pipers band ? I have seen them last year , They were amazing! If my memory is good it was 4 pipers and drummers . What an experience!