Held over two Sundays in December, Skipton Christmas Market is a small event popular with the local community. Although it only takes place over two days, more than 100 market stalls will be set up along the High Street.
Read on for all the essential details, including confirmed market dates for 2024.
Skipton Christmas Market 2024
Dates – Confirmed
Skipton Christmas Market dates: 1st and 8th December 2024 (confirmed).
Update: Dates were announced in July. Sign up for our newsletter for future updates.
Source: Dates are obtained directly from the event organiser’s website, available here.
Plan Your Visit
Location and Times
Location: Skipton High Street.
Opening times: 10am to 5pm.
Travel and Accommodation
Public transport: Bus – Market Place stop.
Parking: Please take public transport to help limit congestion. If necessary, parking is available at Skipton High Street Car Park.
Where to stay: The Woolly Sheep Inn is a highly-rated inn, located just off the High Street.
Amenities and Attractions
Admission: Free, no tickets required.
Santa: No.
Ice skating: No.
Christmas lights: Yes, switch on date: 24th November at 4pm (confirmed).
Santa Fun Run: Sunday 24th November at 11am (confirmed). Official fun run website.
Reason to visit: A traditional, local market held in the city centre.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian: Yes, plenty of options.
Vegan: Yes, plenty of options.
Gluten-free: Limited. Ask individual vendors, but beware of cross-contamination.
Specialities: Fruit mince pies, freshly roasted nuts, traditional mulled wine and German-style bratwurst.
Accessibility
Accessible: Yes.
Pet-friendly: Yes, but not recommended.
Convenient Hotels
Most places to stay in the area are small, locally owned bed and breakfasts or inn-style accommodations.
The Woolly Sheep Inn is one of the best-known and is highly rated for its central location, excellent food and comfortable rooms.
Plan your holiday break with my UK Christmas Markets List. Discover interesting destinations and things to do.
Event Location
Captured a moment that embodies the holiday season? Tag your photos with #UltimateChristmasMarkets — we can’t wait to see your festive finds!
Food Specialties
- Mulled Wine: Made with red wine and served in a commemorative mug.
- Yorkshire Pudding Wrap: Filled with roast meat, roast potatoes and gravy.
- Bratwurst Sausages: Grilled and served in a bun with a choice of sauces.
- Wensleydale Cheese: Hailing from the nearby town of Hawes, this cheese is a local specialty.
- Roasted Chestnuts: Roasted on an open fire and served in a paper cone.
- Mince Pies: Traditional British mince pies.
- Hot Chocolate: Optionally topped with whipped cream or marshmallows.
- Artisan Breads: There are many varieties to choose from, including traditional sourdough.
- Local Ale: The surrounding area is known for its breweries.
Gifts and Souvenirs
- Yorkshire Dales Wool: Handwoven scarves, mittens, and hats are common finds.
- Handmade Chocolates: Often crafted in small batches, handmade chocolates can come in a mix of festive flavours and gift boxes.
- Yorkshire Tea: Yorkshire folks love their tea. Pick up a box of locally sourced tea.
- Artisan Cheese: Skipton is in the heart of the dairy country, and that means cheese. Creamy Wensleydale, tangy Yorkshire Blue, or a classic cheddar are all delicious options. Add these to a hamper for a gourmet gift.
- Traditional Decorations: Expect to find ornaments, wreaths, lights and other decorations.
Sustainability Tips
- Take the Train: The area is well connected by train services, making it a straightforward and sustainable way to get around.
- Supporting Local Producers: Enjoy the artisanal cheese, local brews and handcrafted items at the weekend market.
- Order Plant-Based Options: Look out for plant-based options that are not only delicious but also have a lower environmental impact than meat-based dishes.
- Avoid Food Waste: When ordering food at the market, consider the portion sizes. If the portion is too large, share it with a friend. It’s a great way to reduce food waste while trying several dishes.
- Stay at Eco-Friendly Hotels: Yorkshire has a selection of green hotels and bed & breakfasts that are making efforts to be more sustainable. Make a point to support these places.
- Buy Wisely: Avoid overconsumption during the festive season. Think twice before you buy. Choose products made to last, and consider whether they will be used and appreciated.
Comment below if you want to leave a Xmas review, have any questions or would like to report any inaccuracies.
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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. While we make every effort to provide accurate information, the dates and details listed here should not be relied upon. Please consult the official website before booking your trip or planning a visit.
Karin
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!
Andrea Anastasakis
Interesting! Did they return last year?
Susan
Can you tell me wen the brass band and bagpipes will be playing on the Christmas Market
Thankyou
Andrea Anastasakis
I’m not sure. Maybe ask on their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/skiptonchristmasmarket
Jack Blagbrough
Hello is there any availability left for the market on 10th December ?
Andrea Anastasakis
Availability for what? Tickets are not required.