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Christmas in Kingston<\/h2>\n\n\n\nRegional Specialties<\/h3>\n\n\n\n Traditional Mulled Wine<\/strong>: Served hot and spiced, this classic Christmas beverage is a favourite at the Kingston Upon Thames Christmas Market. It’s made from red wine, various mulling spices, and sometimes raisins. You’ll find this warming drink at many stalls throughout the market.<\/p>\n\n\n\nMince Pies<\/strong>: A classic British Christmas treat, mince pies are filled with a mixture of dried fruits and spices. Freshly baked mince pies are available at the market, providing a taste of a time-honoured Christmas tradition.<\/p>\n\n\n\nRoasted Chestnuts<\/strong>: Street vendors roast chestnuts on open grills, offering a plant-based and gluten-free option. These warm and fragrant nuts are a pleasant snack as you explore the market.<\/p>\n\n\n\nArtisanal Cheeses<\/strong>: Local producers showcase a variety of handmade cheeses, including some plant-based options. These include mature Cheddars, soft Bries, and other regional favourites, which can be enjoyed on their own or with crackers.<\/p>\n\n\n\nPork Sausages and Hog Roast<\/strong>: Several vendors serve traditional pork sausages and succulent hog roast for meat lovers. Often accompanied by crispy roast potatoes and apple sauce, these make for a hearty meal at the market.<\/p>\n\n\n\nGingerbread Cookies<\/strong>: A common and beloved treat at Christmas markets, gingerbread cookies are decorated in festive shapes. They’re not only tasty but also fun for families and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\nVegan Stuffed Peppers<\/strong>: Providing a wholesome vegetarian option, vendors serve stuffed peppers with a range of fillings, including rice, vegetables, and herbs. This dish caters to those seeking a nutritious and plant-based alternative.<\/p>\n\n\n\nHandmade Chocolates<\/strong>: Local chocolatiers display a selection of handmade chocolates, including dark, milk and white varieties, with some providing vegan options. These sweet treats are often beautifully packaged, making them a popular gift choice.<\/p>\n\n\n\nHot Chocolate<\/strong>: Hot chocolate stands offer this sweet and creamy drink, especially popular with children. Some vendors provide unique twists, such as adding flavoured syrups or marshmallows.<\/p>\n\n\n\nFish and Chips<\/strong>: While not a traditional Christmas dish, fish and chips are quintessential British street food and can be found at the market. Some stalls provide battered halloumi as a vegetarian alternative.<\/p>\n\n\n\nPretzels<\/strong>: Though not a local specialty, pretzels are common at many Christmas markets. At Kingston Upon Thames, vendors provide both traditional salted pretzels and varieties coated with sweet glazes.<\/p>\n\n\n\nApple Strudel<\/strong>: Some vendors offer another international favourite, apple strudel. Served warm and often accompanied by a dusting of icing sugar, it’s a comforting dessert that appeals to many visitors.<\/p>\n\n\n\nLocal Craft Beers<\/strong>: Several breweries from the area participate in the market, showcasing their craft beers. Whether you prefer a rich stout or a hoppy IPA, a local brew will likely suit your taste.<\/p>\n\n\n\nVegetable Skewers<\/strong>: For a lighter snack, vegetable skewers grilled to perfection are a tasty and nutritious option. These often come with a choice of dips and sauces, making them a versatile plant-based choice.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThis Christmas market provides an eclectic mix of traditional British favourites and international snacks, ensuring there’s something to please every palate, including vegetarian and vegan options. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Gifts and Stocking Fillers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n Handcrafted Jewellery<\/strong>: Artisans at the Kingston Christmas Market sell beautifully handcrafted jewellery, including earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. Made with various materials such as silver, gold, and unique gemstones, these items are perfect for those looking for something special and locally crafted.<\/p>\n\n\n\nLocal Artwork<\/strong>: A selection of artists from the region display their work at the market, offering a range of paintings, prints, and sculptures. From landscapes that capture the beauty of Kingston to abstract pieces, you’ll find diverse art to suit different tastes.<\/p>\n\n\n\nHomemade Candles<\/strong>: Vendors at the market sell a variety of homemade candles in different shapes, sizes, and fragrances. Whether scented with traditional Christmas fragrances like cinnamon and pine or more exotic aromas, these candles make for a thoughtful gift or home decoration.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWooden Toys and Decorations<\/strong>: Traditional wooden toys and Christmas decorations are among the classic products you can find at the market. Ranging from intricate ornaments to hand-carved toys, these wooden creations are often associated with Christmas markets and add a timeless touch to the festive season.<\/p>\n\n\n\nHandmade Pottery and Ceramics<\/strong>: Pottery and ceramic artists from the area offer beautifully crafted bowls, plates, mugs, and more. These items often have distinct designs and glaze reflecting the local culture, making them unique keepsakes or gifts.<\/p>\n\n\n\nLocally Produced Honey and Jams<\/strong>: Specialty vendors sell locally produced honey and jams made from regional fruits and flora. Packaged in attractive jars, these sweet delights are a way to enjoy the natural flavours of Kingston Upon Thames.<\/p>\n\n\n\nKnitted and Crocheted Items<\/strong>: You’ll find stalls selling handmade knitted and crocheted items such as scarves, hats and mittens. These cosy accessories, often made with soft wool, provide warmth during winter and make for practical gifts.<\/p>\n\n\n\nBooks from Local Authors<\/strong>: For book lovers, some stalls feature works by local authors, including novels, poetry, and historical accounts of the region. This offers an opportunity to delve into the literary culture of Kingston in the UK.<\/p>\n\n\n\nOrganic Skincare Products<\/strong>: Several vendors specialise in organic skincare products from locally sourced natural ingredients. These products provide a luxurious and environmentally conscious option, from soothing balms to rejuvenating face creams.<\/p>\n\n\n\nBespoke Stationery<\/strong>: For those interested in writing and journaling, stalls offer bespoke stationery sets, including personalised notebooks, pens and writing accessories. These elegant items can make a special gift for the writers or planners in your life.<\/p>\n\n\n\nDiscover Kingston<\/a> provides up-to-date information on the latest events, attractions and activities in the city for those looking to explore Kingston beyond the Christmas market.<\/p>\n\n\n\nSustainability Tips<\/h3>\n\n\n\n Here are a few tips on how we can travel more responsibly in Kingston at Christmas:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Eco-Friendly Hotels<\/strong>: When booking accommodation, consider choosing one of the many hotels in Kingston Upon Thames that prioritise sustainable practices. Many of these establishments focus on energy conservation, recycling, and using renewable energy sources, contributing to a greener stay in the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\nReducing Food Waste<\/strong>: While enjoying the delicious foods at the Christmas markets, make conscious choices to avoid unnecessary waste. Order portions that you can finish, share dishes with friends or family, and be mindful of using recyclable or reusable containers where possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\nEthical Consumption<\/strong>: The Christmas markets present many shopping opportunities. Be thoughtful in your purchases, buying only what you genuinely need or can use. Support local artisans and craftspeople who produce ethical and environmentally friendly items.<\/p>\n\n\n\nSustainable Diets<\/strong>: Embrace a sustainable diet by seeking out Christmas stalls at the markets that use locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. This supports local farmers and reduces transportation emissions, and often results in fresher and more flavourful dishes.<\/p>\n\n\n\nSustainable Transport<\/strong>: Kingston has an array of public transport options, including buses and trains, which are an environmentally friendly alternative to driving. Consider walking or cycling to nearby destinations or use public transport to reach further areas. The city also encourages the use of electric vehicles with accessible charging stations, so consider renting one if you need a car during your visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIf you would like to leave a review of Kingston Xmas Market, comment below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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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 Kingston Upon Thames, UK. This means I get a small commission from any bookings at no extra cost to you.<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Kingston Upon Thames transforms into a festive destination during Christmas, attracting visitors with its rich history, scenic riverfront and vibrant shopping areas, with Kingston Christmas Market being a key highlight. In this guide, I’ll share everything you’ll need to know about the Christmas markets in Kingston Upon Thames, including unconfirmed 2024 dates, opening times, locations…<\/p>\n
Read More<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":13274,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[21],"tags":[],"yoast_head":"\nKingston Christmas Market 2024 at the Ancient Market<\/title>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\t \n\t \n\t \n \n \n \n \n \n\t \n\t \n\t \n