London Christmas markets 2026: The complete planning guide

Experience festive fun at Christmas in Leicester Square, which gives the home of blockbuster film premieres a yuletide makeover. Browse the traditional market filled with handmade crafts and tempting festive treats, get your skates on at the new Skate Leicester Square ice rink, or head to one of the spectacular performances that often take place throughout the festive season.

One of our favourite things to do is snap photos with the Scenes in the Square characters dotted around the area and dressed in their festive best, including Mr Bean, Mary Poppins and Paddington Bear. While you're here, make a day (or evening) of it with a festive West End show. This Christmas, families will love A Christmas Carol Goes Wrong, while fans of the Wizarding World should see the new one-part version of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.

Best for: West End theatre trips, festive date nights, ice skating and Christmas shopping.
Good to know: This is an enclosed market which can get busy in the evenings, so it may be trickier to navigate with large bags or buggies. We'd recommend stopping by before your show to browse the stalls, or ending the evening with a warming mulled wine under the twinkling lights. 

Stroll along the river Thames at Southbank Centre Winter Market, where alpine-style chalets serve festive food, mulled wine and handcrafted gifts against the backdrop of the London Eye and the city skyline. It's one of London's most atmospheric Christmas markets and an easy addition to any festive itinerary.

We love that it's easy to combine with nearby attractions on the South Bank, making it ideal for a full festive day out. Visit after 7pm on weekdays for the best atmosphere, then stop along Queen's Walk for one of the best festive photo spots in London.

Round off your evening with the magical Cirque Alice at the Southbank Centre, or hop aboard a Christmas Lights Bus Tour which is just a short walk away to see the capital's festive illuminations from a different perspective.

Best for: Festive food and drinks, Christmas shopping, couples, riverside walks and first-time visitors.
Good to know: Entry is free and the market is family friendly, dog friendly and largely step free. Nearby attractions include the SEA LIFE London Aquarium, The Paddington Bear Experience and Shrek’s Adventure! London. 

Wander past the wooden chalets filled with handmade crafts, unique gifts and delicious festive treats at the Trafalgar Square Christmas Market. One of London's most iconic Christmas traditions, the square is home to the famous Norwegian Christmas tree, while carol singers often fill the air with festive tunes throughout December.

We love pairing a visit here with the National Gallery or National Portrait Gallery. Whether you're warming up after exploring world-famous artworks or stopping for a festive sweet treat, don't miss snapping a photo beside the beautifully illuminated fountains and towering Christmas tree. Carry on the festive celebrations with a performance of The Nutcracker, or head into the nearby West End to see the long-running musical The Phantom of the Opera.

Best for: Christmas traditions, sightseeing, festive photo spots, culture lovers and first-time visitors.
Good to know: This is one of London's smaller Christmas markets, making it an easy stop while exploring central London. Pair it with nearby Leicester Square or Covent Garden for a full festive day out. 

Be dazzled by hundreds of thousands of glittering lights during Christmas in Covent Garden, where three daily markets are filled with handmade crafts and unique gifts. Shop for Christmas presents, tuck into festive treats and soak up the magical atmosphere as one of London's most iconic shopping destinations is transformed for the season.

We're always impressed by Covent Garden's spectacular Christmas displays, and it's hard not to be swept up in the festive spirit when snow falls over the piazza. It's one of our favourite places to pause, take in the decorations and watch the festive performances that often pop up throughout the day. Be sure to stop by the London Transport Museum, where you can discover London's transport history alongside its seasonal Christmas activities and festive displays.

For an extra festive treat, hop aboard the nearby The Snowman™ Afternoon Tea Bus Tour, combining seasonal afternoon tea with a magical sightseeing tour of London's Christmas lights.

Best for: First-time visitors, festive photo spots, luxury shopping and Christmas lights.
Good to know: Covent Garden is one of London's busiest festive destinations, so visit on a weekday morning if you can for a little more space to browse. While you're here, explore the boutique shops and restaurants around the piazza or wander over to nearby Seven Dials for even more Christmas shopping. 

Get into the festive spirit with a visit to Old Spitalfields Christmas Market, where you can take your pick from several mouthwatering foodie delights before browsing themed stalls selling clothes, jewellery, art and handmade gifts. Finish off your Christmas shopping in the many independent shops and boutiques surrounding the market.

Best for: Independent makers, unique Christmas gifts, food lovers and East London shopping.
Good to know: A great spot for finding one-of-a-kind gifts from independent traders. Make time to explore the surrounding streets, especially nearby Brick Lane, where grabbing a salt beef bagel from the iconic Beigel Bake is a must. 

Winter by the River at London Bridge City is set against stunning views of Tower Bridge and the Tower of London. In 2025 the London Bridge Christmas market included a two-storey apres ski-themed venue with a heated rooftop, seasonal food and drinks, and riverside views. Browse for original presents and handmade crafts before picking up delicious snacks with a backdrop of London's iconic skyline views.

We love visiting after dark, when Tower Bridge lights up and the riverside takes on an extra festive feel. Hop aboard an Uber Boat by Thames Clippers for a scenic journey along the river, or continue your festive day out with a performance of Pinocchio at Shakespeare's Globe, just a short walk away.

Best for: Tower Bridge views, festive food and drinks, riverside walks, couples and Christmas shopping.
Good to know: The market is largely step free and has previously hosted live festive entertainment along the riverside, so keep an eye out for seasonal performances as you explore. 

Venture to picturesque Kingston upon Thames to explore the riverside town's Ancient Market Place, where cosy wooden cabins are filled with unique Christmas gifts, handmade arts and crafts, beautiful decorations and stocking fillers. Afterwards, tuck into festive street food and soak up the cheerful atmosphere as seasonal entertainment brings the market to life.

We're all about the live entertainment, with classic Christmas choirs, local bands and the ever-popular open mic night bringing extra festive cheer. Combined with Kingston's picturesque riverside setting, it's a wonderful place to slow down and enjoy a more relaxed Christmas market experience away from the bustle of central London.

Best for: Handmade gifts, families, festive food and escaping central London.
Good to know: Check the entertainment schedule before you visit, as live performances and seasonal events take place throughout the day. 

Follow the lights to Hyde Park and soak up the festive atmosphere of Winter Wonderland, one of the biggest Christmas markets in London. Discover more than 100 wooden cabins overflowing with fantastic gifts, including handmade crafts and beautiful pieces of jewellery. It's also home to the UK's biggest outdoor ice rink, a giant observation wheel and spectacular live shows, making it one of the capital's ultimate festive days out.

If you’re looking for a spot nearby, Hilton Park Lane is right next to attraction and if you book the right room you’ll be able to see the festive wonderland from your window.

Best for: Families, thrill seekers, festive entertainment and all-day Christmas fun.
Good to know: Entry is free during off-peak times, although many attractions require a paid ticket. Visit on a weekday if you can to avoid the biggest crowds, and pair your visit with nearby FRAMELESS, an immersive art experience just a short walk away from Hyde Park.  

Tick items off your Christmas shopping list while browsing Greenwich Market's stalls and independent shops, where you'll find everything from stocking fillers and fashion to handmade crafts and original artworks. Afterwards, wander the historic maritime neighbourhood of Greenwich, which is decked out in festive lights and a nautical-inspired Christmas tree.

We're always drawn to Greenwich's village-like atmosphere at Christmas. It's easy to spend an afternoon exploring the market before strolling past the Cutty Sark, through the Old Royal Naval College or up to Greenwich Park for panoramic views across London's skyline.

Best for: Handmade gifts, artisan shopping, history lovers, festive day trips and families.
Good to know: The market is open throughout the year, so you'll find many of its independent traders alongside seasonal festive stalls.  

Looking to get festive midweek? Christmas Wednesdays at Columbia Road is your answer. Just a short stroll from Shoreditch High Street station, you'll find independent boutiques with extended Christmas opening hours filled with unique items for gifting. Take photos of the extravagant shop window displays to fill up your Instagram feed.

We love the community feel here, with twinkling lights, festive decorations and independent cafés adding to the cosy atmosphere. It's a refreshing alternative to London's busier Christmas markets, making it the perfect place for an evening of relaxed festive shopping.

Best for: Independent shopping, unique Christmas gifts, festive photo spots and escaping the crowds.
Good to know: Christmas Wednesdays are much smaller than many of London's festive markets, but that's all part of the charm. Arrive early to browse at a leisurely pace, then explore nearby Shoreditch for even more independent shops, cafés and bars. 

Be enchanted by the annual Christmas Fair at Chelsea Physic Garden, boasting a selection of more than 100 independent sellers set within the grounds of London's oldest botanic garden. Browse beautifully crafted homeware, jewellery, festive decorations and gourmet treats while soaking up the peaceful surroundings of this historic green oasis.

With its tranquil botanical setting and carefully curated selection of independent traders, this festive fair offers a more relaxed Christmas shopping experience than many of London's larger markets. It's the perfect place to discover thoughtful gifts before continuing the festivities in nearby Chelsea.

Best for: Luxury gifts, artisan shopping, garden lovers and festive day trips.
Good to know: Entry to the Christmas Fair requires a ticket, so book in advance if you can. Afterwards, continue the festive celebrations at nearby Chelsea Winter Village, where sparkling lights, seasonal food and cosy alpine-style chalets add to the neighbourhood's Christmas charm. 

Stock up on presents at one of eight different Christmas markets popping up in King's Cross over winter. Find eclectic gifts from independent arts and crafts sellers, hunt for unique trinkets at Mexican- and Japanese-themed markets and more. Plus, sample plenty of warming drinks, hearty food and vegan treats while shopping to the sound of live music.

Whether you're searching for handcrafted gifts, festive food or something a little different, there's a market to suit every taste. We especially love the variety on offer, making King's Cross one of the best places in London to browse independent traders while discovering something new. 

Best for: Independent shopping, food lovers, unique gifts and festive markets with a modern twist.
Good to know: With several markets taking place on different dates, it's worth checking the schedule before you visit to see what's on. While you're there, explore Coal Drops Yard's independent shops and festive decorations, or stop by Lightroom for one of its immersive art shows. 

Explore the historic arches of Borough Market, decked out with festive lights, decorations and twinkling ornaments as you sample some of the finest seasonal food and drink in London. From artisan cheeses and freshly baked pastries to warming mulled wine and gourmet street food, it's a must-visit for food lovers at Christmas. Keep your eyes peeled for special seasonal events that usually pop up throughout the festive period, including the famous Evening of Cheese.

The festive atmosphere makes Borough Market even more special during the Christmas season, with carol singers and buskers adding to the celebrations. Afterwards, admire London's festive skyline from The View from The Shard, or keep the fun going with a few friendly games at Game Keller, tucked beneath the historic London Bridge railway arches.

Best for: Food lovers, festive treats, artisan produce, Christmas gifts and first-time visitors.
Good to know: Borough Market can get extremely busy, especially at weekends, so visit on a weekday morning if you can. Many traders sell limited-edition festive specials throughout the season, so it's worth arriving hungry and trying a few different stalls 

Wander the length of Broadway Market alongside London Fields, where you can soak up the neighbourhood atmosphere while browsing stalls selling unique gifts. Discover everything from handmade jewellery and original artwork to freshly baked bread, seasonal bakes and locally made produce. Pick up flowers for someone special before warming up in one of the area's cosy cafés or pubs.

Broadway Market has a distinctly local feel, making it one of our favourite spots to escape the crowds and discover independent makers. It's an ideal place to take your time, enjoy great food and uncover thoughtful Christmas gifts you won't find on the high street.

Best for: Independent shopping, artisan food, creative gifts and experiencing a local neighbourhood market.
Good to know: The market is at its liveliest on Saturdays, so arrive early for the best selection of food and gifts. Afterwards, take a stroll through nearby London Fields or explore the independent cafés, bakeries and boutiques that line Broadway Market. 

Experience the iconic Camden Market dressed up for the festive season with twinkling lights, Christmas trees and an ice palace grotto where children big and small can meet Santa. From artisan goods and vintage treasures to international street food and quirky gifts, you'll find something for everyone at this famous London market.

There's always something new to discover around Camden's maze of market stalls, making it one of the capital's most exciting places to shop. Between browsing the independent traders, stop for a bite to eat or simply soak up the lively atmosphere as festive decorations transform the market for Christmas.

Best for: Alternative Christmas gifts, vintage shopping, street food, families and festive day trips.
Good to know: Camden Market is one of London's busiest attractions, so visit on a weekday or earlier in the day for a more relaxed experience. Make time to explore the surrounding canals, music venues and independent shops while you're there. 

Head to the Wembley Park Festive Market every weekend in December to browse more than 50 traders selling artisan trinkets, handmade gifts and festive treats. Discover everything from American alpaca crafts to African textiles before following the free festive light trail through Wembley Park.

The festive atmosphere continues beyond the market, with live entertainment, seasonal activities and plenty of places to eat and drink nearby. If you're looking to make a day of it, catch a performance of High School Musical at the Troubadour, just a short walk away.

Best for: Families, international street food, unique gifts and festive entertainment.
Good to know: The free festive light trail is well worth seeing after dark, when Wembley Park is illuminated with colourful installations. Many of the market's traders change throughout the season, so there's always something new to discover.