With the festive period drawing ever closer, it’s time to put up the tree, stick on the Christmas films, and enjoy copious amounts of hot chocolate. One way to get into the festive spirit is to attend a Christmas market, and there are plenty to discover here in the United Kingdom.
While many Christmas markets were sadly cancelled in 2020 due to the pandemic, they’re back in full swing this year. From the Frankfurt Market in Birmingham to Winter Wonderland in London, read on as we take you through a list of the best Christmas markets to look out for in 2021.
Some of the most popular Christmas markets across the UK include:
Where is it?
Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market is situated in Victoria Square in the city centre and consists of over 50 stalls selling food, drink and gifts. Around five million people attend this market each year to enjoy delicious refreshments, live music and a cheerful atmosphere.
Is it on in 2021?
Yes. While Birmingham Christmas Market was called off last year due to the pandemic, it’s back on the cards this year. However, it’s expected to be smaller than it has been in previous years because of works being carried out in Victoria Square. The authority has warned that this market could still be cancelled if COVID-19 restrictions return, so make sure to check the website before heading off.
Is it free?
Birmingham Christmas Market is free and open to all.
What dates is it on?
The Christmas market runs from Thursday 4th November until Thursday 23rd December 2021.
Where is it?
You can find the main Edinburgh Christmas Market in East Princes Street Gardens in Edinburgh City Centre. And for the first time ever, the markets will be extended across West Princes Street Gardens and George Street. From fair rides to delicious treats including mulled wine and yule log, these much-loved annual markets depict a total festive fairy tale.
Is it on in 2021?
The pandemic meant that the market could not go ahead in 2020, but it’s back on for 2021.
Is it free?
Entry into the Christmas market is free. However, you must have a valid ticket to gain entry into any of the attractions.
What dates is it on?
Edinburgh Christmas Market runs from Saturday 20th November 2021 until Tuesday 4th January 2022. The George Street market will run from Saturday 20th November until Sunday 2nd January 2022, while the West Princes Street Gardens market will run from Saturday November 20th until Friday 24th December 2021.
Exeter Christmas Market is held at Exeter Cathedral, located in the heart of the city. The market is made up of a selection of pop-up bars, global cuisine and stalls selling all kinds of unique gifts crafted by local traders.
Is it on in 2021?
Like many other Christmas markets, Exeter Christmas Market was cancelled for 2020. However, it’s back on this year, and it’s expected to be as delightful as ever.
Is it free?
Yes. There is no charge and you do not have to worry about pre-booking
What dates is it on?
The festivities begin on Thursday 18th November and run until Saturday 18th December 2021.
Manchester Christmas Markets have been one of the city’s festive highlights since their arrival in 1999. As the first Christmas markets to have been held in the UK, Manchester Christmas Markets have grown bigger and better ever since and are now regarded as the best Christmas markets in the country.
Where is it?
Manchester Christmas Markets are spread out across Exchange Square, Picadilly Gardens, New Cathedral Street, St Ann’s Square, Market Street and King Street in the city centre.
Is it on in 2021?
The markets are back in full force for 2021. Expect a vast range of stalls selling Europe’s finest street food, warming brews and outstanding crafts.
Is it free?
Entry into the Manchester Christmas Markets is entirely free.
What dates is it on?
This year, the Manchester Christmas Markets will run from Friday 12th November until Wednesday 22nd December 2021.
Where is it?
Winter Wonderland is situated in Hyde Park in Central London. Here you can enjoy fun, festive activities including ice skating and fairground rides, as well as a variety of mouth-watering food and tasty drinks. For little ones, there’s also the chance to meet Father Christmas in Santa Land.
Is it on in 2021?
Christmas market enthusiasts will be pleased to know that Winter Wonderland will be going ahead in 2021.
Is it free?
Entry is free during off-peak hours. During peak hours, entry costs between £5.00 and £7.50. You must book your tickets in advance on the Winter Wonderland website. If you spend over £20.00 on any Winter Wonderland attractions, rides and games when booked in advance, your entrance ticket will become free.
What dates is it on?
Winter Wonderland will run from Friday 19th November 2021 until Monday 3rd January 2022.
Where is it?
For a truly magical experience, take a trip to the York St Nicolas Fair. This market is spread out across different areas of York City Centre, including Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square. Here you’ll find a selection of Alpine chalets selling seasonal food and appetising sweet treats.
Is it on in 2021?
York Christmas Market will be on in 2021 and is expected to be more Christmassy than ever before.
Is it free?
Yes. There is no fee for entry into York Christmas Market
What dates is it on?
York Christmas Market will run from Thursday 18th November until Thursday 23rd December 2021.
Planning a city break this Christmas period? Our Leonardo hotels offer the perfect space to relax after a fun-filled evening at the Christmas markets. Available at 49 locations across the UK and Ireland, our hotels feature luxurious bedrooms, outstanding restaurants and various health and leisure facilities to help you make the most of your stay. And with their convenient city-centre location, you won’t have to journey too far to the attractions.
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