The best Christmas markets in the UK to visit this year

It’s officially less than 100 days until Christmas which means it’s time to get excited for the festive season! Whatever your unique family traditions are, wherever like doing your Christmas shopping and however you like your mulled wine, there’s so much on offer in ever corner of the UK.

It has to be said that the Brits put on a splendid Christmas market. All over the North, South, East and West the stalls are set up to sell us our stocking fillers, regional specialties to enjoy on the big day and even some supper and a Christmas tipple whilst on an evening about town.

Why not discover some new Christmas markets this year and make a weekend of it? Avoid high Christmas prices with the Travelodge NHS discount code and make this a Christmas to remember.

Cardiff

Wales’s capital has plenty to offer when it comes to the festive season. For over two decades, Cardiff comes to life during December with the 200 stalls that flood its streets. Showcasing local artistry and independent sellers, this is the best place to support Cardiff-based talent and purchase a really special gift you won’t find elsewhere.

Blenheim Palace

Can there be a better, more spectacular spot for a Christmas market? ‘Lavish’ is an understatement! The impressive home of The Duke of Marlborough transforms into a winter wonderland every year, serving up some serious wow-factor with the famous Illuminated Trail which leads visitors though the palace gardens. It’s free to enter, but bookings are still required. Make sure you plan in advance.

Birmingham

Every year the UK’s second biggest city hosts the biggest German market outside of Germany and Austria. That’s pretty impressive! Feast on glühwein, German beer and bratwurst whilst swaying and singing along to the carols that accompany the festive merrymaking.

The Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market also has a few traditions of its own; namely Christmas Moose, the singing moose who serenades visitors in front of the Council House in the city centre. Don’t forget to ask for a song and maybe even a dance!

York
Cutesy York, with all its cobbled streets and crooked houses, is never short of Christmassy charm. Nicholas Square turns into a woodland fairy story under the shadow of the York Minster. Wooden chalets line the square, serving up all kinds of festive treats and twinkly fun.

Amble over to King’s Square and the Shambles Market, checking out The Shambles market and food court too before putting your feet up at Thor’s Tipi next to a firepit, mulled wine firmly in hand.