As the festive season rolls round, we take a look at five of the UK’s best Christmas Markets to make the most of this magical season.

In no particular order…

1. Edinburgh

Dates: 19/11/22 – 03/01/22

Open 10am – 10pm

There is a certain air of magic as you step of the train at Waverley station, climb the steps and breathe in the crisp winter air on Princes Street. Unlike past traditions, this year the Scottish capital has expanded its festivities across the city centre. Unearth the perfect gift as you stroll through over 70 stalls in Princes Street Gardens. Whilst deliberating over which bespoke and unique gifts to purchase, warm through with a festive mulled wine or cream topped hot chocolate. Don’t forget to try out some of the delicious snacks and treats on offer.  

Head up towards George Street and show off your best twirls on the Ice rink. If you have little ones (or young at heart) make sure you visit Santa Land in West Princes Street Gardens. Home to a family friendly fun fair and Christmas tree maze, you will be entertained for hours. Whilst there why not enjoy a special festive tale from Santa and his special guest helpers. All visitors receive a free gift and sittings include BSL, relaxed and audio described sessions. Round off the perfect family day by attending the Elf’s workshop offering a range of kids crafts and nativity mural installation.

Edinburgh even has something for the special pup in your life… Bring them along to a unique Santa Paw session and get a photo with Santa. Each ticket sold will see a donation to the local animal charity. 

2. York

Dates: 17/11/22 – 23/12/22

Open 10am – 7pm

2022 is an extremely special Christmas for York as they celebrate 30 years of St Nicholas Fair.

Wander through a festive wonderland of alpine chalets lining the footpaths of Parliament Street and St Sampsons Square. Discover unique gifts from local traders and artisans whilst sipping on seasonal favourites gluhwein and spiced cider. For the adventurous sample a Yorkshire Pudding Beer.

Those looking for a special dining experience, book a table at the new ‘The Winter Hutte’ where Michelin Star chef Andrew Pern brings a new ‘Swiss with a Twist’ dining experience to this year’s festivities.

If you fancy a spin around the ice rink, head over to the McArthur Glen Designer Outlet. You may even grab an extra couple of bargains.

3. Manchester

Dates: 12/11/22 – 22/12/22

Open 10am – 9pm (times may vary)

Manchester knows how to throw a party, and Christmas is no different. Sprinkled across the city from Victoria to Deansgate, is a whole lot of festive fun.

Wander around the iconic ski chalet market stalls in Winter Gardens in Piccadilly Gardens as you search for that something special. Once discovered, head to the brand-new giant Nordi themed double tipi bar with its very own fire pit providing those cosy Christmas vibes.

Feel the electricity running through the streets as you take on Manchester’s Christmas Light Trail Walk. Follow giant baubles, a Manchester bee and Santa perched high on the Library in St Peters Square as you tuck it to tasty churros and pancakes.

Spend your evening taking a lap around the Christmas tree on the ice rink at Cathedral gardens before enjoying live music and DJ sets.

If you’re shopping on a Sunday throughout the festive period, make sure you take a selfie with the roaming puppets, supersized penguins and illuminated bands as they take to the main shopping streets.

4. Nottingham

Dates: 15/11/22 – 31/12/22

Monday to Friday: 11am – 5.30pm

Saturday and Sunday: 10am – 5.30pm

Located in Old Market Square you can browse over 60 stalls offering a range of festive gifts and decorations. See the twinkling lights of Old Market Square from a whole new level as you go for a spin on the Observation wheel. Nottingham Christmas Market doesn’t just have one but two ice rinks! This year, visit the Ice Rink in Old Market square where you can skate above the crowds and stop off midway for a refreshing festive beverage at the new 22 Skate through bar.

With a live entertainment programme, fairground rides and cosy bars with delicious winter treats you will be spoilt for choice. Enjoy festive favourites at Melt& Grill in house kitchen and bars Sur La Piste or Altitude Ski Chalet.

5. London

Dates: 18/11/22 – 02/01/22

Open 10am – 10pm

One of the UK’s most popular Christmas Markets is the spectacular Winter located in Hyde Park.  Not only is it home to the UK’s largest outdoor ice rink but also a Magical Ice Kingdom. The Magical Ice Kingdom is crafted out of 500 tonnes of ice with sculpted secret passageways, a snow-tunnelled ice slide and crystal carriage way. It even an ice bar! Test out your ice sculpting skills in an ice sculpting workshop. After a chilly start, discover brand-new for 2022 The Sleigh-by a new street food area with live music, bars and food stalls. Warm up through with a festive mulled wine, before taking on one of the many rides on offer.

Take in breath taking views of London’s Hyde Park on the giant wheel, enjoy the thrilling Cirque Berserk or the jaw-dropping Zippos Christmas Circus.

If you’re shopping on a Sunday throughout the festive period, make sure you take a selfie with the roaming puppets, supersized penguins and illuminated bands as they take to the main shopping streets.

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