Magical Christmas Markets In London To Visit In 2018

Yes, Europe has some amazing Christmas markets, but trust us when we say, Christmas markets and fairs in London are just as delightful. We’ve rounded up some of the best winter markets the capital has to offer.

1. Southbank Winter Festival, until Dec 27

This riverside Christmas market, not far from the London Eye. The Southbank street food market vendors will be adding festive fare to their menus and there’ll be gifts and trinkets to buy from little wooden huts. There’ll also be an array of shows and performances, including Circus 1903 and Rumpelstiltskin.

2. Christmas by the River, Bankside, until Jan 2

With Tower Bridge and the city skyline as a beautiful backdrop, Christmas by the River has been illuminating the riverside for the past four years. Back again for 2018, will be a cluster of cute winter cabins lining the riverside, stuffed with crafty creations, pop-up bars, and delicious street food outlets and plenty of festive cheer. The market is also has a series of workshops, tastings, and storytelling events.

 Christmas by the River at London Bridge City, SE1 2DB, between November 29th and January 2nd, 2019. 

3. Winterville, Clapham Common, until Dec 23

Touted as the trendy alternative to Winter Wonderland, Winterville is heading back to south London this year. This Christmas market boasts a spectacular street food line-up, film screenings from Backyard Cinema, crazy golf from PLONK and a lovely big ferris wheel, there’s also ice skating and roller disco.

4. Leicester Square Christmas Market, until Jan 6

At the very heart of London’s tourist district, is a sparkling Christmas market. In the square itself, you’ll find Christmas market stalls aplenty, each selling seasonal treats, sumptuous food and delicious drinks.  Along with beautiful food and gift stalls, there’ll also be a large Spiegeltent where you’ll be able to watch hilarious and fabulous performances from the Briefs Boys, as well as a Burlesque Carol Concert and so much more (including plenty of child-friendly shows and events).

Children can visit Santa in his grotto and hear a festive fairytale, dance at a baby disco, or catch the Brat Kids Carnival, which is filled with all kinds of magic and mischief. Watch circus acts or get on stage for a boogie.

5. Winter Wonderland, until Jan 06

London’s most famous Christmas event is back again. This great big Christmas fun fair draws in visitors from far and wide. It plays host to the UK’s largest outdoor ice rink, an ice bar, lots of festive food stalls, and even hireable karaoke huts. This Year Winter Wonderland has some amazing attractions like Peter Pan on Ice, The Snowman Experience, Zippos Circus, Ice sculpting workshops and lots more. Just remember entrance is free but attractions are not – tickets can be booked here.

6. Canopy Market, King’s Cross, Nov 30–Dec 16

An independent food and crafts haven, Canopy Market, is also getting into the Christmas spirit with festive fare, crafty workshops, carols and live music, and a mulled wine bar. There’ll also be a giant tree taking centre stage, decorated with twinkly lights and garlands.

Let us know which one’s are your favourite.