Lifestyle
Top 6 Christmas Markets in the UK - updated for 2026!
04 September 2019|4 minute read
Current Environment: Staging
Lifestyle
04 September 2019|4 minute read
Top 6 Christmas Markets in the UK - updated for 2026!
Christmas markets have come a long way since the first one was recorded in Vienna back in 1298. What started as a modest midwinter tradition (Christkindlmarkt or Weihnachtsmarkt, if you're feeling authentic) has grown into one of the season's biggest draws with twinkling lights, mulled wine, handmade gifts and enough bratwurst to see you through to January.
Whether you're planning a festive city break or a corporate trip with a bit of Christmas cheer built in, here are six of the best Christmas markets across the UK for 2026 and our top picks of where to stay nearby.
Winter Wonderland
In keeping with the German traditions, London's biggest festive draw returns to Hyde Park with over 200 Bavarian-style wooden chalets, the UK's largest outdoor ice rink, the Magical Ice Kingdom, circus shows and the Giant Wheel. So swish swish away and get into the festive spirit by booking your tickets now!
Where: Hyde Park, London W2 2UH
When: November 2026 - January 2027
Cost: Free Admission. Attractions will need to be booked in advance.
Website: https://hydeparkwinterwonderland.com/christmas-markets/
Why not check out our lovely serviced apartment near Hyde Park - Citadines South Kensington
Leicester Square
‘Tis the season to be jolly! Now well into it's run in the West End take a stroll through Leicester Square’s spectacular Christmas market whilst drinking some delicious hot cocoa. Can they tempt you in sampling their savoury treats and exploring their lovely stalls? Wrap up warm and enjoy the festive entertainment.
Where: Leicester Square, WC2H 7NA
When: November 2026 - January 2027
Cost: Skating from £9.50 per session. Attractions such as Santa’s Grotto and some will need to be booked in advance.
Website: http://www.christmasinleicestersquare.com/
Where to stay? Garrick Mansion serviced apartments are nearby and prices starting from £171 per night plus VAT.
Southbank
During the magical season why not go and see Southbank centre transformed into a festive wonderland? The picturesque riverside will be decorated with twinkling lights, jolly decorations and a lovely giant Christmas tree. Enjoy a sparkling programme of festive shows and a fun-packed evening filled with family entertainment.
Where: SouthBank Centre, Queen's Walk.
When: From November 2026 to January 2027
Cost: Free Admission. Attractions will need to be booked in advance.
Website: https://southbank.london/whats-on/winter-market
Looking for accommodation? The nearby Waterloo Apartments start from £158 per night + VAT.
Manchester – Albert Square
For a magical experience you don’t want to miss out on Manchester's markets are back at full scale, with Albert Square now reopened after redevelopment and its 50-metre Ferris wheel overlooking the Town Hall. Across ten zones in the city centre you'll find stalls, ice skating at Cathedral Gardens, and food from around the world. Enjoy the jolly atmosphere and wander through the wooden huts and join in on the Christmas cheer.
Where: Albert Square, Manchester, M2 5PF
When: Throughout November and December
Cost: Free Admission - attractions need to be booked
Website: https://www.visitmanchester.com/listing/manchester-christmas-markets/32735101/
Roomzzz Manchester Apartments are a great option to stay in the center of Manchester.
Birmingham – Victoria Square
Grab your family and friends and head to Victoria Square for this year’s Christmas market. The largest authentic German Christmas market outside Germany or Austria, brought to Birmingham from its twin city Frankfurt back in 1997. Expect 80+ stalls of schnitzel, bratwurst, glühwein and handcrafted gifts, plus live music from the bandstand.
Where: Victoria Square, New Street B1 1BD
When: November – December
Cost: Free Admission - some attractions need to be booked
Website: https://www.thebfcm.co.uk/
Need to book a serviced apartment for your stay? Rates at Staybridge Suites Birmingham Apartments start from £73+VAT per night!
Leeds – Millennium Square
Leeds' Christkindelmarkt now spans City Square, Millennium Square and the surrounding streets, with winter games, karaoke pods, live music and the Ice Cube ice rink alongside the usual German-style stalls and carousel.
Where: Millennium Square, LS2 3AD
When: From 8th November - 22nd December 2019
Cost: Free Admission - some attractions need to be booked
Website: http://www.leedschristmas.co.uk/
Our Roomzzz Leeds City Apartments also offers complimentary Grab & Go every day!
Make the UK feel like home. Whether you are traveling for business or a family holiday, Prestige Apartments offers premium serviced accommodation to fit all budgets and group sizes. Don't settle for a hotel room this year.
Enquire Now or call our sales team today to get a tailored shortlist within 2 working hours.