London is a wonderful city to find yourself in the closer it gets to Christmas. Not only are the major streets decked out in some major festive theme lights, but there is a sudden surge of Christmas markets in London.
From the beginning of November till the New Year, you can take your pick of a range of Christmas markets. Going to the following markets are must add activities to your things to do during Christmas list.
If you find yourself on an extended stay in London towards the run-up to Christmas, that in itself is good news.
Christmas Markets in London
Wintertime at Southbank Centre (10th Nov- 4th Jan)
Experience a Christmas market unlike any other with this Scandinavian themed wonderland, featuring a Finnish Rooftop Sauna overlooking the River Thames, all of this inside the roof garden of the Queen Elizabeth Hall.
Take your pick from the best of street food from around the globe at the Queen’s Walk which will also offer artisan gifts.
Also making an appearance will be the immersive exhibition ‘ABBA: Super Troupers, a journey through the world of the Swedish chart-topping sensation.’ Expect plenty of Christmas themed events at this market.
Winterville at Clapham Common (23 Nov – 1st Jan)
A trip to this Christmas market will allow you to skate on Clapham’s first-ever ice rink and enjoy screenings of classic holiday movies at the Backyard cinema winter night garden.
You can play crazy golf on the UV-powered Plonk golf course after you enjoy the street food available. Don’t forget to take a turn on the giant Ferris wheel. The Christmas market is a great place to pick up some gifts that are truly unique.
Christmas in Leicester Square (10th Nov- 6th Jan)
It’s the second time that this Christmas market will be held, and will feature Santa’s grotto and plenty of other Christmas shows.
You can also experience Roald Dahl’s Marvelous Medicine show, Cabaret at Christmas, an appearance by Al Murray. Although it is a free entrance market, you need to purchase tickets in advance for Santa’s grotto or any of the shows.
Christmas by the River, London Bridge (30th November– 3rd January)
This market takes place on the bankside of the Thames river and features more than 40 independent traders who sit in wooden chalets with a very Christmas theme.
In this market you will find handcrafted and bespoke gifts as well as a selection of food. Anyone feeling particularly cold must sample the warm drinks served here, including a fully stocked bar that serves cocktails, craft beers and mulled wine. Take in the view of the City while strolling through this market.
Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park (17th November to 1st January)
The most popular and most well-known of all of London’s Christmas market, this mega event deserves a visit or even two.
It features a giant Ferris wheel, several circuses, multiple rides and plenty of mulled wine, an ice rink, a market made of wooden huts, Santa’s grotto and an ice kingdom featuring over 500 sculptures. You can’t miss this one!
Another fun way to celebrate Christmas in Europe…
Check out this wildly terrifying, yet incredibly fun Austrian tradition where Krampus’ (half-goat, half-demon) run through the streets of Graz during the Christmas season, punishing children who have misbehaved this year.
