'Tis the season to be jolly, and what better way to spread the festive cheer than by exploring the city's merry markets? London transforms into a festive wonderland each December, and its markets are at the heart of the seasonal magic. From twinkling lights and charming wooden chalets to artisanal gifts and warming street food, you're guaranteed a cosy holiday experience.
From hot chocolates to the aroma of mulled wine, we've unwrapped the city's best Christmas markets in London, helping you navigate the seasonal sparkle and make the most of the capital’s most enchanting destinations.
Find out more about how we curated this guide in our Editorial Policy.
Christmas Markets In London: 2026 Dates And Locations
1. Southbank Centre Winter Market
Strolling around the Southbank Centre Winter Market will fill your heart with festive joy. Meander amidst the artisan and craft stalls posing as winter chalets anytime from November until the end of December, pausing occasionally for a second round of hot chocolate, a bratwurst, or to glide across the sparkling ice rink.
You can also look forward to truffle burgers, duck wraps, Dutch pancakes, the ever-popular Choco-Fruit and of course, tasty winter classics like molten cheese toasties, while shopping for gifts, jewellery and decorations made by independent creatives. With a backdrop of the Thames and the London Eye, this market is a Christmas postcard come to life.
- Why we recommend: we love this Thames-side market for its gorgeous location. It makes a perfect winter date spot for strolling under fairy lights, catching glimmers of landmarks like Big Ben in the distance, and snacking on chocolate-drenched treats
- Location: The Queen's
Walk, Southbank, SE1 8XX
- When: expected 2nd November 2026 to 4th January 2027
- Price: free entry
Eat, drink and be merry at this pretty Christmas market.
2. Winter Wonderland
Winter Wonderland Christmas market in London is by far one of the city's best-known festive spots, taking over Hyde Park each year with its stalls, street food vendors and fairground rides. See the sights from the top of their big wheel, or sip mulled wine and hot chocolate in the bars, from the 19th of November to the 3rd of January.
There's plenty to eat and drink here in the form of traditional German fare like bratwurst, festive treats such as churros and mulled wine, gourmet burgers, fried chicken, and chips. You can also get your hands on roasted chestnuts, which are our favourites.
- Why we recommend: we think that Winter Wonderland encapsulates what London is about at Christmas, with its glowing rides illuminating the park, visible from the outside. There's plenty of fun to be had with its rides and games - you'll never get bored
- Location: Hyde Park, Westminster, W2 2UH
- When: from 19th November 2026 to 3rd January 2027
- Price: from £1
This Hyde Park event really has got it all.
3. Covent Garden Christmas Market
It's not truly Christmas season until Covent Garden Christmas Market's cobblestone streets come alive with its iconic festive decor, launching in November. Adorned with dazzling lights and a 60-foot festooned tree, it's the perfect spot to immerse yourself in the merry, whimsical atmosphere, with photo opportunities galore.
You can expect tonnes of yuletide ornaments for seasoned market-goers to enjoy, as well as food and drink from mulled wine and gourmet treats to alpine-style chalets and hot chocolate, alongside a variety of gifts and crafts such as jewellery, antiques, hand-crafted items, and winter-themed goods.
- Why we recommend: our Christmas is spent wandering around this gorgeous market, popping into shops and catching some fun entertainment, and the decorations are stunning, making for great photo opportunities
- Location: Market Building & Piazza, Covent Garden, WC2E 8RF
- When: 12th November 2026 to early January 2027
- Price: free entry
Covent Garden's Christmas tree is a must-see.
4. Christmas In Leicester Square
The festive buzz at Christmas in Leicester Square is palpable, with an array of glittering stalls, seasonal treats, and even a vintage Spiegeltent hosting shows for those looking for a dash of entertainment.
Embrace the yuletide spirit with a European-style Christmas market featuring an array of stalls offering sumptuous food, handcrafted goods, and gallons of mulled wine, as well as winter warmers from Black Cow Vodka. Just prepare to brace the crowds, as this area of the city gets quite busy due to its close proximity to West End shows and major shops (which is totally not a bad thing in our shopaholic books).
- Why we recommend: we think Leicester Square Christmas Market is a must-visit for anyone wanting a festive London experience right in the heart of the city. Our favourite part is wandering among the twinkling stalls, sipping on mulled wine, and soaking up the cheerful, bustling atmosphere that really captures the magic of Christmas
- Location: Shakespeare Water Fountain, 4 Leicester Square, Soho, WC2H 7DE
- When: expected early November 2026 to early January 2027
- Price: free entry
Leicester Square offers warm drinks and live entertainment at Christmas.
5. Trafalgar Square Christmas Market
When it comes to a lively Christmas market, London pulls it out of the bag with this one under the fairy-lit lights - it's just what Santa ordered. Experience the magic of the festive period in London with a visit to Christmas in Trafalgar Square.
Lit up with festive cheer and a Christmas tree stealing the show, this market is run by the same magical minds behind Leicester Square's market, boasting over 20 stalls waiting to be explored. Sounds perfectly jolly to us. Plus, you can also expect to be serenaded by singers performing festive tunes underneath the tree.
- Why we recommend: this part of London comes with a sky-high Christmas tree and pretty views of the Portrait Gallery. The market is in the heart of it all, and there are over 20 stalls for you to explore
- Location: 5 Trafalgar Square, St James's, WC2N 5DS
- When: from 9th November 2026 to 2nd January 2027
- Price: free entry
Trafalgar Square brings the Christmas cheer.
6. King's Cross Christmas Market
Sigh, the aroma of roasted chestnuts, the warming scent of mulled wine and fairy lights all around, we're not surprised King's Cross Christmas market is the talk of the town during the festive season.
Taking place throughout November and December, tick items off your shopping list while browsing a range of eclectic stocking fillers, hearty food and vegan treats with the only background noise we approve of: live music.
- Why we recommend: we love exploring the beautifully decorated stalls here, enjoying seasonal treats, and feeling the lively, cheerful buzz right in the heart of this cool part of London
- Location: Euston Road, King's Cross, N1C
9AL
- When: 27th November 2026 to 22nd December 2027
- Price: free entry
Fizz, feasts, and fantastic vibes await.
7. Winter by the River at London Bridge City
A one-stop destination for all things merry and bright, Winter by the River at London Bridge City is making a comeback this winter with its cluster of winter cabins set up along the riverside, filled with creative handicrafts, pop-up bars, and street food stalls.
Head here to get your Christmas shopping done while making the most of the gorgeous panoramic views from Tower Bridge, all while sipping on warming mugs of glühwein.
- Why we recommend: we think there’s something magical about wandering past the twinkling lights with Tower Bridge in the background, grabbing a bite from the street food stalls, and soaking up the lively, cosy atmosphere that makes it feel truly special
- Location: London Bridge City, London Bridge, SE1 2DB
- When: 12th November 2026 to 4th January 2027
- Price: free entry
Bridging the gap between festive fun and epic views.
8. Old Spitalfields Christmas Market
Get set for a holly, jolly
time at Spitalfields Christmas Market, a
powerhouse destination offering everything you need under one roof
- blending indie stalls with big-name icons and a feast of festive
bites across a whopping 42 different vendors and 54 shops and
stalls.
Spend a whole afternoon here, snapping photos in the Autofoto booth, and devouring moreish street food treats from the likes of Dumpling Shack, Bleecker Burger, and cult dessert spot Humble Crumble.
- Why we recommend: our favourite part of Spitalfields Christmas Market is exploring the quirky stalls filled with unique gifts and handmade treasures, all while enjoying the warm, buzzing atmosphere that makes this market feel truly one-of-a-kind
- Location: 6 Horner Square, Shoreditch, E1 6EW
- When: 11th November to 24th December 2026
- Price: free entry
This East London market offers some moreish street food eats at Christmas time.
9. Greenwich Christmas Market
If you're on the hunt for a London Christmas market that's got plenty of charm and is located near a handful of top tourist attractions, then you'll adore this pick. Open daily from 10am to 5pm and completely decked out for the festive season, Greenwich Christmas Market is a giant shopping wonderland with tons of independent sellers offering creative, handmade crafts and a range of original artwork.
Make a day of it, too, by checking out the twinkling lights on Cutty Sark, visiting the Royal Observatory, or securing a Royal Museums Greenwich day pass from £38 per adult and £19 per child.
- Why we recommend: we love Greenwich Christmas Market for its historic charm and festive atmosphere. We think there’s nothing better than wandering through the stalls filled with handmade gifts and delicious treats, all set against the backdrop of Greenwich’s iconic streets
- Location: Greenwich Market, Greenwich, SE10 9HZ
- When: from 19th November 2026
- Price: free entry
Greenwich's Christmas market (pictured) is a gorgeous place to visit in December.
10. Christmas At Borough Market
The mother of all yuletide markets, Christmas at Borough Market is a foodie's heaven, even more so during the festive season. Sourcing some of the finest seasonal treats for your food-loving friends and family (and yourself, of course), they've got everything from artisan cheeses to expertly made baked goods on offer.
Some of our favourite vendors include the likes of Bath Soft Cheese Co (cheese makes a great foodie gift), Borough Wines, and Butter Nut of London.
- Why we recommend: not only is Borough Market a top-tier place for treats all year round, but also a fantastic destination come Christmas. We think there’s nothing quite like wandering through the twinkling stalls, sampling seasonal treats, and enjoying the lively atmosphere
- Location: London Bridge, SE1 9AL
- When: 30th November to 6th January 2027
- Price: free entry
Borough Market is Christmas cheer, mulled wine and festive finds galore.
11. Granary Square Christmas Market
There's a brand new Christmas market in town for 2026, coming to Granary Square this winter. Part of a wider programme across the neighbourhood, this event promises to champion independent vendors and local businesses.
Expect a mix of live entertainment, seasonal food and gifts to buy from the stalls. The trader lineup promises to be exciting, so be sure to check it out.
- Why we recommend: we always enjoy a shopping trip around Granary Square, and now there's a festive twist on things with their market that champions local sellers
- Location: Granary Square, King's Cross, N1C 4AB
- When: 16th November 2026 to 3rd January 2027
- Price: free entry
Check out this brand new Christmas market in London for 2026.
12. Kingston Christmas Market
Delight in a holiday wonderland at Kingston Christmas Market, where traditional British charm meets the festive magic of a European-style market. Nestled in the historic Ancient Market Place of Kingston-Upon-Thames, this market is the perfect place to get into the Christmas spirit. Wander under twinkling fairy lights, warm your hands around a steaming mug of mulled wine, and explore a delicious array of festive foods, from continental bratwurst and hearty hog roasts to street food inspired by flavours from around the world.
Enjoy live entertainment, including classic Christmas choirs, local bands, and lively open-mic nights that bring the market to life. And when it comes to gift shopping, the market stalls are brimming with unique, handcrafted gifts perfect for filling every stocking.
- Why we recommend: we love Kingston Christmas Market - it's a real festive treat for nibbling on seasonal goodies, hunting for unique gifts, and soaking up the cheerful, cosy vibes
- Location: Kingston Ancient Market Place, Kingston-Upon-Thames, KT1 1JS
- When: 12th November 2026 to 3rd January 2027
- Price: free entry
Find Dutch pancakes at Kingston Christmas Market (pictured).
13. Mayfair Christmas Market
Get ready for a sparkling festive escape in the heart of Mayfair's Christmas Market, where seasonal cheer meets luxe experiences. Pop over to the Louis Roederer Champagne Ice Bar for a toast with friends, enjoy roaming minstrels and carol singers spreading yuletide joy, or capture merry memories in the free photobooth.
Foodies will be in heaven with Novikov’s twist on market classics - think mulled wine, caviar, oysters, and a dedicated sweet corner. Shoppers can browse unique gifts from handpicked vendors, making it the perfect spot to grab a present (or two) while soaking up the festive buzz. And of course, Santa himself makes a magical appearance with a real-life reindeer, giving families and friends a chance for a truly memorable Christmas photo.
- Why we recommend: from sipping champagne at an ice bar to snapping festive pics with Santa’s real-life reindeer, Mayfair Christmas Market is the ultimate holiday fun in central London
- Location: Mayfair Place, W1
- When: expected November 2026
- Price: free entry
Mayfair Christmas Market.
FAQs:
When do the Christmas markets in London open?
Most of London's Christmas markets open in early-to-mid November and run through to late December or early January. Check the dates listed above for specific enquiries on individual markets.
Are the Christmas markets in London free to enter?
Most of London's Christmas markets are free to enter, including the Southbank Centre Winter Market, Covent Garden Christmas Market, Leicester Square Christmas Market, Spitalfields Christmas Market, Borough Market, King's Cross Christmas Market, Winter by the River at London Bridge City and Trafalgar Square. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland requires a ticket to access the market area, though individual rides, shows and the ice rink are charged separately. Always check ahead, as entry policies can vary.
Which London Christmas market is best for families?
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is the top pick for families, with fairground rides, a giant Ferris wheel, Santa Land and plenty of street food to keep all ages happy. Kingston Christmas Market, nestled in the historic Ancient Market Place of Kingston-upon-Thames, is another great family-friendly option with a relaxed, traditional atmosphere and festive food stalls. Leicester Square Christmas Market also has a lively, fun atmosphere right in the heart of the city, with entertainment in the vintage Spiegeltent. For a more low-key outing, the Southbank Centre Winter Market is easy to navigate with children, with the Thames and London Eye providing a magical backdrop.
Which London Christmas market is best for Christmas shopping?
If finding unique gifts is your priority, Spitalfields Christmas Market is a standout — beloved for its quirky stalls filled with handmade treasures and independent designers. Covent Garden Christmas Market is another excellent pick, with artisan gifts and handcrafted goods beneath the piazza's iconic Christmas bells. Borough Market is the go-to for foodies looking to shop for gourmet treats, from artisan cheeses to festive condiments and seasonal produce. King's Cross Christmas Market is also worth a visit for eclectic stocking fillers, hearty food and vegan treats, with live music as a backdrop.
Which is the most Instagrammable Christmas market in London?
For picture-perfect festive shots, Winter by the River at London Bridge City is hard to beat — the combination of twinkling market cabins and Tower Bridge illuminated in the background makes for a stunning photo. The Southbank Centre Winter Market is equally photogenic, with its row of alpine huts reflected in the Thames and the London Eye glowing behind. Covent Garden Christmas Market offers iconic shots beneath the piazza's giant Christmas bells and decorations, while Leicester Square Christmas Market captures the buzzy, glittering atmosphere of the West End at its most festive.
Looking for more festive inspiration? Check out this blog on the best Christmas lights in London.
