The most festive Christmas markets and fairs in London

Get into the Christmas spirit with these festive markets and fairs to enjoy this December. 

If you’re struggling to get into the Christmas spirit this year, there’s one activity that’s guaranteed to make you more cheerful than Will Ferrell in Elf: a Christmas market. 

From traditional stands laden with gifts that could trick us into thinking we’re in Germany or Denmark to delicious food stalls selling hearty culinary delights and all the mulled wine a person could (and should) possibly consume, there’s no better place to spend downtime in December than at a Christmas market.

Thankfully, London has more than a fair few setting up shop this festive season. Every year we make it a tradition to check out the old faithfuls like Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park and the Christmas market that adorns the South Bank, but we’re always excited to see which creative, independent fairs spring up, too.

Take a look below at some of the best Christmas markets in London, which we’ll keep updating as more are announced. 

Winter Wonderland Christmas Market

Where: Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park, 8 Harewood Row, Kensington, NW1 6SE.

When: Winter Wonderland is on from 19 November 2021 – 3 January 2022.

What: From fairground rides to Santa’s grotto, Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park is full of festive fun. Whether you fancy picking up a present from one of the many stalls or spending an evening trying out every ride, it’s definitely worth a trip in the run-up to Christmas.

How much: Entry is free during off-peak periods and costs £5 or £7.50 for peak hours.

Christmas in Leicester Square 

Where: Christmas in Leicester Square, WC2H 7LU.

When: Christmas in Leicester Square is from 12 November 2021 to 3 January 2022.

What: After a hiatus due to Covid-19, Christmas in Leicester Square returns for 2021 – and you can expect all of your favourites from Santa’s Grotto, food stalls and feel-good festive entertainment including the alternative circus and cabaret show ‘La Clique’.

How much: Christmas in Leicester Square is free to enter.

Christmas by the River 

Where: Christmas by the River is at London Bridge City, between Tower Bridge and London Bridge, 2A More London Riverside, London SE1 2DB.

When: 16 November 2021 to 2 January 2022. 

What: With views down the river and rows of German-style chalets, this is the perfect spot to see the city during the festive period. With stunning views of Tower Bridge, The Tower of London and the iconic City skyline, this year’s market will see a stunning array of boutique vendors bring Christmas glow to the city. 

How much: Christmas by the River is free to enter.

Southbank Centre Winter Market

Where: Southbank Centre Winter Market is at The Queen’s Walk, London SE1 8XX.

When: Thursday 4 November to Friday 24 December

What: From strolling along the Thames under twinkling lights to sampling indulgent drinks, scrumptious street food and seasonal goodies, Southbank Centre’s Winter Market is definitely worth checking out ahead of Christmas.

How much: Southbank Centre Winter Market is free to enter.

Images: Courtesy of brands / Getty / Unsplash / Southbank Centre Christmas Market     

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