London comes alive during the festive season, with Christmas markets popping up all across the city in some of its most iconic landmarks and locations. Many of these merry markets are steeped in traditions commonly found in Europe, while others have embraced the razzle-dazzle of modern festive celebrations.
But how do you pick the very best of London’s many Christmas markets amongst such fierce competition? There is no shortage of options, from Alpine chalets to ice rinks and Christmas grottos, so let's start by going through a few honourable mentions amongst some of the best Christmas Markets London has to offer.
Honourable Mention: Greenwich Christmas Market
In the historic centre of gorgeous Greenwich, this Christmas market is ideal for those who prefer a traditional local market with a relaxed atmosphere and a focus on arts and crafts. The market is open year-round but transforms during December into a festive haven, where local artists sell everything from handmade jewellery to holiday decorations, making it perfect for finding bespoke gifts to place under the Christmas tree.
Greenwich’s intimate setting and emphasis on supporting independent sellers make it a true Christmas market in the traditional sense. Far removed from the busy streets of Central London, it’s perfect for families or individuals wanting to escape from the crowds at Christmas, although it is further to travel to.
Honourable Mention: Christmas by the River
With a backdrop set against some of London’s most iconic landmarks, Christmas by the River is an essential stop for those who want to enjoy the charm of the festive season along with stunning views of Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, and the Shard. Incredibly popular during the daytime thanks to its central location, this market becomes even more charming by night as the crowds disperse and the stalls can be enjoyed in a far more comfortable and leisurely manner.
This market showcases a mix of holiday crafts and gourmet bites, from tasty chocolate-covered churros to sizzling Bratwurst, but visitors should make a note to head to the Hayes Galleria for a look at their spectacular Christmas Tree. The entire route between London and Tower Bridge is lined with festive cheer and has the best views of London to go along with it, making it more than worthy of visitors' attention when visiting London at Christmas.
Honourable Mention: Kingston Christmas Market
Kingston Upon Thames is well-known for its famous Tudor-era palaces and beautiful riverside homes, but during the holiday season, its charming Christmas Market is a delight for families. Kingston's market is inspired by traditional Alpine celebrations, with wooden chalets, paraffin heaters, and twinkling lights that capture the warmth of celebrating the holidays.
Whilst Kingston’s may be smaller than many of the Christmas markets found in the centre of London, it still offers a warm, village-like atmosphere that captures the spirit of Christmas whilst offering a break from the crowds of the city centre. It’s perfect for families with rides and entertainment that will keep the kids amused, whilst offering plenty of warm beverages and food for their parents to enjoy. The only consideration for visiting Kingston’s Christmas Market is the distance one has to travel to get there, with main-line rail connections serving as the only transport option, apart from driving.
The Most Spectacular Christmas Market In London: Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park vies for the most famous Christmas event in London. Although it’s more of a festive theme park than a traditional Christmas market, Winter Wonderland draws thousands of visitors each year due to its sheer scale and spectacle. Running from mid-November through to early January, this is one festival full of festive cheers and features a mix of market stalls, fairground rides, live shows, and holiday attractions.
The Bavarian Village with its eponymous themed beer halls leaves no shortage of holiday treats, with bratwurst, mulled wine, and roasted chestnuts on offer. But beyond the festive markets, what sets Winter Wonderland apart is the sheer extravagance of its other attractions. Visitors can enjoy circus performances, ice skating, and even an ice sculpture exhibition, defying the conventions of the traditional Christmas Market.
While Winter Wonderland may lack the intimate feel of a traditional Christmas market and indeed, is something of a destination event for tourists, its grand displays and entertainment options make it a worthwhile experience for those looking to embrace the festive season on a truly grand scale. It takes the runner-up spot for its more commercial, theme park-like vibe, but it remains one of London’s top holiday attractions throughout Christmas.
The Best Traditional Christmas Market In London: Covent Garden
There can be no dispute that Covent Garden takes the top spot for a truly traditional Christmas market experience in London. The market’s beautifully decorated cobbled streets, grand Christmas tree, and twinkling lights create an enchanting atmosphere that feels quintessentially British, whilst still replicating the feel of Christmas time in other iconic parts of the world such as New York and Salzburg.
Covent Garden’s Christmas Village features a smaller number of thoughtfully curated selection of stalls. From handmade jewellery and bespoke gifts to warm winter accessories, Covent Garden’s Christmas market is a fantastic spot for finding high-quality items in a sophisticated setting. Already a known hotspot for both shopping and dining due to the renowned boutiques and eateries surrounding the market square, many of which host Christmas specials and themed decor to enhance the festive experience.
Visitors can also enjoy interactive displays and live performances around all corners of the market throughout the day and evening. The sheer variety and spectacle of Covent Garden’s Christmas market, coupled with its already unique heritage and appeal, is the perfect combination for festive cheer, combining timeless traditions with the spirit of Christmas as it is celebrated today.
London’s Christmas markets offer something for everyone, from the cosy and community-focused to the outright ostentatious and spectacular. Whilst Covent Garden comfortably takes the crown as the best traditional Christmas market in London, Winter Wonderland follows as an unforgettable runner-up, capturing the magic of Christmas in full-blown festive cheer. Exploring these markets, along with London’s other festive gems, is a sure way to immerse oneself in the spirit of the holiday season and make some happy memories.
