The Best Christmas Markets in the UK
There’s nothing quite like the festive sparkle of Christmas markets in the UK. Twinkling lights, the scent of mulled wine, and the cheerful sound of carols make these markets a must-visit for anyone looking to soak up the holiday spirit.
Whether you’re touring around the UK in your camper van or planning a cosy weekend getaway, here are some of the very best Christmas markets the UK has to offer.
Bath Christmas Market, England
Set against the stunning backdrop of Bath Abbey, the Bath Christmas Market is one of the most iconic in the whole of the UK. With over 150 chalets selling handmade gifts, local produce, and festive treats, it’s perfect for picking up unique presents for a loved one or yourself. Try locally brewed cider and artisan chocolates, ideal for enjoying back in your camper after a day of exploring.
Dates: 27th November -14th December 2025.
Extra Tip: Visit midweek to avoid the weekend crowds and get the best photos of the Abbey lit up at night.
Edinburgh Christmas Market, Scotland
Few places do Christmas quite like Edinburgh. Located in Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh Christmas Market combines traditional wooden stalls with fairground rides and an ice rink. Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the Big Wheel and warm up with a hot toddy from one of the many festive bars.
Dates: 15 November 2025 - 4 January 2026
Top Tip: Stay at one of the nearby campervan sites and spend a few days exploring Scotland’s stunning winter scenery. You can book your camper here.
Manchester Christmas Markets, England
The Manchester Christmas Markets are among the largest and most famous in the UK. Spread across nine different locations, they offer a magical mix of international food, festive drinks, and artisan crafts on over 200 stalls. The main hub in Albert Square features a towering light-up Santa that’s become a city icon.
Dates: 7 November 2025 - 4 January 2026.
Top Tip: Manchester is a great place to get some of your Christmas shopping done! Check out Manchester Arndale and the Trafford Centre.
Belfast Christmas Market, Northern Ireland
Outside Belfast City Hall, the Belfast Christmas Market brings a touch of continental Europe to Northern Ireland. Visitors can browse stalls from across the world, offering everything from French cheeses to Dutch pancakes. The friendly atmosphere and live music make it one of the most welcoming Christmas markets in the UK. It's also the perfect place to tick off some Christmas shopping!
Dates: 15 November - 22 December 2025
Top Tip: Check out the nearby Cathedral Quarter for great pubs and live music after your market visit.
London Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, England
No list of Christmas markets in the UK would be complete without Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland in London. This world-famous festive extravaganza features one of the biggest Christmas markets in Europe, complete with over 200 Bavarian-style stalls, a giant observation wheel, an ice kingdom, circus shows, several rides for all ages, and live music.
It’s a full-day (and night) experience, perfect for couples, families, or anyone who loves a sparkly day out.
Dates: 14 November 2025 - 1 January 2026
Top Tip: Book tickets and parking early, as entry times often sell out, and arrive just before sunset to see Hyde Park glow with thousands of lights.
Exploring the Christmas markets in the UK by campervan means you can enjoy the magic of multiple markets in one trip without the hassle of hotels or trains.
With the comfort and flexibility of a Harris Campers, you can sip mulled wine under the stars and wake up to a new festive city the next morning.
So pack your warmest jumpers, bring your camera, and hit the road for a truly unforgettable festive adventure.