5 of the Best Christmas Markets in England*

We’re now into the last three days of November, before the most festive month of the year is upon us. I’m not sure about you but I’m excited (yeah, we have our tree up already!) For me, it isn’t Christmas until I’ve visited a Christmas market and I always try to visit at least a couple a year. But where are the very best ones held? With the help of Stagecoach, who offer cheap bus fares, we look to find some of the most Christmassy markets in Britain. See if your favourite made the list;

Newcastle upon Tyne
During the time that I went to college and lived in Newcastle, I was lucky enough to experience the Newcastle Christmas market on a day to day visit. For starters, it was on my way to work. It’s located at the top of Grey Street, just under Grey’s Monument where you can find wooden huts that are built and decorated specially for the Christmas period. The reason the market is so good is because it’s so culturally diverse. I’m not talking about the odd stall selling german sausage, no. Newcastle Christmas market brings tradesmen and women from across Europe, and they come with a touch of their country to Newcastle. From foods to ornamental items, you’ll be spoilt for choice with what you can purchase.

Not only can you visit the market, in Times Square near the Centre for Life you’ll find a huge ice rink. What’s more festive than going ice skating with your loved one?

Open: 11th December – 17th December

Birmingham
Now if a German Christmas Market is the sort of thing you’re after; head to Birmingham. 2017 sees the 12th year the market has drawn people to Victoria Square for the spectacular Christmassy experience.  With over 180 stalls, you’re bound to see something unconventional. Grab a hot chocolate with marshmallows and have a stroll around the village sampling delicious delicacies that make German Christmas markets so popular in the UK. Be sure to check out the iconic carousel at the top of the steps creating an uncanny version of Santa Claus’ Village.

Open: 17th November – 29th December

Exeter
A new one on me is the Exeter Christmas market on the West Front of the Cathedral, I didn’t even know they had a popular one. With the Cathedral towering over it creates an enchanting atmosphere. Like with Newcastle, you will be able to take a long walk around the different wooden huts and experience something from each continent of the world. New this year the Exeter Christmas Market will now have a bandstand which will host the entertainment each evening. From local bands to singers and choirs spreading the magical spirit by singing some of our favourite Christmas carols that even allow the kids to get involved.

Open: 16th November – 17th December

Lincoln
Possibly my favourite Christmas market ever is the one in Lincoln. There are over 280 stalls the cathedral quarter. From freshly cooked food to some of the most exceptional gifts, you’ll be able to experience something different from this market that will make you want to return the next year. I’m serious, people come from all over the world to experience Lincoln Christmas market! Not only can you shop in the market, whether this is for hot food or baked treats, you can also take a trip on the big wheel and other fairground rides. Although the duration of this market isn’t long meaning it gets incredibly busy, it’s 100% worth going to!

Open: 7th December – 10th December

London
Finally, the big one. London’s Winter Wonderland is situated in Hyde Park. Full of festivity, there’s nothing that you and your family can’t do at this market, from ice skating, to circus’ and even Cinderella on Ice, whatever your family desires is available here although make sure you book  as there is a high demand of certain activities and attractions. One of the longest running markets starting in mid November and open until January the first. There is so much to see and do, so even though it’s incredibly busy, you won’t get bored.

Open: 17th November – 1st January

So, what Christmas market will you be heading to this year?