Just after the first flurries of snow temporarily blanketed London a couple of weeks ago, it seemed as if by magic that Christmas trees, light displays, and little wooden shacks laden with international treats started popping up almost everywhere.
With an abundance of choices and limited time to explore while preparing for the end of Autumn Term at LSE, which Christmas markets are worth trekking through the cold to explore? Read on to find out all about the best Christmas and holiday markets all over the city! The only thing you need to worry about now is finding your favourite one to show friends and family…
Covent Garden Christmas Market
Tuesday 12 November – Tuesday 7 January. Find out more.
It’s likely you’ve already walked past the gorgeous marble and glass structure of the Covent Garden Market Building, or seen the enormous golden bells and Christmas trees on social media. With lots of events over the course of the holiday season, including the Winter Warmers and Festive Thursdays, there’s no shortage of holiday cheer and magic to be found at Covent Garden.
Southbank Centre Winter Market
Friday 1 November – Thursday 26 December. Find out more.
As a proud Southbank resident, I am a bit biased in declaring Southbank Centre Winter Market as the best Christmas Market in London; however, after multiple visits alone and with friends, it has yet to fail me. With riverside views of iconic landmarks like Big Ben, the London Eye, and Houses of Parliament, the Southbank Centre Winter Market views are akin to a Christmas card. With a huge variety of food and drink options, as well as independent sellers and crafts available, be sure to venture south of the river to check this one out.
Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland
Thursday 21 November – Sunday 5 January. Find out more.
While tickets for this one are needed (off peak entry is free), the sheer number of activities should be enough to convince you to venture to Hyde Park this holiday season. Not only are there food and drink stalls, but also ice skating, amusement park rides, arcade rides, and a haunted mansion. If that wasn’t enough, there’s also the tiny Bavarian Village, Christmas Market, and a Narnia themed bar. I’m running to get my tickets as I write this!
Borough Market
Open year-round, but check their Christmas hours before visiting.
Borough Market should already be on your list of places to visit (especially as a student with the luxury to visit during off-peak hours), but December is especially worth it. With special seasonal food offerings, as well as events like An Evening of Cheese on 11 December, be sure to carve some time to visit. The holiday season also changes some of their hours, so remember to plan ahead.
Christmas in Leicester Square
Thursday 6 November – Sunday 5 January. Find out more.
The already magical hustle and bustle of nearby theatres and performances in Leicester Square is magnified a thousandfold by its annual Christmas Market. With plenty of quick bites and stocking fillers, this market sets itself apart with the unique offering of a traveling cabaret called La Clique, which is sure to amaze viewers. Be sure to get tickets ahead of time!
While an inexhaustive list, these five Christmas markets should give you a well-rounded taste of London’s offerings during the holidays. Be sure to bring along family and friends to spread the holiday magic, and don’t be afraid to explore an unfamiliar borough to find your new favourite!
