Spending the festive season in London is an enchanting journey into cherished traditions and the very heart of the English holiday spirit. The city bursts into life the moment the Christmas markets open, and a key reason to visit is the opportunity to wander past shimmering ice rinks, awe-inspiring Christmas trees, and through glittering streets filled with the joyful sounds of festive carols. More than simple stalls, London’s markets are lively social hubs—iconic Christmas destinations perfect for finding unique, handcrafted treasures for a loved one, or even a treat for yourself, straight from the jolly man himself!
Whether you find your joy cozied up in a warm pub joining a local Christmas choir, attending a dazzling show, or simply strolling beneath the festive lights, the magic of this time of year is a surefire way to warm your heart. It’s safe to say the UK is the perfect place for a truly magical holiday escape!
Christmas by the River 2025 at London Bridge City
For a classic London Christmas experience, start your journey at Christmas by the River at London Bridge City. This market offers a picture-perfect setting right on the banks of the Thames, where you’ll be greeted with stunning views of the iconic Tower Bridge and the Tower of London.
The charming wooden chalets create a beautiful backdrop for festive memories, as locals and tourists alike stroll through after a long workday, soaking up the holiday magic. With more than 60 stalls to explore, this is one of London’s most iconic markets, offering delightful free workshops and lively music that will surely get you into the Christmas spirit.
Dates for the London Bridge City Market: November 11, 2025 to January 4, 2026
🎄Which are best Christmas markets in London? Covent Garden Christmas Markets!
At Christmas, Covent Garden transforms into an enchanted wonderland, illuminated by 40 mistletoe chandeliers and giant bells suspended over the 700-year-old covered market. This is the ultimate spot to soak up a festive atmosphere straight out of a classic holiday film!
A majestic, 18-meter Christmas tree stands tall and proud in the center, inviting you to bask in its glow. The market’s two historic floors are an absolute delight, with every shop window dressed to the nines and bursting with festive cheer. And if that’s not enough, this iconic location is surrounded by theaters putting on festive shows and cozy pubs where you can warm up by a crackling fireplace with a hot drink in hand.
With its grand, larger-than-life decorations, rich history, and twinkling lights, Covent Garden is a truly magical and unmissable stop for anyone seeking a British Christmas with extra sparkle. It’s simply the place to be!
Dates for the Covent Garden Market: November 12, 2025 to January 3, 2026
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland – the biggest Christmas market in London
Get ready to fully immerse yourself in a true Christmas fairytale at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland! This festive playground is the perfect escape, packed with exciting rides and home to the UK’s largest outdoor ice rink—so you can show off your skating skills (or lack thereof!). It’s the ultimate winter wonderland, with countless activities for every age to enjoy.
Nestled right in the heart of central London’s huge park, Winter Wonderland also serves up delicious seasonal treats and lively music that fills the air. And for a truly unforgettable moment, you simply must visit the Bar Ice, where everything—from the tables to the glasses—is sculpted from ice itself. It’s a must-do for a cool and magical memory!
Dates for Hyde Park Winter Wonderland: November 14, 2025 to January 1, 2026
🎁 Christmas in Trafalgar Square
There’s no place quite like Trafalgar Square to experience a beloved holiday tradition! This is where you’ll find London’s most famous and largest Christmas tree, which arrives with its own highly anticipated ceremony. Have you ever wondered why? It’s a sweet custom dating back to the late 1940s, when Norway began sending its finest spruce to London each year as a thank-you gift for the UK’s support during World War II.
Today, this magnificent tree is the star of a charming Christmas market, complete with twinkling lights, adorable wooden chalets, and festive entertainment all through December. And for an extra dose of holiday cheer, the nearby St. Martin-in-the-Fields church offers Christmas concerts and caroling to make your visit truly unforgettable!
Dates for the Christmas Market in Trafalgar Square: Approximately November 8, 2025 to January 2, 2026
Kingston Christmas Market
Feeling overwhelmed by London’s busy city center? For an authentic English Christmas market experience, take a short train ride to Kingston Christmas Market! This charming London borough—one of the prettiest, by the way—is decked out in its finest traditional Christmas market decorations.
The village choir even performs throughout the holiday season, adding to the festive atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to celebrate Christmas with the English, just as they do, following their treasured traditions—all without the frenzy of the capital!
Dates for the Kingston Christmas Market: November 13, 2025 to December 28, 2025
🎀 Borough Market at Christmas
For foodies, Borough Market is an absolute must-visit at Christmas! Already one of the UK’s finest public markets, it becomes truly magical with festive trees and beautifully decorated arches. In the early evenings, the market buzzes with locals spilling onto the pedestrian-friendly streets for a drink and a bit of good cheer before the holiday break.
There are plenty of opportunities to indulge in some of the best street food you’ll ever find. With everything from artisanal cheeses and cured meats to sweet holiday treats, warm mulled wine, and delicious mince pies, there’s something to delight every palate. It’s the perfect spot to grab a bite on the go, pick up special ingredients for your own holiday recipes, or even find a gourmet Christmas gift for the food lovers in your life. It’s pure holiday heaven!
The Swedish Church Christmas Fair & Craft Show
For a unique and truly magical experience, pay a visit to the Swedish Church Christmas Fair in Marylebone! This incredible Scandinavian-inspired market effortlessly brings authentic Swedish traditions and festive joy right to the heart of London. You’ll find stalls absolutely brimming with crafty goodies, from handmade crafts and art prints to cozy housewares and delectable Swedish treats. It’s so good, you might just think you’ve stepped into the world’s best-ever IKEA Christmas section!
Feeling like indulging? We won’t judge one bit! You absolutely have to treat yourself to classic Scandinavian Christmas foods like pickled herring, festive cakes, gingerbread, and, of course, glögg—the quintessential spiced mulled wine.
The Swedish Church Fair is also a fantastic place to find unique, handmade Christmas ornaments. They serve as the perfect memento of your visit, and you’ll get to relive a little bit of that magic every single time you decorate your tree.
Dates for the Swedish Church Christmas Fair: November 21-23, 2025
A few more local and fun Christmas markets in London to visit in 2025
- Southbank Centre Winter Market: Experience an artsy Christmas market set against the iconic, brutalist architecture of the Southbank Centre.
- Greenwich Market: Step into a cozy, village-like market tucked away in the historic streets of Greenwich. It’s the perfect escape for a quaint, intimate feel with unique artisan stalls. It’s definitely a contender for the best Christmas markets in London.
- King’s Cross Christmas Market: This market offers a modern, sleek experience. Located in a beautifully designed urban area along Regent’s Canal, it blends festive cheer with contemporary architecture.
- Battersea Power Station Christmas Market: Find a festive market at this recently revitalized, iconic London location. There is indeed There is plenty of opportunity for Christmas gift shopping here, with a stunning industrial backdrop.
- Christmas in Leicester Square: Head to the heart of London’s West End for this festive market. Its traditional stalls and festive hut contribute to an atmosphere of general merriment, just steps away from London’s most iconic landmarks.
