London’s top Christmas markets and the best gifts to buy from each

Christmas in London has a magical appeal—from Christmas markets and carols to ice-skating rinks and spectacular shows, there are endless things to see and do during the festive season. Christmas decorations start popping up in early November, and by December 25, every part of the city is sparkling with colorful lights and extravagant displays.

Start your Christmas in London by visiting some of the best Christmas markets in Europe, where you can sample the endless seasonal treats on offer and shop for cool stuff to fill up those Christmas stockings.

Note: The information in this article is accurate at the time of publishing. Refer to the official websites for the most up-to-date information.

When: November 8, 2022–January 8, 2023

Every year, hundreds of thousands of glittering lights decorate Covent Garden for eight weeks. Featuring some of the best Christmas light-ups in London (over 115,000 lights!), the Covent Garden Christmas Market is a winter wonderland set in the main piazza. Check out the 60-feet-tall Christmas tree, daily snow showers, late-night shopping, and seasonal food and drinks—don’t forget to warm up with a glass of mulled wine or hot chocolate as you soak up the festive vibes. Then, throw on your dancing shoes and continue the fun on a Silent Disco Christmas tour through the rest of London.

When: November 3, 2022–January 8, 2023

Stroll along the Thames for the Southbank Centre Winter Market featuring adorable igloos, a variety of handmade gifts, street food, and seasonal goodies. Dig into gooey delights at the winter market whilst enjoying the gorgeous selection of warm festive drinks, like mulled wine and hot toddy. Hop onto the London Eye or duck into the Tate Modern for a great view of the Christmas lights and the London city skyline.

When: December 1, 2022–January 9, 2023 (Christmas lights go up from November 15, 2022)

Located next to the London Bridge Station, Borough Market features the best of British and international delicacies. Come Christmas, the market enjoys extended opening hours and transforms into a winter wonderland, with the historic arches decked out in beautiful decorations, and the sounds of bells and Christmas carols in the background. Head to Bedales of Borough for a glass of wine or grab a craft beer from The Globe Tavern. Check out the Borough Cheese Company for the perfect cheese board or bag some gooey brownie bars from Cutter and Squidge to add to that dessert table.

When: November 25–December 24, 2022

Usually running from mid-November to the end of December, Selfridges lights up Edward Mews at the rear of Selfridges London. Selfridges at Christmas offers loads of fun-filled festivities for the entire family, including appearances from Santa, Christmas carols, performances from the Disco Ball Pudding Dancers, culinary workshops, and cocktail masterclasses. Pick up a luxurious festive hamper from the Selfridges Selection range that includes festive treats like cheese, wine, and chocolates.

When: November 18, 2022–January 2, 2023

Immerse yourself in one of the largest Christmas markets in London: Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park. See the London skyline from The Giant Wheel, glide to Christmas carols on the outdoor ice skating rink, or check out the fun-filled circus acts. There are also over 100 market stalls selling things ranging from jewelry, clothing, handmade crafts, and Christmas decorations. Tickets are required so pre-book your spots here.

When: From November 16, 2022

The Greenwich Market dates back to 1737 and is the only market in London located on a World Heritage Site. Come Christmas, the market is decked out with twinkly fairy lights and transforms into a charming winter playground. Stroll through the market and you’ll find unique gifts at every corner. Head to iida Jewelry for some intricate earrings handmade from real floral petals or stop by anniemay to pick up a few hand-made festive soft toys for the little ones.

When: November 9, 2022–January 7, 2023

Leicester Square, the heart of London’s tourist district, transforms into a magical Christmas wonderland for the whole family. Expect sparkling lights, garlands, and the highlight—a circus and cabaret show. Browse the traditional Christmas stalls set in Bavarian-style wooden huts and bask in the festivities by indulging in your favorite Christmas treats. Pick up some traditional crafts or ethically-made handicrafts for a unique Christmas gift. Don’t miss out on seeing Santa’s grotto, too.

When: November 10–December 24, 2022

There’s nowhere better to enjoy the magic of Christmas than in the heart of the traditional market town of Kingston-upon-Thames. The annual Kingston Christmas Market has lots to do, you can groove out to live music or stroll along the traditional wooden cabins to find stocking stuffers. For food lovers, there’s artisanal cheese and preserves, delectable homemade sweets, and authentic German sausages. The little ones will love a ride on the carousel as well.

When: November 16, 2022–January 8, 2023

During this year's Christmas at Kew, journey through the magical fire garden, admire the sparkling tunnel of lights, and witness the dancing reflections in the lake at Kew Gardens. Look forward to an array of independent street food vendors and stalls selling hot food, spicy treats, and warm winter drinks. Remember to greet Father Christmas to cap off an enjoyable and fun-filled evening.

When: November 15, 2022–January 2, 2023

Set against the skyline of the Tower of London and London Bridge, the Christmas By The River at London Bridge City is often billed as the capital’s most picturesque Christmas market. This festive market brings with it the very best of the season’s treats. With more than 60 winter cabin stalls selling street food, festive drinks and gourmet treats, alongside a plethora of local handmade gifts, the market gives you every excuse to shop for stocking stuffers.

When: December 1–December 22, 2022

Witness King’s Cross station transformed into a Christmas market under the beautiful Victorian roof of the West Handyside Canopy. The Canopy Market traditionally boasts local independent and sustainable vendors. Stroll through this covered market for handmade gourmet treats and tick off your Christmas gift list one item at a time.

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