Walking in a Winter Wonderland: 5 of the Best Christmas Fairs and Markets in London
As seasoned Christmas market visitors, we've developed a taste for good mulled wine and ice-skating rinks, so we're all over them as soon as December rolls around. That's why we've chosen these five markets as must-visit attractions this year for Londoners and tourists alike.
Winter Wonderland
Location: Hyde Park
Website: http://hydeparkwinterwonderland.com
The classic Christmas fair is back in Hyde Park and has been running for over ten years now. If you've lived in London, or visited the capital in December, you'll know what it's like - constant crowds on the Piccadilly line throughout the month and lengthy queues for every Winter Wonderland bar. In the end, it's all worth it, especially if you find a seat to have your pint in the Bavarian Village.
Image source: https://www.visitlondon.com
Wintertime Southbank Centre
Location: South Bank Centre
Website: https://www.southbankcentre.co.uk/whats-on/festivals-series/winter-festival
If you're not a Winter Wonderland fan, or want to try something different this year, there are a few alternatives around Central London. First, with a Nordic-inspired Winter Market and its top attraction a Finnish rooftop sauna, the Southbank Centre is the place to be this winter if you want to unwind and enjoy some excellent festive fun and shopping.
Image source: https://www.southbankcentre.co.uk
Winterville
Location: Clapham Common
Website: http://winterville.co.uk
Another one of the alternative frontrunners, Winterville is back after a brief hiatus this year, and with a new location. With exciting attractions such as Backyard cinema, a fairground, and a roller disco, it's certainly our favourite place to party this December.
Image source: https://wheresmytent.com/
Christmas by the River
Location: London Bridge City, London Bridge
Website: http://londonbridgecity.co.uk/events/2017/november/christmas-by-the-river-2017
Another riverside market is Christmas by the River. With its proximity to the Southbank centre, you can even combine these two fairs for an excellent festive day out. Designed in a traditional style, this market is perfect for classic festive treats or some last-minute Christmas shopping.
Image source: http://www.londontown.com/
Christmas in Leicester Square
Location: Leicester Square
Website: http://www.christmasinleicestersquare.com/
This relatively new market is in its second year running and is perfect if you're around Central London. Occupying part of Leicester Square, this fair will perfectly warm you up with its mulled wine. And with the chance to meet Santa at his Grotto, kids (and kids-at-heart) will love visiting.
Image source: http://www.christmasinleicestersquare.com/