The 10 Best Christmas Markets in London

The Christmas markets along London’s Southbank run as part of the area’s winter festival, which includes concerts, shows, a dazzling light exhibition and stalls lining the street. It’s the perfect market for first-time visitors to London, situated alongside the Thames with a fabulous view across the river to some of London’s most iconic buildings and bridges. You can feast on everything from toasted marshmallows and fondue to truffle burgers, duck wraps and gourmet cheese toasties. Grab a cup of mulled wine to keep you warm while browsing the stalls which display a range of crafts and gift ideas from independent sellers.

Covent Garden is one of the most-picturesque and best London Christmas markets. It’s thoroughly sparkly and festive, with another truly iconic glittering Christmas tree. You’ll find myriad gift-shopping opportunities at the pop-up stalls as well as in the permanent shops that fill the area. The inside of the market hall is all a-glow throughout November and December with bells, baubles and disco balls, plus there are plenty of photo opportunities on Santa’s sleigh and in the Wonder Wood. You won't need to search hard for something to eat and drink either, with a range of cafes, restaurants and food stalls serving a variety of festive treats.

Looking for festive fun without worrying about the weather forecast? The King’s Cross Canopy market is one of the best Christmas markets in London for winter weather, as it’s completely covered under a giant canopy roof. There’s plenty of tasty food here, but this market is more craft-focused, with a host of different themes and local, artisan sellers setting up throughout December. It’s the perfect place to buy one-of-a-kind gifts and decorations from London-based makers, whether that’s fashion, handcrafted wreaths, wooden decorations, Japanese homewares or scented candles. There's also a special edition Vegan Market at Christmas under the Canopy on 6–8 December.

Borough Market is a fun place to visit year-round, with a mouth-watering selection of food and drink on offer. In December, the hall gets a Christmassy makeover, with wreaths, lights and baubles hanging from its vaulted ceiling, extended opening hours for later shopping and festive scents hanging in the air as vendors offer mulled wine, rich Christmas cakes and soul-warming hot food. If you’re gift shopping for foodie friends and family, this is your go-to market.

Greenwich Market is another year-round must-visit market, especially for foodies. At Christmas, the market goes all out with decorations and lights, not to mention carol singers and occasional brass bands, for all the festive atmosphere. It opens late on Wednesdays throughout December for a Christmassy wander and mulled wine post-work, while you check out the artisan sellers and find the perfect Christmas gift. Step outside the market and you’ll find the Greenwich district is equally decked for the season, with a sparkling street and tonnes of tempting eateries and pubs.

Supporting independent and local craftspeople is all in the Christmas spirit. Luckily, there are multiple opportunities to do that in London. In Peckham, you’ll find the DIY Christmas Market followed by the Independent Ceramics Market, both championing local craftspeople. In Stoke Newington, the North London Makers' Market turns festive from November with an array of unique wares, art and design pieces available to buy. The Crafty Fox Markets are another annual staple, popping up this year at The British Library (30th Nov - 1st Dec) and Granary Square, King’s Cross (8th, 14th, 15th Dec). Visit any of these and you’re sure to find stocking-fulls of unique and thoughtful gifts.