Few cities capture the holiday spirit quite like London. From twinkling lights on Regent Street to carolers in Trafalgar Square, the city is brimming with festive cheer. But the real magic happens at the London Christmas markets, where wooden chalets are filled with handmade gifts, cozy winter food, and the comforting scent of mulled wine.
Whether you’re after an evening stroll while enjoying the twinkling lights or a full day of shopping and skating, London offers markets that rival those in Germany and central Europe. But you can expect fewer language barriers and more mince pies.
Discover more: The best things to do in London at Christmas
This post includes affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them, at no additional cost to you.
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
If you can only visit one Christmas market in London, make it Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland. It’s the city’s largest and most spectacular holiday event, packed with more than 100 chalet stalls, a massive outdoor ice rink, live music, and festive fairground rides.
Beyond shopping, you can ride the Observation Wheel for panoramic views or explore the Magical Ice Kingdom, an enchanting maze of ice sculptures and slides made from over 500 tons of ice. There are also cozy bars, Bavarian-style beer tents, and endless spots to warm up with hot chocolate or cider.
Open November 14, 2025 – January 1, 2026
Christmas at Trafalgar Square
At the heart of London’s holiday celebrations, Christmas at Trafalgar Square combines tradition and charm. The towering Norwegian Christmas tree, gifted annually since 1947, sets the scene while wooden stalls sell handcrafted gifts and warming snacks.
Carol singers often perform beneath the lights, creating one of the city’s most nostalgic Christmas moments.
Open November 9, 2025 – January 2, 2026
Covent Garden Christmas Market
Covent Garden transforms into a holiday postcard each December. Its cobbled piazza glitters with enormous baubles, mistletoe chandeliers, and one of the city’s most photographed Christmas trees.
The Covent Garden Christmas Market features three distinct sections of stalls offering artisan gifts, fashion finds, and locally made food and drink. Grab a glass of mulled wine, listen to live music, and soak up the West End atmosphere. It’s pure festive London.
Open November 12, 2025 – January 3, 2026
Southbank Centre Winter Market
Set along the Thames, the Southbank Centre Winter Market is one of the most scenic and beloved London Christmas markets. Wooden chalets stretch along the river walk, filled with artisan crafts, handmade jewelry, and festive drinks and street food.
Stop for classic winter dishes like fondue or bratwurst, then enjoy a cup of mulled wine while watching street performers and light installations. The market’s proximity to the London Eye and other landmarks makes it the perfect place for an evening stroll that captures the city’s festive glow.
Just past the Southbank Centre Winter Market, take a ride on the London Eye to see the holiday lights across London.
Open November 3, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Christmas at Borough Market
A foodie favorite year-round, Borough Market turns extra merry in December. Festive garlands and lights drape the historic market hall, while traders extend their hours to allow extra time for holiday shoppers to enjoy all the festive food and drinks.
Sample everything from mince pies and mulled wine to international cheeses during the annual Evening of Cheese in mid-December (exact date TBD), led by the market’s renowned cheesemongers. It’s a delicious way to pick up ingredients for a perfect holiday spread.
Open daily in December (closed Dec 24–26)
Winter by the River at London Bridge City
Tucked between Tower Bridge and London Bridge, Winter by the River offers some of the best views in the city. Its riverside setting feels cinematic, especially at dusk, when the market lights reflect off the Thames.
Small wooden chalets line the promenade, selling gifts, crafts, and festive drinks. Enjoy a mulled wine or warm apple cider while admiring London’s skyline.
Open mid-November 2025 – early January 2026 (exact dates TBD)
Leicester Square Christmas Market
In the heart of the West End, the Leicester Square Christmas Market blends festive cheer with live entertainment. It’s compact but lively, make sure to stop by an artisanal stall or take in a performance in a big top tent.
This one’s ideal for pairing with a West End show or a late-night wander through the city’s sparkling streets.
Open November 1, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Somerset House Christmas Market
Somerset House is best known for its grand skating rink, arguably London’s most iconic winter activity. But before or after your session, take time to explore its smaller Christmas market, where you can grab a festive snack, admire the massive Christmas tree, and listen to carolers echoing off the courtyard walls.
Even if you don’t lace up your skates, it’s worth stopping by just to watch the action under the lights.
Open November 1, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Greenwich Christmas Market
Set within a UNESCO-listed district, Greenwich Christmas Market pulls out all the stops for the holidays. Its 120 covered market stalls overflow with unique gifts, handmade art, and tasty seasonal treats.
Grab a cup of mulled wine and wander the nearby streets to enjoy the maritime charm of Greenwich at Christmastime.
Open from November 19, 2025
Camden Market at Christmas
Known for its creative energy year-round, Camden Market takes on new sparkle in December. Expect fairy lights, live music, and an “ice palace” grotto where Santa makes appearances.
It’s a great spot to find quirky gifts, from vintage treasures to handmade jewelry, and to enjoy street food from around the world.
Open from December 6, 2025
King’s Cross Christmas Markets
Each year, King’s Cross hosts a mix of pop-up markets and festive events around Granary Square and Coal Drops Yard. Browse independent stalls selling crafts, fashion, and plenty of gourmet treats while live music fills the air.
This modern, design-forward district feels distinctly London. It’s less traditional than Hyde Park or Covent Garden, but equally atmospheric.
Open November 27, 2025 – December 22, 2025
Old Spitalfields Christmas Market
Old Spitalfields Market blends its Victorian architecture with London’s modern creative scene. The Christmas edition of the market adds twinkling décor, seasonal food, and gift stalls featuring independent designers.
It’s perfect for shoppers who prefer something less touristy but still full of festive charm. Nearby cafes and boutiques selling clothes, jewellery and art make it easy to turn your visit into a full afternoon.
Open November 12, 2025 – January 2, 2026
Bonus: Kingston Christmas Market
Just a short train ride from central London, Kingston Christmas Market in Kingston upon Thames is worth the detour. Its riverside Ancient Market Place feels like a classic English holiday village, with cozy wooden cabins selling handmade crafts, ornaments, holiday decorations and local food.
After shopping, linger for live entertainment or stroll along the river with hot chocolate in hand.
Open November 13, 2025 – December 28, 2025
Why Visit the London Christmas Markets in 2025
From grand attractions like Winter Wonderland to local favorites in Greenwich or Spitalfields, London’s Christmas market scene offers something for every kind of traveler.
Whether you’re sipping mulled wine by the Thames or admiring the lights around Covent Garden, you’ll understand why London has become one of Europe’s most festive holiday destinations.
Practical Travel Tips for Visiting the London Christmas Markets
Getting There
London is served by multiple major airports, with Heathrow and Gatwick offering the easiest access to central London via express trains. Eurostar arrivals at St. Pancras make it convenient for travelers from continental Europe.
Getting Around
The Underground is the fastest way to hop between markets. For scenic routes, walk along the Thames from Westminster to London Bridge, it connects several key markets. Use an Oyster card or contactless payment for seamless travel.
Where to Stay
Base yourself near the West End, South Bank, or Covent Garden to stay close to most markets. For a quieter experience that’s still easy to get around, consider accommodations in the Tower Bridge area.
One of my favorite hotels at Christmas is the St. Ermin’s Hotel in St. James. It’s well connected via the Circle Line from the St. James tube stop, and within walking distance of many of London’s top attractions.
Best Time to Visit
Most London Christmas markets open by mid-November, but early to mid-December offers peak atmosphere with full decorations and events. Weekday mornings are ideal for avoiding crowds.
How Long to Spend
Allow at least two to three days to explore several markets, shop for gifts, and enjoy London’s holiday attractions like ice skating and theater shows.
Ready to plan your trip? London’s festive season is one of the most enchanting in Europe, so bundle up, grab a mug of mulled wine, and experience the magic for yourself.
Few cities capture the holiday spirit quite like London. From twinkling lights on Regent Street to carolers in Trafalgar Square, the city is brimming with festive cheer. But the real magic happens at the London Christmas markets, where wooden chalets are filled with handmade gifts, cozy winter food, and the comforting scent of mulled wine.
Whether you’re after an evening stroll while enjoying the twinkling lights or a full day of shopping and skating, London offers markets that rival those in Germany and central Europe. But you can expect fewer language barriers and more mince pies.
Discover more: The best things to do in London at Christmas
This post includes affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them, at no additional cost to you.
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
If you can only visit one Christmas market in London, make it Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland. It’s the city’s largest and most spectacular holiday event, packed with more than 100 chalet stalls, a massive outdoor ice rink, live music, and festive fairground rides.
Beyond shopping, you can ride the Observation Wheel for panoramic views or explore the Magical Ice Kingdom, an enchanting maze of ice sculptures and slides made from over 500 tons of ice. There are also cozy bars, Bavarian-style beer tents, and endless spots to warm up with hot chocolate or cider.
Open November 14, 2025 – January 1, 2026
Christmas at Trafalgar Square
At the heart of London’s holiday celebrations, Christmas at Trafalgar Square combines tradition and charm. The towering Norwegian Christmas tree, gifted annually since 1947, sets the scene while wooden stalls sell handcrafted gifts and warming snacks.
Carol singers often perform beneath the lights, creating one of the city’s most nostalgic Christmas moments.
Open November 9, 2025 – January 2, 2026
Covent Garden Christmas Market
Covent Garden transforms into a holiday postcard each December. Its cobbled piazza glitters with enormous baubles, mistletoe chandeliers, and one of the city’s most photographed Christmas trees.
The Covent Garden Christmas Market features three distinct sections of stalls offering artisan gifts, fashion finds, and locally made food and drink. Grab a glass of mulled wine, listen to live music, and soak up the West End atmosphere. It’s pure festive London.
Open November 12, 2025 – January 3, 2026
Southbank Centre Winter Market
Set along the Thames, the Southbank Centre Winter Market is one of the most scenic and beloved London Christmas markets. Wooden chalets stretch along the river walk, filled with artisan crafts, handmade jewelry, and festive drinks and street food.
Stop for classic winter dishes like fondue or bratwurst, then enjoy a cup of mulled wine while watching street performers and light installations. The market’s proximity to the London Eye and other landmarks makes it the perfect place for an evening stroll that captures the city’s festive glow.
Just past the Southbank Centre Winter Market, take a ride on the London Eye to see the holiday lights across London.
Open November 3, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Christmas at Borough Market
A foodie favorite year-round, Borough Market turns extra merry in December. Festive garlands and lights drape the historic market hall, while traders extend their hours to allow extra time for holiday shoppers to enjoy all the festive food and drinks.
Sample everything from mince pies and mulled wine to international cheeses during the annual Evening of Cheese in mid-December (exact date TBD), led by the market’s renowned cheesemongers. It’s a delicious way to pick up ingredients for a perfect holiday spread.
Open daily in December (closed Dec 24–26)
Winter by the River at London Bridge City
Tucked between Tower Bridge and London Bridge, Winter by the River offers some of the best views in the city. Its riverside setting feels cinematic, especially at dusk, when the market lights reflect off the Thames.
Small wooden chalets line the promenade, selling gifts, crafts, and festive drinks. Enjoy a mulled wine or warm apple cider while admiring London’s skyline.
Open mid-November 2025 – early January 2026 (exact dates TBD)
Leicester Square Christmas Market
In the heart of the West End, the Leicester Square Christmas Market blends festive cheer with live entertainment. It’s compact but lively, make sure to stop by an artisanal stall or take in a performance in a big top tent.
This one’s ideal for pairing with a West End show or a late-night wander through the city’s sparkling streets.
Open November 1, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Somerset House Christmas Market
Somerset House is best known for its grand skating rink, arguably London’s most iconic winter activity. But before or after your session, take time to explore its smaller Christmas market, where you can grab a festive snack, admire the massive Christmas tree, and listen to carolers echoing off the courtyard walls.
Even if you don’t lace up your skates, it’s worth stopping by just to watch the action under the lights.
Open November 1, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Greenwich Christmas Market
Set within a UNESCO-listed district, Greenwich Christmas Market pulls out all the stops for the holidays. Its 120 covered market stalls overflow with unique gifts, handmade art, and tasty seasonal treats.
Grab a cup of mulled wine and wander the nearby streets to enjoy the maritime charm of Greenwich at Christmastime.
Open from November 19, 2025
Camden Market at Christmas
Known for its creative energy year-round, Camden Market takes on new sparkle in December. Expect fairy lights, live music, and an “ice palace” grotto where Santa makes appearances.
It’s a great spot to find quirky gifts, from vintage treasures to handmade jewelry, and to enjoy street food from around the world.
Open from December 6, 2025
King’s Cross Christmas Markets
Each year, King’s Cross hosts a mix of pop-up markets and festive events around Granary Square and Coal Drops Yard. Browse independent stalls selling crafts, fashion, and plenty of gourmet treats while live music fills the air.
This modern, design-forward district feels distinctly London. It’s less traditional than Hyde Park or Covent Garden, but equally atmospheric.
Open November 27, 2025 – December 22, 2025
Old Spitalfields Christmas Market
Old Spitalfields Market blends its Victorian architecture with London’s modern creative scene. The Christmas edition of the market adds twinkling décor, seasonal food, and gift stalls featuring independent designers.
It’s perfect for shoppers who prefer something less touristy but still full of festive charm. Nearby cafes and boutiques selling clothes, jewellery and art make it easy to turn your visit into a full afternoon.
Open November 12, 2025 – January 2, 2026
Bonus: Kingston Christmas Market
Just a short train ride from central London, Kingston Christmas Market in Kingston upon Thames is worth the detour. Its riverside Ancient Market Place feels like a classic English holiday village, with cozy wooden cabins selling handmade crafts, ornaments, holiday decorations and local food.
After shopping, linger for live entertainment or stroll along the river with hot chocolate in hand.
Open November 13, 2025 – December 28, 2025
Why Visit the London Christmas Markets in 2025
From grand attractions like Winter Wonderland to local favorites in Greenwich or Spitalfields, London’s Christmas market scene offers something for every kind of traveler.
Whether you’re sipping mulled wine by the Thames or admiring the lights around Covent Garden, you’ll understand why London has become one of Europe’s most festive holiday destinations.
Practical Travel Tips for Visiting the London Christmas Markets
Getting There
London is served by multiple major airports, with Heathrow and Gatwick offering the easiest access to central London via express trains. Eurostar arrivals at St. Pancras make it convenient for travelers from continental Europe.
Getting Around
The Underground is the fastest way to hop between markets. For scenic routes, walk along the Thames from Westminster to London Bridge, it connects several key markets. Use an Oyster card or contactless payment for seamless travel.
Where to Stay
Base yourself near the West End, South Bank, or Covent Garden to stay close to most markets. For a quieter experience that’s still easy to get around, consider accommodations in the Tower Bridge area.
One of my favorite hotels at Christmas is the St. Ermin’s Hotel in St. James. It’s well connected via the Circle Line from the St. James tube stop, and within walking distance of many of London’s top attractions.
Best Time to Visit
Most London Christmas markets open by mid-November, but early to mid-December offers peak atmosphere with full decorations and events. Weekday mornings are ideal for avoiding crowds.
How Long to Spend
Allow at least two to three days to explore several markets, shop for gifts, and enjoy London’s holiday attractions like ice skating and theater shows.
Ready to plan your trip? London’s festive season is one of the most enchanting in Europe, so bundle up, grab a mug of mulled wine, and experience the magic for yourself.
