Giles Guide: London's Enchanting Christmas Markets 2024

Looking for the perfect festive shopping experience? London's Christmas markets offer everything from traditional wooden chalets to quirky craft stalls, all brimming with seasonal charm. Let's explore the capital's most magical markets!

 

Central London Markets

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

Step into London's biggest festive extravaganza, now in its seventeenth year! Beyond the traditional market stalls, you'll find the UK's largest outdoor ice rink, thrilling rides, and a cosy Bavarian Village. Little ones will love Santa Land, while adults can try their hand at ice sculpting or enjoy a mulled wine in the winter-themed bars.

Location: Hyde Park, London

Dates: 21st November 2024 – 5th January 2025

Time: 10am-10pm daily (closed Christmas Day)

Price: Free entry, attractions individually priced

Website: Winter Wonderland

 

Leicester Square Christmas Market

Experience festive fun in the heart of London's entertainment district with traditional market stalls and the spectacular La Clique show in the Belgian Spiegeltent. Browse handcrafted gifts while enjoying seasonal treats and entertainment.

Location: Leicester Square, WC2H 7LU

Dates: 6th November 2024 – 5th January 2025

Time: 11am-10pm daily

Price: Free entry

Website: Leicester Square

 

Trafalgar Square Christmas Market

Discover wooden chalets filled with handmade crafts and delicious treats beneath the famous Trafalgar Square Christmas tree. Enjoy carol singers performing festive tunes while shopping for unique gifts.

Location: Trafalgar Square, WC2N 5DN

Dates: 8th November 2024 – 1st January 2025

Time: 10am-8pm daily

Price: Free entry

 

Covent Garden Christmas Markets

Explore three daily markets beneath the iconic Market Building's festive decorations. Browse handmade crafts, unique gifts, and enjoy seasonal entertainment among Covent Garden's enchanting Christmas atmosphere.

Location: Covent Garden Market, WC2E 8RF

Dates: From 12th November 2024 – Early January

Time: 10am-8pm daily

Price: Free entry

Website: Covent Garden

 

King's Cross Christmas Markets

Explore multiple Christmas markets offering eclectic gifts from homeware to fashion and handmade crafts. Enjoy live music while sampling warming drinks and hearty food beneath the twinkling lights.

Location: Coal Drops Yard, N1C 4DQ

Dates: 21st November – 22nd December 2024

Time: 12pm-8pm daily

Price: Free entry

Website: King's Cross

 

East London Markets

Spitalfields Christmas Markets

Get into the festive spirit with themed stalls selling clothes, jewellery, and art alongside mouthwatering foodie delights. The market's historic surroundings add an extra special atmosphere to your Christmas shopping.

Location: Spitalfields Market, E1 6EW

Dates: 29th November 2024 – 24th December 2024

Time: 11am-7pm daily

Price: Free entry

Website: Spitalfields

 

Riverside & Bridge Markets

Winter by the River at London Bridge City

Shop for original presents and handmade crafts against the stunning backdrop of Tower Bridge and the Tower of London. Warm up with seasonal snacks and hot beverages while enjoying one of London's most iconic views.

Location: London Bridge City, SE1 2DB

Dates: 12th November 2024 – 5th January 2025; closed on Christmas Day

Time: 11am-10pm daily

Price: Free entry

 

Borough Market at Christmas

Experience London's oldest food market in all its festive glory, with seasonal specialties and carol singers creating a magical atmosphere. Don't miss the famous Evening of Cheese on 11 December for an extraordinary celebration of artisanal cheeses.

Location: 8 Southwark Street, SE1 1TL

Dates: 2nd -24th  December 2024

Time: 10am-5pm (check website for special event times)

Price: Free entry

Website: Borough Market

 

Southbank Centre Winter Market

Amble along the Thames as traditional wooden chalets line the riverside, offering everything from artisan crafts to global cuisine. The market's twinkling lights and riverside location create a magical atmosphere perfect for evening shopping, complete with mulled wine and seasonal treats.

Location: Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, SE1 8XX

Dates: 1st November – 26th December 2024

Time: 11am-10pm daily

Price: Free entry

Website: Southbank Centre

 

Greater London Markets

Kingston Christmas Market

Discover unique Christmas gifts in the picturesque Ancient Market Place, where cosy cabins offer handmade arts, crafts, and beautiful decorations. Enjoy seasonal entertainment and street food in this charming riverside setting.

Location: Ancient Market Place, Kingston upon Thames, KT1 1JS

Dates: 14th November 2024 – 5th January 2025

Time: 10am-6pm daily

Price: Free entry

Website: Kingston First

 

Greenwich Christmas Market

Browse stalls and shops offering stocking fillers, fashion items, crafts, and original artworks in this historic maritime setting. Admire the market's nautical-inspired Christmas tree while exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Location: Greenwich Market, SE10 9HZ

Dates: 16th November 2024 – 5th January 2025

Time: 10am-5:30pm daily

Price: Free entry

Website: Greenwich Market

 

Specialty Markets

Hampton Court Palace Festive Fayre

Step back in time at Henry VIII's famous palace while exploring over 100 artisan food and gift stalls. Experience the palace decked in its Christmas finest while sampling festive treats and searching for unique presents.

Location: Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey, Surrey, KT8 9AU

Dates: 6th-8th and 13th-15th  December 2024

Time: 10am-6pm

Price: £13.60-£27.20 (includes palace entry)

Website: Hampton Court Palace

 

SoLo Craft Fair Christmas Market

Browse beautiful handcrafted art, jewellery, home accessories, and children's toys at this maker-focused market. Set in the historic Leadenhall Market, this carefully curated event showcases talented local crafters.

Location: Leadenhall Market, Gracechurch Street, EC3V 1LT

Date: 7th December 2024

Time: 12pm-5pm

Price: Free entry

Website: SoLo Craft Fair

 

Crafty Fox Christmas Market

Explore an awesome lineup of over 100 talented designers and makers offering art prints, homewares, jewellery, ceramics, clothing, and unique gifts. This dog-friendly event provides a perfect opportunity to support independent creators.

Location: The Crossing, Granary Square, N1C 4AA

Date: 8th December 2024

Time: 11am-5pm

Price: Free entry

Website: Crafty Fox Market

 

The Big Xmas Market

Support small businesses while exploring 25+ local traders offering everything from plants and ceramics to vintage clothes and candles. Enjoy DJs, a vinyl fair, face painting, and festive film screenings throughout the day.

Location: Riverside East

Date: 15 December 2024

Time: Market 12pm-6pm, Café 9am-6pm

Price: Free entry

Website: Riverside East

 

Planning Tips

• Visit markets early in the day to avoid the biggest crowds

• Bring cash although most vendors accept cards

• Consider weekday visits for a more relaxed experience

• Check individual market websites for special events and demonstrations

• Ask our St Giles London Hotel staff for the best routes to nearby markets

 

Stay tuned for our next guide featuring London's magical Ice Skating Rinks! Want to make the most of London's Christmas markets? Book your winter stay with us by clicking here and put yourself in the heart of the festive action.