Britain's best Christmas markets for 2026 have been revealed, featuring major festive events in Edinburgh, York, Bath and Manchester, as well as a cathedral market where entry costs just £2.
The Independent has selected 20 Christmas markets to visit this year, ranging from the country's largest festive gatherings to smaller markets in historic towns. While many of the markets are free to enter, one cathedral market charges a small entry fee.
Edinburgh and York Lead the Festive Line-Up
Edinburgh Christmas Market returns to the city centre this November, taking over East Princes Street Gardens. Visitors can browse stalls selling gifts, decorations and festive food, with Edinburgh Castle providing the backdrop. The market also features the 46-metre Big Wheel, which offers views across the city, particularly when the Christmas lights are switched on. For those planning a longer stay, Edinburgh hosts its Hogmanay celebrations over New Year, making it a good option for turning a market visit into a short break.
York Christmas Market returns to Parliament Street and St Sampson's Square, bringing wooden chalets and festive stalls to the heart of the city. More than 80% of the traders are from Yorkshire, making it a good place to pick up locally made gifts, food and decorations. Visitors can also explore York's independent shops or take a walk through the city's historic streets.
Cathedral Markets and Skating in Bath
Winchester Christmas Market is held in the grounds of its cathedral, making it one of the more picturesque places for festive shopping. Wooden stalls are set up around the cathedral, with traders selling handmade gifts, decorations, jewellery and seasonal food. The market is particularly popular in the evenings when the stalls are lit up, although visitors can expect it to be busy as Christmas gets closer. Carol concerts and other events also take place at the cathedral during the festive season.
Bath Christmas Market is another popular destination, with around 250 traders expected to take part this year. The stalls are spread across the city centre, close to Bath Abbey and the Roman Baths, selling everything from handmade jewellery and candles to food, drinks and Christmas decorations. Bath on Ice is also returning, giving visitors the chance to go skating before heading back into the city for something to eat.
Birmingham's Market Opens Early
Birmingham's Frankfurt Christmas Market opens on November 5, making it one of the earlier festive markets to get underway this year. Visitors can expect stalls serving bratwurst, pretzels and mulled wine, alongside traders selling decorations, sweets and gifts. There is also live music, with plenty of places to stop for food or a drink while walking around. It is one of the biggest Christmas markets of its kind outside Germany and Austria, and with the market running until Christmas Eve, there is a little more time to visit than at some other destinations.
