Christmas Markets in London 2025

Why visit London’s Christmas markets

There are countless reasons to visit, especially if you’re travelling with family or friends. London’s Christmas markets offer the perfect blend of holiday cheer, unique shopping, and memorable experiences. It’s also one of the best times for Christmas shopping in London, especially if you prefer something handmade or locally crafted treasures. 

Many of these markets sit near some of the top attractions in London, allowing you to pair sightseeing with festive indulgence.

Christmas Markets in London: Our top picks

1. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

Arguably the biggest and most popular Christmas markets in London, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is a must for anyone looking for ultimate festive fun. You'll find everything from the UK's largest open-air ice rink, exhilarating rides, to a magical ice kingdom crafted from over 500 tonnes of ice and snow. 
The market stalls overflow with handmade jewellery, crafts, and gorgeous Christmas decorations, while food vendors tempt you with German bratwurst, roasted chestnuts, and cinnamon-dusted churros. It’s also a great spot to head out later to discover some of the best cocktail bars in London for a nightcap.

2. Southbank Centre Winter Market

Set along the River Thames, the Southbank Winter Market is perfect for an evening stroll. It features a riverside trail of Alpine-style pop-up chalets bursting with global street food, artisan gifts and spectacular views of the London Eye. 

Feast on New Orleans-inspired Po’Boy sandwiches, Yorkshire pudding wraps or Dutch pancakes as you sip a cup of mulled wine. Combine your visit with nearby attractions such as the London Eye, SEA LIFE London Aquarium or the National Theatre for one of the most atmospheric things to do in London during Christmas.

3. Christmas in Leicester Square

Leicester Square, known for its glitz, glamour, and star-studded red-carpet events, transforms into a festive wonderland every winter. You can expect Christmas pop-up market stalls brimming with winter delights, warming drinks and unique seasonal gifts. 

The 2025 edition brings something special: the square's first-ever ice rink, where you can glide around the iconic Shakespeare statue. With traditional market stalls, it’s the perfect blend of Hollywood sparkle and Christmas charm.

4. Trafalgar Square Christmas Market

Set against the backdrop of London’s famous Christmas tree, gifted annually from Norway, Trafalgar Square offers a quintessential festive experience. The market features charming stalls, sweet treats and carol performances under the twinkling lights. 

It’s an ideal quick stop if you’re exploring nearby landmarks like the National Gallery or St Martin-in-the-Fields.

5. Covent Garden Christmas Market

In the heart of the West End, Covent Garden is unbeatable for elegance and atmosphere. This historic piazza sparkles with thousands of fairy lights and a magnificent 55ft British-grown Christmas tree, creating one of the city’s most photographed festive scenes. Its market features high-end gifts, artisan stalls, and festive pop-ups, making it ideal if you’re ticking off your Christmas shopping list. While you’re there, enjoy some live carol singing or browse the nearby luxury boutiques and restaurants in London. 

6. Kingston Christmas Market

A little outside central London, the Kingston Christmas Market in the Ancient Market Place brings a distinctly Bavarian flavour to the festivities. You’ll find bratwurst, mulled wine, and even Bavarian curling lanes alongside beautiful wooden chalets selling handcrafted gifts. With its riverside location and live music, it’s a great choice for a relaxed afternoon.

7. Greenwich Christmas Market

A short journey from central London, the Greenwich Christmas market features over 200 artisan maker stalls and stores for unique gifts. Wander through its twinkling stalls packed with handmade gifts, crafts, and tasty treats, all set against the backdrop of Greenwich’s iconic architecture. Kids can visit Santa’s Grotto for a dose of Christmas magic, while adults can enjoy skating at the nearby Queen’s House Ice Rink under the stars. 

Greenwich is home to the iconic Prime Meridian Line at the Royal Observatory, Cutty Sark, and the National Maritime Museum, which you can explore before heading to the Christmas market.

8. Winter by the River at London Bridge City

With breathtaking views of Tower Bridge and the Tower of London, Winter by the River is one of the scenic Christmas markets in London. Its wooden huts overflow with artisanal crafts, handmade gifts, and delicious festive snacks. It's the perfect spot to admire London's iconic skyline whilst sipping a steaming hot beverage. This year’s highlight is a new double-story glasshouse with a heated rooftop canopy and balcony views of the River Thames, which is perfect for sipping a warm drink as the city glows. 

To make it even more engaging, the Christmas market also brings back the popular Swift Stone Curling where you can take on family and friends sliding the stone down the ice. 

Where to Stay in London

To make the most of your visit to the Christmas markets in London, choose a stay that keeps you close to the festive action. 

Our centrally located hotels in the City of London and London Wall are ideal for exploring the capital’s top attractions and soaking up the holiday spirit. Both hotels are family-friendly, feature excellent amenities, and provide a comfortable base for your Christmas adventure.

If you’d prefer to base yourself just outside Central London, Clayton Hotel Chiswick is a fantastic choice. Located in one of the most vibrant neighbourhoods in West London, it offers stylish rooms, great dining, and quick access to the city’s best shopping areas.

All three hotels are well connected by public transport, offering easy access to all that London has to offer.