The compact medieval city of Bruges, famous for its network of canals, is host to two Christmas markets in picturesque settings offering all the traditional Christmas fare plus local specialities and crafts. The Bruges Christmas markets are open from 24th November 2023 until 7th January 2024.
York makes a great city break destination at any time of the year, but the period leading up to Christmas really brings the historic city centre to life. The popular St. Nicholas Fair, open from November 16th to December 22nd, offers more than 75 stalls, supplemented by the new Swiss-style Winter Hütte offering food by a local Michelin-starred chef.
The city's stunning Georgian architecture makes the perfect backdrop to the Bath Christmas Market, open from 23rd November to 10th December. More than 160 pop-up chalets mingle with Bath's many independent shops and restaurants, making the city a great late Autumn short break destination.
Inspired by traditional German Christmas markets and held in the grounds of Winchester Cathedral, this Christmas Market is known for its stunning location, quality of exhibitors and a great seasonal atmosphere, aided by the sound of carol-singers and the aroma of mulled wine. 2023 dates are 17th November to 21st December, open daily.
From 17th November 2023 to 6th January 2024, Edinburgh's Princes Street Gardens are filled with traditional Christmas market stalls, fun fair rides and regular live entertainment, making this a great time to visit Edinburgh and its many attractions.
Easily reached by Eurostar, the Lille Christmas market offers an ideal opportunity to stock up on French specialities, with around 90 stalls offering regional delicacies, local arts and crafts, all dominated by a giant Ferris wheel. The Lille Christmas market is open daily from 22nd November to 30th December.
With a wide selection of hotels offering good rates at this time of the year, Manchester makes a great pre-Christmas short break destination, enhanced by a Christmas market celebrating its 25th anniversary with over 200 stalls spread over nine city centre sites. Together with an ice rink and Christmas Light Trail, the market is open from 10th November to 21st December.
Subscribe to newsletter
