The best Christmas markets in my opinion are by far the German ones. However, if you can’t quite stretch to a trip overseas, there are many UK Christmas markets worth a visit. Here’s how to plan a visit to the Christmas markets and make the most of your visit.
1 Check your local events – notice boards in newsagents and supermarkets often advertise local events. Or check your local newspaper or neighbourhood news. My go to place for up to date info regarding what’s on is Twitter. Just search to see the latest tweets in a particular location.
2 Plan a day trip – some of the largest Christmas markets in the UK this year can be found in Birmingham, York, Manchester, Bath and Winchester.
I would recommend heading to both Bath and Winchester in the same day. Bath is larger and has more non Christmas market things to do, so choose this over the other if you want to take your time. Otherwise, head to Winchester en-route first.
Bath is beautiful during the Christmas market
Here’s a quick list of some of the UK’s markets for 2019:
3 Wander at lunchtime or after work – see if there is a Christmas market near to where you work. Then check them out at lunchtime or head there after work. Those in London will find numerous small markets scattered around the city.
4 Check schools and churches – you will find smaller markets at schools and churches taking place. Again, best to check local events information for details. Smaller events are often not advertised too far afield, so it’s worth searching with this in mind.
5 Meet a friend/take another – the run up to Christmas is a busy time of year and it’s hard to find the time to catch up with everyone. Kill two birds with one stone and plan to meet a friend at the markets, take a friend or family member (although I would recommend limiting the number of people as it can be busy) or simply just arrange other plans so you can visit the markets in conjunction with other things.
6 Plan ahead – spend a short amount of time making a list of potential things you want to try and get. Couple that with listing some of the other Christmassy shopping you need to do. The more focused you are the more likely you will find all the gifts you need, and more.
7 Carry bags – avoid the possibility of collecting unnecessary (plastic) bags during any shopping spree. Take a tote bag or rucksack to carry your purchases in and you will find it much easier to collate your shopping as you go.
8 Stay warm – make sure you wrap up appropriately for the weather. Layers are best. Unless heavy rain is expected you can probably pass on the umbrella. After all markets are likely to be busy and there’s often plenty of shelter if the weather isn’t too cheery.
9 Have fun – Christmas markets often have side events such as ice skating and live performances. A great opportunity to have some fun in between the shopping.
I would also recommend visiting a European Christmas market on a day trip or on an over-night. Booking last minute flights early in the morning and late at night can be very reasonable. Search on Skyscanner to see what you can get.
Whichever destination you head to make sure you plan a visit to the Christmas markets in advance to make the most of it.
