Festive fun for the whole family at Christmas markets in the UK

Although we tend to think of the beautiful Christmas markets held in Germany, Austria and other Central and Eastern European countries, gone are the days when we had to jump on a plane in order to experience these icons of the festive period for ourselves. Nowadays, there are a number of wonderful Christmas markets to visit in the UK. Even better, these markets cater for the whole family and are a fantastic way to initiate the festive season and get into the Christmas spirit. 

Let’s have a look at some of the best Christmas markets and what they have to offer families.

Bath provides lots of entertainment and is more than just a market

With its UNESCO World Heritage site status, the city of Bath is a pretty and interesting city to visit at any time of year, but it is especially magical over the festive period. Its Christmas market is extremely popular and, aside from the lovely gifts and food on sale from over 200 vendors, it also boasts a wide range of entertainment for every member of the family. Children can enjoy listening to Christmas carols and other music, storytelling sessions, a craft workshop and a lantern procession.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     

Children will definitely not be bored by London’s large variety of markets

For those of you based in London or who plan to visit, there are a number of markets to choose from. The Southbank Centre Winter Market is a traditional  market inspired by those in Nordic nations. Apart from the market, the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland has a lot to entertain children, with the UK’s largest outdoor ice rink, a giant observation wheel, circus performances, a Winter Wonder View Tower with 360-degree views of London’s skyline, amongst other amazing attractions. Clapham Common has been transformed into “Winterville” over the festive period. It has an indoor market along with crazy golf, a big wheel and a roller disco.

Relish the Christmas experience in Scotland’s capital

Residents and visitors to the Scottish capital will take delight in Edinburgh’s Christmas market and festival. Panoramic views of this historic city can be enjoyed from the Big Wheel, those who are brave enough can take a ride on the 60-metre-high Star Flyer, or, for a more sedate experience, visitors can sit on the carousel. Santa Land is comprised of exciting rides and a Christmas market for children, an elves’ workshop hidden in a Christmas tree maze and Santa’s grotto. As though that were not enough fun for families, there is also an oval ice rink. 

Enjoy a very international market in Belfast

This year, Belfast’s Christmas market, held in the city’s charming City Hall gardens, has alpine chalets beautifully decorated with garlands. A wide variety of local and international food can be purchased, and there is a new food court with seating so that you can sample the tasty delights in comfort. Aside from food, the markets also offer handmade jewellery, clothing and arts and crafts including decorations from across Europe. Visitors to the market will also enjoy live music and, for children, there is a gingerbread-themed Santa’s grotto. 

Fun for everyone in Swansea

Swansea’s hugely popular Waterfront Winterland has returned for its 12^th year. At this award winning attraction, families will be drawn to all the different rides that the funfair has to offer, ice skating, delicious food, a Big Wheel and Santa’s grotto. The Giant Wheel is 100ft and allows visitors to enjoy daytime and night time views of pretty Swansea Bay. Visitors to the market will find Christmas shopping pleasurable as they peruse the assortment of crafts and handmade gifts on offer.

As we have described, the UK’s Christmas markets are not just about shopping. They offer a wide range of activities that families are sure to love. We hope that you will have a great experience visiting the markets this festive period.