The sweet smell of roasted chestnuts, spice-infused mulled wine and cheery yuletide ambience — what better way to get in the mood for the festive season than with the bright lights of a bustling Christmas market. England and Wales are glittered with an array of them, but we’ve hand-picked some of the best Christmas markets in the UK that will leave you feeling extra warm this winter.
Bath
Kicking off in the beautiful city of Bath, its Christmas market feels like you’ve truly stepped back in time. From 23rd November to 10th December, watch as the city streets transform into a magical setting, abundant with over 170 twinkling chalets selling stylish homeware, handmade jewellery, personalised presents and plenty of festive food and drink.Â
Extend your stay in a striking Italianate-style mansion at YHA Bath.
Chester
Spoil yourself silly at the Chester Christmas Market, taking place from 17th November to 21st December. Immerse yourself in this historic city, and head to the main square, where you’ll find 70 traders with handmade crafts, jewellery, accessories and stocking fillers. Don’t forget to grab yourself a tasty treat while there — from spiced rum and mulled gin to pulled pork rolls, there’s something to suit all tastes.
Make it a cosy getaway by resting your head in a glorious house at YHA Chester Trafford Hall.
York
Count down the days to Christmas with a trip to the hugely popular York Christmas Market. Walk down the charming cobbled streets to find baubles, carols and 75 alpine chalets. This snowy wonderland will be open from 16th November to 22nd December, where you’ll find lots of unique gift ideas, from luxury stationary to Yorkshire Pudding Beer.
Make a weekend of it with a trip to YHA York.
Stratford-upon-Avon
Prepare to be transported back to Victorian times with this award-winning Christmas market. Visit this themed event from 7th to 10th December, and immerse yourself in a traditional funfair, over 300 stalls and fantastic performances. Sample the sensational street food or sip on a Bailey’s hot chocolate while wandering through the historic town streets.Â
Feel at home in a glorious Georgian mansion while staying at YHA Stratford-upon-Avon.
Manchester
Take the festive feeling to a whole new level with Manchester’s array of yuletide celebrations. Running from 10th November to 21st December, the whole city becomes a hub of sparkling activity. Head to Piccadilly Gardens for plenty of snow-topped bars serving winter warmers, delicious food stalls and beautifully handmade crafts. If it’s a family affair, the Winter Gardens is a top-spot for hungry visitors who can try out fresh churros, Korean corndogs, Greek gyros and much more.
Rest up after a mulled wine (or two) at YHA Manchester.
Conwy
The all singing, all dancing, Conwy Winterfest is a truly unique experience. This charming corner of Wales offers something a little different on Saturday 1th December. Expect hot chestnuts, extraordinary street performers, choirs, Morris dancers and sword fighting — all finished off with a dazzling torch-lit procession of armoured knights.
Enjoy a short wintery walk out of town to find YHA Conwy.
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Photo credit: Peter Austin / allan / beataaldridge / Septemberlegs / Ted / SakhanPhotography / Lukasz Pajor / Adobe Stock
