Can there be anything more festive then wrapped up nice and warm whilst trawling for goodies at a Christmas market... and maybe with the odd glass of mulled wine to ease the December chill? Plus, it really is the best place for some great, original Christmas gift ideas – such as food, jewellery, knick-knacks, clothing, toys and much more.
London is well-known for its raft of festive markets at this time of year... from Covent Garden to Camden and Borough... there’s plenty on offer to suit all tastes.
We’ve put a list together of some of London’s best-known markets... plenty to get your teeth into in the run up to Christmas:
Traditional German Christmas Market
This traditional market opens as part of the Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland and offers plenty of German treats such as food and gift ideas. On top of that there’s also a fantastic fun fair and ice skating rink which aren’t to be missed.
Where: Hyde Park
Free admission.
The market is open 10am – 10pm, Saturday 21st November 2009 – Sunday 3rd January 2010.
Covent Garden Christmas Market
Right in the heart of London, Covent Garden plays host to the Real Food Market (with a couple of other days added in the Christmas run-up) where shoppers can enjoy some festive fun and delicious food on the many stalls. As ever there are always many street performers to keep you entertained nearby.
The Real Food Market at Covent Garden is open every Thursday and Friday from 12th November 2009, as well as Wednesday 16th December and Saturday 19th December 2009.
Free admission.
Where: Covent Garden Piazza
Open: 12pm - 9pm on Thursdays and 12pm - 7.30pm on Fridays
O2 Christmas fair
This year the O2 opens it’s Christmas Fair which features a traditional German market packed with food and goodie stalls. This will entertain the whole family with a funfair and a Santa's grotto.
Standard adult tickets for rides: £20.00, Kids: £17.50; Fairground and market admission is free.
Where: The O2
The Christmas fair at O2 runs from Saturday 21st November 2009 - Sunday 3rd January 2010.
Cologne Christmas Market
Fantastic feel-good Bavarian atmosphere accompanies a plethora of wurst and glasses of glühwein at this traditional German market. Live music, food and drink a secret Santa’s Village for the kids and, of course, great shopping awaits.
Free admission.
Open: The Cologne Christmas Market is open seven days a week from 11am – 8pm Sunday - Thursday and 10am - 10pm Friday and Saturday, from Friday 20th November – Wednesday 23rd December 2009.
Borough Market Christmas
This market is a must for those who love great quality produce. Borough Market is one of London’s most popular markets – especially at this time of year.
Free admission.
Where: Boropugh Market (near London Bridge)
Open: Sunday 20th December - 10am - 4pm
Monday 21st December - 11am - 5pm
Tuesday 22nd December - 9am - 6pm
Wednesday 23rd December - 9am - 6pm
Thursday 24th December - 8am - 2pm
Tuesday 29th December - 9am - 4pm
Wednesday 30th December - 9am - 6pm
Thursday 31st December - 9am - 2pm
Saturday 2nd January - 8am - 5pm
Borough Market is closed from 25th December - 28th December 2009, and 1st January 2010.
Farmers Markets
There is a huge choice of festive Farmers Market in the lead-up to Christmas this December offering the very best fare for your Christmas table. Check our What’s On section for what’s taking place and where.
Oxford Street
The idea of a market couldn’t really be further from the hustle and bustle of Oxford Street but this year a Christmas Market opens for the first time. This is the place to come for all your original gift ideas.
Free admission.
Where: near to Park Street and N Audley Street
The Oxford Street Christmas market is open from Friday 20th November - Sunday 3rd January 2010. Opening hours are 10am - 9pm Tuesday - Saturday and 10am - 7pm Sunday.
The market is closed on Monday 23rd November, Monday 30th November, Monday 7th December, Monday 14th December, Friday 25th December and Friday 1st January 2010.
Christmas Events in London
Don't forget, you can see a full list of Christmas Events in London in our What's On section
Ice Skating In London
Whether you're an expert or a novice why not take to the ice this Festive Season? Read our guide to Christmas Ice Skating Rinks In London
Free Christmas Events
With the Credit Crunch still biting, here's a list of the free events that you can enjoy in London this Chrsitmas. Read our guide: Free Christmas Events In London
... plus take a look at our comprehensive article for spending London and New Year in Christmas this year... from dining to parties, things to do, the best offers, present ideas and much more:
Everything You’ll Need In London This Christmas >>>
