Tiana Young rounds up the best of the festive bunch
- Bath Christmas market
- Camden Christmas market
- Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
For many of us, Christmas is the most magical time of year, so why not spend it in some equally magical places? Visiting a festive market every year always gets me into the Christmas spirit, so… here are a few of my favourites so you can get a sneak peak into what each destination has to offer.
Bath Christmas Market
Opening dates and closing dates: 28th November-15th December 2024
If you like ancient history, you will love this market.
Bath Christmas market is located between the Roman baths and Bath Abbey, more than 170 chalets line the Georgian streets as well as a vintage carousel and live performances to add to the electric atmosphere. This ancient city has been around for centuries and is very well known for being a ‘wellbeing’ city- meaning that it’s an incredibly relaxing place to be for Christmas time.
Some perks and benefits of visiting this market are that admission is completely free – there are no tickets required for entry. Some of the stalls being presented at this year’s market vary from knitwear, chocolatiers, gin and wine makers, candlemakers, artists and pottery makers- as well as so many other spectacular market stalls and sellers.
Overall, this is an amazingly magical market to visit this Christmas, whether that’s with friends or family or even as a solo trip- it can be hugely enjoyed by anyone and everyone.
Camden Christmas Market
Opening and closing dates: 12th December-24th December
One of London’s best Christmas markets, Camden is perfectly suited for both grown ups and little ones. With entertainment spreading from live choirs to DJs singing Christmas hits, this market has lots to offer. Located in one of London’s quirkiest spots, Camden market is raving with Christmas cheer this winter season. The awe-striking light displays, five real Christmas trees, icicle lights and music – all must be experienced at least once in your life.
Some other perks and benefits of visiting Camden this winter: Admission to this market is free, however there are some extra experiences to visit that do cost money. One of those being, for just £6 a ticket, Santa meet & greets for the little ones this year at the ice grotto by Waterside Halls. Another fun event being held at Camden this year is DJ Amika’s festive spin on family fun, her ‘cheeky meeky’ family rave is packed full of family fun, dancing, singing, games and competitions and get this…admission is free!
There are also plenty of stalls available for purchasing gifts and festive food.
Overall, this market is one of my favourites! Purely because of how alive and festive it feels.
Hyde Park Winter wonderland and market
Opening and closing dates: 21st November-5th January
Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park in London is one of the top locations for festive fun. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland runs for around six weeks, with a wide variety of attractions, activities (ice skating and the mythical ice kingdom for example), entertainment, food and drinks and so much more. Not forgetting their gorgeous market as well- with stalls selling anything from hand-crafted pottery and jewellery to delicatessens such as chocolates and other Christmas treats.
Winter Wonderland has something for everyone: amazing rides and family-friendly street theatre, delicious Christmas food, cosy bars and the magical ice kingdom. I can guarantee the whole family will enjoy themselves here!
More about Hyde Park: as one of the capitals 8 royal parks, Hyde Park is a popular destination for Londoners and tourists. It has many famous landmarks: the Serpentine lake, Speakers’ Corner and Diana,Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain.
Some other information and benefits of visiting Winter Wonderland: despite this destination being incredible, everything there will cost money. Entry tickets will set you back £8 per person (children under 2 have free admission) and attractions/food stalls/other entertainment can span range from £5-£15 per person. So, it can add up quite a bit, however, this is a Christmas destination that should be experienced at least once in your life.
Overall, this is a spectacular destination with so much to offer. There is genuinely something for everyone at Winter Wonderland! Also…don’t forget to take loads of pictures if you go! The light displays all around the park are truly something to capture and treasure.
So…which festive market are you planning on visiting this winter?
