We take you through the best Christmas Markets in London.
London Christmas markets offer a welcome alternative to the big department stores and high street shops for all of your Christmas shopping needs. With people looking for more ways to save on presents, decorations and various forms of yuletide cheer, Christmas markets this year will be more popular than ever. Plan to arrive early in the day to take advantage of the best deals and the smallest crowds.
The Christmas decorations are up, London’s streets are illuminated by festive lights and the sound of carols seems to emanate from every shop on the high street. However, there is no better way to really soak up the seasonal atmosphere than by paying a visit to one of London’s Christmas markets. The traditional German Christmas market has slowly established itself as something of an institution in this country, so let Spoonfed give you the lowdown on the best places in London to grab a Glühwein and enjoy the Christmas cheer.
Don’t stay in this Christmas - wrap up warm and brave the crowds at one of London’s markets, and you will be rewarded with enough treats and activities to bring cheer to the heart of even the biggest holiday Scrooge!
Here are our picks for the best Christmas markets in London.
Hyde Park Traditional German Christmas Market
When: 18th November 2011 – 3rd January 2012
Where: Hyde Park (Part of Winter Wonderland)
What: Strictly speaking we're not sure Jesus would agree with the use of 'traditional': there's no frankincense, gold or myrrh, but there are fresh festive beats, mulled wine, and a host of Christmas gifts sold to you from alpine huts. And that's not to mention hearty German food and spine-tingling rides. Buckle up baby Jesus and enjoy the Power Tower, ice rink, observational wheel or even Santa's grotto. This market is practically a city of its own and promises a full evening of rounded entertainment.
Cologne Christmas Market
When: 18th November 2011 – 23rd December 2011
Where: Southbank Centre/London Eye
What: Another German gem with yet more chalet huts. Spread along the Thames in the shadow of both the London Eye and the Royal Festival Hall, this is truly a sparkling delight. Gluhwein anyone? Or perhaps some Bavarian Beer, or maybe you're more interested in bagging some hand-crafted Christmas gifts for your loved ones. Well it's all here, including a carousel and Santa's secret village.
Borough Market
When: 1st December 2011 – 24th December 2011
Where: Borough
What: This is a year-round favourite but it takes a Christmas turn around about December time. Borough Market steers clear of any Christmas gimmicks and focuses its energy on fresh seasonal produce. Known as one of the best markets in town it's the perfect place to hit for all your Yuletide delicacies
Greenwich Market
When: 30th November 2011 – 5th January 2012
Where: Greenwich
What: Open every day up until Christmas Eve, this market boasts all kinds of wonders, including arts and crafts, antiques and a Santa's grotto where you can meet the white bearded man himself. And as if that wasn't enough there is also an array of food stalls to satisfy every hankering.
Jesus would be proud. And a little bit jealous...
Click here for more London Christmas
Click here for Christmas Plays
Click here for London Christmas Pantomime
Add an event
Lucian Freud exhibition opens today at the National Portrait Gallery
Amongst other things – the Olympics, the Jubilee, Damien Hirst – 2012 is the year of Lucian...