It’s that time of year again – here are our top five Christmas markets to visit this winter…

Winter is upon us and that means it’s time to explore some of the best Christmas markets the country has to offer. We’ve worked with YHA to put together the five Christmas markets to visit this winter…

London – Winter Wonderland 2019

Opening on the 21st November at 4pm, Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland is a standout when it comes to Christmas markets. Free to enter, Winder Wonderland has over 100 rides on offer including 9 unmissable roller coasters and a big wheel. (A season ride pass is available and gives you access to all the rides.) For the younger children, there are many fun rides and games to enjoy, and they can also pay a visit to Father Christmas in Santa land! For those of you who aren’t interested in the rides, over 100 charming traditional wooden chalets are scattered throughout the park as well as a huge selection of food and drink stands.

Where to Stay: yha.org.uk/places-to-stay/london
Cost of Christmas Market: Free
Opening Dates: 21st November – 05th January
Opening Time: 10:00am – 22:00pm
More information: hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

Manchester Christmas Markets 2019

When it comes to Christmas Markets, Manchester’s award-winning market springs to mind. The markets are packed with a host of festive activities so no matter your age, or gender there is something for anyone. It is a foodies paradise with Spanish Paella, good old-fashioned hog roast, traditional bratwurst all ready to be enjoyed before or after exploring the 300 market stalls which are spread across the city centre. Santa is sure to be there for the little ones and for the adults a mulled wine is sure to suffice.

Where to Stay: yha.org.uk/places-to-stay/manchester
Cost of Christmas Market: Free
Opening Dates: Friday 8 November – Saturday 21st December
Opening Time: 10:00am – 21:00pm
More information: visitmanchester.com/shopping/manchester-christmas-markets-p327351

Canterbury Christmas Market 2019

Canterbury is a city packed with a rich history, so what better place to host a magical, festive Christmas market. This year’s festive event starts on the 22nd November, with Santa’s new grotto opening slightly later from the 1st December for the younger ones. The Christmas market lays host to over 70+ beautifully decorated stalls with all sorts of gifts and crafts available. When visiting, make sure you don’t miss the delicious food and drinks stall – The mulled wine is a must!

Where to Stay: https://www.yha.org.uk/places-to-stay/canterbury
Cost of Christmas Market: Free
Opening Dates: Friday 22nd November – Tuesday 24th December
Opening Time: Sunday to Thursday 10am to 5pm / Friday & Saturday 9am to 6pm / Christmas Eve closes 3pm
More information: canterburychristmasmarket.co.uk

Cardiff Christmas Markets 2019

Embrace the Christmas spirit and enjoy a day of festivity at the Cardiff Christmas Market. Soak in the atmosphere and browse the many market stalls, full of gifts, arts and crafts and seasonal food and drink. Opening on the 14th November, entrance is free with trading hours taking place Monday to Saturday 10am to 6pm and Sunday 10am to 5pm. The location of this market makes it a great one to visit as it is right in the city centre, within walking distance of transport hubs and other festive attractions such as winter wonderland and the city’s ice rink. It guarantees a great, Christmassy day out for the family.

Where to Stay: yha.org.uk/places-to-stay/cardiff
Cost of Christmas Market: Free
Opening Dates: Thursday 14 November – Monday 23 December 2019
Opening Time: Monday to Saturday 10am to 6pm and Sunday 10am to 5pm
More information: cardiffchristmasmarket.com

Brighton Christmas Market

Returning to Brighton for the 6^th consecutive year is Brighton Etsy Seller’s Team’s annual Christmas market. Taking place at the Clarendon Centre on Saturday 30th November, over 75 local, independent sellers will be opening their stalls full of Christmassy gifts. After taking in the atmosphere, the North Laines is only a short 10 minute away or the Brighton pier 15 minutes to finish your evening off, so be sure to explore the sites of the city.

Where to Stay: yha.org.uk/places-to-stay/brighton 
Cost of Christmas Market: Free
Opening Dates: 14^th  November – 23^rd December
Opening Time: 10:00am – 22:00pm
More information: facebook.com/events/496293261167568/ 

Which are your favourites of our 5 Christmas Markets To Visit This Winter? Let us know in the comment box below…