I wanted to release October’s Blog earlier in the month, but decided that today, the 25th October, exactly 2 months before the big day was the earliest acceptable time to start bringing up the topic that is Christmas! For me, one of the most exciting aspects of the festive period is the abundance of Christmas Markets that start appearing around the UK from November onwards. Even if Christmas isn’t your thing, hopefully you can enjoy some of the offerings that these markets and fayres provide each year. All apart from last year… for obvious reasons. This is why I wanted to put this piece out, it is a welcome sign of things returning to some form of normality that most of these great market organisers are preparing, full steam ahead to make 2021 a special one, as we all deserve it to be. Whilst not all markets will be running in the same capacity as years previously, there is still plenty of festive fun going on up and down the UK. So, straighten up your Santa hat and dust off those sleigh bells, as we dive into the Best UK Christmas Markets in 2021…
Birmingham: Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market
Where: Victoria Square & New Street
When: 4th November – 23rd December
If you like your markets big, go to Birmingham, if you like your markets German, go to… Birmingham! Known locally as ‘The German Market’, some people question why Birmingham choose to host a German inspired market. The market was initially set up in 1997 when Frankfurt’s Director of Festival’s & Events wanted to take their culture overseas. As Birmingham is Frankfurt’s twin city, it was decided they would bring it to The Midlands. It was a great success and returned in 2001, it has been a staple attraction in the second cities festive calendar every year since. The festive market attracts 5.5 million visitors each year and is now the largest outdoor Christmas market in the UK, and the largest German Christmas market outside Germany & Austria! Expect Gluhwein (Mulled Wine), Bratwurst, massive 2 pint Stein’s of Lager, Chocolate Crepes and you can even get your hands on an Ostrich Burger! You will find wooden stalls selling festive favourites and crafted goods, carousel rides and Santa Claus for the kids (and adults!), and an all-round feel good festive atmosphere. If you do head to Birmingham for the German Market this year, you won’t be disappointed.
Bath: Bath Christmas Market
Where: Bath Abbey Quarter, Queen Square, Royal Victoria Park
When: 12th November – 24th December
The Bath Christmas Market as we know it is sadly not going ahead in 2021. However, organisers are ensuring that there is still plenty to enjoy throughout November & December in this iconic UK Christmas city. If you follow Hidden UK Gems on Instagram (link) then you will know that Bath is one of my favourite cities. It is full of magic all year round but in my opinion, the festive period is when it really comes into its own. Here is what is on offer this year:
- Bath’s Artisan Makers will be showcasing their exceptional Arts & Crafts in Bath Abbey & Queen Square, 20th November – 19th December
- The wonderful Bath on Ice returns on 12th November – 3rd January, with their Ice Rink, Glow in the Dark Golf and cosy Alpine Lodge, offering everyone’s favourite festive food and drinks
- Museum of the Moon, from Luke Jerram will be on display in the centre of Bath Abbey from 20th November – 24th December. This breath-taking exhibition alone is enough reason to visit Bath this festive season, a real sight to behold, and what better setting than the magnificent Bath Abbey.
- Bath Illumination Trail will light up some of Bath’s most iconic locations from 25th November, every evening for the rest of the year. See Bath Abbey, the Roman Baths, Brunel Square and many more in a way you’ve never seen them before as they glow and shine in the Bath night sky.
There will also still be some of your favourite Food & Entertainment on display throughout the city from 20th November through to 19th December. Enjoy some food and festive arts as you explore this ancient city full of wonder.
Sheffield: Sheffield Christmas Market
Where: Sheffield City Centre
When: 12th November – 24th December
With festivities up and down the country starting nice and early this year, Sheffield is no different. Open from 12th November all throughout the Christmas period, the Sheffield Christmas Markets are ready to bring joy to this vibrant South Yorkshire city. What sets Sheffield’s markets aside from the rest is its strong commitment to independent business. With over 80% of its traders being Sheffield based and delivered by a small independent business, they really capture the community essence that Christmas is all about. Growing over the years from a handful of cabins to well over 50, this growth has not come at any detriment to its authenticity. Cosy up in the Alpine Bar, tuck into a wood fire pizza, indulge on churros or a traditional German sausage, all in the cities charming Christmas setting. You also have a chance to see the city from the iconic Big Wheel and then meet the man himself, Santa, in his grotto. Guaranteed fun for all the family, you’re sure to come away from Sheffield’s Christmas Market with a warm festive glow.
Edinburgh: Edinburgh Christmas 2021
Where: East Princes Street Gardens
When: 19th November – 2nd January
With an Ice Rink, Christmas Tree Maze, Big Wheel, Santa’s Grotto, Santa Land rides and Market Stalls full of festive treats & gifts, Edinburgh’s offering to the UK’s Christmas Market scene really does have it all. Aptly titled ‘Edinburgh Christmas’ as there is so much more on offer than just the traditional markets, the Scottish capital is as charming as ever this time of year and this is a real gem of an experience, with something for all ages! Warm yourself with a mulled Irn-Bru (no, really) or sample the delicious vegan pigs in blankets. A personal favourite of Edinburgh Christmas is the ‘Winter Windows’ feature, which are colourful and vibrant stained glass windows, designed by Edinburgh school children and displayed across the city. This year’s theme is ‘Connections & Kindness’ and encourages local children to reflect on the acts of good will they both showed and witnesses throughout the pandemic. Good wholesome Christmas content. The event is spread across three locations throughout the city and is one of the biggest on our list, and in terms of variety, one of the best! If you’re in Edinburgh this Christmas, be sure to get involved!
Winchester: Winchester Cathedral’s Christmas Market
Where: Winchester Cathedral, The Close
When: 19th November – 22nd December
One of the UK’s smallest cities, Winchester, certainly makes a big impression on those who visit it, particularly throughout the festive period. Much loved by locals and visitors alike, these markets are another inspired by German traditions. The event attracts an estimated 400,000 guests annually, a figure which becomes all the more significant when considering the population of Winchester is less than 150,000! It is safe to say Winchester has the formula for what makes the ideal Christmas market experience. The unique location within the Cathedral’s historic inner grounds make for the perfect home to the authentic wooden chalets offering a wide range of festive treats and handmade gifts. The backdrop of the cathedral, which is one of the largest of its kind in Northern Europe, creates an awe-inspiring setting which further contributes to the wow factor of this Christmas Market that not all cities can offer. With an ice rink to boot, it really is somewhere you should visit this festive season and live out all your Christmas dreams!
Cardiff: Cardiff Christmas Market & Winter Wonderland
Where: Cardiff City Hall, Castle Grounds & City Centre
When: 16th November – 2nd January
If you have never visited Cardiff, you’re missing out, if you have never visited Cardiff at Christmas, you’re really missing out! The Welsh capital combines the markets with a Winter Wonderland and is one of my personal favourites. Spanning several locations across the city with a variety of backdrops including Cardiff Castle, Principality Stadium and the pedestrianised town centre, it really is the place to be for all your festive needs this season. Running all the way until 23rd December, across the city you will find *deep breath* Sur La Piste Bar with rooftop terrace, brand new Ice Bar, Arts & Craft Stalls, Live Music, Festive Food & Drink, Big Wheel, Ice Skating, Rides & Santa’s Grotto……did I miss anything? Go and experience it all for yourself, you won’t be disappointed!
Belfast: The Belfast Continental Christmas Market
Where: Belfast City Hall Grounds
When: 20th November – 23rd December
Last, but by no means least we sleigh over to Northern Ireland for the Belfast Christmas Market! Growing in size and popularity year-on-year, it is a real gem in the UK’s Christmas calendar and is certainly one of the most magical. Set in the City Hall grounds, this award winning festive experience is host to both local and international traders, offering a wide range of culinary delights and unique handmade gifts. Surrounded by fairy-lit trees and the fantastically illuminated City Hall, you will be wanting to take photos of everywhere you turn! Perfect for all ages and tastes, if you are in Northern Ireland this November/December, you’d be crazy to miss it!
Don’t forget, you can check out all of our previous blog posts HERE
