9 Festive Christmas Markets Near London

Germany isn’t the only destination with traditional Christmas markets. England offers this holiday treat, too — less than an hour’s train ride from London, picturesque countryside villages with charming Christmas markets abound.

Here are several to whet your appetite.

St. Albans Festival (30 minutes from Kings Cross, London) 
This historic Roman coaching town in Hertfordshire, England, was important because of its proximity to London; it was also a frequent layover on the way to other important cathedral towns. It started holding Christmas markets in the ninth century.

This year, St. Alban’s city center will be the scene for its first-ever Christmas Festival. The theme will be the 12 Days of Christmas, and the highlight is sure to be turning on the Christmas lights on Nov. 17. Aglow in color, the city center will be closed to traffic for a street party lasting six hours. The Christmas Festival will also feature fairground rides, live music by local musicians, free children’s activities, pop-up bars and stalls selling crafts, seasonal gifts and a diverse range of food and drink. 

www.enjoystalbans.com

Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market (40 minutes from London Waterloo) 
Winchester, the former capital of Britain, is awash with tradition and ancient architecture, and is set amongst the stunning countryside of South Downs National Park. Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market is considered one of the best in Europe and attracts some 350,000 visitors each year to the historic Cathedral Close (a tranquil green space at the site). 

Expect a nativity scene, Christmas caroling, local crafts and food served in traditional wooden chalets, as well as an ice rink that is popular with children. The market opens Nov. 21 and runs until Dec. 22.

www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk

Newbury Artisan Christmas Market (55 minutes from London Paddington)
This artisan Christmas market takes place this year in Newbury’s city center on Nov. 24 and Dec. 8. The market specializes in designer crafts and original art, but the foodie crowd will love the “Feast Street” section. Locally produced dishes will include bountiful breads and pastries, various types of meats and plenty of sweet treats — all to be washed down with cider and gluhwein (a hot spiced wine).

www.berkshireeventsguide.co.uk

Festive Bicester Village (55 minutes from London Marylebone) 
Starting Dec. 8, this renowned high-end outlet shopping center pulls out all the stops over the Christmas holidays and will be fully decorated in celebration of the season. For those seeking that special Christmas gift for their discerning friend or family member, this is the perfect place to find it. A shuttle operates from the train station to Bicester Village for shoppers. 

www.christmasmarkets.com

Leeds Castle Christmas Market (55 minutes from London Victoria)  
This Victorian-themed market takes place on Leeds Castle’s vast lawn with spectacular views of the surrounding grandeur. With an extravaganza of fairground attractions and rides available, kids will have an unforgettable festive day. 

Additionally, stalls will sell crafts, gifts, seasonal food and drinks. The Leeds Castle Christmas Market will be held weekends only starting Nov. 23 until Dec. 15. 

www.leeds-castle.com

Tunbridge Wells Christmas Farmer's Market (40 minutes from Waterloo East) 
Dec. 22 marks the return of the popular Tunbridge Wells Christmas Farmer's Market. Stalls will be set up outside the townhall from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Produce, goodies and handmade gifts are all available for purchase, and there is also an ice-skating rink for the young and young at heart.

www.visittunbridgewells.com

Christmas Fair at Ascot Racecourse (60 minutes from London Paddington)
This is the place to be for upscale Christmas shopping with the very best in food, gifts, clothing and much more — all within the delightful setting of the Ascot Racecourse. The event runs from Nov. 28 through Dec. 1.

www.10times.com

Sevenoaks Christmas Market (35 minutes from London Charing Cross)
Beautiful and historic Sevenoaks in Kent holds a lovely Christmas market each year. You can expect live music, carol singing and abundant children’s entertainment such as a Santa’s Grotto and fairground rides. There will also be a multitude of food and drink stalls. The market is open Dec. 8, 9 and 10.

www.explorekent.org

Alexandra Palace Christmas Carnival (30 minutes from London Kings Cross)
From Dec. 1-16, travelers can enjoy the fabulous Christmas market, Santa’s Grotto, live music and more at the newly refurbished Alexandra Palace (nicknamed Ally Pally). The palace will also feature a production of “Horrible Histories – Horrible Christmas” at its on-site theater. This romp through the history of Christmas is playing from Dec. 13-30 and will be a treat for the whole family.

christmas.alexandrapalace.com