As Christmas approaches, there is one thing on my mind – the atmospheric Christmas markets! When I was growing up, December meant spending a few days visiting friends and relatives in Germany and you can’t do December in Germany without a trip or two to the famous markets. With the many lights, Christmas music and carols, as well as the festive stalls bursting with hand crafted goodies or appetizing eatables, the Christmas Markets never failed to get me in a Christmassy mood!
In recent years, much to my delight, Christmas Markets have been popping up throughout the UK. There are still a number on my list waiting to be ticked off, but I thought I’d share with you a few of my favourites!
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Bath Christmas Markets
Stated to be ‘the UK’s favourite Christmas Market’, the Markets in Bath run from the end of November to the middle of December each year and house over 170 wooden stalls. The Markets are primarily located in the square between the historic Bath Abbey and the famous Roman Baths but stalls are also scattered in and around the main shopping streets in the town centre. The stalls offer all sorts of unique handmade gifts ranging from crafted decorations, to toys, and tasty warming winter tipples. One of the Market’s unique selling points is that each and every stall is British, with the vast majority coming from the South-West.
In addition to the Markets there are many more things to keep visitors occupied. Bath boasts a number of stylish boutiques as well as the big high street names, all of which are only a short walk from where the markets are located. There is also an ice-skating rink, situated just below the world-famous Royal Crescent in Royal Victoria Park, a stunning Victorian Carousel in Stall Street and it is also possible to bathe in the warm spa water whilst overlooking the city’s glimmering lights.
Frankfurt Christmas Market in Birmingham
Outside of Germany and Austria, the largest and most authentic market takes place in Birmingham, for approximately five weeks beginning in mid-November. The 180 stalls sell a variety of gifts as well as the tradition Glühwein and Bratwurst to the thirsty and hungry!
The stalls stretch from Centenary Square, where you can also take a ride on the Ferris wheel or skate on the ice-rink, watched over by the Three Wise Men (or Golden Boys), down past the Hall of Memory and through the Paradise Forum to the focal point of Chamberlain Square and the frontage of the Council Buildings. Here one starts to appreciate the true Christmas Market with the large seasonal chalets decorated with multiple Santas and of course a reindeer or two. In addition one can indulge the senses with the aromas, sights and sounds of Germany; the smell of cinnamon, cloves and citrus, the alpine chalets and stalls and the authentic sounds of the German Lieder (carols). All put together they guarantee a real sense of what is to come – the Christmas season.
Once in the mood it is time for a glass of Apfelwein or Glühwein along with a freshly grilled Bratwurst to keep you going as you head down via Victoria Square and into New Street. Stretching out before you, the entire length of the street houses yet more stalls, large and small, with traditional offerings, both German and English. Take your pick from glassware, colourful toys, wooden carved figures, Lebkuchen and other assorted cakes and confectionary, Christmas ornaments, drinks stalls….. the list goes on!
As you near the end of this Christmas experience and the end of New Street you need to push on that little bit farther to, past the Rotunda and on to the Bull Ring, where you will even find the Birmingham Bull dressed in festive attire!
More on the Birmingham Markets coming soon!
Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, London
More of a Christmas themed fun fayre than a traditional Christmas Market, Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park is extremely popular with Londoners and visitors alike. Set in the eastern part of Hyde Park, bordering Park Lane, the market is free to enter but should you fancy a ride on the Ferris wheel or other rides, tokens can be bought from a number of stands throughout the fayre. Attractions include an ice rink, circus shows, an Ice Bar, Santa Land with resident Father Christmas as well as more traditional Christmas Markets.
My favourite part of Winter Wonderland was most definitely the Bavarian Village and I must admit, it felt quite authentic with traditional music playing, the warming smells of aromatic Glühwein and grilling Bratwurst, as well as open fires and an Alp Hut with a viewing gallery down onto the Ice Rink.
The main entrance to Winter Wonderland is at the north of the fayre, close to Marble Arch tube station, or alternatively by the Hyde Park Corner stop.
Winchester
Although not nearly as big as some of the others on this list, the Christmas Market in Winchester has previously been recognised as one of the best in Europe. Undoubtedly this is due to its unique location in the Cathedral’s historic Close, the high quality exhibitors and the pleasant, cosy atmosphere.
In the centre of the Market visitors can enjoy an open-air (real) ice rink and afterwards can head to one of the many food outlets offering everything from mince pies and bratwurst, to traditional mulled wine or indulgent hot chocolate.
Manchester
The Christmas Market has put Manchester city centre firmly on the Christmas map attracting visitors from all over the UK and from further afield. The markets are dotted all across the city with each area offering its own distinct character and atmosphere.
The streets of the city centre become lined with sweet wooden chalets, with a vast array of goodies and delicacies from all across Europe. You can find gifts, crafts, jewellery, toys and even clothes, not to mention food and drink – which you will need after all the shopping! I personally enjoy the fact that you can indulge in more than just the traditional festive food – from Dutch mini pancakes, to Hungarian goulash or Spanish paella; you are truly spoiled for choice!
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If, after visiting these, you are still the mood for more I have heard great things about the markets in Leeds and of course in the beautiful city of Edinburgh. I for one have both on my radar!
Where is your favourite Christmas Market in the UK and why? Do let me know if I’ve missed any ‘musts’ off the list!
