There’s nothing quite like the sparkle of a Christmas market to get you into the festive spirit. From twinkling lights and the scent of mulled wine to the charm of traditional wooden stalls, the UK’s Christmas markets bring joy to every corner of the country.
Whether you’re shopping for unique gifts, sampling seasonal treats, or soaking up the atmosphere, we’ve picked five magical markets that promise unforgettable festive moments.
Manchester Christmas Market
Now in their 27th year, Manchester’s iconic Christmas Markets have become one of the UK’s most famous festive attractions, drawing millions of visitors every year.
This year is set to be Manchester’s best yet as the recently transformed Albert Square will be able to play a role in the celebrations. ‘A Taste of Christmas’ will be held in Albert Square from 7 November to 4 January, bringing festive fun right back to the heart of the city.
Visitors can enjoy a Santa’s sleigh view of the city from the huge 50‑metre‑high Ferris wheel and create magical family memories with a ride on the vintage carousel and children’s fairground rides.
Where to stay…
Gardens Hotel
Set in a fantastic city‑centre location, overlooking Piccadilly Gardens, the Gardens Hotel is a great choice for your visit to Manchester.
Maldron Hotel Manchester Cathedral Quarter
Stay in style at Maldron Hotel Manchester Cathedral Quarter. This four‑star hotel offers comfortable rooms with flat‑screen TVs, sleek bathrooms, and free Wifi.
The Reach
A unique base, just steps from Manchester Piccadilly Station, The Reach combines the exciting city buzz with canal‑side calm
Edinburgh Christmas Market
From twinkling lights to thrilling rides, Edinburgh’s Christmas Market is one of the UK’s most magical festive celebrations. Running from 15 November 2025 to 4 January 2026, the city centre transforms into a winter wonderland, with something for all visitors to enjoy.
The traditional market stalls offer local and Scottish hand‑crafted gifts, festive fare, and seasonal treats like mulled wine, bratwurst, and indulgent chocolate‑dipped strawberries.
Make your trip extra special and try out the three main attractions on offer. The LNER Big Wheel and the 80m Star Flyer ride offer unforgettable views over the city, while the outdoor ice rink gives you a chance to show off your skating skills.
Where to stay…
Cairn Hotel & Apartments
Cairn Hotel & Apartments combines modern comforts with a superb location, ensuring a warm welcome in the heart of the Edinburgh.
Moxy Edinburgh Fountainbridge
Moxy Edinburgh Fountainbridge offers a modern and well‑equipped base to explore the city while enjoying playful luxury and unforgettable hospitality.
Toby Carvery Edinburgh West by Innkeeper’s Collection
Toby Carvery Edinburgh West by Innkeeper’s Collection offers a warm and traditional place to stay, providing great value, comfort, and convenience.
Liverpool Christmas Market
Liverpool’s Christmas Market returns to St George’s Plateau, filling the city centre with festive sparkle, seasonal aromas, and a vibrant holiday buzz, from November 15 to December 24 2025.
Wander through rows of charming wooden chalets offering everything from hand‑poured candles and personalised baubles to artisan chocolates, woollen scarves, and local cheeses, perfect for ticking off your Christmas shopping list while supporting independent traders.
For festive fun, the market has something for everyone! Families can enjoy Santa Land’s themed rides, including the beautiful carousel and giant Ferris wheel. Adults can head over to the wide range of festive bars and indulge in their favourite warming tipple. Game stalls are dotted across the market, offering prizes and plenty of laughs.
Where to stay…
Baltic Hotel
Where punk art meets urban chic, you can be assured of a stylish stay at the Baltic Hotel, located right in the centre of Liverpool.
Aloft Liverpool
Set in a striking historic building, just minutes from the Moorfields Railway Station Aloft Liverpool combines contemporary design with convenient amenities.
All Bar One
If you love the buzz, bustle, and bohemian charm of All Bar One, you’ll love the luxury of staying in this stylish hotel.
Cardiff Christmas Market
2025 will mark the 30th anniversary of the Cardiff Christmas Market, when the city centre will once again host
a wide range of festive stalls and attractions from the 13 November to the 23 December.
Cardiff Christmas Market stands out for its dedication to authentic, handcrafted gifts and items for sale, from bespoke jewellery, fused glasswork and hand‑thrown pottery to artisan food and drink. With both familiar faces and new traders at “Taster Stalls,” visitors can expect something fresh and inspiring at every turn.
Whether you’re seeking festive food, a special handmade present, or simply to soak up the seasonal atmosphere, Cardiff Christmas Market promises a truly magical shopping experience.
Where to stay…
Cardiff Holland House
Cardiff Holland House is set in the heart of the city, just a five‑minute walk from the main shopping district and less than ten minutes from Queen Street Rail Station.
Leonardo Hotel Cardiff
Set within a stunning Victorian building in the vibrant centre of Cardiff, Leonardo Hotel Cardiff blends historic charm with modern style.
Radisson Blu Hotel Cardiff
Soaring above the city skyline, Radisson Blu Hotel Cardiff is within walking distance of Cardiff Castle, Principality Stadium, and Cardiff Bay.
Southampton Christmas Market
Make magical memories this festive season at the Southampton Christmas Market, running from 13
November to 4 January 2026. This much‑loved market offers the perfect mix of family fun, festive shopping,
food, and entertainment.
There’s plenty to keep you and the family entertained, with live music, rows of stalls, Santa’s Grotto and a Runaway Train. Take a break from the excitement at the Moose Bar or Alpine Bar, where mulled wine, hot chocolate, and traditional German beers are served in a festive alpine setting.
Foodies will be spoiled for choice with everything from bratwurst and schnitzel to fresh crepes, roasted
chestnuts, and warm crumble with custard.
Where to stay…
Moxy Hotel Southampton
Offering something a bit different, Moxy Hotel Southampton combines style and comfort with a unique and playful edge.
The Elizabeth House Hotel
The Elizabeth House Hotel offers a warm, welcoming stay with the added bonus of free on‑site parking, less than one mile from the city centre
DoubleTree by Hilton Southampton
Located just outside the city centre, DoubleTree by Hilton Southampton offers a quieter place to stay in a beautiful wooded area just off the M27 motorway.
Book your Christmas Market Stay
📱 01775 843413
📧 reservations@infotel.co.uk