London at Christmas is nothing short of magical. As the nights grow longer and the air turns crisp, the capital transforms into a winter wonderland of twinkling lights, festive music, and the scent of mulled wine in the air.

From riverside chalets to historic squares, London offers an impressive range of Christmas venues that capture the spirit of the season. It is also home to some of the most iconic Christmas party venues in London, ideal for office gatherings, elegant dinners, or festive nights out with friends. Whether you’re after handcrafted gifts, indulgent street food, or a romantic evening under fairy lights, there’s a market for you.

This guide explores the can’t-miss Christmas markets in London for the 2025 season, including opening dates, what to expect, and local tips to help you get the most from your festive adventure.

1. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

Location: Hyde Park
Dates: Mid-November to early January
Entry: Free off-peak (booking required), paid during peak times

Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland is perhaps the most famous Christmas destination in London. This sprawling festive fairground takes over the heart of Hyde Park each year with spectacular lights, seasonal markets, and entertainment for all ages. While it can get crowded, it’s still a must-visit at least once during the season.

The market itself is made up of over 100 wooden chalets offering everything from traditional decorations to bespoke jewellery and seasonal homeware. There’s also a large German-style food and drink area where you can enjoy bratwurst, schnitzel, hot chocolate, and steaming mugs of mulled wine.

Highlights include:

• The UK’s largest outdoor ice rink

• Giant observation wheel with panoramic views of London

• Magical Ice Kingdom (carved from real ice)

• Bavarian village with live music and beer halls

• Santa Land for children, including rides and meet-and-greets

Local Tip: Visit on weekday mornings to avoid the worst of the crowds and enjoy shorter queues for rides and stalls.

2. Southbank Centre Winter Market

Location: Southbank Centre, near Waterloo
Dates: Mid-November to late December
Entry: Free

Set along the Thames with stunning views of the London Eye and Houses of Parliament, the Southbank Centre’s Winter Market is perfect for those looking for a scenic and relaxing festive stroll. The riverside path is lined with wooden huts selling artisan crafts, festive food, and creative gifts.

You’ll find a more curated and independent vibe here, with food traders serving raclette, fondue, spicy hot chocolate, cinnamon buns, and other indulgent winter fare. The market is also known for its pop-up bars, featuring heated igloos and rooftop firepits.

Beyond the market, the Southbank Centre itself hosts a Winter Festival, complete with free choirs, festive films, cabaret shows, and craft workshops.

Local Tip: Stay into the evening when the lights reflect off the river for a beautiful view and quieter browsing.

3. Christmas by the River – London Bridge City

Location: Between Tower Bridge and London Bridge
Dates: Mid-November to early January
Entry: Free

With a backdrop of Tower Bridge and The Shard, this riverside Christmas market delivers stunning views along with quality shopping and food. Stretching from London Bridge to City Hall, Christmas by the River boasts around 60 stalls offering festive gifts, handcrafted goods, and gourmet treats.

There’s a distinctly romantic atmosphere here, especially in the evening. Sip on mulled wine while you browse artisan candles, leather goods, and handmade baubles. Food-wise, expect international street food like duck wraps, toasted marshmallows, and Dutch pancakes.

The market features rows of wooden chalets lit with twinkling lights, selling artisan gifts, handmade decorations, and seasonal food from around the world. Whether you’re craving bratwurst, mulled wine, or freshly made sweet treats, there’s something to warm every visitor. Live music performances, themed entertainment, and activity bars add to the lively, magical atmosphere.

If you’re planning a seasonal gathering, you’ll also find charming Christmas party venues at London Bridge, just steps from the riverside festivities, making it an ideal location for both shopping and celebration.

Local Tip: Arrive before sunset and enjoy golden-hour views of Tower Bridge, then stay for a moonlit dinner by the river.

4. Covent Garden Christmas Village

Location: Covent Garden Piazza
Dates: Early November to early January
Entry: Free

Covent Garden is always beautiful, but during Christmas it becomes truly breathtaking. The historic piazza is adorned with thousands of lights, oversized baubles, and an enormous Christmas tree that rivals anything in the UK.

Unlike the more traditional markets, Covent Garden’s festive offerings are a mix of permanent boutique shops and pop-up stalls, selling everything from luxury candles and skincare to hand-painted ornaments. There’s also a strong focus on experiences, including:

• Snowfall flurries every hour

• A vintage sleigh photo booth

• The immersive Frozen-themed experience for families

It’s the perfect market to combine with Christmas shopping, a West End show, or a festive afternoon tea.

Local Tip: Don’t miss the Christmas Sandwich Festival in December, where local eateries compete for the city’s best seasonal sarnie.

5. Leicester Square Christmas Market

Location: Leicester Square Gardens
Dates: Mid-November to early January
Entry: Free (tickets required for shows)

Leicester Square, in the heart of London’s theatreland, transforms each winter into a charming Bavarian-style market. Although smaller in scale, it has a lively atmosphere with classic wooden chalets, fairground rides, and plenty of street food.

One of the main draws is the Spiegeltent, a vintage mirrored performance space that hosts a range of festive cabaret, circus, and comedy shows. This is one of the best spots in London for seasonal entertainment, so be sure to check the schedule and book tickets early.

Food options include German sausages, raclette-covered fries, gingerbread, and plenty of glühwein.

Local Tip: Pair your visit with a show in the West End or a late-night stroll through nearby Soho’s Christmas lights.

6. Fitzrovia Christmas Market

Location: Fitzroy Place, Mortimer Street, W1T
Dates: First Friday of December (1-day event)
Entry: Free

The Fitzrovia Christmas Market is a charming local pop-up held in Fitzroy Place, just off Mortimer Street. Organised by the Fitzrovia Partnership, this annual one-day market brings festive cheer right into the heart of central London.

It features dozens of artisan stalls selling handmade gifts, seasonal treats, winter accessories, and homeware—perfect for picking up unique Christmas presents.

The event includes live music, carol singers, mulled wine, and mince pies, creating a cosy, community-focused vibe amid the city’s bustle. Many nearby cafes, bars, and restaurants offer special holiday menus and drinks to join in the festivities.

If you’re planning a festive get-together, it’s also worth exploring Christmas party venues in Fitzrovia, with several stylish options just steps from the market itself.

Local Tip: Arrive early to beat the lunchtime office crowds, and explore nearby Charlotte Street’s eateries for a festive post-shopping bite.

7. King’s Cross Christmas Market

Location: Coal Drops Yard and Granary Square
Dates: Late November to early January
Entry: Free

Coal Drops Yard in King’s Cross is one of London’s trendiest retail and dining destinations, and at Christmas it hosts a sophisticated, design-led market full of style and sparkle. The area is known for its beautiful architecture and artistic lighting installations.

You’ll find stalls selling premium homewares, quirky gifts, eco-conscious products, and independent fashion. Food vendors serve craft cocktails, vegan street food, and gourmet bakes.

The area often features interactive installations such as the “fire garden” or floating Christmas tree. There’s also a schedule of carol singing, workshops, and live DJ sets.

Local Tip: Great for gift hunting if you want to support small businesses and avoid mass-market crowds.

8. Battersea Power Station Winter Market

Location: Turbine Hall B, Battersea Power Station
Dates: Select weekends in December
Entry: Free

The revitalised Battersea Power Station has quickly become one of the capital’s must-visit locations, and its Christmas market is no exception. Taking place over several weekends, this curated market showcases local artisans, designers, and gourmet producers.

Expect a mix of festive pop-ups, vintage-inspired gifts, handmade crafts, and delicious seasonal food. There’s also a rooftop skating rink with skyline views, making it a popular date-night destination.

Inside the iconic turbine hall, shoppers can browse designer pop-ups, sip hot chocolate, and enjoy a modern take on the traditional Christmas fair.

Local Tip: Take the new Northern line extension straight to Battersea Power Station for hassle-free access.

9. Trafalgar Square Christmas Market

Location: Trafalgar Square
Dates: Late November to early January
Entry: Free

Though one of the smallest markets, the Trafalgar Square Christmas Market is undeniably atmospheric. Nestled beneath the famous Christmas tree—an annual gift from Norway since 1947—the market features a handful of cosy stalls selling handmade goods, woollen gifts, and traditional treats.

It’s a great place to grab a mulled wine before heading to the nearby West End or enjoying a performance at St Martin-in-the-Fields.

Local Tip: Don’t miss the public carol concerts held under the tree most evenings in December.

When Should You Go?

The bulk of London’s Christmas markets open by mid-November and run through until the end of December or early January. The best time to go depends on what kind of experience you’re after:

• Early Season (mid to late November): Fewer crowds, early gift shopping

• Mid-December: Peak atmosphere, best for events and shows

• Weekdays: Quieter and easier to navigate

• Evenings: Best for festive lighting and street entertainment

Avoid weekends at major markets like Winter Wonderland unless you’re prepared for large crowds.

What to Eat at London’s Christmas Markets

Christmas markets in London are a foodie’s dream. Whether you’re craving something savoury or sweet, you’ll find something warming and delicious. Top items include:

• Bratwurst and currywurst

• Raclette melted over potatoes or fries

• Churros with chocolate sauce

• Yorkshire pudding wraps

• Dutch pancakes and roasted chestnuts

• Mulled wine, cider, or creamy hot chocolate

Many markets also cater to vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets, particularly in Southbank and King’s Cross.

What to Buy

If you’re looking for Christmas presents, you’ll find plenty of unique items including:

• Hand-painted decorations

• Artisan candles and soaps

• Home textiles and knitted goods

• Small-batch gin, whisky, and craft beer

• Customised jewellery

• Gourmet gift boxes and festive chutneys

Prices range from budget-friendly trinkets to high-end handmade goods. Bring cash or a contactless card—most stalls now accept cards but not all.

Final Thoughts: Can’t-Miss Christmas Markets in London

From the dazzling spectacle of Hyde Park to the creative energy of King’s Cross, London’s Christmas markets offer something for everyone. Whether you want to shop, eat, skate, or simply soak up the festive cheer, these markets are an essential part of celebrating the holidays in the capital.

Plan your route, wrap up warm, and bring your festive spirit. You won’t leave empty-handed—or hungry.