Discover the top 10 Christmas markets in London to visit this year, featuring festive food, unique gifts, winter attractions and travel tips.
The top 10 Christmas markets in London in 2026 are Southbank Centre Winter Market, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, Covent Garden, Leicester Square, Trafalgar Square, Winter by the River at London Bridge City, Old Spitalfields, Borough Market, Greenwich and King's Cross. Most are free to enter and open from early or mid November until late December or early January. Winter Wonderland charges for some entry, rides and attractions, so check its official site before you go.
London does Christmas on a grand scale. Wooden chalets glow beside the Thames, ice rinks appear in the West End, and the smell of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts drifts through historic squares. This guide ranks the ten best markets for 2026 and tells you who each one suits. It also covers how to get there, which matters most if you are landing at a London airport with bags and a plan to head straight for the lights.
Compare the best Christmas markets, their locations, expected opening dates and entry arrangements before planning your visit.
| # | Market | Best For | Location | 2026 Dates | Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Southbank Centre Winter Market | Riverside views and street food | South Bank | Expected 2 Nov to 4 Jan | Free |
| 2 | Hyde Park Winter Wonderland | Rides and families | Hyde Park | 19 Nov to 3 Jan | Ticketed attractions |
| 3 | Covent Garden Christmas Market | Decorations and gifts | Covent Garden | From 12 Nov | Free |
| 4 | Christmas in Leicester Square | West End atmosphere | Leicester Square | Expected early Nov | Free |
| 5 | Trafalgar Square Christmas Market | Tree and carols | Trafalgar Square | 9 Nov to 2 Jan | Free |
| 6 | Winter by the River | Tower Bridge views | London Bridge City | 12 Nov to 4 Jan | Free |
| 7 | Old Spitalfields Christmas Market | Independent gifts | Shoreditch | 11 Nov to 24 Dec | Free |
| 8 | Borough Market at Christmas | Food lovers | London Bridge | 30 Nov to 6 Jan | Free |
| 9 | Greenwich Christmas Market | Handmade crafts | Greenwich | From 19 Nov | Free |
| 10 | King's Cross Christmas Market | Unique gifts | King's Cross | Late Nov to 22 Dec | Free |
⭐ Best for: Riverside strolling, global street food and photos
Rows of wooden chalets line the Queen's Walk with the Thames on one side and the London Eye glowing nearby. You can browse independent makers for jewellery, decorations and gifts, then warm up with cheese toasties, bratwurst or hot chocolate. It is also one of the easiest markets to enjoy with children because the layout is open and the route is flat.
⭐ Best for: Families and groups who want a full day out
Winter Wonderland is the biggest festive event in London. Alongside the market cabins you will find fairground rides, a giant observation wheel, an ice rink, circus shows and plenty of German-style food. Entry rules and ticket prices can change, so book attractions in advance during busy weekends.
If you are flying in for the festive season, a pre-booked transfer removes the stress of crowded trains with luggage. Booking ahead lets you plan your arrival around your first market stop. Here are the airport options.
London's Christmas markets offer something for every traveller, from the glow of Winter by the River to the rides of Winter Wonderland. Pick two or three in the same area, check the dates, and plan your journey in advance so you spend your time enjoying the festive season rather than rushing between stations.
©2026 Minicab Lane | Developed by Fugenservices
Secured by
PositiveSSL