There’s just something about a London Christmas market – the smell of cinnamon in the air, the twinkle of fairy lights reflected in a paper cup of mulled wine, and the thrill of discovering yet another handmade bauble you absolutely need.

Brightly lit Christmas market bar stall with red and white BAR and MERRY signs outlined in warm bulbs, yellow wooden walls decorated with green garlands and red baubles, and counters labelled Draft, Mulled Wine and Spirits glowing against a dark night sky in London

Whether you’re a seasoned local or visiting for the first time, exploring the best Christmas markets in London is a December must-do.

I’m Hazel (travel writer and lover of seasonal snacks), and these are the Christmas markets I think are worth bundling up for.

Southbank Winter Market 🎡

Right along the Thames, the Southbank market serves up serious festive atmosphere with riverside views. You’ll find rows of wooden chalets selling everything from hand-poured candles to giant bratwursts, plus pop-up bars with mulled cider and hot toddies.

Festive South Bank Christmas market stall lit with warm golden lights, featuring a silver food truck decorated with red and gold baubles, green garlands, and a glowing star, as a customer in a grey coat orders drinks at night.

It’s great for a casual wander, with live music nearby and that magical glow from the river. Don’t miss the raclette stand if you’re a cheese lover.

Christmas by the River at London Bridge 🧀

This one’s further east along the Thames, near London Bridge, with unbeatable views of Tower Bridge and The Shard. The stalls are more artisan and less touristy – think handmade gifts, craft spirits, and festive prints.

Modern sculptural Christmas tree made from gold metal panels at Winter by the River on London’s South Bank, set against a clear bright blue winter sky with people gathered around the base
Woman standing under twinkling lights at the Glasshouse Christmas popup bar in London

Last year it even had a curling game and a pop-up winter pub with fairy lights and blankets. A bit more chill than Southbank, and one of my favourites.

Covent Garden Christmas Market 🎁

This one blends classic market charm with big festive drama.

Giant baubles hang from the ceiling, a towering Christmas tree stands proud in the square, and seasonal stalls pop up alongside the usual boutiques and food vendors.

Christmas tree with gold baubles outside a mulled wine stall in Covent Garden, London, surrounded by snowy artificial trees and festive lights.

Even better, it “snows” every hour from midday to 9pm, with magical flurries falling over the piazza. Don’t forget to duck into the covered market for warm lighting, fairy lights, and gift-worthy treats.

King’s Cross at Christmas ✨

Coal Drops Yard and Granary Square transform into a glowing little Christmas pocket. There are indie market stalls, a big tree, and loads of places to get hot chocolate or mulled wine. It’s not huge, but it’s stylish and less manic than the central spots.

Outdoor winter bowling lane at King’s Cross, framed by small Christmas trees and modern illuminated architecture overhead, with vibrant blue lighting along the lanes.
Colourful triangular light installation at Coal Drops Yard, featuring tall neon green, orange, and yellow LED tubes arranged in a cone shape against the backdrop of city buildings at dusk.

Plus, King’s Cross station is just steps away, perfect if you’re travelling in or out of London over the holidays.

Greenwich Christmas Market 🎼

A proper gem tucked away from the tourist trail. Greenwich’s year-round market gets a festive makeover in December with twinkly lights, live music, and a cosy atmosphere that feels very “London local.”

Interior of Greenwich Market with a glass and steel roof glowing with warm yellow fairy lights, deep blue evening sky visible above, and colourful craft stalls and shoppers below in soft golden winter light, London

You’ll find handcrafted gifts, vintage finds, and tasty treats – plus the surrounding streets are beautifully lit. It’s worth the trip if you fancy something a little less central but full of charm.

👉 Read more: Things to Do in Greenwich, London.

Kingston Christmas Market 🏰

If you’ve got time to venture out, Kingston’s market is one of the most traditional. Set in a beautiful historic square, it has a proper Alpine vibe: wooden stalls, warming goulash, festive lights, and fewer tourists.

Kingston Christmas market at night with wooden festive stalls, people sitting and standing around high tables, warm string lights overhead and a tall illuminated Christmas pyramid against a deep blue winter sky
Kingston Christmas market with wooden chalet stalls and long communal tables, people sitting and chatting under warm fairy lights and garlands, festive signs above the stalls and a deep blue winter sky overhead
📸 Kingston Christmas Market

It’s about 30 minutes from central London by train, but makes a lovely half-day festive escape.

Final Thoughts on the Best Christmas Markets in London ❄️

Whether you’re gift shopping, snack hunting, or just in it for the mulled wine, London’s Christmas markets serve up serious festive feels.

These are the ones I think are worth your time: charming, atmospheric, and not just about flashing lights or fairground gimmicks. Wrap up warm and enjoy.

Colourful display of assorted chocolate truffles and marzipan treats at a London Christmas market stall, with handwritten signs and a festive backdrop.

FAQs About London’s Christmas Markets 💡

Here’s what to know before you head off in search of fairy lights and festive snacks.

When do London Christmas markets open?

Most open mid-November and run through to New Year’s Eve, but check each market’s website for exact dates. Some stay open into the first week in January, if you happen to be visiting London in January.

Which market is best for gifts?

Try Greenwich or Winter by the River – both have more local makers and unique stalls.

Are they free to enter?

Yes, all the markets listed here are free to wander.

What’s the best time to go?

Weekday evenings or early weekends for the atmosphere without the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds.

Related Festive Posts 🎄

Planning more Christmassy adventures? These posts will help you make the most of your winter city break.

🎄 A Solo Traveller’s Guide to Christmas in London.
✨ Christmas Lights in London: Where to Find the Best Sparkle.
☕ 7 Cosy Places for the Best Hot Chocolate in London.
🎄 Where to See the Best Christmas Trees in London.
💸 How to Do Christmas in London on a Budget (And Still Feel Fancy).
❄️ Things to Do in London in Winter (That Actually Suit the Season).

Pinterest 📌

Save this guide to the best Christmas markets in London to your festive travel board – perfect for gift hunting and mulled wine planning!

Pinterest graphic titled “The Best Christmas Markets in London” with a festive winter scene of a decorated market stall lit up with fairy lights and snow-dusted roofs.

👉 Looking for practical travel tools? Check out my Travel Resources page.

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