With November drawing its final breath, December is upon us and with it comes the happiest time of year: Christmas. Already, the city has begun its seasonal transformation with the turning on of Christmas lights in High Streets, opening of ice skating rinks, and the installation of Christmas trees at royal palaces; Christmas spirit has begun to infect everyone and it surely will only continue to spread as the big day draws nearer and nearer.
Around the capital, dozens of Christmas markets are popping up, offering hot food and drink, eclectic, often handmade goods, and fun for the whole family. Below, we’ve compiled a list of some of the Christmas markets that are worth a visit, even if it’s just as an excuse for a bit of mulled wine.
Southbank Centre
This warm, cheerfully lit bazaar is filled with bratwurst, mulled wine and hot chocolate, and quirky gifts including handcrafted toys, a variety of scarves, and wooden ties (yes, you really can wear them). Additionally, if you leave the market behind, you can skate in the shadow of the London Eye with Eyeskate!
When: Now until 5th January
Where: The Southbank Centre
Nearest Tube: Waterloo, Embankment
Elizabeth Street, Belgravia
On Sunday, 1 December, Elizabeth Street in Belgravia will transform itself as stalls selling gifts, accessories, and food appear. Santa and his reindeer will be making an appearance along with carollers, a brass band, and choirs from local schools. On nearby Pimlico Road, jugglers, trumpeters, and stalls selling roast chestnuts and toffee apples will also pop up for the event.
When: 7th December 2014
Where: Belgravia
Nearest Tube: Victoria, Knightsbridge
The More London Christmas Market
This is no doubt the ‘scenic option’ of London’s Christmas markets as it is set on the bankside of the Thames overlooking Tower Bridge and the Tower of London. Here, stalls will be serving cheeses, chocolates, chutneys, and hot dishes and you can also shop for gifts. In addition to a programme of entertainment, Santa Claus and his reindeer will be making yet another appearance!
When: 8-21 December
Where: London Bridge
Nearest Tube: London Bridge, Monument
Also worth mentioning is Winter Wonderland, the annual Christmas festival that takes over Hyde Park. There will be plenty of stalls with food, drinks, and the opportunity to buy your loved ones presents, but also the chance to enjoy amusement park style rides and ice skating.
No matter what you choose to do this holiday season or where you choose to go, the options in London are by no means limited and we hope that you seize the chance for a great Christmas experience here in the capital at one of these markets or the countless others!
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