Christmas Markets in London
Tis’ nearly the season and very soon London will be adding to the festive cheer with an array of Christmas Markets dotted across the city. Fabulous gift ideas, Christmas handicrafts, seasonal specialities and a merry atmosphere are guaranteed in the British capital. Here are some of the main Christmas Markets springing up this festive season.
Southbank Centre/London Eye Christmas Market
Featuring typical wooden German chalets, this market offers a festive atmosphere and some great gift ideas such as original amber and silver jewellery, Christmas tree ornaments, toys, candles, ceramics and many others hand crafted items. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Christmas music whilst sipping on a glass of German mulled wine and watching their little ones enjoy the carousel located at the centre of the Christmas Market. Other seasonal specialities available for purchase are Bratwurst, gingerbread, roasted almonds, sweets and crepes. When: 18 Nov to 24 Dec. Sun to Thurs 11am-8pm, Fri and Sat 10am-10pm. Where:Southbank Centre/London Eye. Belvedere Rd, London. Tube station: Waterloo. Price: Free.
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland Christmas Market
This fabulous Christmas Market features more than 100 stalls selling handicrafts and food surrounded by rides and attractions, a Giant Observational Wheel, and the Christmas Circus and Cirque Extreme. Visitors will find continental and festive food there, as well as arts and crafts, jewellery, wooden toys, clothing and decorations, etc. When: 18 Nov to 3 Jan. Nov 18 preview from 5pm, then daily 10am-10pm. Closed Dec 25. Where: Hyde Park. Serpentine Road. Tube station: Hyde Park Corner. Price: Christmas Market free.
British Red Cross Christmas Market
For two days only the British Red Cross will be makings it seasonable contribution and holding a Christmas Market featuring over 80 stalls filled with original gift ideas and seasonal food. There will be special guests, live music and a silent auction with items donated by artists.
When: Nov 28 and 29. Mon 5:30pm-9pm and Tues 10:30am-8pm. Where: Guildhall, Gresham St, London. Tube station: Bank. Price: Mon £30 (including champagne and canapés) and Tues £5.
Candlelit Christmas Market and Carols
A candlelit market is on offer here with seasonal offerings by florist Ronny de Koning such as Christmas trees and decorations, and Italian chef Tito Bergamaschi offering a selection of cheeses from the Lodi province. Mince pies, hot drinks and other festive goodies will also be on sale for visitors to enjoy, and there will be some carol singing from Petersham Playhouse. When: Dec 7 and 14 on Wed 6pm–9pm. Where: Petersham Nurseries. Off Petersham Road, Petersham. Tube station:Richmond.
Taste of Christmas 2011
Sister event to Taste of London and operating on crowns which customers can purchase and use to exchange for a taster of some delicious festive dishes made by top chefs. The likes of Gary Rhodes, Michel Roux Jr. and Rachel Allen will be giving cooking demos and visitors can stock up on goodies for the festive season with chocolate, cheese, beer and wine sold in diverse areas within the market. When: Dec 2 to 4, Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat and Sun 10am-6pm. Where: Excel Centre. 1 Western Gateway, Royal Victoria Dock. Tube station:Custom House. Price:£17:50 - £45.
Here is a map indicating where all the Christmas Markets are. Have a merry Christmas in London!
Anna - Marketing Team