Christmas is not far away, which means that we can get in the spirit now! Whether this is your first Christmas together or your tenth, throw on your Christmas jumpers and get outside-there is something for everyone to enjoy and we are bringing you the best UK Christmas markets for couples today.
It’s understandable that you won’t want to break the bank — especially this close to Christmas. Together with Stagecoach, sellers of affordable bus pass prices, we have created a list of some of the best yet affordable Christmas markets around the UK. Wrap up warm and remember to capture plenty of selfies for Instagram!
Newcastle upon Tyne Christmas Market
Newcastle has a festive transformation over the Christmas period and it’s not something to be missed. If you’re a lover of great architecture, this market is located just under Grey’s Monument at the top of a long and narrow street with plenty of coffee shops and restaurants close by if the cold gets a bit too much!
If you fancy trying a bit of everything around the world, this market is for you. Retailers from across Europe come to Geordieland to sell their traditional dishes, delicious treats, and unusual beverages in romantic wooden huts that are decorated to get you in a festive mood. Once you’ve indulged in enough food from around the world, why not look for a unique gift for your other half – just make sure they’re not looking when you buy it!
If you’re feeling energetic and don’t mind the cold, head to the ice rink at Centre For Life. You’ve every excuse to hold your partner’s hand as you skate around the rink, especially if you’ve forgotten your professional skater tricks!
Open: 11th December – 17th December
Birmingham Christmas Market
Head to Birmingham to get into the German spirit with steins aplenty. Located in Victoria Square, the market makes a great setting for an Instagram post – with bright lights, big trees, fountains and the must-ride iconic carousel.
As there are 180 stalls for you to explore, you’ll definitely see something that catches your eye, whether it is a gift for your parents or bespoke jewelry that will represent your relationship.
Pick up a hot chocolate to keep you warm and wander around the Christmas Village at your leisure.
Open: 17th November – 29th December
Exeter Christmas Market
There’s nothing more Christmassy than the outstanding cathedral that looks over the Christmas markets in Exeter. The wooden huts are taken over by different continents of the world, making for a fun evening of food tasting from different cultures and a unique date night for you and your partner!
If you’re both music lovers, this Christmas market has a bandstand that will be full of entertainment. Don’t forget to join in and sing some of your favorite Christmas carols – we know that it can be too hard to resist!
There are two more markets nearby too, one on Castle Street and the other on Fore Street. Make sure to grab a hot drink to keep you warm for the walk and a Christmas cookie won’t hurt either, will it?
Open: 16th November – 17th December
Lincoln Christmas Market
If you’re one for impressive backdrops, head to Lincoln — this market’s backdrop is iconic, with both a castle and cathedral towering over the 280 stalls. If you’re a fan of freshly baked goods, look no further. And if you want something more than a Christmas cookie, hot food is the market’s specialty. You’ll definitely want to make a return next year!
As well as the wooden huts, the stores along the cobbled street come outdoors to add a little more magic to the Lincoln market, allowing you to shop at places you might not have dreamt of entering before.
Here, you can take a trip on the big wheel and enjoy other fairground rides. Although the duration of this market isn’t long, it’s worth making time for!
Open: 7th December – 10th December
London Christmas Market
If you’re looking for a bit more going on, London is the place to go. Why not take a trip to Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park? You won’t regret it, as there is nothing that you can’t do, whether you want to go ice skating or visit the circus!
If you can’t manage to get there before Christmas, Winter Wonderland stays open after the Christmas period has cooled off. Finish off your day in the capital with a trip to Buckingham Palace and take a selfie outside of the iconic landmark. Booking is strongly advised for Winter Wonderland in London though, just to be on the safe side given the event’s high demand.
Open: 17th November – 1st January
There you have it — which market are you and your loved one going to this year?
Keep reading:
- 8 Long weekend staycation ideas for couples
- Great night markets to put on your travel wish list
- Travel-loving couple? Read all the pros and cons of traveling with your significant other