Roll out the chalets and let the fake snow fall, Christmas markets are back. Following a couple of disappointing years, stalls that bring an after-dark buzz to the UK’s historic centres are again being set out.
As somewhere to show your support for local artisans and food producers, traditional markets are a great place to get cracking on your festive shopping lists. So treat yourself to a spiced wine and a slice of marzipan-moistened stollen at one of the UK’s best Christmas markets.
Bath Christmas Market
(Bath Christmas Market)
Returning to celebrate its 20th year, Bath’s market has the kind of atmosphere you could bottle and pour into a festive candle. The chalets (170 this year) stand on cobbled streets outside Georgian shop windows or have Bath Abbey as a backdrop. Pretend snowflakes fall, while shoppers can pop into the abbey to join in with “shoppers carols”. The city’s splendid architecture is bathed in purples and pinks as part of Bath’s city lights trail. If the mix of gin, cheese and handmade gifts doesn’t appeal, visit the Elves’ Swapshop (£5, 1 Abbeygate Street). This genius, sustainable “shop”, sees children bring in an old toy, which elves put into a big machine. They collect a voucher in return and can choose another pre-loved or upcycled toy to take home.
When?
Until 11 December 2022
More information
Edinburgh Christmas Market
Edinburgh’s Christmas – Market
(Matt Beech)
Dominated by a sparkling big wheel at the top of East Princes Street Gardens, this market of 70 stalls has memorable views of Edinburgh Castle and the Scott Monument beyond its pointed chalet roofs. Pick from a selection of handmade decorations and gifts or tuck into something from the food stalls, with Scottish specialities available alongside Bavarian produce. Warming your hands around a hot toddy is essential. Children who want to burn off steam can visit the nearby Christmas tree maze, fairground and ice rink at West Princes Street Gardens.
When?
Until 3 January 2023
More information
Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market
Exeter Christmas Market takes over the Cathedral square
(Exeter Christmas Market)
Exeter’s market is one of the UK’s most picturesque, located at Cathedral Green, beneath the city’s magnificent gothic building. Here, more than 100 chalets bear handcrafted…
Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at The Independent Travel…