Christmas markets can be a great way to get into the festive spirit, but they’re not all created equal. Avoid the ultra-tacky, crowded markets and visit one of these delightful destinations, as each of them promises unique gifts, delicious food and drink and a gorgeous, traditional aesthetic.
Exeter Christmas Market, Devon
Exeter is a pretty city in the south west of the UK, and offers its fair share of old fashioned timber houses. It also boasts a stunning 11th century cathedral, and it’s in the grounds of this cathedral that the traditional Christmas market takes place even year. With covered areas for eating and drinking, plenty of stalls offering hot mulled cider and wine, and some stunning Christmas lights to enjoy, this market is one to visit if you’re in the south west of the UK.
Harrogate Christmas Market, Yorkshire
Harrogate is a stunning town set in the Yorkshire hills, an ideal location for a traditional Christmas market. With stalls offering everything from handmade fudge, to bespoke carved garden decorations, to Viking style drinking horns, you’re sure to pick up a gift or two for friends and family members here. Don’t miss the market bar, where you can sample traditional drinks including mead and cider, as well as more modern classics such as gin and tonics and spiced rum.
Canterbury Christmas Market, Kent
Canterbury is famous for its stunning cathedral (which has revered literary connections thanks to Chaucer’s famous tales), but its Christmas market is also worth exploring. With a wide array of hot food stands, you can warm up with fresh tartiflette, authentic German sausages and succulent game burgers. There are also some beautiful handmade gifts, including silver jewellery stands, ceramics and glassware.
Christmas markets are a fun way to get into the festive spirit, so make the most of them and check one of these gems out!
