Christmas markets in London 2026: dates, addresses and tips

The Christmas markets in London They transform the British capital from November onwards: wooden chalets, ice rinks, giant Christmas trees, and illuminations in the shopping streets. Having been based in the UK since 2012, we've selected the best markets, with their 2026 dates and our tips for experiencing them without the crowds.

In short: London Christmas markets 2026 open on 31 October in Leicester Square, then 2 November at the Southbank Centre, 10 November at London Bridge and 19 November in Hyde Park for Winter Wonderland. Most stay open until 3 January 2027 and close on Christmas Day.

Dates of Christmas markets in London in 2026

Here are the 2026 dates for the main Christmas markets in London, according to the organizers and the tourist office. Visit London. Opening hours may change on public holidays: please check them before your visit.

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Market	Dates 2026-2027	Opening hours and information
Leicester Square (market and ice rink)	From October 31, 2026 to January 3, 2027	Closed on December 25th
Southbank Center Winter Market	From November 2, 2026 to January 3, 2027	From 11am to 10pm, bars until 11pm
Winter by the River (London Bridge)	From November 10, 2026 to January 3, 2027	From 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; until 5 p.m. on December 24th, closed on the 25th
Kingston Christmas Market	From November 12, 2026 to January 3, 2027	Southwest of London
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland	From November 19, 2026 to January 3, 2027	Closed on December 25th, tickets available during peak hours

The best Christmas markets in London

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

It's first and foremost the biggest Christmas event in the capital. On the program: over 100 chalets, a huge open-air ice rink, a Ferris wheel, rides, and shows. Entry is free during off-peak hours, but a ticket is required during peak times, and most attractions have an additional charge. Book online. Winter Wonderland official website.

Southbank Center Winter Market

On the banks of the Thames, opposite the London Eye, this market features Alpine-style chalets, street food stalls, and mulled wine. Entry is free, and the atmosphere is particularly pleasant in the evening when the riverbank is illuminated.

Covent Garden

Covent Garden is particularly known for its monumental Christmas tree, spectacular decorations, and artisan markets held in the historic market hall. It's also one of the most popular spots: ideally, visit on a weekday morning.

Trafalgar Square and Leicester Square

Trafalgar Square hosts the giant Christmas tree gifted by Norway each year, along with a small market and choir performances. Just a short walk away, Leicester Square offers a chalet market and an ice rink, perfect before a West End show.

Winter by the River, London Bridge

Facing Tower Bridge and the Tower of London, this riverside market also combines crafts, street food, and views of the illuminated monuments. The sunset there is particularly magnificent.

Greenwich, Kingston and Borough Market

To escape the city center, Greenwich Market adds its Christmas stalls from mid-November, in the heart of the waterfront district. Kingston, in the southwest, also sets up its chalets in its historic square. Finally, Borough Market remains the place to be for food lovers, with special opening hours during the festive season.

Christmas lights not to be missed

London's Christmas markets combine easily with the famous Christmas lights of the shopping streets. Regent Street, Oxford Street, and Carnaby Street are usually illuminated from November onwards. A walking tour from Piccadilly Circus to Covent Garden allows you to see a large part of them in one evening. For a warm break, book a afternoon tea in one of the luxury hotels in the area.

Our tips for visiting Christmas markets in London

• Visit the large markets during the week and during the day: Friday evening and weekends are very busy.
• Use the subway and bus, which are much more convenient than driving in December.
• Book your hotel several months in advance for December weekends.
• Pack warm, waterproof clothing, as temperatures often range between 3 and 9 °C.

To discover another side of the city, also explore our London's off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods.

Combine London with other Christmas markets

London is an excellent starting point for a market tour. To learn more, see also our guides to Christmas markets in Scotland and Christmas markets in Ireland. Bath, York, and Winchester are easily accessible by train: find their dates in our guide. Christmas markets in England. You can also continue on to Scotland for the Edinburgh Christmas Market.

Also not to be missed: the London Winter Wonderland, in Hyde Park, with its rides, ice rink and Christmas market.

Also read: Christmas lights in London 2026.

To plan your entire stay, also read our guide London in December : weather, ice rinks, Harry Potter in the snow and what's open at Christmas.

Want to see other English markets? The Bath Christmas market is a 1 hour 30 minute train ride from London, and the York Christmas market at approximately 2 hours.

Frequently asked questions about Christmas markets in London

When will the Christmas markets open in London in 2026?

Most open between early and mid-November. Winter Wonderland is confirmed from November 19, 2026 to January 3, 2027, and Kingston from November 12, 2026 to January 3, 2027. If you're staying until New Year's Eve, also prepare your New Year in London.

What is the most beautiful Christmas market in London?

For scale and attractions, Winter Wonderland remains the benchmark. If you're hesitating between Bath, York, or Edinburgh, also check our calendar of Christmas markets in the United Kingdom. However, for the atmosphere and the view, we prefer the Southbank Centre Winter Market and Winter by the River, opposite Tower Bridge.

Is entry to the Christmas markets in London free?

Yes, for the vast majority. Only Winter Wonderland requires a ticket during peak hours, and its attractions remain chargeable.

How many days should I allow for the Christmas markets in London?

Generally, two to three days are enough to see the main markets and the illuminations. Add another day if you also want to visit a museum or take an excursion.

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