The 5 Best UK Christmas Markets in 2019

In the UK we love Christmas, even if it seems to be starting earlier each year. You can take your kids to visit Santa Claus, buy your loved ones the best Christmas presents you can find and know that you are going to be slightly tipsy for the whole of December (and probably November too). For those of you who are travelling from far and wide, the UK is a wonderful place to spend the festive period and what could sound better than shopping in a winter wonderland whilst treating yourself to a mince pie and a glass, (or two), of mulled wine?

We’ve put together a handy guide to advise you on the best UK Christmas markets this year, each city listed is definitely worth visiting over the festive period.

Bath Christmas Market

Bath dates: 28th November - 15th December 2019

Bath Christmas Market Photo by @rarabunga

The Bath Christmas Market is often talked about as the best and biggest of its kind in the South West, and it’s not hard to see why. This event is not one to be missed and with the city decorated so beautifully, you will find Christmas cheer around every corner. It houses more than 170 wonderfully decorated stalls in the heart of Bath’s World Heritage Site.

Rest assured there will be plenty of options for Christmas present ideas, from gorgeous individual artisan products to delicious festive goodies. There’s also a variety of things to do, including a magical ice rink located not far from the markets with a glow in the dark mini-golf course. There are lots of other Christmas activities going on all around the city and many ways to keep yourself occupied. Don’t forget to treat yourself, to some delicious mulled wine and local delights from one of the stalls after a long day.

The Bath Market is based in Bath's City Centre and for those of you who are thinking of planning a visit, our SACO Bath apartments are based a short two-minute walk from the markets. Getting to and through the markets may take a little longer as roads in and out of the city may be busier than usual. If you are planning a visit here, you can explore most parts of Bath by foot as it is compact and a very accessible city.

Edinburgh Christmas Market

Edinburgh dates: 17th November 2019 - 5th January 2020

Edinburgh Christmas Market Photo by @snapsbyshirin

Heading to the Scottish capital at this time of year is a great way to experience a truly magical winter wonderland, and it may even be snowing which would make the visit to Edinburgh Christmas Market extra special. These splendid markets are getting bigger and better every year, so expect there to be many wonderful things to do and lovely sites to see.

Amongst the twinkling lights, the enchanting sounds, the fun and the laughter you will be able to find some wonderful heartfelt gifts. Whether you are looking for vintage ornaments or personalised chocolates (that may or may not make the trip back home) your best bet is to look here first. Supporting local businesses is another great gift you will be giving when buying from the markets, which we think makes it more special. There is so much more than Christmas shopping, enjoy views of the stunning capital from the big wheel, take a spin on the endearing carousel and bravely twirl on the 60m high Star Flyer. Younger kids can embark on an adventure through the Christmas tree maze to try and find the hidden Elves’ Workshop, as well as many other fantastic surprises along the way. You can find a full list of the shows, events and attractions here.

Our Eden Locke apartments are located a scenic ten-minute walk from Princes Street Gardens, where the Markets are being held. Exploring Scotland’s capital is a fantastic experience and you do get to truly immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit.

Bristol Christmas Market

Bristol dates: 8th November - 24th December 2019

Bristol Christmas Market Photo by @miyako_uk

Every day Bristol is a city of wonder and bustling people so just imagine how magical it is during the festive period. We can always guarantee three things at the Bristol Markets; there will be cheer, the Bristolians will be merry, and the city will be even more alive than usual. The markets for 2019 will be based in the centre of Bristol housed under a large sparkling Christmas tree, its glittering lights will both welcome and guide you through the enchanting stalls. You can wander the streets with stalls left, right and centre whilst being able to choose from a delicious array of food and hot drinks to accompany you. There will be over 50 individual stalls selling bespoke crafts and seasonal delights, it is the best place to choose the perfect Christmas gift. You also won’t be stuck for entertainment as the Bristol Christmas Market is famous for having plenty of live music, winter-related activities and two ice rinks to enjoy on either side of the city.

It is also a great excuse to stay over and take in all the city has to offer. Both of our stylish SACO Bristol properties are just a hop, skip and jump away from the festivities. There will be markets on the famous Harbourside with its waterfront setting, on the quirky Corn Street, at the award-winning St Nicholas Markets and the ever-popular local market at Broadmead which are all within a ten-minute walk of our properties.

Manchester Christmas Market

Manchester dates: November 9th - December 22nd 2019

Manchester Christmas Market Photo by @scollo.alessandro

The buzzing heart of Manchester city will once again be embraced with the amazing Christmas markets tempting us with mouth-watering food, drinks, handmade jewellery, clothes and crafted gifts. With over 300 wonderfully decorated stalls some argue that the Manchester Market is the original, biggest and best Christmas market in the UK and for a festive outing this is the perfect destination.

Within the markets will also be a range of Belgian, French and other European producers offering everything from top-quality bonsai trees, handmade kitchenware to soaps and amber jewellery. The Manchester Christmas Markets create a wonderfully curious trail through the city centre where you can explore and find Manchester’s hidden secrets. The ice village offers fun for all the family - upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a unicorn, a griffin and a dragon at the entrance. Inside the village you can experience an interactive ice sculpture tour in the Ice Cavern, head to the Artic Bar for a much need refreshment, take a spin on the ice rink and watch a variety of very talented performers.

The markets are so big they take over most of the city, to take it all in we recommend staying over to be able to enjoy all of Manchester’s festive magic. Our SACO Manchester apartments are based just a short stroll from all the markets and on your walk, you’ll be able to explore the beautiful city surroundings.

Nottingham Christmas Market

Nottingham dates: 14th November – 31st December 2019

Nottingham Christmas Market Photo by @behindthebackpack

Nottingham is known to hold the biggest Christmas market and party in the East Midlands every year, and each time it seems to get even bigger and more extravagant. For 2019, the Nottingham Markets will present 70 stalls offering wonderful delights for you to gaze upon and enjoy.

In this winter wonderland, you will find a lovely array of local produce, hand-crafted gifts and traditional treats. Exploring these markets is a magical experience as they are held in some of Nottingham’s most picturesque places. As you visit all the different stalls make sure to treat yourself to a festive mince pie and a glass of mulled wine. In and amongst the charming mix of stalls will also be some very funky bars from off-piste European interiors as well as cosy rooftops offering panoramic views of the Christmas shoppers and beautifully constructed ice sculptures all around. Nottingham at Christmas time has so much to offer and a variety of things to see.

The best way to take in all that the Nottingham Christmas Markets have to offer is to spend a few days exploring at your own pace. Our SACO Nottingham apartments are only a ten-minute walk from all the action, allowing you to take in all the twinkly lights and Christmas cheer along the way.

Make a weekend of the UK Christmas markets

To really get into the Christmas spirit, book a staycation at one of these cities today so that you can experience the festive magic for yourself. Our apartments are in great locations close to many of the Christmas markets around and staying over in one of these wonderful cities is a great way to really immerse yourself into the Christmas spirit.