London's Christmas Markets

Southbank Market

The Thames never looks so enchanting than the stretch along the Southbank during the festive season, as it reflects the twinkling Christmas lights of the market that spills over its banks between the Southbank Centre and the London Eye. 

The Southbank Centre’s seasonal food stands and winter pop-up bars have become a staple for capital-dwellers in search of a large dose of festive favourites, warming drinks and an atmosphere of general merriment. Foodies should keep their eyes peeled for gourmet cheese toasties, truffle burgers, fondue, bratwurst, eggnog, dutch pancakes, mince pies, mulled wine and other festive delights to be eaten in hand, or, book a heated snowglobe for a cosier experience. 

You'll be able to browse stocking fillers, gifts, decorations and crafts from independent sellers up until Christmas Eve, so no need to panic buy now.  Plus, what's better than doing your shopping with a Bailey's hot chocolate and a duck wrap in hand?

The winter market runs from Thursday 4 November – Friday 24 December. 

When: everyday, see website for specific times each day

Address: Southbank Market, The Queen's Walk, London SE1 8XX

Website: southbankcentre.co.uk 

Price: free entry

Chelsea's Enchanted Christmas

Set in the wonderfully opulent Chelsea Old Town Hall, this market is a great choice for families, thanks to festive face painting and other seasonal entertainment. All kinds of Christmas gifts and decorations will be on sale alongside traditional food and drink, and each ticket includes a free mince pie and hot chocolate to get you into the holiday spirit.

When: 2021 dates TBC

Address: Chelsea Old Town Hall, King’s Road, Chelsea, London SW3 5EE

Website: None

Price: Free

Selfridges Christmas market

Already a bastion of festive spirit, in 2020 Selfridges launched a Christmas market. Hidden on a mews behind the department store, the market lured walkers-by in with street food, sparkling Christmas lights, fair-ground rides, gift stalls and even a place to pick out Christmas trees. Food stalls included burgers and barbecued meat from Tramshed, fresh egg pasta prepared inside a chunk of Parmesan at Cheese Wheel, traditional currywurst and bratwurst from Pop Dogs, and several options for a festive tipple. Stay tuned to see if it is back this year.

When: 2021 dates TBC

Address: Edwards Mews, London W1U 1AE

Website: selfridges.com

Price: free entry

Festive Flea

Flea London's vintage and makers’ fair in Vinegar Yard is inspired by European flea markets, with an emphasis on sustainable living and independent traders. All items sold will support local and small businesses, and there are more than 40 stalls of handcrafted gifts – plus in December, it's a place to buy your Christmas tree. Sip on mulled wine and feast on warming treats (the chocolate-dipped churros are delicious) as you hunt for wonderfully unique presents.

When: Flea London takes place on Saturdays and Sundays, 12–5pm year-round. Festive Flea begins in December 2021.

Address: Vinegar Yard, 72-82 St Thomas Street, Bermondsey, London SE1 3QX

Website: flealondon.com

Price: free entry