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London’s Best Christmas Markets 2014
‘Tis (almost) the season to wrap up warm and help yourself to a slice of London’s Christmas markets. Whether you’re looking for artisanal gifts, traditional Bratwurst, a warming glass of mulled wine or just some good old festive fun, read on for our list of the best London Christmas markets.
1. Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park
London’s biggest Christmas market transforms Hyde Park into a Winter Wonderland: complete with an ice rink, theme park rides, a Bavarian village and – of course – an enormous Christmas market. Winter Wonderland is family-friendly and free to enter, but some activities require a paid-for ticket. Bear in mind the park can get very busy at the weekends and in the run up to Christmas.
21 November 2014 – 4 January 2015
2. The Winter Festival at Southbank Centre
From the Rekorderlig Cider Lodge to the Christmas Tree Cafe and Tree Maze, Southbank Centre’s Winter Festival has a lot more to offer than your traditional Christmas market. They also have a jam-packed schedule of festive shows and choir sessions, so be sure to look ahead to see what’s on and ensure you don’t miss out!
5 November 2014 – 11 January 2015
3. More London Christmas Market on Riverside
With views of Tower Bridge and the Tower of London, this location couldn’t be any more “Londony” if it tried. Selling handcrafted gifts and delicious food, this Christmas market will also play home to Santa’s grotto (and his reindeers!) as well as featuring carol singing from local choirs.
8 December 2014 – 21 December 2014
4. Chelsea Christmas Gift Fair at Chelsea Old Town Hall
You have to be quick to catch this three-day event at the Chelsea Old Town Hall. With more than 60 carefully chosen exhibitors, you can pick up all kinds of gifts – ranging from homewares, clothing, toys and specialist food and drink products – while your children are kept entertained with one of their free kids’ workshops. Also, every visitor will be entered into a raffle to win prizes worth a total of ?700, with part of the proceeds going to the Make a Wish Foundation.
12 December 2014 – 14 December 2014
5. Winterville in Victoria Park
Winterville is one for those who like to think outside the box for their festive frolics – London’s newest Christmas market promises to combine East London’s creative energy with talent drawn from across Europe to create a seasonal destination aimed at all ages. As well as the customary stalls and festive ice rink you can also expect a roller disco, alternative cabaret shows and horse drawn carriage tours.
2 December 2014 – 1 January 2015
6. Winter Village at St. John-at-Hackney Church
The stalls at the Winter Village sell everything from ceramics and sculptures to jewellery and soft furnishings. This event will also play host to live music, local choirs and food and drink stalls to keep everybody feeling truly merry.
5 December 2014 – 7 December 2014
7. Hackney Flea-Mas Market at Abney Hall
If you’re looking for unique gifts, then the seasonal version of Hackney’s regular vintage market is the Christmas market for you. The Flea-Mas market specialises in one-of-a-kind, handmade items, with carol singers, Christmas music and a cafe selling mulled wine and homemade cakes continuing the festive feel.