Discover some of the UK and Europe’s best Christmas markets

Where: King Street West, St. Ann’s Square, Exchange Street, New Cathedral Street, Exchange Square, Corn Exchange, Cathedral Gardens, Market Street, Piccadilly Gardens 

When: 10am to 9pm daily, 8th November to 22nd December 

What to expect: Manchester pulls out all the stops with its legendary Christmas markets, with over 200 stalls in nine locations across the city centre. Pick up handmade and unusual presents at the craft and gift stalls. Or sip and scoff as many seasonal treats as your waistband will allow at a plethora of food and drink stands selling everything from German bratwurst and Spanish paella to traditional British mince pies. 

What else: Make like Bambi at Skate Manchester Ice Rink in Cathedral Gardens. 

How to get there: From Cove – Minshull Street, Piccadilly you’re no more than a 15-minute walk from any of the market locations, but your closest one is at Piccadilly Gardens, just five minutes away on foot. 

Liverpool Christmas Markets 

Where: St George’s Plateau 

When: 11am-10pm daily, 16th November to 24th December 

What to expect: Set against the grand St George’s Hall in the heart of the city centre, Liverpool’s Christmas market is a festive celebration in a historic setting. Sip on mulled wine or spiced cider as you browse more than 40 traditional timber stalls selling everything from quirky gifts to hearty food like Yorkshire pudding wraps and, of course, bratwurst. There’s also a vintage carousel, a big Ferris wheel, and a highly Instagram-able ‘Snow Globe’. 

What else: If you happen to be in town, pop along to the Pop-up Basnett Street Artisan Market on Saturday 30th November (open 10am to 6pm). 

How to get there: It’s just a 10-minute stroll from Cove – Paradise Street, making it easy to hop back to your apartment to warm up after a wintery walk around the market. 

Where: Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park 

When: 10am to 10pm daily, 21st November to 5th January 

What to Expect: Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland is not your average Christmas market. This sprawling extravaganza boasts more than 150 things to do, see, eat and explore – including an ice rink, a giant observation wheel, and even an ice bar. Enjoy classic market favourites like Belgian waffles, churros, and mulled wine – but maybe not right before you jump on one of the many fairground rides… If you prefer to keep your feet firmly planted on the ground, why not check out one of the live shows instead?

What else: Ticket prices range from £5 to £7.50 depending what time you go (it’s very popular, so make sure you book in advance). 

How to get there: It’s easy to get to Winter Wonderland on public transport from any Cove in London… 

Where: Museumplein and Ice Village 

When: 12pm to 9pm, 12th December to 26th December 

What to expect: The Ice Village Christmas market at Museumplein is the largest in Amsterdam, offering a Dutch twist on the classic festive furore. Known for its picturesque ice rink and scenic views, discover traditional festive treats like poffertjes (delicious tiny pancakes) and stroopwafels. Browse more than 45 stalls filled with handmade crafts, seasonal gifts, and local specialities while enjoying the wintry charm of one of Amsterdam’s most famous locations. 

What else: Make sure you book a ticket to skate on the rink at Museumplein – and don’t forget to wear gloves. 

How to get there: Wittenberg by Cove is just over a half-hour walk away, or you can jump on a tram to arrive in around 25 minutes. 

Where: Royal Christmas Fair at Lange Voorhout 

When: 12pm to 9pm, 5th December to 23rd December 

What to expect: The Hague’s Royal Christmas Fair is a regal experience in a charming, tree-lined setting along the historic Lange Voorhout, near the must-visit Binnenhof and Noordeinde Palace. Expect dozens of glowing tents offering artisanal treasures – from handmade candles to intricate ornaments – gourmet foods, and flowing mulled wine. Plus, daily visits from the one and only Santa Claus and festive musical and theatre performances add to the fairytale ambiance. 

What else: In town for a few days? Here’s what to do in The Hague this winter.

How to get there: Lange Voorhout is less than a 15-minute walk from Cove – Centrum, so you can get stuck into the festivities and still be tucked up in bed in no time.