London Bridge City’s annual Christmas market is back. Enjoy scenic views over the river Thames while browsing the German-style chalets dotted around Hays Galleria and City Hall. A handful of bars will be serving up Christmas cocktails, warm cider, mulled wine and craft beers, while more than 60 traders will be on hand selling gourmet treats and handmade gifts.
Markets, eh? They’re pretty nice to wander around at nearly every time of year – especially if you go to a classic, bougie one like Columbia Road Flower Market and not, for example, Warrington Market, where I spent most of my teenage years buying fake Jane Norman bags that smelled of meat. But, at Christmas? Well, that’s when markets come into their own.
Every year, throughout November and December, London fills with the kind of markets that host fairy-light-lined stalls, festive street-food sellers and community tombolas, with a playlist of Christmas songs on loop in the background. In fact, whether you’re looking for tasty treats, traditional decorations and cutting-edge arts and crafts or are just shopping for a last-minute present, the capital’s selection of Yuletide stalls are here to help.
It seems especially fitting to spend the run-up to Christmas Day picking up presents from markets this year, given what a tough two years it’s been for London’s independent businesses. Local makers, creators and traders need your support more than ever, and popping to a ceramics fair or a vintage furniture market is a great way to do just that. Plus, you can’t deny that even a trip to the touristy German-style chalet market on the South Bank is an unbeatable way to serve those festive feels. Christmas shopping’s never looked as good.
We’ll be updating this page with London Christmas markets for 2022 as they are announced.
Recommended: Our complete guide to Christmas in London.
