Love it or loath it, Christmas is on its merry way! With
many Christmas markets unable to go ahead last year due to the pandemic, you
may be left wondering, 'Are Christmas markets going ahead this year?'
The good news is many festive markets are set to open their doors up and down the country, bringing warming gluhwein, traditional wooden crafts, glistening ice rinks and yuletide decorations.
Now is the time to start planning your festive trip, especially if you plan to make a weekend of it away from home. But which market will you choose to visit?
We've collected some of the UK's Christmas markets planned
for this year for inspiration.
20th November 2021 - 2nd January 2022
Where better to celebrate the Christmas season than the beautiful city of Edinburgh? The famous Edinburgh Christmas Market just off Princes Street comes complete with the usual array of crafters, artists, gift shops and, of course, festive food and drink.
Gaze upon the panoramic views of the Scottish capital from the top of the Big Wheel, spin around on the traditional carousel or brave a twirl on the 60-metre-high Star Flyer. If you're a fan of Scottish whisky, take shelter from the chilled Edinburgh air with a visit to the Johnnie Walker Bothy Bar. Situated across a two-floor bar on the Mound, the Bothy will serve a variety of whisky cocktails and hot toddies, showcasing the unique flavours of Scotland.
12th November 2021 - 22nd December 2021
Manchester Albert Square Christmas Market is situated at the heart of the buzzing city, where you'll find mouth-watering international food, drinks and delicately crafted yuletide gifts.
European and local traders gather to showcase their craftsmanship, from fine amber jewellery, handcrafted leather bags, handmade Belgian kitchenware and French soaps, you're sure to find something special to put a smile on your loved one's face come Christmas morning.
20th November 2021 - 23nd December 2021
Belfast City Hall Gardens are transformed into a picturesque
Christmas village ready for the festive season. At the Belfast
Christmas Continental Market, you can indulge in local and continental
delicacies, check out the offerings from a host of international traders and
enjoy a range of sweet treats, wonderful gifts and crafts.
The format of this year's Christmas market is yet to be confirmed, but if previous years are anything to go by, there'll be plenty to keep the kids amused, like a vintage helter-skelter, a snow slide and a Santa train!
4th November - 23rd December 2021
The largest authentic German Christmas market outside
Germany and Austria, Birmingham
Frankfurt Christmas market is sure to put you in the festive spirit! Fill
your boots with German Bratwurst and Brezel, washed down with warming mulled
wine, then find that perfect present at one of the quaintly decorated stalls.
Kids are sure to love the singing moose located outside the council building and keep an eye out for the big wheel and ice rink which is due return to Centenary Square!
19th November 2021 - 22nd December 2021
Winchester
Cathedral's Christmas Market is recognised as one of the best in Europe,
due to its remarkable location, bustling atmosphere and architectural delights.
The pretty Bavarian-inspired chalets are situated in the Cathedral's historic Inner
Close, selling a range of tasty treats and charming Christmas gifts.
A large outdoor ice rink sits at the centre of the market, providing the perfect winter playground for adults and children alike. For a really magical Christmas atmosphere, head down after twilight, when the Cathedral is lit up and a warm glow radiates from the market stalls.
19th November 2021 - 3rd January 2022
For a Christmas to remember, head to London's Hyde Park Winter Wonderland. Alongside
the traditional market, you'll find a giant observation wheel, ice rink, circus
shows and an ice bar. There really is no end of exciting things to do for all
the family!
See your little ones' faces light up as they catch a glimpse of Santa Claus himself in his Christmas grotto! And if that wasn't enough, your children are sure to love 'Santa Land', where all days are merry and bright!
11th November 2021 - 23rd December 2021
Head to Cardiff for a unique and alternative shopping
experience. Organised and successfully run by CraftFolK for over twenty years, Cardiff Christmas Market are
proud to offer original works of art from local craftspeople, so you're sure to
find a Christmas gift that's truly special. Shop the array of bespoke
jewellery, wooden gifts, original artwork, hand thrown ceramics and handmade
textiles, bought directly from the makers themselves.
Beyond the market, head to Cardiff's Winter Wonderland (opening 16th November), where there's a funfair and ice rink as well as a brand-new ice bar. Split across two locations in the heart of the city centre, this year visitors will be able to experience Cardiff's Winter Wonderland at both City Hall Lawn and Cardiff Castle.
Getting travel insurance for a break at home may not seem
necessary. However, even if you are travelling within the UK, you can still
come up against unexpected events that could be covered by travel insurance.
Chances are, you've booked a hotel or holiday home for your trip away, and if you are forced to cancel your trip, you may not be entitled to a refund for your booking. If you are also dependent on public transport to get you to your destination, then travel insurance for your UK holiday becomes even more important. In addition, it's worth considering the other benefits that UK travel insurance offers, including cover for the accidental loss of, theft of, or damage to baggage and valuables.
At Compare Cover, you can compare prices for your travel insurance quickly and easily, so you can relax and get in the festive spirit!
