York Christmas Markets by Jolie Whittingham
In a city rich with history and architecture, thriving with independent businesses, York consistently provides an enchanting Christmas Market. Annually, a seasonal pathway of stalls stretches across Parliament Square offering artisan goods, delicious treats and warming festive beverages. Amongst them were perfumeries, artists, clothing boutiques and bakeries! With an abundance of unique vendors, the market offers fresh discoveries every visit, there’s always something new to enjoy throughout the season. Moreover, there is something for everyone: velvety soft brownies from Northern Brownies, savoury snacks from the Gourmet Scotch Egg, and the perfect gift options from The Cat Gallery or Soctopus for friends and family. I visited the Shambles Kitchen’s food truck which served currywurst hotdogs, spicy and warming, adding an extra kick to the night. Paired with a cup of hot mulled wine, it was the perfect way to embrace the festive atmosphere. The vibrant lights, crisp winter air, and buskers filling the streets with Christmas tunes capture the magic of York’s Christmas Market—an experience not to be missed!
Birmingham’s German-style Markets by Jorgah Herbert
The Birmingham German Market is a magnet for people throughout the West Midlands during the holiday season, drawing in crowds that fill the streets and pack the trains from early November all the way to Christmas Eve. This annual event reportedly attracts over five million visitors who come for the delicious bratwursts, copious amounts of German beer, and that unique blend of Bavarian festivity with Brummie warmth.
This beloved market has deep roots stemming from the Frankfurt-Birmingham partnership established in 1966, which solidified their status as partner cities. In 2023, it was honoured as the best Christmas market in the UK and ranked eighth in Europe - a real testament to its popularity and charm. Visitors can savour traditional favourites such as pretzels, lebkuchen (gingerbread) and spiced glühwein (mulled wine). I have fond memories of navigating through bustling queues to reach the hot chocolate stands while the iconic Birmingham Bull stood proudly decked out in its festive attire.
It really does bring the spirit of a classic German Christmas to the heart of Birmingham.
Manchester Christmas Markets by Alexandra Pullen
It’s difficult to escape Christmas in Manchester past the middle of November. But who would want to? The most striking thing about Manchester’s Christmas markets is the sheer scale of them. They are scattered throughout the entire city: St Ann’s Square, Market Street, Cathedral Gardens, Piccadilly Gardens and more! This year, the Manchester Christmas markets were one of the first open, starting from 8 November and running until 22 December. They can certainly be quite overwhelming to navigate, so here’s a little breakdown of where you can find things and some stand-out stalls to look out for.
In Piccadilly Gardens, you will find a huge range of food stalls. Local favourite The Flat Baker are based there this year and the viral kinder and pistachio croissants make a return (they’re definitely worth the hype). If you’re looking for a more filling meal, perhaps head to the Hip Hop Chip Shop or wander down to New Cathedral Street where you can visit the famous Witch House. Just around the corner on Market Street you’ll find crafts stalls, with some cool vinyl coasters, wooden film posters, jewellery and so much more. Maybe you want more of a Christmas activity, so pop to Cathedral Gardens where Manchester’s ice skating rink is each year, or head down Deansgate to Bar Hutte if you’re looking to sing your heart out to some Christmas karaoke.
Watching over all of the festivities, you can see the Big Santa in St Peter’s Square, which has been a part of the Mancunian Christmas experience since the mid ‘80s. So, this year head along to Manchester to check out the many Christmas markets they have to offer.
