Every winter, the streets of this UK city transform into a sparkling slice of Bavaria, welcoming the return of the largest authentic German Christmas market outside Germany and Austria.
Drawing millions of visitors from across the UK and beyond, it brings the scent of roasted almonds, sizzling bratwurst, and mulled wine, turning the centre of one of England’s biggest cities into a festive wonderland.
UK’s largest authentic German market outside Germany and Austria – with a festive makeover
This is the Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market nestled between Victoria Square and New Street.
Stalls line the heart of Birmingham with hundreds of traders selling handcrafted decorations, wooden toys, and traditional gifts. Visitors can watch artisans at work, from glassblowers to candle makers, while children delight in sweet treats like chocolate-dipped marshmallows and gingerbread hearts. The air hums with festive tunes, and the famous singing moose – perched above one of the beer stalls has become a quirky symbol of the market.
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Traditional German beers and Glühwein flow freely, best enjoyed alongside pork schnitzels or pretzels served piping hot from wooden huts. But this is more than just a market; it’s a celebration of Birmingham’s long-standing friendship with Frankfurt, its twin city since 1966. That cultural connection gives the event its genuine continental atmosphere.
The Christmas cheer extends well beyond the main market. Just around the corner, Centenary Square hosts the Birmingham Ice Skate and Big Wheel, where visitors glide beneath twinkling lights before warming up with a hot chocolate or spiced cider. Shoppers can make a day of it by exploring Birmingham’s world-class Bullring & Grand Central complex, filled with high-end stores and independent boutiques.
Music, light projections, and pop-up performances add to the city’s magical energy throughout the season, making Birmingham’s city centre feel alive at every corner.
Getting to the Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market from Manchester
One of the best reasons to visit? It’s incredibly easy to get to. High-speed Avanti West Coast or CrossCountry trains whisk travellers from Manchester Piccadilly to Birmingham New Street in as little as 1 hour and 30 minutes, dropping passengers mere steps from the market’s entrance. That makes it the perfect festive day trip – arrive by morning, explore by midday, and be back in Manchester by evening with a bag full of gifts and memories.
Find out more about Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market here.
