We’re very proud of our Christmas Markets here in Manchester, but sometimes we have to give it to our neighbours, they put up a pretty good fight. With the likes of Chester and York constantly coming out on top, it’s a nice change to focus on somewhere a little more rogue, and Liverpool Christmas Market gives us just that.
Which? has compiled the best selection of Christmas markets in the UK, focusing on their earlier study of best UK cities, coming out with a list of eight of the very best. Each of them have “great gastronomy, fantastic cultural attractions, or both – scoring at least four out of five in those categories.”
Liverpool has one of the best Christmas markets in the UK
Voted the UK’s premier large city, Liverpool excels across the board—earning five stars for cultural sights and top marks for food, accommodation, and value. Crucially for the festive season, it was also rated joint-best for shopping, with hotel rates averaging £50 less per night than London and undercutting Manchester as well.
Against the stunning backdrop of a fairy-lit St George’s Hall, the Christmas Market features grotto-style stalls and gingerbread houses. However, visitors note a distinct shift from tradition: rather than choral music and artisan crafts, expect a lively atmosphere filled with 80s pop, fairground rides, and hearty comfort food like roast ham baps. For those seeking history and tradition, Which? members highly recommend the Albert Dock museums, the Walker Gallery, and the city’s two majestic cathedrals – so you won’t be missing out on some classic Christmas charm.
Other top UK Christmas markets
Elsewhere in the UK, there’s plenty of choice — you could pick the 200 chalets lining the Georgian cobbles of Bath, the nostalgia of York‘s 30-year-old St Nicholas Fair or visit Belfast‘s Dickensian performance pop-ups, even after you’ve had your fill of gluhwein and bratwurst.
Old faithful Chester Christmas market also appeared – what can we do? It’s a classic – and a nod to Durham and the gorgeous markets in Edinburgh complete the northern (and Scottish) entries, with the charm of the likes of Winchester and Wells also coming up tumps.
The best UK Christmas markets
In no particular order:
- Bath
- Chester
- Durham
- Winchester
- Wells
- Liverpool
- Edinburgh
- York
- Belfast