As the countdown to the festive season approaches, plan ahead and look forward to experiencing the magical atmosphere, mouth-watering aromas and inspired gift ideas with a visit to one of the UK’s enchanting Christmas markets.

There are many great ones to choose from, but here are a few suggestions to get your Christmas preparations off to an excellent start as well as a selection of superb B&B accommodation nearby:-

Edinburgh’s Christmas Markets (15 Nov – 4 Jan)

Set against the dramatic backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, the 2025 Edinburgh Christmas Market fills Princes Street Gardens with twinkling lights, traditional chalets and the aroma of mulled wine. Expect a mix of Scottish crafts, international street food and family-friendly attractions, all wrapped in the city’s unmistakable winter magic.

B&Bs nearby:-

Straven Guest House ( a regular 20 minute bus ride to the city centre)  -Victorian guest house in peaceful setting close to beach.

The Eskbank (close to Edinburgh Park & Ride)  – Guest House in a beautiful garden.

Ashcroft Farmhouse (4 miles to Park & Ride to city centre)  – Purpose built, award winning farm guest house providing high quality accommodation.

Glenalmond (5 miles from Park & Ride to city centre)  – Attractive bungalow close to Edinburgh Park and Ride.

 

Bath Christmas Market (27 Nov – 14 Dec)

Bath’s Christmas Market transforms the streets around its iconic Abbey into a cosy, golden-lit wonderland. Over 150 chalets showcase artisan gifts, handmade decorations, and gourmet treats, creating one of the UK’s most picturesque festive shopping experiences—perfect for soaking up Georgian charm.

B&Bs nearby:-

April Cottage B&B (4 miles from Bath) – 17th century stone cottage surrounded by attractive farmland and woodland.

Herb Cottage (6 miles from Bath) – Charming cottage with uninterrupted views.

Conygre Bungalow (6 miles from Bath) – Former farmhouse bungalow.

Church Farm (8 miles from Bath) – Mixed working farm in an attractive hamlet.

 

Cardiff Christmas Market (13 Nov to 23 Dec)

In the heart of Wales’ capital, the Cardiff Christmas Market brings together a vibrant community of local makers, artists and food producers. Stalls line the city centre with unique crafts and festive flavours, offering a lively and colourful seasonal atmosphere for visitors of all ages.

B&B nearby:-

Clawdd Coch Guest House (8 miles from Cardiff)   -Beautifully appointed Guest House with glorious views of the attractive Vale of Glamorgan.

 

York Christmas Market (13 Nov – 21 Dec)

York’s historic streets host the enchanting St Nicholas Fair, where alpine-style chalets fill the medieval city with festive cheer. Visitors can browse handcrafted gifts, sip warm festive drinks and enjoy the timeless beauty of The Shambles and Parliament Street as they sparkle with Christmas lights.

B&Bs nearby:-

Arnot House, York – Victorian guest house within walking distance of city centre, parking available.

Apple Tree Cottage (12 miles away) – Self-catering ,Grade II listed barn, sympathetically converted and restored to a very high standard.

 

Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market (21 Nov – 22 Dec)

Nestled beside Winchester Cathedral, the 2025 Christmas Market is known for its charming, German-style ambience. With high-quality artisan stalls, an emphasis on craftsmanship, and a beautifully lit cathedral backdrop, it offers one of the most atmospheric and refined festive markets in the UK.

B&Bs nearby:-

Farthing Corner (13 miles from Winchester) – 15th century thatched home in 3.5 acres of gardens.

Grove House (17 miles from Winchester) – Traditional country house in the New Forest National Park.

Knox Farmhouse (19 miles from Winchester) – Late Victorian farmhouse set in beautiful, peaceful countryside.

 

Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market(1 Nov – 24 Dec)

The 2025 Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market brings an authentic slice of Germany to the Midlands. Known for its bratwurst, pretzels, traditional wooden toys and steaming mugs of glühwein, the market transforms Victoria Square and New Street into a lively winter celebration with a distinctly Bavarian twist.

B&Bs nearby:-

Alcott Farm (7 miles from Birmingham)  – Country house in attractive and rolling countryside.

 

Manchester Christmas Market ( 7 Nov – 22 Dec)

Manchester’s 2025 Christmas Markets return bigger and brighter, spreading across multiple city-centre squares with bustling stalls, glowing lights and the famous giant Santa. From international street food to handcrafted gifts and festive drinks served in collectible mugs, this vibrant market delivers one of the UK’s most energetic Christmas atmospheres.

B&Bs nearby:-

Goose Green Farm (13 miles from Manchester) – Edwardian farmhouse set in peaceful countryside just 30 mins drive from Manchester.

 

Check out our Days Out Diary for further details of Christmas Markets and events around the country.