Beyond london: discover 2024’s most magical christmas markets | London Daily News

As the festive season rolls in, nothing warms the heart and sparks holiday cheer quite like a Christmas market. Whether you’re seeking dazzling immersive light shows, uplifting live music, unbeatable shopping, or sustainable stocking fillers, there’s a market to suit every festive fancy – and the best part? These incredible markets are just a day trip away from London, so you don’t have to spend on accommodation if it is out of budget.

From the enchanting Georgian charm of Bath to the twinkling stalls of Winchester, the historic backdrop of Blenheim Palace, and the vibrant atmosphere of Southampton, these Christmas markets offer an unforgettable experience for families and friends alike. So, grab your mittens and your sense of wonder as we explore the best festive escapes, two hours or less via Busbud coach or train from London..

Christmas at Blenheim Palace

Dates: 15 November – 1 January

Travel time: 1 hour from London to Oxford | From £15

This UNESCO World Heritage Site transforms into a winter wonderland during the festive season — offering an enchanting blend of history and holiday cheer. Highlights include an immersive light trail that illuminates the Palace’s historic gardens, ice skating under-cover at The Great Skate — perfect for family fun, and a Neverland feature where you can follow Tinkerbell as she sprinkles fairy dust throughout the State rooms.

Food lovers will be delighted by the selection of street food stalls, serving everything from comforting classics to international delights. The Orangery Restaurant also offers a Neverland Afternoon Tea, which must be experienced. Christmas at Blenheim Palace is more than a market – it’s an unforgettable festive experience steeped in history and charm.

Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market

Dates: 22 November – 22 December

Travel: 2 hours from London to Winchester | From £13

Set against the backdrop of Winchester Cathedral, this Christmas market radiates timeless charm. Those who are short of time can tour the cathedral in 20 minutes, 40 minutes or an hour with their must-see visitor’s guide. If the range of Christmas Carol performances on offer doesn’t warm your heart – the traditional Christmas food stalls will.

The seasonal treats like mince pies and mulled cider on offer make for a perfect way to soak in the festive spirit, for those who want a quintessentially British holiday experience.

Southampton Christmas Market

Dates: 15 November – 5 January

Travel: 2 hours from London to Southampton | From £12

Southampton’s Christmas Market delivers a vibrant festive experience with a focus on live music and sustainable stocking fillers. More than 30 independent stallholders offer everything from specialist tweed and personalised Christmas decorations to soaps and candles. Children can enjoy rides on a traditional horse carousel. Santa’s workshop on the south side of the Bargate is the place to be if the young ones want their photo taken with Santa (and receive a small gift too).

Adults can escape to Southampton’s Après Bar stocked with tasty hot chocolates, and hot mulled cider all served in mini alpine chalets that can be booked for groups of 10 people.

Guildhall Square boasts the UK’s tallest Ferris wheel and the thrilling AtmosFear, which can whirl riders up to 80ft into the sky! The town’s true spectacle – a mesmerising light show – goes on display at the Bargate’s historic walls every evening.

Bath Christmas Market

Dates: 28 November – 15 December 2024

Travel: 1 hour 20 minutes from London to Bath | From £17

Bath’s Christmas Market pairs its iconic Georgian architecture with twinkling festive lights, creating a magical backdrop for holiday shopping. This celebrated market features over 150 stalls offering handmade gifts, local produce, and indulgent festive treats.

Visitors can sip mulled wine as they wander through charming cobbled streets of the heritage city centre of Bath. At this time of year, the air is filled with the scents of freshly baked goods and the peaceful hum of carollers. Ideal for a day trip, this market blends Bath’s historic elegance with the warmth of the holiday season.

Wrapping up the year in festive cheer

From families to friend groups and travellers looking to experience a British Christmas for the first time, these destinations offer unique ways to celebrate the festive season. Each offers its unique twist on festive cheer, making them perfect day trips or weekend getaways from London.

This holiday season, step outside the capital and embrace the magic waiting just a short journey away. With warm drinks in hand, twinkling lights above, and the scent of Christmas in the air, there’s no better way to make lasting holiday memories.

Feature image by Winchester Cathedral