Temperatures plummet, days shorten and after a few magical weeks of falling leaves, branches are left bare. If there is a silver lining to be found in the not-so-welcome transition from Spring to Autumn, it’s the fast-approaching Festive Season. London shines all year long but it’s when millions of lights are strung across the streets that this effervescent city is its brightest.

Wrap yourself up in an overcoat and scarf, get a steaming cup of Glühwein between your mittens and soak up some Christmas cheer with a tour of London’s Christmas markets.

Enjoy The Festive Season at London’s Christmas Markets

Leicester Square Christmas Market

Located right in the heart of London’s thriving epicentre, the Leicester Square Christmas Market is the perfect spot to dip your toes into the festive season. The busy square is transformed into a mini winter wonderland with fir trees and twinkling Christmas stalls. Sip on warm beverages at the Pravha Czech Inn, shop for a handcrafted tree topper or head to the Leicester Square Spiegeltent to catch this year’s show.

Where: Leicester Square

When: 8 November, 2019 – 5 January, 2020

Southbank Centre Christmas Market

It’s an International food fare with a Christmas at the Southbank Centre Christmas Market. Wood-panelled stalls offering pierogi, pancakes, raclette and souvlaki line the Thames from the Southbank Centre toward the London Eye. Peruse the displays selling handmade jewellery and antique maps for unique gift ideas before making your way to the main market centre at the Underbelly Christmas Market. Warm up by a toasty fires with hot mulled cider at The Rekorderlig Lodge.

Where: Southbank

When: 8 November, 2019 – 5 January, 2020

Christmas By The River

Christmas By The River could be London’s most scenic festive location. With a premium riverside location and views of Tower Bridge and historic Tower of London across the water, this Christmas market in the ideal spot for a romantic evening stroll. Sip on hot gin cocktails and take in some of the most impressive views this city has to offer.

Where: 2A More London Riverside, London SE1 2DB

When: 26 November, 2019 – 5 January, 2020

Winter Wonderland

There’s no bigger Christmas spectacle than Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland with over 100 rides and attractions. While-away hours with live music, pretzels and Glühwein at the Bavarian Village or cosy up to a log fire with a hot chocolate at THOR’S Tipi Bar or explore any one of the dozens of food and beverage spots spanning the enormous event space. With an ice rink, carousel bar, roller coasters and market stalls, there is no shortage of Christmas cheer at Winter Wonderland.

Where: Hyde Park, London W2 2UH

When: 21 November, 2019 - 5 January, 2020