The 25 Best Family-Friendly Christmas Markets in the UK

There’s no better way to get into the festive spirit than by visiting a Christmas market in a town or a city near you in the UK this winter. With most Christmas markets starting in mid-November and running until the New Year, there’s plenty of time to get to one before the festive season starts. And if you’ve got kids, what better way for them to experience the magic of Christmas than by meeting Santa Claus or some real-life reindeer at one of these stunning markets? These are the 25 best family-friendly Christmas markets in the UK in 2025.

Which Are The Most Family-Friendly Christmas Markets in the UK in 2025?

25. Barnsley Christmas Market

Brand new for 2025, the South Yorkshire town of Barnsley is hosting its first-ever Christmas market in The Glass Works Square, from late November until the weekend before Christmas.

The Christmas Market will feature 30 stalls, which is ideal for those with children who can get bored easily, as it’s not too big compared to others, and for those with younger children, it’s easy to walk around because it’s all contained in one area.

With lots of festive food and drink on offer, and a traditional carousel ride for younger kids, it’s a great place to take children to experience their first traditional Christmas market without being too overwhelmed.

Dates: 29th November – 21st December

24. Old Eldon Square Christmas Village – Newcastle-upon-Tyne

There are five different Christmas markets on in Newcastle this year, but the best one to visit with kids is the one at Old Eldon Square, right in the heart of the Toon.

This market is aimed at families, and it has some of the best amenities of any Christmas market in the country. There’s a shack showing all of your favourite festive films, perfect for escaping the cold.

There’s a stall called Mrs Claus’ Bakery, where little ones can bake and decorate their own festive cookies with Mrs Claus herself, while the Rockin’ Reindeer Stage Show puts on family-friendly shows with local actors playing the roles. Finally, there’s a Story Time with Santa area, where children can listen to Santa tell them short Christmas-themed stories, giving parents the chance to grab some tasty food or a warming mulled wine for a few minutes.

Dates: 15th November – 23rd December

23. Fowey Christmas Market Weekend

Despite just running for one weekend in November, over 100 stallholders pack out the Cornish harbour town of Fowey, making it one of the best family-friendly Christmas markets in the country.

As well as local food and drink vendors, the harbour is decorated with twinkling lights, adding an extra festive feel to the area, and is a great way to get children excited for the upcoming festive season.

The biggest attraction for families is the opening of the festival on the Friday afternoon, which always opens the same way – with Santa Claus being pulled on a sleigh, followed by a local big band style parade. It’s only the distant squawk of seagulls that reminds you you’re in Cornwall and not New York City!

Even if you miss this initial parade, there are live street performers and live music throughout the weekend to catch.

Dates: 14th – 16th November

22. Bristol Christmas Market

Over 40 stalls descend onto Bristol’s streets for their annual Christmas market, including daily visits from Santa and his Elves for the children.

Fairground rides are an attraction here, with them being primarily aimed at children, offering a fun and festive escape from being dragged around food stall after food stall with their parents.

Custom churros and crepes are a particular favourite among the younger audience, and being able to choose your own toppings gives them a sense of independence and delight – who doesn’t want to create their own crepe after all?

You could even opt to book the private hot air balloon attraction with your family to create core memories at Bristol Christmas Market this year.

Dates: 7th November – 23rd December

21. Kirkby Lonsdale Christmas Fair

Nestled in the heart of the charming Yorkshire Dales, Kirkby Lonsdale Christmas Fair has long been a staple for Yorkshire families to visit – and those from further afield, of course – every December.

Hosted over one weekend, the fair itself is primarily aimed at families with younger children. Starting out on the Friday afternoon with a Santa parade and the Christmas lights switch on with the Big Man himself, the fair then offers lots of other family-friendly activities throughout the weekend.

Some of these include Santa’s Grotto (where all children receive a present and get to meet Santa), the Penguins Family-Friendly Puppet Show, Children’s Christmas Story Trail and Christmas Carols sung by a local choir.

Many of the independently-owned small businesses in Kirkby Lonsdale stay open during the weekend, making it the perfect opportunity to support local businesses at the same time.

Dates: Friday 5th – Sunday 7th December

20. Pembroke Castle Christmas Market

Set in one of Wales’ mightiest castles, the Pembroke Castle Christmas Market runs over the final weekend in November.

Packed with local stallholders selling their wares from food and drinks to arts and crafts, the setting is one of the most magical for children. The castle is decorated for Christmas during the markets, so if your little ones are fans of the Harry Potter books and movies, then they’ll love the Pembroke Castle Christmas Market, as it feels like you’re in Hogwarts in the festive season.

Christmas markets inside a 900-year-old castle are something that your kids will never forget – so if you’re local to the area, make sure you visit this year.

Dates: 26th – 30th November

19. Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market

One of the UK’s longest-running Christmas markets – having started in 2001 with a mere 24 stalls – is now one of the UK’s largest, and runs throughout the festive season. No sooner are your Halloween decorations put away than Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market opens its doors.

Designed like a traditional German Christmas market – as its name suggests – this is a fantastic way for children to experience what a European Christmas market is like without the stress, effort and cost of travelling to the continent.

Live music is performed throughout the market, with many local schools being involved through their choirs or budding young musicians, so this is a great chance for your kids to get involved if you’re local to the area.

A festive under-cover ice rink makes for a fun experience with kids, while the adjacent Ice Lounge is a great place to grab a hot chocolate and watch all of the sparkling lights on an evening.

Dates: 1st November – 24th December

18. Winter Wonderland Norwich

For a fun experience with the whole family – whether you’ve got toddlers or teens – Winter Wonderland in Norwich is a timeless experience suitable for all ages.

While there are more extreme fairground rides for the adrenaline junkies among us, there are also lots of child-friendly rides, such as a Santa train rollercoaster, a Ferris wheel which offers 360° views over the Winter Wonderland, and bungee trampolines for those aged four and above. There’s something for everyone here.

And if you’re not into rides, there’s a Santa’s Grotto to visit, a Christmas Tree Maze, ice skating, and Mistletoe Lane Christmas Market for all of your food, drink and handmade crafts goods. While entry does cost, families can easily spend a full day here, and it makes for a memorable experience for kids for years to come.

Dates: 14th November – 4th January 2026

17. Exeter Cathedral Christmas Markets

Combining the traditional Christmas story with modern-day Christmas markets, Christmas at Exeter Cathedral is another great place to visit with your family.

With over 100 stallholders, Devon’s largest Christmas market is a must-visit for those with young children. 

The looming backdrop of the 12th-century Cathedral adds an extra touch of pomp and ceremony to the proceedings, and the photo opportunities are limitless.

With everything from contemporary food stalls to traditional carol singing and even Christmas quizzes, there’s a lot to keep families entertained at Exeter Cathedral Christmas Markets.

Dates: 20th November – 19th December

16. Aberdeen Christmas Village

Found on Broad Street in the city centre, Aberdeen Christmas Village is one of Scotland’s most family-friendly Christmas markets.

The outdoor ice rink provides entertainment for the whole family, while the selection of tantalising treats in the form of freshly made doughnuts, coffee, and, of course, mulled wine, makes for a memorable trip to the Christmas Village.

There are also several fairground rides – from bumper cars to a ghost train with a Christmas twist and a Ferris wheel with commanding views over the city. A visit to the Christmas Village is an excellent way to get into the festive spirit, and the naturally cold December weather in northeastern Scotland is, for once, a nice natural touch!

Dates: 13th November – 31st December

15. Leeds Christmas Market

Yorkshire’s largest city certainly delivers when it comes to its Christmas market. Held across Millennium Square and City Square, it's the former markets which make this a great place to visit with the family.

Millennium Square lights up in twinkling reds, golds and greens – traditional Christmas colours – for that retro Christmas feeling that brings everyone back to their childhood. In addition, the ice rink is a fun activity for the whole family, while the carousel and big wheel are also suitable for those with children.

There are numerous different stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to sizzling sausages and, of course, Yorkshire pudding wraps. This is a must-visit if you’re in and around the Leeds area this festive season.

Dates: 21st November – 31st December

14. Swansea Christmas Market

Wales’ second city also knows how to do Christmas markets – and especially family-friendly ones.

Set in the city centre, it's easy for all to access via public transport or driving, with ample car parking nearby. It’s only a short walk from most public transport terminals, making it convenient for those who have younger children who can get tired legs easily.

A feature that makes the Swansea Christmas Market stand out from its other competitors is the Carolers’ Cabin – a space which provides live music from local school choirs and musicians throughout the festive period. When the cabin isn’t in use for live music, the sparkly interior and beautiful backdrop make for the perfect spot for a family photo.

There are also lots of heated, sheltered outdoor areas which make for the perfect place to warm up – especially when there’s steaming hot chocolate on offer, too.

Dates: 23rd November – 22nd December

13. Glasgow Winterfest

Glasgow Winterfest has previously been crowned the most family-friendly Christmas market in Scotland, and it's easy to see why it has won this accolade before.

For families with younger children, a visit to Santa’s Grotto is a must – how often do they get the chance to meet Santa and receive a gift, too?

The ice rink at George Square is a good attraction for families with slightly older children, while the wide selection of funfair rides is suitable for families with children of all ages, from toddlers to teens.

In addition, you can book a festive film screening in a heated hut, with holiday classics such as Home Alone, A Muppet’s Christmas Carol, The Polar Express, and more.

Dates: 18th November – 5th January 2026

12. Canterbury Christmas Market

Set alongside the mighty 1,400-year-old Canterbury Cathedral, the Canterbury Christmas Markets are some of the best in the south of England for families.

The Cathedral itself is illuminated throughout the festive period, making it one of the most beautiful backdrops to any Christmas market anywhere in the world.

While the market itself has a wide array of stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to Bavarian-style food, the real attraction for families is actually inside the Cathedral itself.

Christmas trees line the pews, transforming it from a medieval church into a Christmas wonderland. In addition, Santa and his Elves pay a visit, and can be found in and around the Cathedral, while there are also games and activities for little ones in the church itself, which is a great place to escape the biting cold outside.

Dates: 12th November – 24th December

11. Nottingham’s Winter Wonderland

Like other Winter Wonderland events, Nottingham’s is no exception to the rule that they are some of the best family-friendly Christmas markets in the country.

The ice rink allows children as young as four years old to enter (with an adult), while there is also a huge selection of children-friendly fairground rides, as well as the larger ones for thrill-seekers.

The observation wheel makes for a fun and memorable experience, and if you live locally, it’s a fun activity to try and spot certain landmarks with your young ones (such as your house, the kids’ school, or even The City Ground – where Nottingham Forest play football).

A unique feature at Nottingham’s Winter Wonderland is the Toboggan Ride – so if you want to channel your inner Cool Runnings, then this is the place to do it. It’s child-friendly too (so long as an adult accompanies them), so this makes a nice change from the standard market stalls which many Christmas markets simply offer.

Dates: 12th November – 31st December

10. Chester Christmas Markets

The quaint, historic northwest city of Chester has some of the best Christmas markets as far as family-friendly ones go.

Unlike many other city centre Christmas markets, Chester’s is not a huge, sprawling maze of stalls all selling the same thing at slightly different prices; instead, it’s compact, small and walkable, even with very young children. In turn, this makes it manageable for children who may become overwhelmed easily at a larger Christmas market.

The huge tree in the centre of the market is impressive enough, but just a short distance from the market is Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet, home to the UK’s largest artificial Christmas tree – and because it’s so close to the city centre markets, the two can be done in one visit. Excellent photo opportunities await!

The Ferris wheel also takes on a festive spin, becoming the ‘Santa in the Sky Big Wheel’, adding a nice festive touch to this classic fairground-style ride, and seeing the city’s twinkling lights from above is a great experience for kids.

Dates: 19th November – 22nd December

9. Cardiff Christmas Markets

While the Cardiff Winter Wonderland may take the plaudits in most cases, the Cardiff Christmas Market is arguably more family-friendly.

The Welsh capital is fortunate enough to have both a Winter Wonderland and a smaller, more family-friendly Christmas market, which is ideal for those with children.

What makes this market brilliant for families is that it is solely set up in the pedestrianised areas of the city, making it easy to reach on foot, especially for those with pushchairs and prams. 

Its small and walkable nature makes it a good option in general, and with attractions like a Santa’s Grotto, live music, children’s entertainers and more, it’s well worth a visit for those with children.

Dates: 13th November – 23rd December

8. Enchanted Winter Garden – Antrim

Festive lights, Santa Claus, rides and more – this Northern Irish Christmas market experience is a must-visit for those with families this festive season.

This is a unique experience, because while there are market stalls selling produce, the focus is primarily on local foodstuffs – rather than the usual Christmas market fare, which involves a more European experience. If you enjoy trying local and supporting local, then this is where you should go this festive season.

As for those with families, the event is purposefully a low-light event, making it feel all the more magical, with the whole area being primarily lit by Christmas lights, adding a festive aesthetic to the whole experience, with particular care and attention being given to families with neurodivergent children. A fully inclusive and festive Christmas market – it’s a win-win in our book.

Dates: 28th November – 30th December

7. Chatsworth Christmas Market

With over 100 stalls selling their wares, this is a great family-friendly Christmas market.

But it’s not the stalls that make it so family-friendly – there are so many other activities for those with children, that the market stalls are a secondary part of the experience when visiting here with your family.

For starters, there is a Christmas-themed petting zoo, where children can hold and stroke all types of animals, from guinea pigs and rabbits to sheep and goats, while the children’s playground area takes on a festive twist and is a great place for your little ones to burn off some energy.

There is also a light and sound trail, offering a sensory experience for younger children, with items to find on the way, making it an interactive experience for children of all ages.

Dates: 8th November – 14th December

6. York Christmas Markets

One of the most picturesque cities in the UK, the medieval city of York transforms into a Christmas paradise from mid-November until the weekend before Christmas when the Christmas markets hit the city.

And for families, it’s a great place to take your children. The Coppergate area of the city looks like it’s been plucked right out of a Charles Dickens novel, and this is exactly why Santa’s Grotto is set up here – think narrow, winding streets, dustings of (usually fake) snow, and colourful lights guiding the way to his grotto, where you can meet Santa and his Elves.

For slightly older children, the traditional fairground is set up in King's Square, with a helter skelter and a traditional carousel – all decorated in festive tones, of course.

The city comes to life at night in the festive period, and thankfully, dark descends at around 4 pm in the winter months, so this means that you can experience the magic of the city markets at night without keeping your kids up past their bedtime.

Dates: 13th November – 21st December

5. Cathedral Gardens Christmas Markets – Manchester

There are several Christmas markets in Manchester, but none are more family-friendly than Cathedral Gardens, which is the dedicated family zone in the city as far as Christmas markets go.

Live pantomime performances, music, children’s entertainers, fairground rides, and more will descend on Cathedral Gardens from early November until Christmas, making it one of the best places to visit with children in the northwest.

Once the sun sets, an LED light show will transform the area into a mesmerising winter wonderland, a unique feature that many Christmas markets do not have.

This makes a nice change from the usual market stalls, especially if you have children. Plus, for every £1 spent on the rides at Cathedral Gardens Christmas Markets, 25p will be donated directly to the Christie Teenager Cancer Unit, while patients, families and staff at the unit will be granted free access to the markets in the city centre – a beautiful gesture from a beautiful city.

Dates: 7th November – 22nd December

4. Bath Christmas Market

Often regarded as one of the best Christmas markets in the country, Bath Christmas Market is ideal for families.

Surrounded by historic landmarks such as Bath Abbey, this all adds to the overall magical aesthetic and setting of the markets, making them a huge attraction for families in and around the Bath area.

Fairy lights and festive decorations illuminate the markets, and it's worth visiting for this aspect alone. However, child-friendly performances including pantomime-style sketches, children’s entertainers and sing-along Christmas carols and contemporary Christmas music performances make it suitable for the whole family.

Visit the hot chocolate station for a rich and creamy drink, or pick yourself up some viral crumble and custard for a warming winter treat while admiring the light shows.

Dates: 27th November – 14th December

3. Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market

Another Christmas market which has the advantage of being surrounded by a beautiful, historic setting, these are some of the best Christmas markets in the south of England.

With over 100 stalls in and around the 900-year-old cathedral, there are lots of festive food and gift options to choose from – but if shopping doesn’t delight your kids, fear not – there’s plenty more for them to do.

Santa’s Grotto is an excellent choice for younger children, while the Luxmuralis Light & Sound Show, which takes place inside the very cathedral itself, makes for a memorable experience for children of all ages.

The Christmas Fayre area of the market is also designed with children of all ages in mind, and gives them the chance to create their own Christmas crafts, from paintings to designing their own bauble, while enjoying a tasty hot chocolate and some handmade gingerbread. For a truly interactive festive experience, a visit to Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market is a must for families this Christmas.

Dates: 21st November – 22nd December

2. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland – London

Arguably the most famous Winter Wonderland event in the UK, Hyde Park in London transforms into the ultimate Christmas paradise for families between 14th November 2025 and New Year’s Day 2026.

Catering to children of all ages, the winter wonderland is an experience that all families need to try out at least once. Fairground rides, Santa’s Grotto, Christmas Circus shows, the Magical Ice Kingdom, ice skating, ice-sculpting workshops and more are all part of the package at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland – along with over 200 market stalls, it’s easy to spend an entire day (or longer!) here.

This is truly a family-friendly paradise, no matter how old your kids are – or how young at heart you are. While it does cost to enter, many previous visitors have cited that they have received good value for money, as well as the fact that their kids loved it – and can you really put a price on that?

Dates: 14th November – 1st January 2026

1. Edinburgh’s Christmas

The most festive city in the UK is also home to the most festive Christmas Markets. Edinburgh’s Christmas, as it is known, spreads out across Princes Street and Princes Street Gardens right in the city centre, transforming the Scottish capital into a festive wonderland.

With views of the immense Edinburgh Castle and the Old Town from the markets, the charm is not lost here. Plus, it’s less than a five-minute walk to the markets from Edinburgh Waverly Train Station, so if you’re planning on a day trip via the train, then this is ideal, as there’s no need to take trains, planes and automobiles to reach the markets.

The famous Ferris wheel offers fascinating views of the city during the day and the night – and it stops at the top, so every rider gets the chance for the perfect photo opportunity at the very top of the wheel. The markets look best at night, so we highly recommend going on the Ferris wheel after the sun has set.

There is also an ice rink at nearby George Street, and Edinburgh Castle is just a 10-15 minute walk from the markets, and is home to a Light Show after dark – although you can see this from the markets if you’re there after dark.

Festive trails throughout Princes Street Gardens offer a quiet, sensory experience for neurodivergent children and adults if the markets themselves become too overwhelming, and live music in the gardens on a night, along with child-friendly shows during the day, really bring the festive spirit to life in Edinburgh.

Dates: 15th November – 4th January 2026