The top nine Christmas markets in the UK have been revealed. As the evenings grow darker and the craving for a piping hot cup of hot chocolate becomes irresistible, there's nothing quite like a visit to a Christmas market.
Which?'s annual ranking of the best Christmas market cities has been released.
Although one of the top nine is located in Scotland, if you're not in Edinburgh, you're out of luck.
Here are the top nine, as per Which?, reports the Express.
Bath: Over 200 wooden chalets adorn the cobblestone streets of Bath during one of the UK's largest and most renowned Christmas markets, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary. Set against the scenic backdrop of Bath Abbey and the Roman Baths, stallholders offer items such as handmade wooden furniture, garden sculptures, Bristolian knitwear and independent fragrances. Local seasonal treats are also a key feature of the market, including festive bakes from Flapjackery and the Pudding Wagon. The festivities can continue at the nearby Royal Victoria Park for a spin around the ice rink or a winter walk along the city's famous Royal Crescent.
Chester: This year, the city has expanded to include 80 stalls scattered around Chester's Victorian Gothic town hall and medieval cathedral, offering handcrafted candles, upcycled cutlery, artisan liqueurs and more. Independent traders can also be found in the double-deck shopping arcades known as the Rows, which date back to the 13th century and are among the city's most unique sights. Elsewhere, Roman ruins, ancient gatehouses, Tudor buildings and Georgian and Victorian architecture contribute to Chester's captivating charm.
Durham: A tranquil yet festive event, Durham's Christmas market hosts around 30 stalls that extend from the Market Hall onto the surrounding flagstone streets. On offer are locally produced hot sauce, revamped vintage clothing, sweet treats and handmade decorations. Additionally, there is a crafts and gifts marquee with over 120 extra stalls to peruse, though this requires a paid entry. After indulging in the festive treats, you can burn off the calories by climbing the 325 steps of Durham Cathedral.
Winchester: Located on the grounds of the stunning Winchester Cathedral, the city's Christmas market features delightful wooden chalets brimming with gift ideas such as silk scarves, wooden toys, pet portraits and handmade homeware, all set to the backdrop of performances from local choirs and musicians. Seasonal delights like artisan cheese, a traditional hog roast and handmade scotch eggs add an extra layer of indulgence. You can also explore Winchester's independent shops, and a visit to the cathedral comes highly recommended.
Wells: You'll need to be prompt for this one, as it takes place on a single Saturday in mid-December. With over 100 stalls spread across Bishops Palace Green and Wells Market Place on Saturday 6 December, it's certainly worth the journey. This charming medieval city offers plenty to see and do for a weekend getaway, boasting a variety of unique shops and eateries.
Liverpool: The city's Yuletide market is nestled against the enchanting backdrop of St George's Hall, adorned with fairy lights, and its stalls are designed to resemble gingerbread houses and grottos. Visitors have noted that it doesn't offer the most traditional festive experience, with a lesser focus on choral music, artisan crafts and mince pies, and more emphasis on 80s Christmas pop, fairground rides and hearty food like roast ham baps and mac and cheese. Liverpool, being a large and historic city, offers plenty of sights to explore beyond the market, including the museums at Albert Dock, the Walker Art Gallery and the city's two cathedrals.
Edinburgh: As one of the UK's most picturesque cities, its Christmas market only enhances the charm. Wooden chalets line East Princes Street, offering festive gifts and snug stocking fillers. There's also a mini funfair featuring a helter-skelter, a swing carousel that nearly brushes the Gothic Scott Monument, and a big wheel providing views of Edinburgh's medieval castle and the ancient hill Arthur's Seat. Afterwards, you can stroll through the winter gardens, go ice skating or explore the New Town for more shopping in the city renowned for its New Year's Eve Hogmanay celebrations.
York: Known as St Nicholas Fair, York's Christmas Festival has been a festive staple for over 30 years and is the perfect spot for hunting down unique gifts. Alpine chalets, twinkling with fairy lights, line Parliament Street and St Sampson's Square, offering everything from art prints to Christmas decorations.The market's strong focus on accessibility is highlighted by Which?, noting initiatives for visitors with limited mobility and quiet shopping times from 10am to 12pm for those who prefer a music-free experience. Beyond the festival, there's plenty to explore in this historic city, including the majestic York Minster and the Shambles, a medieval lane lined with half-timbered houses, independent shops and a market.
Belfast: Now in its 21st year, the Christmas market takes place in the grounds of Belfast's City Hall and is set to be a hit with foodies. A variety of flavours from across the region and beyond are on offer, including the famed ostrich, wild boar and crocodile burgers, alongside traditional sausages and beer and an array of speciality cheeses. With over 100 traders, there's plenty to discover, along with a funfair for children. More culinary delights await at St George's Market, a hub of local producers open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, or you can head to Cathedral Square for bars, restaurants and galleries.