Best Christmas Markets: Northern England

Oooh, it’s getting very festive up North! So following on from the Best Christmas Markets in the Midlands post, this one aims to round up some of the best, Northern twinkly-gems too. Have you been to any of these markets? What did you think? This time of year is all about eating, drinking and being merry with your loved ones so I hope you find the perfect Christmas market for you!

The best of the North with help from foodie blogger Sophie….

Manchester Christmas Markets

Manchester’s Christmas markets are a pretty big deal. The main Albert Square market is European themed, so expect everything from hog roasts to Christmas punch stalls. Neighbouring streets host different themes, so make sure you don’t miss the French Market on King Street and German Market on St Ann’s Square, all within easy walking distance. As well as some great crafty and unusual gifts, the market really is a haven for foodies too, Hungarian goulash, Dutch pancakes, French cheese and Spanish paella… we could go on!

Albert Square, Manchester, 10 Nov to 20 Dec.

Chester’s Traditional Festive Markets

Chester’s Christmas markets are very traditional. They look so stunning in and amongst the black and white Tudor buildings of this historical city centre, and right in the middle there’s a big, sparkly Christmas tree. They have a classic Real Ale Bar that serves hot chocolate, too, and some of their chocolate offerings are amazing! Very cosy and Christmassy, indeed.

Town Hall Square, 16 Nov – 20 Dec.

Newcastle Grainger Market

This lush hall is a hub for independent sellers in Newcastle’s city centre. The market hall is actually open all year round, but at Christmas, the traders get to show off their festive wares.  Granger Market is the place to shop if you want to pick-up handmade, quirky gifts for Christmas, it also has some great edible gifts from their delis, sausage shops (yes, you read that right) and cheese makers!

Grey’s Monument, Grey Street and Grainger Street, 11 to 17 Dec.

Christmas Markets and the Coca-Cola Truck in Liverpool

Liverpool has always been pretty great for shopping, but there is something so magical about it at this time of year. The market is held outside St George’s Hall, just a stone’s throw from Liverpool Lime Street, so get the train so you can treat yourself to a mulled wine or two at the new Windmill Bar. As well as the markets, their ultra-modern Christmas tree in Liverpool ONE shopping area looks spectacular. This year the Coca-Cola Christmas truck returns (on 5 and 6 Dec), if you want to catch a selfie with Santa!

St George’s Hall, 17 Nov – 22 Dec 2017 (Markets) / Liverpool ONE, 5 – 5 Dec (Coca-Cola truck)

Leeds Christkindelmarkt

Leeds go full, German-traditional Christmas market and we love it. Think wooden chalet stalls, a Christmas carousel and basically anything made from wood and hand-painted- it’s there.  If you’re a foodie then you have to try their German breakfast buffet which is housed in the Alp Chalet restaurant, for breakfast with Santa himself!

Millennium Square, Leeds, 10 Nov – 24 Dec.