The must-visit Christmas markets in the UK & Europe

Christmas market scene

Running So Cosy has taken us to so many wonderful places around the world. Just last month, we exhibited at the magical Gut Kump in Germany for instance, an enchanting winter wonderland that’s the perfect way to start your countdown to Christmas.

We happily juggle life on the road with time spent at So Cosy HQ. But we’re hoping to fit in one last trip to finish 2023 in style and enjoy a spot of winter magic. The UK and Europe are after all brimming with brilliant Christmas markets. In this blog post, we share our rundown of the very best as well as reveal our top tips for short haul winter travel.

Blenheim Palace Christmas Market

On from now until Sunday 17th December 2023, Blenheim Palace Christmas Market is a particular favourite. The magnificent estate comes to life at Christmas with a seasonal village of wooden chalets popping up for one month only in its Great Court.

The Christmas fun doesn’t end there however. In addition to themed indoor activities – this year will see Blenheim tell a twisted tale of Sleeping Beauty – its iconic Christmas light trail is back. We’ll let Blenheim Palace explain more:

“Now firmly established as an unmissable diary date, our after-dark trail makes for an unforgettable time, with a glimpse of Father Christmas along the way! Discover heart-shaped arches glittering in the moonlight, glowing tunnels filled with stars and an eight-metre sphere filled with over 20,000 moving lights (which are just a handful of this year’s installations).”

Dresden Christmas Market

As the oldest Christmas market in the whole of Europe, Dresden Christmas Market proves that things only get better with age. The German market dates back to 1434, and still has that character and charm of days gone by. Join the 2.5 million people who visit every year by taking a trip to this beautiful city and historic market between now and Sunday 31st December 2023.

Enjoying Dresden Christmas market

Tivoli Gardens

This Copenhagen based Christmas market is a magical adventure that’ll delight visitors of all ages. From its beautiful Christmas trees and twinkling illuminations to its festive stalls full of Christmas goodies, there’s a lot to love. Visit Tivoli Gardens until Sunday 31st December 2023 to get your fill of Christmas spirit.

Manchester Christmas Markets

People travel from far and wide to visit the sprawling Manchester Christmas Markets. With stalls spread across New Cathedral Street, Winter Gardens, St Ann’s Square, King Street and Market Street, visiting its world-famous stalls makes for a magical day out.

Visit until Thursday 21st December 2023, not forgetting to check out the ice rink at Cathedral Gardens and visit Father Christmas in St Peter’s Square.

Visiting a Christmas market?

Whether travelling to another part of the UK or a little further afield to grab your dose of Christmas fun, packing light and allowing extra time for travel is the key to enjoying every aspect of your trip.

Dedicating a small proportion of your hand luggage to carrying a little piece of home with you will also enhance your comfort when venturing near or far. In fact, our collection of wool blankets offers lightweight, generously sized designs that are warm, soft and easy to transport, wherever your pre-Christmas adventure takes you.

The Christmas delivery deadline is coming!

Place your order by Friday 15th December 2023 for UK Christmas delivery using our standard shipping option. The last date for UK Express delivery is Wednesday 20th December 2023.

Please note, customers ordering from Europe, the USA or the rest of the world will not receive their goods until after Christmas.

Images: mapman, Masson / Shutterstock.com