Written by Caroline (Astor Hyde Park)

If you’re not a fan of busy department stores, stressful Christmas shopping and would prefer something a little more laid back, we’ve got you covered with our guide to London’s Christmas markets and fairs!

 #1 WINTER WONDERLAND

If you’re a lover of everything Christmas, you’ve probably heard of this event. For an epic dose of festive London spirit, stroll through Winter Wonderland 2017 in Hyde Park. It’s an epic celebration of all that is Christmas. You’ll find winter markets, festive fairground rides, ice skating and warming winter food!

When: Opens 5pm on November 17 and then every day until January 1 2018 – 10am to 10pm

Where: Hyde Park.

How much: Entry is FREE, though some attractions inside are ticketed and can be booked in advance.

#2 CHRISTMAS IN LEICESTER SQUARE

https://www.instagram.com/p/BN2VpRZl8rC/?tagged=leicestersquarexmas

The ‘square’ in Leicester Square is home to a traditional Christmas market which will feature more than 25 food, drink and Christmas gift stalls, and a vintage Spiegel tent – a wooden venue home to a stocked programme of Christmas shows!

When: Friday November 10, 2017 to Saturday January 6, 2018.

Where: Leicester Square.

How Much: Entry is FREE, but tickets must be bought for selected events.

#3 WINTERTIME IN SOUTHBANK CENTRE

Wintertime at Southbank is one of the best Christmas markets in London! Shoppers can bag gifts, snack on festive treats and delicious sweets, and watch seasonal Christmas shows that are guaranteed to brighten up any miserable family members shunning the festive spirit!

When: Friday November 10, 2017 to Thursday 4 January 2018 – 10am-10pm daily.

Where: Southbank Centre – Waterloo.

How much: Entry is FREE

#4 WINTERVILLE

Located in Clapham Common, Winterville offers more dancing, eating, laughing, drinking and skating than you can shake a snow globe at! With an outdoor cinema, mini golf, a Christmas market and a Spiegel tent packed full of awesome Christmas shows, you’d be a fool to miss this one!

Where: Clapham Common

When: November 23 to January 5, 2018.

How much: Entry is FREE, but tickets are required for certain events.

#5 LONDON BRIDGE CITY CHRISTMAS MARKET

https://www.instagram.com/p/-wUcJvwyh_/?tagged=londonbridgecityxmas

The banks of the River Thames are home to the annual Christmas by the River market! It’s a festive winner, with views of Tower of London and Tower Bridge and an awesome combination of homemade gifts, delicious food, bars serving Christmas cocktails, mulled wine, hot cider and craft beers! There will also be a programme of festive workshops!

When: November 30, 2017 to January 3, 2018 – 11 am until 7 pm, with late night shopping available on Thursday, Friday and Saturday until 9pm

Where: London bridge City

How much: Entry is FREE