Five of the UK’s most underrated Christmas markets to visit this festive season
- UK Hidden Gems
- Dec 23, 2025
- 2 min read
With the festive season now underway, Christmas markets are popping up all over the UK.
From London’s famous Winter Wonderland to smaller festive fairs, there is something for everyone, and often it is the lesser known markets that offer the most special experiences.
Neil Atkinson, owner of Luxury Group Stay, has shared his top picks of underrated Christmas markets that bring festive cheer without the huge crowds seen in cities like Manchester, Birmingham or Edinburgh.
He explained: "Some of the best Christmas markets are found in smaller spa towns and historic cathedral cities.
They often feel more personal, offer better value, and focus on local crafts instead of mass produced gifts."
Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market in Hampshire is one of Neil’s favourites. He said: "Set beside the stunning Winchester Cathedral, this market feels like a hidden gem in the south, offering European style charm without leaving the UK."
Worcester Victorian Christmas Fayre in Worcestershire takes place from 4 to 7 December.
During the event, the city steps back in time with traders dressed in Victorian clothing, a classic carousel, and the smell of roasted chestnuts filling the streets.
Durham Christmas Festival in County Durham is another top choice. Neil said: "There are few places more impressive at Christmas than Durham Cathedral."
The festival runs from 5 to 7 December and includes a craft and producers marquee on Palace Green, a lively outdoor market and a children’s lantern parade leading up to the cathedral.
Canterbury Christmas Market in Kent runs from 12 November to 24 December and offers classic cathedral city charm.
Visitors can browse more than 170 stalls selling handmade gifts, candles, crafts and festive food, all set against the glowing cathedral backdrop.
Harrogate Christmas Fayre in North Yorkshire is ideal for those who enjoy a slower pace during the festive season.
Running from 5 to 14 December, the fayre features around 40 decorated wooden chalets across the spa town, creating a cosy and stylish Christmas atmosphere.
Remember - LeaveNoTrace!
As with anywhere outdoors, kindly keep these areas pristine and wild by taking all trash with you. The amount of complaints we have seen since the pandemic is crazy. It's really not that hard to take your rubbish with you!
Litter tends to spread, so if you see any and are able to pick it up and dispose of it outside the hidden gem, it will help keep the area tidy.
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