Countdown to a white Christmas
It’s a little scary to be thinking of Christmas already, but since we’ve reached the 120 day mark, the countdown is inevitably on.
Perhaps you’re thinking big this Christmas, ditching presents altogether and escaping overseas for the festive season.
If you’ve got your sights set on a white Christmas, there are a huge variety of places you could visit, but for the quintessential winter wonderland, England is the place to be.
To get you geared up for a cooled down Christmas, here is a list of magical Christmas markets found throughout the motherland.
The full European in Manchester (November 14-December 21)
Considered one of the largest in Europe, Manchester markets put the ‘f’ is festive, with eight picturesque city centre locations.
They offer glorious selections of gifts to suit everyone, from amber jewellery and handcrafted leather bags, to Dutch flower bulbs and Spanish chorizo. It’s your one-stop Christmas shop!
Yodel in Leeds (November 14-December 20)
Set in the unique Millennium Square, Leeds markets are packed with a little piece of Germany. Oktoberfest comes to life inside the German Beer Tent, with traditional yodelling, classic sing-a-longs, mulled wine and dancing on tables.
An ice-rink and a magical carousel ride are other highlights found in the markets, ensuring both adults and kids find something to enjoy.
Wintry bliss in London-town (November 21-January 4)
The Winter Wonderland in London’s Hyde Park is a true family favourite, with big top shows, the Giant Observation Wheel and its renowned Christmas market.
The Wonderland has already attracted over 14 million visitors, and boasts UK’s largest open-air ice rink and a Magical Ice Kingdom for the kids, and hot cider and mulled wine for the big kids.
Fresh food straight from the farmhouse served in the heart of the park tops off the perfect Christmas experience.
Canine Christmas (from November 29)
Can’t bear to leave your dogs at home? Norwich makes sure the whole family is included this Christmas with Santa’s Grotto for dogs.
Held in the forum, dog owners can treat their pooch to a photo with its favourite Christmas character.
And Norwich continues to spoil you, with a Christmas Fair brimming with seasonal stalls, and the Dragon’s Hall Medieval market, complete with costumed stallholders and musicians.
Get lost in Bath (November 27-December 14)
Wander through the cobblestone streets and through the busy city square, and discover the stunning Bath Abbey and Roman Baths.
A Christmas shopper’s paradise, you’ll find more than 150 traditional wooden chalets lining the streets, each one offering unique presents, decorations and tasty treats.
Feast on local produce and sip on hot mulled wine, while listening to the sweet tune of Christmas carollers.
Go back in time in Gloucester (November 20-23)
Experience a Victorian-style Christmas in Gloucester, with the historic docks creating the perfect backdrop to transport you to the time of Charles Dickens.
Explore the authentic Victorian markets, where you’ll find food, drink, and handmade gifts, before enjoying the live music in the form of choirs and brass bands.
Keep your eyes peeled for real life Dickensian characters like street urchins, thieves and flower sellers, who bring the entire market atmosphere to life.
A merry medieval Christmas (November 29-30)
If it’s non-stop merriment and mischief you’re after, then head to the Ludlow medieval Christmas fayre, held in the ruins of Ludlow’s ancient castle.
Witness knights in shining armour, damsels in distress and fire breathing jesters dance together amongst the ruins, and unearth some fine silver treasures to give to your loved ones.
Winter comeback in Nottingham (November 19-December 24)
Nottingham’s Winter Wonderland is returning with more improvements than you can point a Christmas tree at, so now is the time to see it in fine form.
The expanded Christmas market now incorporates 20 new Tudor-style trading cabins selling a unique range of products, and a Helter Skelter bar for shoppers to rest their feet and sip on mulled wine and spiced cider.
German joy in Birmingham (November 13-December 22)
Take the best pieces of Frankfurt and place it in an English town at Christmas, and what do you get? Yet another perfect combination to celebrate the festive season.
German-style markets showcase fine craftsmanship, while 180 glowing wooden chalets sprawled across Victoria, Centenary and Chamberlain Square sell treats such as handmade baubles and traditional wooden toys.
The edible treats are also delightful, with the smell of mulled wine, gingerbread and marzipan floating through the air, and craft markets popping up from November 15.
Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au
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