Chester Christmas Market named as one of the nine best in the UK

Chester's Christmas Market named as one of the nine best in the UK. Consumer Watchdog Which? has studied all the festive markets across the country and given them ratings, identifying Chester as one of nine that stand alone as the cream of the crop.

Which? says it has identified what it considers the best when it comes to the UK's Christmas markets, selected from those that have received top marks in a survey involving more than 4,000 participants.

They highlight that "each of the eight cities offers excellent food and drink, outstanding cultural attractions, or both, achieving at least a four out of five rating in these categories".

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Below are the nine best Christmas Markets in the UK starting with Chester and with Manchester's famous Christmas Markets being a notable omission.

Chester Christmas Market

Date: 15 November to 22 December 2024 Where: Chester Town Hall Square Is it free? Yes

Chester Christmas Market is only an hour or so from Manchester. Though it was pipped to the post for the title of best "medium-sized city" by Bath, it scored higher for its ease of getting around, parking and lack of crowds.

With a modest 70 stalls around Chester's Victorian Gothic town hall and medieval cathedral, visitors to Chester market will find scented candles, upcycled cutlery, artisan liqueurs and much more, all underneath a sparkling Christmas tree. There are more independent traders to be found in the double-deck shopping arcades known as the Rows which date back to the 13th century and are the city's most distinctive sight.

There's also plenty of history to dig into elsewhere in Chester, from Roman ruins to ancient gatehouses, Tudor buildings, and Georgian and Victorian architecture. Work up an appetite for the market's edible treats by walking the two miles of Roman and medieval city walls, which offer views of the River Dee.

Bath Christmas Market

Bath Christmas Market was crowned the top choice in the Which? survey, beating Chester to the title of "favourite medium-sized city" among readers. Bath is home to one of the UK's largest and most established Christmas markets, providing a stunningly festive backdrop with its historic cityscape.

Over 200 chalets will adorn Bath's Georgian streets, with the majority of stallholders hailing from the south-west of England. According to Which?, visitors can expect "a pretty staggering selection of goods from garden sculptures to handmade wooden furniture, Bristolian knitwear to indie fragrances, and gifts for your furry companions". The market also offers local food, including foraged jams and festive baked goods at the Flapjackery.

After exploring the Christmas market, visitors can discover the magnificent Bath Abbey and the Roman Baths, dating back to 75AD, skate at the ice rink in Royal Victoria Park, or take a leisurely walk along the city's famous Royal Crescent. The Bath Christmas Market runs from November 28 to December 15 and entry is free.

Durham Christmas Market

Described as a "quiet yet lovely affair", Durham's festive market encompasses about 70 stalls, emerging from the Market Hall to meander through the cobblestone streets. Additionally, there's a crafts and gifts marquee hosting over 150 stalls, though entry to this part requires a fee. After indulging in holiday delicacies, visitors have the opportunity to burn off the calories by climbing the 325 steps of Durham Cathedral.

Winchester Christmas Market

The enchanting Winchester Cathedral provides a spectacular backdrop for the city's Christmas market situated within its precincts. A treasure trove of goods awaits shoppersfrom artisanal scotch eggs to silk scarves and hand-painted buttonsall accompanied by the harmonies of local choirs and musicians. Alongside market exploration, guests can enjoy Winchester's assortment of independent stores and the cathedral visit is highly recommended for a full experience.

Wells Christmas Market

This is a one-day event in mid-December. But don't worry, there's plenty to see and do in this quaint medieval city. The gothic cathedral is a sight to behold, vast and set amidst open greenery. On Saturday 14 December, over 100 Christmas market stalls will be set up in the grounds of Bishops Palace Green and Wells Market Place. The city centre is perfect for a leisurely stroll, with a variety of unique shops and eateries.

Liverpool Christmas Market

Topping the Which? list for large cities, Liverpool's Christmas market offers a unique experience. Set against the backdrop of St George's Hall adorned with fairy lights, the market stalls resemble gingerbread houses and grottos. However, visitors note that "it's not such a nostalgic affair: less choral music, artisan crafts and mince pies; more 80's Christmas pop, fairground rides and down-to-earth menus like roast ham baps and mac and cheese". Beyond the market, Liverpool, being a large and historic city, has plenty to offer, from the museums at Albert Dock, the Walker Gallery to the city's two cathedrals.

Edinburgh Christmas Market

Many would argue that Edinburgh is the UK's most beautiful city, and it's hard to disagree. The city is also home to one of the country's most renowned New Year's Eve celebrations, Hogmanay. Its Christmas markets feature wooden chalets selling a variety of winter goods and cosy stocking fillers. There's also a helter-skelter, a swing carousel that almost brushes against the Gothic Scott Monument, and a big wheel offering views of the city's imposing medieval castle and Arthur's Seat.

York Christmas Festival

Also known as St Nicholas Fair, York's Christmas Festival has been a staple for over 30 years and is an excellent place to find gifts. The fair features dozens of alpine chalets adorned with twinkling lights in Parliament Street and St Sampson's Square. Which? commended its "great attention to detail when it comes to accessibility, with initiatives to help those with limited mobility, and designated quiet shopping times from 9am to 12pm for those who prefer a music-free experience". Beyond the festival, York's rich history offers plenty more to explore, including the majestic York Minster and the Shambles, a long medieval lane lined with half-timbered houses, independent shops and a market.

Belfast Christmas Market

This year marks the 20th anniversary of Belfast's Christmas market, which is embracing a Dickensian theme with Victorian-era inspired performances scheduled for the first and third weekends. The event also places a significant emphasis on food. Additionally, St George's market, bustling with local food producers on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, is worth a visit, as is Cathedral Square, known for its bars, restaurants and galleries.

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