Overview
- Which? published its 2025 list of top UK Christmas markets, naming Liverpool the best big-city option, with Manchester notably absent from the rankings.
- Newcastle was the only city to earn top marks for food and drink in the survey, with its market opening November 15 across Grey’s Monument, Grainger Street, Old Eldon Square and Nelson Street and running until December 23.
- Durham placed second in the small-city category and will run December 5–7, featuring a free outdoor market plus a crafts and gifts marquee costing £4.50 in advance or £5 on the day.
- York’s market opened November 13 with around 80–85% local Yorkshire traders, daily hours of 10:30am–7pm through December 21, designated quiet time from 10am–12pm, and a published price guide that includes items such as Tommy’s Pie Shop cowboy pie at £10.
- Edinburgh Winterfest opens November 15 in East Princes Street Gardens and runs to January 4 with attractions including the LNER Big Wheel and Starflyer, while Newcastle’s separate Winter Wonderland is scheduled for December 5–28 with some free-entry days.