As the festive season approaches, Christmas markets across the UK are preparing to charm holiday shoppers.
These enchanting seasonal gatherings blend the spirit of Christmas with a vast array of delightful artisanal goods, all set within twinkling markets that provide perfect festive photo opportunities. Whether you’re sharing your yuletide adventures on social media or simply soaking up the atmosphere, wrapping up warm and enjoying a hot drink is guaranteed to bring joy and inspire your festive posts.
To uncover which Christmas markets are making waves this year, a dedicated team at City of Doncaster News conducted an extensive study to reveal the top Christmas markets in the UK, based on their popularity on social media.
Their research revealed that Edinburgh Christmas Market is one of the most Instagram-worthy markets in the UK, boasting over 56,800 hashtags on Instagram, reports the Mirror. Known for its stunning views of Edinburgh Castle and highland allure, the Scottish spectacle is only outdone by London’s Winter Wonderland and Manchester Christmas Markets.
Edinburgh is a breathtaking destination throughout the year, but it truly sparkles during the Christmas period. With its unique mix of medieval and Georgian architecture, iconic landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile and beautifully preserved Georgian terraces in the New Town, it provides an incredible backdrop for stunning photos.
According to the Visit Scotland website, “Edinburgh at Christmas time is truly magical! Each year Edinburgh’s Christmas and Edinburgh’s Hogmanay come up with an exciting array of events to get everyone in the mood for the holiday season.”
Continuing the yuletide glee, Christmas 2024 will see the city host three distinctive markets alongside a variety of events scattered throughout, including the UK’s largest illuminated Christmas Tree Maze.
Positioned in the historical heart of the city, East Princes Street Gardens invites visitors to explore the free traditional Christmas Market. Against the majestic backdrop of Edinburgh Castle and the Scott Monument, approximately 70 stalls will offer a selection of handmade gifts, bespoke items, and scrumptious food from both local and international purveyors.
Thrill-seekers and sightseers alike can take to the heights on LNER Big Wheel, Scotland’s tallest Ferris wheel at 46 meters, or whirl above the cityscape in the celebrated Around the World Star Flyer for unparalleled city vistas.
For family festivities, West Princes Street Gardens transforms into a free charming zone from Friday, November 15, replete with funfair attractions, seasonal victuals, and cosy zones for sipping hot chocolate or mulled wine.
Furthermore, the Ross Bandstand will be the heartbeat of the family-orientated events program, showcasing live choirs, shows, and performances tailored for festive enjoyment.
George Street West and Castle Street promise additional revelry, ensuring that Edinburgh remains a premier destination during the happiest season of all. The splendour of George Street this season will be crowned by the magnificent Edinburgh Christmas Ice Rink. Following a skate, guests can thaw out with hot beverages and snacks from the neighbouring food stalls in the designated warming zone.
Additionally, there will be classic fairground rides, festive workshops including wreath-making and ice sculpture lessons, and market stands as well as The Polar Ice Bar which is anticipated to become Edinburgh’s most ‘cool’ venue for a Yuletide sip.
As part of Edinburgh’s exuberant Hogmanay festivities leading into the New Year, a four-day extravaganza of premier events will overtake the city streets. The torchlight procession, a much-anticipated element of the seasonal joy, is set to launch the revelry on December, 29, marking its fiery journey through the Old Town for the first time since 2019.
Speaking about the burgeoning allure of Christmas markets within the UK, City of Doncaster News CEO Andy Halliday said, “The excitement surrounding Christmas markets has exploded, especially as they serve as fantastic backdrops for Instagram posts. They offer the chance to create unforgettable experiences that shine on social media.”
An ebullient Halliday went on to say, “Our research reveals the markets that truly capture the festive magic, boasting dazzling light displays, charming traditional stalls, and vibrant cultural diversity-everything that visitors and social media lovers adore.”