Scotland’s ‘most quirky’ Christmas market has been named in a new list.

As we approach the start of December, festive markets have popped up all across Scotland. While most people are aware of the major markets in Edinburgh and Glasgow, there are plenty of lesser-known fairs that are just as worth your time.

Experts at WhichBingo.co.uk have unveiled their picks for the top 10 “quirkiest” festive markets across the UK. Coming in at number four, and the only Scottish market to feature, is the New Lanark Christmas Market in South Lanarkshire.

Situated at the New Lanark UNESCO World Heritage Site, the fair is less than an hour out of Glasgow by car. It begins on November 30 and will last through until December 24.

The market will include a range of festive attractions and activities catered towards the whole family. Highlights include a Santa’s Grotto, a soft play and inflatable assault course, and a ‘Spirit of Christmas Ride’ that will take visitors on a journey through the history of Christmas.

Meanwhile, Arkeen Theatre Company will be putting on a 45-minute production of Pinocchio. There will also be a selection of three “beloved” Christmas films screened regularly in the theatre.

New Lanark World Heritage Site has announced the return of its magical Christmas Experience
Younger visitors will get the chance to meet Santa Claus himself (Image: UGCRSR / New Lanark)

New Lanark’s Café & Mill Shop will both be open throughout the fair. Visitors will be able to pick enjoy festive refreshments, while also having the chance to do some Christmas shopping and pick up unique gifts for their loved ones.

The experts commented: “Set in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, this market offers a mix of history and festive fun. Enjoy live entertainment, Santa’s grotto and artisan stalls amidst the picturesque mill village surroundings.”

Elsewhere, topping the list is the Worcester Victorian Christmas Fayre in Worcester. The market, which features more than 200 Victorian-themed stalls, was described as “perfect for families and history lovers”.

More information can be found on the New Lanark website. Meanwhile, further details about the UK’s 10 ‘most quirky’ Christmas markets can be found on the WhichBingo.co.uk website.

The UK’s 10 ‘most quirky’ Christmas markets

  1. Worcester Victorian Christmas Fayre, Worcester
  2. Beamish Christmas Festival, County Durham
  3. Keswick Victorian Fayre, Cumbria
  4. New Lanark Christmas Market, South Lanarkshire
  5. Gloucester Quays Victorian Christmas Market, Gloucester
  6. Leighton Buzzard Floating Christmas Market, Bedfordshire
  7. Stockeld Park’s The Christmas Adventure, Yorkshire
  8. Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market, Hampshire
  9. Barleylands Christmas Craft Market, Essex
  10. Broadstairs & St Peter’s Craft Fair, Kent

Don’t miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond – sign up to the Scotland Now newsletter here.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related Posts


This will close in 0 seconds