Things to do in London at Christmas 2013
Christmas Markets in London 2013
One of the many delights of Christmas in London are the Christmas Markets and Fairs. Great places to wander around, grab a glass of mulled wine, eat a mince pie, and buy some great (artisan) gifts for your loved ones (and yourself). Don't forget to visit our page on
Christmas Food and Drink for more edible events!
The history of Christmas markets goes back to the Late Middle Ages in the German speaking part of Europe. The Dresden Christmas market - first held in 1434 is often said to be the oldest Christmas market, although this is hotly contested!
The Markets and Fairs of 2013
Christmas Fair at Chelsea Physic Garden1st and 2nd December 2012. Chelsea Physic Garden. A great choice of gifts in heated marquees in the Chelsea Physic Garden including handmade clothing, pottery and ceramics, garden paraphernalia, wonderful jewellery, artisan chocolates and beautiful leather goods.
Boutique de Noel Boutique de Noel 14th - 15th November 2012. Two day shopping extravaganza, held at the Kensington Town Hall will include cocktails, two auctions, and of course plenty of Christmas shopping.
The Ideal Home Show at Christmas 14th November - 18th November 2012. Earls Court in West London hosts the Ideal Home Show at Christmas, bringing together over 400 exhibitors to offer everything you’ll need to make your home ideal for Christmas.
Country Living Christmas Fair 7th - 11th November 2012. You'll find everything you need for the perfect Christmas, from the market with hand-crafted decorations to traditional toys, the latest fashion, limited-edition jewellery and a mouth watering array of festive food and drink. This Christmas Fair is in Islington, North London.
Spirit of Christmas Fair 30th October - 4th November 2012. Based at Olympia (West London), the Spirit of Christmas Fair includes a Food Hall, Producer's Market, and a British Designer's Market. A great place to prepare for your Christmas in London.
Belgravia Christmas Fayre 2012 dates TBC: 11am - 4pm. Pimlico Road and the newly refurbished Elizabeth Street in Belgravia will be transformed into a winter wonderland as the unique boutiques, bars and restaurants celebrate the festive season.
Christmas Market at Old Spitalfields 2012 dates TBC. Although this market is open all year round, at Christmas it takes on a little more magic, with entertainment, themed stalls and the now-traditional 'later opening hours'.
Duckie Christmas Market 2012 dates TBC (not every day) at Barbican. A London Christmas market for alternative gifts including street designer clothes, outlandish jewellery, cult crafts and of course great food.
Cologne Christmas Market in London 2012 dates TBC on London's Southbank. A German style Christmas Market in London - more than 30 wooden chalets situated between Southbank Centre and London Eye. Nearest tube is Waterloo.
Morley Winter Fair 2012 dates TBC - 61 Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7HT. Stalls selling original, handmade work including clothes, jewellery, prints and hats - plus music, dance and even entertainment for the kids.
Greenwich Christmas Market 2012 dates TBC onwards. Escape the high street and shopping centres and soak up the lively atmosphere of South East London whilst exploring the many stalls, all providing unique and interesting gift ideas.
Christmas at Kew 2012 Dates TBC. Christmas at Kew is full of festive sparkle and activities for all the family, with Father Christmas in his grotto, special winter walks, face painting and a carousel for kids and roasted chestnuts.
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You May Not Know
In the UK the 'Christmas number one' is the highest selling single in the week before Christmas Day. Traditionally novelty songs, charity songs or songs with a Christmas theme have often been at the top of Christmas charts but recently songs from TV talent shows like the X-Factor have taken over.