The UK’s Most Instagrammable Christmas Markets

There’s something undeniably magical about Christmas markets. The twinkling fairy lights strung between wooden chalets, the warmth of mulled wine in your hands, and the scent of roasted chestnuts drifting through crisp winter air. It’s the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to capture every moment, and with Christmas markets popping up across the UK from November onwards, there’s no shortage of picture-perfect scenes waiting to fill your Instagram feed.

Whether you’re drawn to the alpine-style chalets of Manchester’s sprawling city centre markets or the historic charm of Bath’s Georgian backdrop, these festive destinations offer far more than just shopping opportunities.

Methodology

To discover which Christmas markets are capturing hearts (and cameras) across the UK, the team at Trtl analysed Instagram hashtags for the country’s most popular festive destinations. By ranking each market according to the number of times it’s been tagged and shared on the platform, we’ve uncovered which locations are creating the most buzz on social media.

The UK's top 8 most Instagrammable Christmas markets

From vibrant, city-centre celebrations to the intimate charm of cathedral grounds, these eight markets stand out as the most photographed and shared festive destinations across the UK.

Ranking	Market	Location	Hashtags
1	Manchester	City Centre	63,600
2	Edinburgh	East Princess Street Gardens	58,200
3	London	Hyde Park Winter Wonderland	38,200
4	Bath	City Centre	37,100
5	Birmingham	Frankfurt Christmas Market	22,600
6	York	St Nicholas Fair	13,900
7 (Joint)	Belfast	City Hall Grounds	10,900
7 (Joint)	Winchester	Cathedral	10,900
8	Glasgow	The Christmas Winterfest	10,600

1. Manchester Christmas Markets - 63,600 Hashtags

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Taking the crown with an impressive 63,600 Instagram hashtags, Manchester Christmas markets have earned their place as the UK’s most Instagrammable festive destination. Spread across nine different locations throughout the city centre, including St Ann’s Square and King Street, Manchester’s markets transform the heart of the city into a winter wonderland.

With around 200 stalls dotted across the city, you’ll find everything from traditional German bratwurst and artisan hot chocolate to locally crafted gifts and European delicacies. Albert Square serves as the festive centrepiece, where towering Christmas trees and illuminated chalets glow warmly against the historic town hall. And who could forget the giant Santa perched atop the Central Library?

2. Edinburgh Christmas Market - 58,200 Hashtags

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With 58,200 hashtags, Edinburgh Christmas Market claims second place thanks to its spectacular setting in East Princess Street Gardens, with Edinburgh Castle towering dramatically above. Running from mid-November through to early January, this market perfectly blends Scottish tradition with contemporary festive excitement across over 70 stalls.

Scotland’s biggest ferris wheel stands at an impressive 46 metres tall, offering breathtaking panoramic views across the illuminated market and city beyond.

For something truly unique, the Polar Ice Bar keeps temperatures at -8°C, with walls and sculptures carved entirely out of ice. The market also features a helter-skelter, an ice skating rink on George Street, and the chance to try mulled Irn Bru!

3. London’s Hyde Park Winter Wonderland - 38,200 Hashtags

London’s Winter Wonderland has captured 38,200 Instagram hashtags, transforming Hyde Park into an extraordinary Christmas celebration that goes far beyond a traditional market from mid-November through to New Year’s Day. This isn’t just a collection of stalls; it’s a full-blown festival, featuring multiple themed areas, each with its own distinct character.

The Bavarian Village brings a slice of Munich to London, with cosy wooden chalets and live oompah bands. Vendors range from authentic German Christmas market stalls to contemporary options, such as Yorkshire Burritos and bottomless pizza.

Beyond food and drink, Winter Wonderland also delivers on entertainment, including an open-air ice rink, the enchanting Magical Ice Kingdom featuring intricate ice sculptures, thrilling rides, live performances, and theatrical shows. Off-peak tickets are free, while peak times cost £7.50 per person.

4. Bath Christmas Market - 37,100 Hashtags

Bath Christmas Market has enchanted visitors with 37,100 hashtags, celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2025. Set against the stunning backdrop of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage architecture, this market spans historic streets from Abbeygate Street to Milsom Street. There are over 150 charming wooden chalets nestled among the Georgian buildings.

The honey-coloured Bath stone provides a warm backdrop, while the market’s commitment to showcasing local artisans from the South West means you’ll discover handcrafted jewellery, unique pottery, and carefully curated gifts you won’t find on the high street.

Hailed as one of the best Christmas markets in Europe, Bath’s compact city centre lets you combine market browsing with exploring the Roman Baths and the city’s independent shops.

5. Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market - 22,600 Hashtags

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With 22,600 Instagram hashtags, Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market brings authentic German festive traditions to the Midlands, making it the largest authentic German market outside of Germany or Austria. Opening in early November and running through to Christmas Eve, the market sprawls across Victoria Square and New Street with traditional Frankfurt-style chalets.

Authentic bratwurst sizzles on grills alongside schnitzel, roasted almonds, stollen, and other German delicacies, all washed down with steins of weissbier (beer) or traditional hot chocolate.

Victoria Square becomes the beating heart of the festivities with a packed programme of live music, while the weatherproof Ice Stake Birmingham rink and the big wheel add to the experience, offering spectacular views and the chance to show off your skating skills.

6. York Christmas Market - 13,900

York Christmas Market has earned 13,900 Instagram hashtags, taking place on Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square from mid-November to just before Christmas. This award-winning destination combines medieval charm with festive celebration.

More than 75 alpine-style chalets line York’s historic streets, with the stunning Minster providing a magnificent backdrop alongside the city’s old walls. At the heart sits a vintage carousel, adding a nostalgic feel that’s irresistible for photographs. York’s markets offer a more intimate, authentic experience where you can browse each stall at leisure, chat with makers, and truly immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere.

Joint 7th. Belfast Christmas Market - 10,900 Hashtags

Sharing joint seventh place with 10,900 Instagram hashtags, Belfast Christmas Market transforms the grounds of City Hall into a vibrant hub from mid-November to just before Christmas, attracting over a million visitors each year. The market features over 100 exhibitors from 30 countries, creating a truly cosmopolitan experience.

Germany’s award-winning Kochem vineyard sets up a dedicated pop-up, serving delicious mulled wine, while international food vendors offer everything from exotic burgers to roasted nuts. For families, there’s even Santa’s magical grotto, a traditional carousel, and a helter-skelter!

Joint 7th. Winchester Christmas Market - 10,900 Hashtags

Also with 10,900 Instagram hashtags, Winchester Christmas Market offers a festive celebration against the magnificent backdrop of Winchester Cathedral, one of Europe’s finest Gothic buildings. The Cathedral’s soaring spires and intricate stonework provide a breathtaking backdrop, especially when floodlit in the evening.

The market stalls offer a wide variety, focusing on quality craftsmanship, including handmade decorations, artisanal food products, and unique gifts. Winchester’s compact, medieval streets add to the charm, with the market just a short walk from the city’s boutique shops, historic pubs, and cosy cafes.

The Cathedral setting creates a more elegant take on the Christmas market experience, where you can capture festive fun against the stunning Gothic architecture.

8. Glasgow Christmas Market - 10,600 Hashtags

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Rounding out the top eight with 10,600 hashtags, The Christmas Winterfest in Glasgow brings seasonal celebrations to St Enoch Square from mid-November through to early January.

Colourful stalls and rustic cabins create a cosy atmosphere, but it’s the entertainment that sets Glasgow apart. Beyond the traditional carousel and helter-skelter. The Christmas Winterfest features an 80-metre drop tower for adrenaline seekers. The Ice Rink is another hub of activity, particularly magical in the evening when city lights sparkle beautifully around the market.

Perfectly positioned for exploring Glasgow's excellent shopping, world-class museums, and renowned food scene, this market offers a distinctly Glaswegian celebration.

How to make the most of the Christmas markets

Visiting the Christmas markets should be an enjoyable, joyful experience rather than a mad, stressful rush. Matthew Parrish, Chief Operating Officer at Trtl, shares his expert tips for making the most of your seasonal adventure.

1. Research the market

“Before you head out, take some time to check the official website for your chosen market,” Matthew advises. “Dates, opening times, and even schedules vary by location, and there’s nothing worse than arriving to find the market closed or that you’ve missed the special event you wanted to see.”

Many markets also publish their vendor lists online, which can be helpful if you’re looking for specific items. Some feature special entertainment on certain days, from live music to Santa’s grotto appearances, so researching in advance helps you plan your visit around what you want to see.

2. Plan your timing

“Timing can make all the difference to your market experience,” explains Matthew. “If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere where you can browse without jostling through crowds, try visiting on a weekday or arriving early in the morning. You’ll have more space to explore the stalls and take your time.”

However, most Christmas Markets really come alive in the evening when the lights begin to sparkle. Matthew suggests a two-visit strategy if possible: “Go during the day for a less crowded shopping experience, then again in the evening to enjoy the lights and soak up the full festive ambience. The markets transform completely after dark.”

3. Create a strategy

“It’s tempting to start buying as soon as you arrive, but I always recommend taking a full lap around the markets first,” says Matthew. “This gives you the chance to compare prices and options across different stalls, and helps you locate any specific items you’re looking for without backtracking through the crowds.”

This is a great approach when it comes to food and drink. Taking that initial reconnaissance lap means you make better decisions when it comes to your time and money. “It’s also helpful for identifying any quieter spots where you can take a break after a jam-packed day,” Matthew adds.

4. Set a budget

“Christmas markets are wonderful, but it’s surprisingly easy to overspend when you’re caught up in the festive excitement,” Matthew notes. “Before you go, decide on a realistic budget that covers gifts, food and drink, and any activities like ice skating or rides.”

One practical approach is to bring only the amount in cash that creates a natural limit on spending. “Remember that you don’t need to buy everything in one visit,” Matthew reminds us. “Most markets run for several weeks, so you can always make another visit! Taking the pressure off yourself actually makes the experience more enjoyable.”

The must-have travel accessories for your Christmas market visit

Whether you’re travelling across the country to visit multiple markets or heading to your local celebration, having the right accessories makes your journey and shopping experience more enjoyable.

• Trtl Travel Pillow — If you’re travelling to Christmas markets further from home, comfort during your journey makes all the difference. Our Trtl Travel Pillow is designed to support your head and neck, helping you arrive feeling rested rather than stiff and tired. Whether you’re on a coach to Manchester’s markets, a train to Edinburgh, or catching a flight to Belfast, the right neck support means you can rest properly.
  
  
• Trtl Packing Pods — Visiting Christmas markets often means carrying a lot of items throughout the day: your phone or camera, any purchased gifts, extra layers for temperature drops, and all those other little essentials. Our Trtl Packing Pods help you stay organised so you can focus on enjoying the experience. Use the pods to separate your belongings logically: one for electronics and chargers, another for any gifts to protect them, and a third for personal items.
  
  
• Compression Socks — A day at a Christmas market typically means hours of walking and standing as you browse stalls, queue for food and drinks, and explore the surrounding areas. Our Compression Socks promote healthy blood circulation, which is essential when you’re standing and walking for extended periods of time on cold winter days.
  
  
• Flask — Winter market days mean spending hours outdoors in cold temperatures, and while markets offer plenty of hot drinks, having your own flask is both convenient and cost-saving. Our Trtl Flask keeps your drinks at the perfect temperature throughout the day while preventing any leaks in your bag. Fill it with hot coffee, tea, or even hot chocolate in the morning, and you’ll have warming refreshments available whenever you need them without queuing at busy stalls!

Start planning your Christmas market adventure

Christmas markets offer something hard to replicate: the atmosphere, the sense of community, the joy of discovering something unexpected, and the memories you create while browsing beneath twinkling lights on a winter evening. From Manchester's sprawling city-wide celebration to Winchester's intimate cathedral setting, each market brings its own character and charm to the festive season.

For more travel inspiration and tips to make every journey comfortable, visit our blog or explore our full range of travel pillows and accessories to see how Trtl can help you travel better, wherever your adventures take you.

 

About Matthew Parrish

Matthew Parrish is the Chief Operating Officer at Trtl, the travel brand behind the world-famous Trtl Travel Pillow. He’s passionate about making every journey feel easier - from clever design and smarter packing, to finding new ways to travel comfortably. When he’s not testing products on the go, he’s usually planning his next adventure in Italy.