November: Where to Find the Best Christmas Markets Around Bloomsbury
There’s something rather splendid about London in November. The streets begin to sparkle, mulled wine begins to scent the crisp evening air, and Christmas shopping becomes an irresistible temptation.
When staying in Bloomsbury, some of London’s finest Christmas markets are just a short stroll away. Discover independent makers, unusual gifts, glittering displays and seasonal indulgences.
Allow us to guide you through the best places to begin your Christmas shopping.
Christmas Markets Near Bloomsbury
Crafty Fox Christmas Market
Location: The British Library (20 mins)
For Christmas gifts with a little more personality, the Crafty Fox Christmas Market at the British Library is an excellent choice.
Taking place on 14th and 15th November, this festive pop-up brings together independent artists, designers and makers. All under one of London’s most celebrated literary roofs. Browse handmade ceramics, jewellery, art prints, candles and thoughtful gifts you certainly won’t find on every high street. Different traders attend each day, so there’s every reason to visit twice. Entry is free, although booking ahead is encouraged.
Covent Garden Christmas: The Theatre of Christmas
Location: Covent Garden (15 mins)
Few places embrace Christmas quite as enthusiastically as Covent Garden.
On Thursday 12th November, the neighbourhood celebrates its annual Christmas lights switch-on. More than 300,000 lights will illuminate the historic Piazza. Wander beneath the enormous golden bells and sparkling baubles of the Market Building. Admire the magnificent Christmas tree on the West Piazza. Explore Apple Market’s independent traders for jewellery, artwork and handmade gifts.
For a warming interlude, the returning Box Office Bar offers seasonal drinks, including mulled wine. A thoroughly respectable excuse to put down the shopping bags.
Discover the Christmas celebrations and lights switch-on at Covent Garden.
Christmas Market and Ice Skating
Location: Leicester Square (20 mins)
Leicester Square has always had a flair for spectacle, and Christmas is certainly no exception.
From 31st October 2026 to 3rd January 2027, Skate Leicester Square transforms the famous West End square into a festive destination. Expect a circular ice rink, Christmas market stalls and a seasonal bar.
With some of London’s finest theatres nearby, why not make an evening of it? A little Christmas shopping, an afternoon skate and a West End performance make a delightful combination.
Entry to the square is free, while ice skating requires a ticket.
A Little Further Afield
Southbank Centre Winter Market
Location: Southbank Centre (30 mins)
Cross the Thames and discover one of London’s most atmospheric Christmas markets. The illuminated skyline of the South Bank provides a rather splendid backdrop.
The Southbank Centre Winter Market returns on Monday 2nd November 2026, running until 3rd January 2027. Traditional alpine-style chalets will line Queen’s Walk, beneath Hungerford Bridge. Here, the emphasis is firmly on festive indulgence. Expect sizzling street food, mulled wine, seasonal drinks and independent craft traders.
Market stalls open daily from 11am to 10pm, with bars welcoming visitors until 11pm. Visit after sunset to experience the riverside at its most enchanting.
Winter Wonderland
Location: Hyde Park (20-30 mins)
For those who believe Christmas deserves considerable enthusiasm, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is difficult to resist.
Open from Thursday 19th November 2026 to 3rd January 2027, London’s famous festive attraction combines Christmas market stalls with spectacular fairground rides. Visitors can also enjoy ice skating, live entertainment and winter-themed bars.
Winter Wonderland requires advance booking for timed entry. A little planning is therefore advisable.
Find out more and book your tickets for Hyde Park Winter Wonderland.
Return to Bertie’s for a Festive Evening
After exploring Christmas markets and admiring twinkling lights, return to the quieter Georgian streets of Bloomsbury. You may even have purchased one or two unnecessary (but irresistible) gifts. At Bertrand’s Townhouse, you’ll find an inviting retreat from the festive bustle.
Settle into one of our individually designed guest rooms. Or visit Ottie’s Salon for a well-earned cocktail and a little conversation. The only thing better than a festive London afternoon is having somewhere rather lovely to return to.
Book your November stay at Bertrand’s Townhouse. Get the most of your stay with Bertie’s range of offers including a winter warming offer on food and drink with your stay.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Covent Garden, Leicester Square and the British Library offer excellent festive shopping experiences within walking distance of Bertrand’s Townhouse. The Southbank Centre Winter Market is also nearby, offering independent stalls, seasonal food and beautiful riverside views.
Several London Christmas markets open in early November. Leicester Square’s festivities begin on 31st October, followed by Southbank Centre Winter Market on 2nd November. Covent Garden’s Christmas lights switch-on takes place on 12th November, with festive celebrations continuing throughout the season.
Absolutely! Covent Garden is approximately 15 minutes away, while Leicester Square and the British Library are around 20 minutes’ walk. The Southbank Centre Winter Market is roughly 30 minutes away, making it ideal for a festive afternoon exploring London.
