Londoners Reveal Their Top Christmas Market Picks for 2025
As winter temperatures descend and festive illuminations brighten the capital, London undergoes its annual transformation into a wonderland of glowing chalets, mulled wine stalls, and sparkling riverside walks. Christmas markets have firmly established themselves as one of London's most cherished seasonal traditions.
This November, we conducted street interviews asking residents which festive markets they consider essential visiting every December and what makes these destinations so special. The responses revealed both classic favourites and some surprising local gems.
Riverside Favourites: Scenic Views and Relaxed Atmosphere
Winter by the River, positioned along the Thames near London Bridge, emerged as a clear favourite among those surveyed. Visitors consistently praised its exceptional atmosphere and beautiful setting.
"I adore the lights and the beautiful riverside walks," one Londoner explained. "The atmosphere always feels welcoming and friendly, without becoming overcrowded."
Another local highlighted the market's affordability and spectacular views: "You get amazing vistas of London Bridge alongside reasonably priced food. It's rarely too crowded, which feels unusual for London."
Running between London Bridge City Pier and Tower Bridge, this market features artisan gift stalls, cosy wooden huts, and comforting street food options, maintaining a calmer ambiance than many other festive attractions.
The Southbank Centre Winter Market represents Christmas perfection for many lifelong Londoners. One visitor who grew up attending this market shared: "It has all the traditional German stalls, a beautiful riverside location, excellent transport links, and nostalgic value from my childhood visits."
Another enthusiast added: "The vibe here is simply unmatched. It's in a wonderfully tourist-friendly location with fantastic scenery."
This year's installation includes alpine-style chalets, seasonal comfort food, craft stalls, and pop-up bars, all set against the glittering backdrop of the Thames, creating one of London's most atmospheric winter evening strolls.
Historic Charm and Local Gems
Leadenhall Market, adorned with festive garlands and dominated by its impressive giant Christmas tree, wins admiration for its timeless, old-London character.
"The Christmas tree here is absolutely magnificent," one visitor remarked. "The historical architecture of the buildings perfectly complements the Christmas theme."
The covered Victorian arcade provides a warm, sparkling sanctuary from winter weather, housing boutique shops, independent traders, and festive pop-ups that transport visitors into what feels like a Dickensian novel.
Borough Market, already legendary among London's food enthusiasts, embraces Christmas with full festive spirit. One regular market-goer noted: "The decorations are genuinely charming. It's perfect for grabbing mulled wine and sampling the free treats that vendors generously offer."
Visitors can expect wreaths hanging from iron beams, seasonal produce, Christmas cheeses, spiced wines, and endless snack samples from friendly traders - maintaining the market's beloved chaotic, vibrant, and delicious character.
Community Spirit and Shopping Finds
Every Wednesday throughout December, Columbia Road - famous for its Sunday flower market - metamorphoses into one of London's most heart-warming Christmas traditions.
"They host lovely carol services and light switch-on ceremonies," a local East Londoner shared. "It radiates strong community spirit, with the flower market transforming to feature wreaths and Christmas trees."
Independent shops extend their opening hours, mulled wine flows abundantly, and local choirs perform street carols, creating what many consider London's most authentic local Christmas market experience.
For those seeking unique, non-mass-produced gifts, Spitalfields Christmas Market serves as the ultimate destination. "Spitalfields is ideal for browsing and gift shopping," one London mother explained. "They offer diverse market stalls with trinkets and unusual items that make perfect presents."
This year's market showcases pop-up independent creators selling jewellery, art, fashion, candles, and crafts, all sheltered beneath the beautifully restored Old Spitalfields Market roof.
The Love-It-or-Hate-It Christmas Giant
Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park remains London's most divisive festive offering, consistently sparking debate while maintaining a loyal following.
"I find it absolutely beautiful," admitted one devoted fan. "I understand why some people dislike Winter Wonderland - it can be expensive and overwhelming - but for me, it's an essential winter experience that I must visit and feel every year."
This year's attractions include Christmas circus performances, ice skating, fairground rides, and an expanded craft market featuring handmade gifts. Whether loved or criticised, its neon glow and festive chaos have become integral to London's December identity.
For visitors exploring London this festive season, following local recommendations could mean sipping mulled wine by the river, singing carols in East London, or stepping inside a Victorian arcade illuminated like a Christmas card. Each market possesses its own unique magic, and Londoners have made clear that the city's festive spirit extends far beyond any single destination.
