Searching for a dose of festive cheer without the immense crowds of larger attractions like Winter Wonderland? The Christmas market in Leicester Square offers a charming and compact alternative, running right through the season until 4th January 2026.
A Festive Feast for the Senses
Located just a five-minute walk from Leicester Square Underground station, the market is easy to find, with clear signage guiding visitors from the iconic Bridget Jones statue. Upon passing under the large 'Welcome' sign, you are immediately transported by the sight of numerous alpine-inspired stalls.
The market is an excellent spot for unique Christmas shopping, offering everything from personalised baubles to blocks of fudge for those with a sweet tooth. If the chilly London weather catches you off guard, two extensive stalls are packed with every winter accessory imaginable, from massive scarves to cosy hats.
Food, Drink and What to Expect to Pay
As expected, the culinary offerings are a central part of the experience. While prices are on the higher side, they are not as extortionate as one might fear for a central London Christmas market.
The festive bar serves up crucial seasonal beverages. You can indulge in a Bailey's Hot Chocolate, complete with cream, caramel sauce, and marshmallows, for £9. A cup of Mulled Wine or Mulled Cider will set you back £6.90, while a regular hot chocolate is a relatively bargainous £4.
The food scene is vibrant and diverse, with enticing scents filling the air. A standout is The Cheese Wheel, a bright yellow stall serving pasta dishes prepared in a parmesan wheel. Prices here start at £11.45 for a classic fettuccine Alfredo, rising to £15.45 for options with black truffle sauce.
For a Halal option, Smoketeers offers steak on fries for £18 and a steak sandwich for £13, alongside a vegetarian burger for £9. No Christmas market would be complete without German sausages, and a traditional Bratwurst is available for £11, with extras like onions and sauerkraut costing an additional £1 each.
Skating and Sparkly Surroundings
This year marks a first for the Leicester Square event: it now features its own circular ice rink. During a mid-week visit, the rink was notably quiet, offering a more relaxed skating experience. Session prices are £11.50 for children aged 3-12 and £15.50 for adults, which includes 45 minutes on the ice and skate hire.
After enjoying the market's offerings, you can extend your festive stroll with a short walk to the sparkling Christmas lights of Trafalgar Square (five minutes) or Covent Garden (seven minutes). With its combination of sweet treats, hot drinks, unique gifts, and festive skating, Leicester Square provides a wonderfully jolly slice of London Christmas spirit.
