With just three weeks to go until the big day, the festive season is well and truly underway – and Britons are searching for the best way to get a dose of Christmas cheer.
The smell of pumpkin spice and roasted chestnuts filling the air, mulled wine in hand and glittering grottos and market stalls lining the streets, Christmas markets are an ideal way to warm even the coldest of hearts this winter.
Up and down the country, cities have put together their finest market stalls and displays in a bid to make this Christmas a memorable one – but where are the most picturesque Christmas markets in the UK?
Research conducted by Christmas Tree World has revealed the most beautiful and Instagrammable Christmas markets around the UK by analysing the number of Instagram mentions for Christmas markets around the UK.
1. Edinburgh – 51,300 Instagram mentions
Running from November 17 to January 6, Edinburgh’s magical market has been crowned the UK’s most beautiful Christmas market.
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Set in the historic centre of the Scottish capital, there are plenty of fun and festive activities for visitors to enjoy, including the iconic Forth 1 Big Wheel.
2. Bath – 32,300 Instagram mentions
Bath Christmas market has gained the title of the second-most beautiful Christmas market in the UK.
Visitors will have to act quickly as the market ends on December 10 – but a trip to the picturesque city is essential for a festive fix.
The stunning Christmas market is straight out of a seasonal picture book and features over 170 dazzling chalets full of stylish trinkets and personalised gifts.
I visited Bath Christmas market and was overwhelmed with the magical atmosphere in the air as I explored the cobbled streets in search of presents and flavoured chutneys.
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The market is perfect for visitors of all ages and makes for an ideal festive escape to really get you in the Christmas spirit.
3. Birmingham – 20,300 Instagram mentions
Running until Christmas Eve (December 24), Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market is the UK’s third-most beautiful Christmas market.
Birmingham’s fantastic festive offering is the largest authentic German Christmas Market outside of Germany or Austria, and is a grand and spectacular experience with something for everyone.
4. York – 10,200 Instagram mentions
York is widely regarded as one of the most picturesque cities in the UK, so it is no surprise that its Christmas market makes the list – taking fourth spot.
Ending on December 22, York Christmas market features 75 alpine stalls selling a variety of charming and unique gifts.
5. Winchester – 9,500 Instagram mentions
Completing the top five of the UK’s most beautiful Christmas markets is Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market.
Renowned as one of the best Christmas markets in Europe, it is hard to find a more stunning and atmospheric backdrop than Winchester Cathedral.
Admission to the market is free and it finishes on December 21.
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