Are there any Christmas markets in Wales?

Yes, Wales hosts several charming Christmas markets, with the Cardiff Christmas Market (running mid-Nov to Dec 23, 2025/2026) being the largest, featuring over 70 wooden stalls in the city center. Other notable markets include Pembroke Castle (Dec 5-7, 2025), Portmeirion, Swansea, and Hay-on-Wye.

Does Wales have Christmas markets?

One of the most popular seasonal markets in Wales, Cardiff Christmas Market spans the city centre, with dozens of themed stalls and attractions: European-style chalets selling gifts, jewellery and crafts. Gourmet food stalls featuring raclette, bratwurst and mulled wine.

Where to go for Christmas in Wales?

Christmas markets in Wales

• Skip to: Christmas markets in South Wales. ...
• Myddfai Christmas Craft Fair. 7 December 2023. ...
• Christmas at Tredegar House. 1 - 23 December 2023. ...
• Portmeirion Food & Craft Festival. 1 - 3 December 2023. ...
• Conwy Winterfest. ...
• Llanerchaeron Christmas Fair. ...
• Hay Festival Winter Weekend. ...
• Aberglasney Winter Fair.

Is there a Winter Wonderland in Wales?

Yes, Wales has several Winter Wonderland-style events, with Cardiff's Winter Wonderland being the most prominent, featuring ice skating at the castle and a funfair at City Hall, plus other locations like Carmarthen and Caerphilly also hosting major festive attractions with skating, rides, food, and Christmas markets. 

Which town has the best Christmas markets?

We've picked six of our favourite European city markets for the 2024 season that we think are worth adding to your Christmas travel itineraries.

• Copenhagen, Denmark. ...
• Cologne, Germany. ...
• Salzburg, Austria. ...
• Berlin, Germany. ...
• Budapest, Hungary. ...
• Prague, Czech Republic.

CARDIFF CHRISTMAS MARKET 2025 | Magical Festive WALES

What are the top 10 Christmas markets in the UK?

Christmas Markets in Southern England

• Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market. Regularly voted one of Europe's best, Winchester's Christmas Market is a must-visit. ...
• Bath Christmas Market. ...
• Southampton Christmas Market. ...
• Oxford Victorian Christmas Market. ...
• Blenheim Palace Christmas Market.

Is Cardiff Christmas Market good?

Natalie Wilson & Amelia Neath of The Independent, ranking Cardiff the UK's 3rd best Christmas Market. Dates for this year's Cardiff Christmas Market in the city centre are from Thursday 13 November to Tuesday 23 December 2025.

Is Wales worth visiting in December?

Wales offers a unique blend of ancient tradition, stunning landscapes, and festive cheer, making it the perfect destination for an unforgettable Christmas break. From the dramatic mountains of the north to the vibrant cities of the south, the country truly comes alive during December.

What is the most Christmassy village in the UK?

Just a two-hour drive from Manchester, Bowness-on-Windermere takes the crown as the UK's most Christmassy town. With average December snowfall reaching 84mm and temperatures hovering around 4°C, it's one of the few places in the country where you might actually wake up to a white Christmas.

What is Santa Claus called in Wales?

In Welsh, Father Christmas is called Siôn Corn, which literally translates to "Chimney Pot John" or "John Stack," referencing his chimney entry. He's a traditional figure who brings gifts to good children, similar to Santa Claus, and is deeply rooted in Welsh Christmas culture, appearing in literature and annuals from the early 20th century. 

Does Cardiff do a Christmas market?

Cardiff Christmas market is open every day to the 23rd of December. Opening hours are: Monday to Saturday 10am to 6pmFrom Dec Thursdays 10am to 7pm10am to 5pm on Sundays We're looking forward to seeing you and hope you enjoy the showcase of handmade products by predominantly Welsh businesses.

What is the easiest Christmas market to get to from the UK?

Brussels Christmas market

Voted one of the best Christmas markets in Europe, Brussels' Winter Wonders is the perfect choice for a festive family getaway or a weekend shopping trip — and it's just 1 hour 53 minutes from London by Eurostar.

What to do in Wales during Christmas?

If you're looking for a Christmas experience that makes you feel warm and cosy, Tower Grotto is a must-visit. Set within the incredible Zip World Tower site in South Wales, this grotto blends festive magic with the stunning industrial-heritage backdrop of the Rhondda Valley.

What is the number one tourist attraction in Wales?

Top Attractions in Wales

• Portmeirion Village. 4.1. (5,567) ...
• Pembroke Castle. 4.8. (3,650) ...
• Castell Caernarfon. 4.6. (4,410) ...
• Castell Conwy. 4.5. (3,927) ...
• Cardiff Bay. 4.5. (6,244) ...
• Bodnant Garden. 4.8. (2,668) Gardens. ...
• Folly Farm. 4.7. (5,671) Amusement & Theme Parks. ...
• Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. 4.7. (1,807) Points of Interest & Landmarks.

What is the Welsh Christmas thing?

One of the most well-known Welsh customs is the Mari Lwyd, meaning 'Grey Mare', a horse-figure carried from door to door by wassail-singing groups during the Christmas season.

What is the posh part of Wales?

Discover the most upscale and luxurious neighborhoods in Wales, including Rowen, Cowbridge, Abersoch, Tenby, and Mumbles. Explore the Welsh Riviera and posh places in Leeds for a taste of the high life.

Where in Wales looks like Italy?

Portmeirion has become known as one of the most successful British architectural projects of the twentieth century. Using an eco-friendly approach, he designed his architectural vision around a Mediterranean piazza.

What is the most stunning part of Wales?

The Anglesey coast, the Gower Peninsula, the Llŷn Peninsula, the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley, and the Wye Valley are among the most exceptional places in Wales.

Where is the most magical Christmas market?

• 44 Wildly Magical Christmas Markets to Visit in Europe (Ranked!) Last Updated: October 28, 2025. ...
• London, England. OOH. ...
• Budapest, Hungary* ...
• Düsseldorf, Germany. ...
• Stuttgart, Germany. ...
• Paris, France. ...
• Winchester, England. ...
• Essen, Germany.

Where not to go in Cardiff?

Butetown. Butetown is a historic area with lots of green spaces and attractions. But it's also one of the worst areas in Cardiff, with a high crime rate compared to other areas. Crimes seen here are violence, criminal damage, and public order offences.