Christmas Markets in the North

Creative Tourist

It’s all too tempting to wander into the big name shops and get enticed in by an alluring sparkly window display. However, when it comes to Christmas shopping, spending your money with local, independent sellers is a much more sustainable and economically sound way of enjoying the present buying experience. Escape the endless tinny loop of Noddy Holder and enjoy local musicians whilst you peruse the stalls of talented makers, discovering truly unique gift ideas for your loved ones. Christmas Markets are where it’s at for shopping, if you’re looking for hand-made thoughtful presents.

Our top picks

Leeds Corn Exchange

Leeds Corn Exchange, Call Ln, Leeds, LS1 7BR - Visit now

The Christmas Market at Leeds Corn Exchange is back for 2024, in collaboration with Rolling Social Events. Running 9-12 December, the market features food and drink pop ups including some of the best of the Leeds independent street food scene, Christmas spirit tasting experiences from Wolfe Bros Gin, Woodford Reserve Whiskey and Benriach Scotch Whisky plus a bar selling hot cocktails, mulled wine, craft beers from Camden Town Brewery and North Brewing Co, and lots of wine and fizz.

Leeds Corn Exchange

Millennium Square Leeds

Millennium Square Leeds, Millennium Square, Calverley St, Leeds, Yorkshire, LS1 1UR - Visit now

Millennium Square hosts Christkindelmarkt, the Leeds edition of the popular German-style Christmas markets. There’s a winter village with a giant inflatable igloo, a host of Christmas chalet-style huts with garden-themed interior décor, a daily programme of entertainment and a cracking selection of street food vendors.

Millennium Square
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Culture Guides

the artist
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A woman with black curly hair sings on stage in front of a red curtain
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A large sphere floats in a dark room with an ornate wall pattern, flanked by two arched windows and a checkered floor.
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Poet Imtiaz Dharker. Photo by Ayesha Dharker
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