Snow is falling, all around us… Okay, maybe not quite yet, but it will! Christmas is coming, the jolliest season of the year. And one of the perks of this season are the Christmas markets! Groups of people coming together, to display their crafts, delicacies and more, all under the twinkling fairy lights and to the sounds of carols. Nothing could be more magical! The perfect place to fix your last minute present shopping, get some cookies for the visiting in-laws or a beautiful ornament to update your tree. And to help you with this, here are the 5 best Scotland Christmas markets!
#1 Edinburgh Christmas Markets
When discussing Scotland in any capacity, a trip to the capital is necessary. And Edinburgh Christmas Markets happen to be the most famous across Scotland. Situated in East Prince St Gardens, the Edinburgh Christmas market is a must for breaks. The European market displays its annual collection of crafters, artists, gift shops and pure gastronomic delights. In order to ensure its place in the hearts of children for an Edinburgh Christmas Market trips during breaks, there is also Santa Land. Santa Land consists of an outdoor skating rink and fairground, ensuring a variety of entertainment and experiences for all. This truly is a trip for the whole family, and will ensure festive moods all around! You can find a detailed collection of all Christmas events in Edinburgh by visiting this site.
#2 Perth Winter Wonderland
Throughout November and December, the tranquil streets of Perth are transformed into a winter wonderland that will simply knock your socks off! As well as the eclectic range of independent shops and cafes, during the holidays Perth hosts several traditional Christmas markets, for those purchases that simply cannot be made on the high street. Pick up a glass of mulled wine while you browse through the Alpine chalet-style stalls and heated marquee, christmas market holidays truly done right. Make your way through freshly-cooked artisan street food stalls and unique crafts on offer all while staying toasty. Be sure to grab a santa hat and join the delightful spectacle of the Santa Run, sweating alongside the other merry folk. If you’re more of an observer, than the Pitlochry Christmas Tree Festival will provide you the Yuletide feeling without any exertion. If you plan to go with the young ones, you can check out a detailed list of events they'll adore!
#3 The Glasgow Christmas Markets
Glasgow’s Continental Christmas Market features in the city’s St Enoch’s square, and brings the best of traders and stalls from across Europe. It features traditional flavours and produce from countries such as France, Italy and Germany, but also intrigues visitors with guests from more distinct locations - such as a special visitor from the Finnish part of Lapland! At the delightful Gluhwein House you can grab a delicious glass of the good stuff, or a continental beer from the Bavarian bars if that is more down your street. There is live entertainment throughout, and the added fun of a big wheel and funfair rides! Help yourself take the stress out of gift shopping, and avoid the high streets this Christmas. All Glasgow markets and events can be found on this helpful festive page!
#4 Aberdeen Christmas Village
The Aberdeen Christmas Market, also known as Christmas Village, returns for the 4th year, and after a few minutes there you’ll surely be returning too! Continuously growing, this market will keep the entire family entertained for hours. The Aberdeen Christmas Market offers everything, from stocking fillers such as traditional wooden toys, crafts and confectionary to German treats like Bratwurst and superb beer. A series of events are hosted there as well, including a parade on Union Street. Your young ones will be begging to go once you mention the open air ice rink, fairground rides and carol service! Visit their site for more information and exact locations.
#5 Glamis Castle Christmas Market
If in Scotland and looking for Christmas markets to peruse, the Glamis Castle Christmas Market should definitely rank on your list. Celebrate Christmas in the most fairytale setting possible in this 14th century Castle. It is set in the broad valley of Strathmore, near the county town of Angus. It attracts immensely talented crafters to showcase their creations, while local producers offer some delicious food and drink. Whilst there you can also tour the castle and gain some historical knowledge whilst sipping at your mulled wine. Take the little ones to Santa’s Grotto to find out what they want for Christmas this year, or to a unique drive-in screening of Elf and Home Alone. The ultimate Christmas Market combination for the holidays. Be sure to check out their website to get tickets before they're sold out!
Our 5 best Scotland Christmas markets for you! Hopefully there is at least one in the list that tempts you to pack your mittens and take out some cash, from the Edinburgh Christmas Market breaks to the magnificent Glamis Castle. But if nothing takes your fancy, there is another way to arrange a Christmas gift for your loved one, a motorhome holiday that can be sorted within a few clicks on our site!
