Planning a trip away in your caravan or motorhome is a great opportunity to leave all the tasks associated with Christmas behind and get into the festive spirit.
There are lots of destinations across the UK where you can pitch up in the weeks before the big day, but those hosting Christmas markets have a certain draw.
With this in mind, the team at City of Doncaster News conducted a study of the top ten Christmas markets across the UK, ranked by their popularity on social media.
Andy Halliday, CEO of the news outlet, said: “Our study revealed the markets best capturing the festive spirit with their enchanting light displays, traditional stalls and cultural diversity.”
Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park, London
It’s easy to forget that caravanning is a great way to have an affordable city break and with so much going on in the capital over the festive period, London is a great place to get Christmassy.
Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland is popular with celebrities and influencers alike, attracting no fewer than 18.5 million hashtags on Instagram.
The market contains a selection of traditional and contemporary stalls, while an on-site ice rink, lights and rides ramp up the entertainment value even further.
Manchester Christmas Markets, city centre
Spread across nine separate locations in the city centre, it’s safe to say the Manchester Christmas Markets offer surprises around every corner.
Find stalls at:
- King Street West
- St Ann’s Square
- Exchange Street
- New Cathedral Street
- Exchange Square
- Corn Exchange
- Cathedral Gardens
- Market Street
- Piccadilly Gardens
Consisting of more than 200 stalls in total, there’s mulled wine, international cuisine and holiday crafts to get stuck into.
Edinburgh Christmas Market, East Princes Street Gardens
It’s hard not to be impressed by the stunning backdrop of the castle looming above the Edinburgh Christmas Market.
The stalls are inspired by traditional German markets with extra Scottish charm, to offer a unique winter experience.
As well as twinkling lights and festive treats, there are fairground rides, including a big wheel that offers unparalleled views of the city.
Bath Christmas Market, city centre
The 150 chalets that make up Bath Christmas Market are a great place to get some seasonal shopping done, as many of the items on offer are handmade.
From locally-produced food and drink right through to clothes, garden sculptures and vintage keepsakes, you’re bound to find something for everyone on your list.
It’s popular with Instagrammers too, as the city’s famous Georgian buildings add an extra level of charm to the proceedings.
Tips for enjoying Christmas markets by caravan or motorhome
Taking your leisure vehicle away on a Christmas market trip is a great way to keep costs down at what can be a pricey time of year.
To make it work, look for a year-round holiday park with good public transport links into the city centre.
After pitching up, you can take a bus, tram or train into the city centre and avoid difficult parking arrangements, as well as perhaps enjoying a festive tipple.
Make sure your caravan or motorhome is going to be warm enough to use in the winter and ramp up the cosy factor with some seasonal decorations.
Photo credit: Unsplash/Ross Sneddon
