The Biggest Christmas Market in the UK
Experience the ultimate winter wonderland in the heart of Birmingham, where charming fairground rides delight families and a diverse array of food stalls tempts every palate. This largest authentic German market in the UK offers a unique festive atmosphere that captures the essence of German traditions.
What date does the Birmingham Christmas market start?
Birmingham Christmas Market will take place from Friday, 1st November to Tuesday, 24th December 2024. The market promises a magical experience, with festive stalls, traditional treats, and live entertainment to get you into the Christmas spirit.
Where is the Birmingham Christmas market?
Birmingham's heartwarming Christmas Market is nestled in and around Victoria Square. Located just outside the Council House and Town Hall and in proximity to the Museum and Art Gallery, this enchanting market typically extends along New Street, leading you to the renowned world's biggest Primark and the Bullring.
How to reach the Birmingham Christmas Market?
The Birmingham Christmas Market is easily accessible by various transport options.
- By train: The closest train station to the market is Birmingham New Street, which is served by direct trains from major cities like London and Liverpool. From the station, it's a short walk to Victoria Square. Alternatively, Snow Hill Station is also nearby, requiring a quick walk through the Cathedral gardens.
- By bus: National Express West Midlands buses offer direct routes to the city centre, providing a convenient way to reach the market.
- By car: For those driving, several nearby car parks are available, including the Bullring NCP, New Street NCP, and Grand Central NCP. However, be aware of the Birmingham Clean Air Zone fees that may apply.
Where can you park?
Parking is available close to the Birmingham Christmas Market, though it can be limited during peak hours.
- The Bullring Shopping Centre Car Park: This is a convenient and secure option but tends to fill up quickly.
- The Moor Street NCP Car Park: This is a short walk away and offers more affordable rates.
Do you need tickets?
While entry to Birmingham Christmas Markets is free, please note that certain attractions may require tickets. For added convenience, consider pre-booking a variety of exciting experiences online in advance, including ice skating, the Big Wheel and the exhilarating City Flyer.
Can you pay cash at Birmingham Christmas Market?
While many vendors at Birmingham's Christmas Market do accept card payments, some operate on a cash-only basis or require a minimum purchase for card transactions. To make the most of your visit and avoid any potential hassle, it's wise to bring cash along.
What to expect at the Birmingham Christmas market?
Birmingham's Christmas Market, established in 2001, has become a cherished festive tradition in the UK. Since then, the market has continued to grow in both size and popularity, offering a host of events, festivities, and shows. What started as a modest affair with just 24 stalls has now blossomed into the largest authentic German market outside Germany and Austria, featuring numerous stalls and a delightful array of food and gifts.
Things to do
- Ice Skating: Enjoy the thrill of ice skating in Centenary Square from 1st November 2024 to 5th January 2025, daily from 10 am to 10 pm (excluding Christmas Day). Be sure to secure your tickets online in advance!
- Big Wheel: Experience breathtaking views of Birmingham's cityscape from the Big Wheel, which operates alongside the ice skating rink. This thrilling attraction features a gradual rotation, providing ever-changing vistas of the city.
- City Flyer: For an adrenaline rush, don't forget to try the City Flyer, a heart-pounding fairground ride that adds excitement to your visit.
- Festive Sing-Along: Join the festive sing-along with Birmingham's beloved Christmas moose, Chris Moose, located in front of the Council House entrance. It's a delightful way to get into the holiday spirit!
- Ornate Carousel: Take a laughter-filled ride on the beautifully decorated carousel, sure to entertain both kids and the young at heart.
Food and Drinks
Savour the seasonal delights at the Birmingham Christmas Market. Try aromatic mince pies, a British tradition, and iconic bratwurst sausages topped with delicious condiments. Warm up with a glass of mulled wine, a festive classic, while enjoying large, salt-sprinkled pretzels and roasted chestnuts. For dessert, indulge in festive stollen - Germany's most traditional Christmas cake, along with French-style crÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂêpes and hearty British hog roast. These culinary treasures blend international flavours, offering a perfect taste of the holiday season in Birmingham.
Stalls
The Birmingham Christmas Market stalls offer a wealth of unique gifts and handcrafted treasures. Discover intricate wooden decorations perfect for home decor or thoughtful presents, along with locally made candles and soaps that create a warm winter atmosphere. Food lovers will delight in beautifully packaged cheeses, chutneys, and jams, ideal for gifting or indulging. The market's German theme features traditional crafts, including hand-blown glass ornaments and intricately carved nutcrackers.
Where to stay in Birmingham?
Birmingham offers an impressive selection of hotels perfect for your festive getaway. To stay close to the Christmas markets and the city's top attractions, consider accommodations in the city centre near the Town Hall and Victoria Square. Don't miss the chance to browse the exclusive offers on this page, ensuring you enjoy a magical stay without breaking the bank.
Other things to do in Birmingham
Birmingham offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors, blending culture, history, and entertainment.
- Visit the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery: Home to a vast collection of Pre-Raphaelite art, fine art, and a rich history of local industry, this museum is a must-see for art enthusiasts.
- Take a canal boat tour: With over 35 miles of canals, Birmingham's canal network is the largest in the UK outside of London, providing a unique perspective of the city.
- Shop at the Bullring: One of the UK's largest shopping centres, the Bullring houses over 160 shops, including global brands and independent boutiques, making it a prime retail destination.
- Birmingham Botanical Gardens: Stroll through this 15-acre site featuring tropical, subtropical, and Mediterranean plants, as well as a butterfly house, perfect for a relaxing day out.
- Visit Cadbury World: Located in Bournville, Cadbury World is an interactive experience that reveals the history and fun behind one of the UK's most beloved chocolate brands, offering rides, attractions, and delicious treats.
Christmas Essentials: Christmas Shop | Christmas Gifts | Christmas Pyjamas | Christmas Decorations | Christmas Market Breaks | Christmas Jumpers | Christmas Trees