Leeds Christmas Market Dates, Location and Tips
Leeds Christmas market comes alive with festive cheer during the Christmas season, offering a magical atmosphere with twinkling lights and seasonal markets. From the iconic market stalls to ice skating at the Headrow, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
When do the Leeds Christmas markets start?
Leeds Christmas Markets will be open from 22nd November to 22nd December, offering festive fun throughout the season. The markets will welcome visitors from Monday to Wednesday, between 10am and 7pm, Thursday to Saturday from 10am to 9pm, and on Sunday from 10am to 6pm.
Do you need tickets?
There are no tickets required to stroll through the Leeds Christmas market, but certain activities like ice skating at Millennium Square do require a ticket.
Where are the Leeds Christmas markets?
This year, the traditional Christmas markets in Leeds will take over two prime locations in the heart of the city centre ÃÂâÃÂÃÂÃÂàCity Square and Millennium Square. There will be an additional weekend market on Bond Court.
What to expect at the Leeds Christmas markets?
Leeds comes alive with Christmas magic, as the city centre turns into a winter wonderland with festive stalls, bars, and more, offering an enchanting and authentic Christmas market experience.
Things to do at the Leeds Christmas markets
This year, the event will primarily be held at City Square and Millennium Square, featuring pop-up musical performances, a selection of Christmas food and drink, and seasonal outdoor bars, including THOR’S Tipi in Victoria Gardens.
Millennium Square will transform into a winter wonderland, with the star attraction, Ice Cube, offering a thrilling ice skating experience for all skill levels. Surrounding the rink, you’ll find craft stalls, food and drink vendors, and a family funfair with themed rides like the North Pole Funhouse, the classic Golden Gallopers carousel on Cookridge Street, and a 110 ft Ferris wheel in Victoria Gardens.
Food and Drinks
At the Leeds Christmas Markets, savour classic bratwursts, roasted chestnuts, and sweet churros, or enjoy a festive drink with friends at the new Windmill Bar. Sip on German beer and mulled wine from charming wooden chalet stalls while soaking in the magical Christmas atmosphere.
Stalls
The Christmas markets in Millennium Square and Leeds City Square will feature a wide range of stalls set up by local, national, and international traders. Visitors can browse unique gifts, crafts, and delicious food from around the world. For those looking to do some shopping, there will be a variety of handcrafted goods and bespoke artisan products, including knitted items and jewellery, perfect for finding something special this festive season.
How to reach the Leeds Christmas markets?
If you’re planning to visit the Leeds Christmas markets, here are some easy ways to get there:
- By tram: Leeds has excellent tram connections, with stops close to both City Square and Millennium Square. The city’s tram network makes it easy to hop on and off, ensuring quick access to the markets.
- By train: Direct services run regularly from London King’s Cross to Leeds Station, taking around 2 to 2.5 hours. Once you arrive at Leeds Station, it’s just a 10-minute walk to both City Square and Millennium Square, where the Christmas markets are located.
- By bus: The nearest bus stops to the Christmas markets are Millennium Square and City Square. Local bus routes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 operated by First Leeds provide easy access from across the city.
- By car: Leeds is well-connected by road, and you can drive into the city centre. For those driving from London, they can reach the Leeds Christmas Markets in about 4 to 5 hours via the M1 motorway.
Where can you park?
There are several car parks around the city centre, including those at the Trinity Leeds shopping centre, Leeds Dock, and the Merrion Centre. It’s advisable to check parking availability in advance, especially on busy weekends.
Where to stay in Leeds?
For a truly enchanting Christmas experience in Leeds, consider staying near the city centre. This will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the festive magic of the Leeds Christmas Market, with its ice skating, captivating light displays, and traditional markets filled with seasonal treats and gifts. To make the most of your visit, be sure to explore the fantastic deals available on this page for maximum savings on hotel stays.
Other things to do in Leeds
Leeds offers plenty of attractions and activities for visitors beyond the Christmas markets. Here are some of the popular things you can do in the city:
- Visit the Royal Armouries Museum: Explore a world-class collection of arms and armour, from medieval to modern, in this impressive museum located on the banks of the River Aire.
- Explore Leeds Art Gallery: Admire a diverse collection of contemporary and classic masterpieces, housed in a beautiful Victorian building, showcasing works from renowned artists.
- Stroll around Roundhay Park: Enjoy over 700 acres of lush parkland, lakes, and woodlands, perfect for a leisurely walk, a picnic, or a visit to the park’s tropical and gardens.
- Shop at Trinity Leeds: Experience a mix of high street fashion, independent boutiques, and restaurants in this modern shopping centre, ideal for retail therapy and dining.
- Tour Leeds Corn Exchange: Discover this iconic, Grade I listed building known for its stunning architecture, home to an array of independent shops, cafes, and events.
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