SouthBank Christmas Market Dates, Location and Tips
Feel the magic of Christmas come alive at the SouthBank Christmas Market! With its riverside charm, twinkling lights, and the joyful hum of festivities, it’s the perfect place to embrace the holiday spirit. Stroll past festive stalls brimming with unique treasures, enjoy the aroma of fresh-baked treats, and soak in the warm glow of lights reflecting off the Thames.
When does the SouthBank Christmas market start?
The SouthBank Christmas markets will fill the city with festive magic from 1st November 2024 to 5th January 2025.
When will the market stalls open?
The market stalls are open daily from 11 am, offering festive cheer until 10 pm on weekdays and 11 pm on weekends. Special timings include a later opening at 5 pm on 1st November and early closures at 3 pm on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day. The market remains closed on Christmas Day.
Things to do at SouthBank Christmas Markets
The SouthBank Christmas Markets offer a vibrant mix of festive fun, from delicious food and drink to unique shopping and captivating public art installations. Here’s a look at some of the best things to do while soaking in the holiday cheer.
- Public art installations
Immerse yourself in the creativity of various public art installations around the SouthBank Centre, adding a festive cultural touch to your market experience.
- Food and drink
Indulge in a variety of festive delights at the SouthBank Christmas Market. Enjoy the savory offerings such as truffle burgers, duck wraps, cheese toasties, spicy chicken boxes with Cajun fries, lobster buns, and some of London’s best hot dogs. For something sweet, treat yourself to Dutch pancakes, churros, or chocolate-covered fruit. To keep warm, sip on mulled wine or hot chocolate while soaking in the holiday atmosphere.
- Family-friendly fun
The market provides a family-friendly environment with plenty of activities and fun for all ages, making it the perfect spot for a day out with loved ones.
- Festive shopping
Wander through the market stalls, where independent traders offer unique gifts and crafts perfect for the holiday season.
Do you need tickets to enter the SouthBank Christmas market?
Access to the SouthBank Christmas Market is free, but certain attractions may require tickets. To enhance your experience, it’s recommended to book your favorite activities online ahead of time.
How to reach the SouthBank Christmas markets?
If you’re planning to visit the SouthBank Christmas markets, here are some easy ways to get there:
- By tube: The nearest tube stations are Waterloo (200 metres away), Embankment (600 metres away), and London Bridge. Waterloo offers the quickest access, with just a short walk to the market.
- By train: Arrive at London Waterloo Station, which is a few minutes’ walk from the SouthBank Centre and the Christmas Market. Alternatively,London Bridge Station is also nearby, providing easy connections to the SouthBank.
- By bus: Several London bus routes stop close to the SouthBank Centre, including routes 1, 26, 59, 68, 139, and 168. You can alight at Waterloo Bridge (100 metres away) or York Road (500 metres away).
- By car: If you’re driving, head towards the SouthBank via Chicheley Street, then turn east onto Belvedere Road (since Belvedere Road is closed to westbound traffic). Note that parking is limited in the area, so using public transport is recommended, especially during the busy festive period.
Where can you park at SouthBank Christmas Markets?
For those driving to the SouthBank Christmas Market, there are several parking options available:
- Blue Badge parking: There are four free Blue Badge parking spaces located on the Queen Elizabeth Hall slip road, between the Royal Festival Hall and Hayward Gallery. These spaces are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, so be sure to display your Blue Badge when entering.
- Additional Blue Badge parking: Blue Badge holders can also park for free in the National Theatre car park and the APCOA Cornwall Road car park. However, note that the National Theatre car park has no step-free access on Sundays or days when there is no performance.
- For general parking: Consider using nearby car parks at Waterloo Bridge or SouthBank Centre, but availability may be limited, especially during peak times. It’s advisable to arrive early or consider using public transport during the busy festive period.
Where to stay in the SouthBank?
SouthBank offers a range of accommodations to suit every traveler, from luxurious stays with river views and rooftop bars to stylish, budget-friendly options near landmarks like the Tate Modern and London Eye. Many are within walking distance of the vibrant cultural scene and the SouthBank Christmas Market, ensuring easy access to festive fun. Check out our great deals on nearby hotels for a relaxing stay to recharge for another day of exploration.
Other things to do in SouthBank
SouthBank offers a variety of activities perfect for family fun and adventure. Here are five things to enjoy:
- Visit SEA LIFE London: Explore an underwater world with sharks, penguins, and more at this family-friendly aquarium.
- Ride the London Eye: Take in stunning views of London from one of the world’s most iconic ferris wheels.
- Explore Shrek's Adventure: Embark on a magical journey with Shrek and his friends in this immersive experience.
- Enjoy the Jubilee Gardens: Let kids play at this well-equipped riverside park with plenty of green space.
- Check out the National Theatre: Discover a world of drama with a visit to this cultural hub.
Christmas Essentials: Christmas Shop | Christmas Gifts | Christmas Pyjamas | Christmas Decorations | Christmas Market Breaks | Christmas Jumpers | Christmas Trees