Christmas time
If you want a break from the big shopping centres this Christmas, why not take a trip to one of the many waterside Christmas markets around the country.
It may feel as if the decorations have only just been taken down and the lingering smell of turkey has only just disappeared from the kitchen, but once again Christmas is upon us. People are now rushing to the shops to pick up some Christmas bargains and buy an endless supply of gifts and stocking fillers. Some of us enjoy the hustle and bustle of the shopping centres in the cities and towns but others ache for something a little more relaxing.
A great way to get some shopping done away from the crowded shopping centres is to try a Christmas Market. You'll be able to sample mulled wine and mince pies as you saunter around the many craft stalls, finding unique gifts for friends and family. What’s more, many of the markets are near canals and rivers, so if the Christmas spirit gets too much, you can take a break and wander along the waterways. Here’s some you may want to try…
North Shields – 10 & 11 December
Standing close to the magnificent River Tyne, North Shields is home to an annual Victorian winter market. 2005 will be the seventh year it has been held and it is planned to be bigger and better then ever. Visitors will be able to marvel at the many stallholders in period dress and enjoy the sounds of yuletide music and smells of traditional winter food. A sparkling Christmas tree, Carol singing on the Saturday at 10pm and, no doubt, the north wind, complete this magical Christmas experience.
Sheffield – 8-11 December
Sheffield is home to its very own Christmas market and as you wander around the many stalls, you could be forgiven for thinking that you are no longer in the South Yorkshire city. The market has grown every year since it began in 1997 and now boasts 50 – 60 traders, each selling a unique selection a crafts, artwork, jewellery, clothes and much more. There are also food vendors, tempting shoppers with German sausage, roast turkey & pork, specialist coffees and pancakes.
Manchester – 17 November–21 December
In Manchester, Christmas shoppers can explore the German, European and Arts & Crafts in Albert Square, St. Anne’s Square and Exchange Street. There is a very traditional theme to the markets, with wooden chalet-type stalls selling traditional gifts, cheeses, Christmas trees and decorations and chocolates. The markets are wrapped in festive smells from the spicy pickles on sale and the roasting of chestnuts. Opening hours are between 10am and 8pm.
Gloucester - 19 November-18 December
Not right by the water but so picturesque we had to include it, Gloucester’s German Christmas Market takes over the Kings Square every day from 10am until 10pm in the run up to Christmas. Once you’ve wandered around some 30 stalls and had your fill of mulled wine and mince pies, you can skate into a winter wonderland on the new ice rink – available until 5th January.
In this section ...
Christmas Crackers
»
Waterside shopping centres
»
contact us
print page