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Best Christmas Markets in London: A Guide for Hotel Guests

London is a city that never sleeps, but it becomes even more alive and festive in December. Whether you are looking for culture, history, nature, or entertainment, you will find something to suit your interests and preferences in London. In this blog post, we will introduce you to some of the best Christmas markets in London that are close to Mercure London Paddington Hotel, our 4-star hotel that is located next to Paddington Station and Hyde Park.

• Winter Wonderland: One of the most popular and spectacular Christmas markets in London is Winter Wonderland, which takes over Hyde Park every year. You can enjoy fairground rides, ice skating, circus shows, live music, and more. You can also explore the Magical Ice Kingdom, where you can see amazing ice sculptures of mythical creatures and frozen landscapes. Winter Wonderland is open from 17 November to 1 January, and admission is free, but some attractions require tickets.
• Southbank Centre Winter Market: Another great option for a riverside Christmas market is the Southbank Centre Winter Market, which is part of the Southbank Centre's Winter Festival. You can browse the wooden chalets that sell handmade crafts, unique gifts, and delicious food from around the world. You can also enjoy cultural events and performances at the Southbank Centre, such as concerts, comedy shows, and theatre. The Southbank Centre Winter Market is open from 2 November to 26 December, and admission is free.
• Leicester Square Christmas Market: If you are looking for some entertainment and laughter, you should visit the Leicester Square Christmas Market, which is part of Christmas in Leicester Square. You can shop for festive goodies and treats at the traditional market stalls, or watch a Christmas show or panto at the Belgian Spiegeltent, a mirrored tent that hosts an array of festive shows. You can also meet Santa Claus at his grotto and take a photo with him. The Leicester Square Christmas Market is open from 8 November to 7 January, and admission is free, but some attractions require tickets.
• Greenwich Christmas Market: If you want to escape the crowds and enjoy a more historic and scenic Christmas market, you should head to Greenwich Christmas Market, which is located in the World Heritage Site of Greenwich. You can find a range of stocking fillers, fashion items, crafts, and original artworks at the market stalls, as well as street food and mulled wine. You can also explore the nearby attractions of Greenwich, such as the Cutty Sark, the Royal Observatory, and the National Maritime Museum. The Greenwich Christmas Market is open from 15 November onwards, and admission is free.

These are just some of the best Christmas markets in London that are close to Mercure London Paddington Hotel. You can find more options on Visit London’s website or ask our staff for recommendations. We hope you enjoy your stay at our hotel and your festive experience in London. Book your room today and discover why Mercure London Paddington Hotel is the perfect choice for your trip.