Christmas shopping should be fun (so what if you pick up a present for yourself in the process?) We’ve picked out some seasonal shopping locations to help you tick gifts off your list and enjoy yourself in the process.
Camden Lock Night Market
Best for: Evening shopping
Camden’s night market makes for an ideal trip if you’re pushed for time in the day. It runs on Thursdays between 5 and 10pm, offering arts and crafts and tasty festive food for Christmas. There’s also live entertainment from the likes of the Belle Fleurs, who deliver a twist on classic rock, pop, punk and metal numbers. 13 and 20 Dec
Southbank Centre Christmas Market
Best for: A taste of Cologne in London
Feast on mulled wine, bratwurst and gingerbread hearts at the German-themed market which has been set up for the fifth year on Queen’s walk outside the Southbank Centre. The 80 chalets focus on food, but gifts like hand-crafted toys should make perfect stocking fillers. There’s a carousel to amuse the kids, and a handy chalet map can be downloaded here. Until 24 Dec
London Glassblowing Christmas Open Studio
Best for: Christmas presents to treasure
Glassblowing is an elegant and beautiful art. Leading workshop London Glassblowing is opening its studio in London Bridge up to visitors for Christmas. It’s a chance to watch artists at work by the furnaces, and buy a piece from £45 if one takes your eye – a glass bauble perhaps. Mince pies and mulled wine will also be on offer. Until 24 Dec
Real Food Christmas Market
Best for: Gastronomic festivity
Real Food takes place weekly at the Southbank Centre Square, but at this time of year it takes on a distinctly festive focus. You can sample traditional mince pies fresh out of the oven from the Flour Station, pick up some marmalade vodka from Chase Distillery or get your
free-range Bronze or Norfolk turkey from The Thoroughly Wild Meat Co, which hangs its birds for a fuller flavour. 14-16 Dec and 20-23 Dec
Find more Christmas markets in our Christmas shopping guide here. Have any to add to the list? Share them below.