Next Christmas always seem so far away. However, before you know it, it is round the corner once again and we are all scrambling to prepare for the festive season.

As December approaches, all across the UK Christmas markets are sprouting up and there is no better way to get into the festive spirit. UK Christmas Markets often have continental themes bringing over French, German or Italian traders. The atmospheric markets with stalls stocking great Christmas gift ideas, the snowy back drop, Christmas trees, wooden chalets, plenty of mulled wine and great cuisine and you have one of the great experiences of the Christmas festive season.

Are you planning a Christmas market trip with your friends or family? If you are, here are a few of the top Christmas Markets in the UK.

Lincoln Christmas Market (1^st – 4^th Dec 2011)

Held in this contemporary cathedral city it is one of the most famous of all the Christmas markets in the UK. It attracts hundreds of thousands of people every year. Its castles and gothic cathedrals provide the perfect back drop for the Christmas market.

This world renowned event offers a festive and cultural experience as thousands of visitors make their way through the hundreds of stores in its medieval squares and surrounding area. It offers a great family experience. Should you require Lincoln car hire service, Avis offers a pre-booked only service from the Lincoln City Centre.

Opening times for Lincoln Christmas market vary. Find out more information about Lincoln Christmas Market

Bath Christmas Market (24^th Nov – 11 Dec 2011)

This Georgian city hosts in its main shopping district the south west’s premier Christmas shopping event. The Abbey churchyard area comprised of the Roman Baths and Bath Abbey is annually transformed into the Christmas shoppers dream destination. It is in its tenth year is running for an additional seven days this year – that means eighteen days of shopping!

Whatever your shopping desire, visitors to this great festive event will be spoilt for choice. The wide range of events and ideas means there is something great for everyone to do and even greater gift ideas on sale. Should you require Bath car hire service, Avis offers a pre-booked only service in partnership with The Bath Priory hotel.

Find out more information about the Bath Christmas Market

Manchester Christmas Market (17^th Nov – 21^st Dec 2011)

Shoppers and sellers from all over Europe have made this a top destination for Christmas cheer as well as a leisure destination. Get into the festive spirit and head down to Manchester’s world famous Christmas market to enjoy the thirteen locations across Manchester which will host this great event – each with its own unique character and ambiance.

The variety of delicacies and wines on offer is only outdone by the gift ideas stocked in its 200+ stalls. Visitors have been known to be overwhelmed by the variety of products on offer.

If you are in town to experience this international event and would like to book car hire in Manchester with Avis and pick up your car at Manchester Airport.

Find out more information about the Manchester Christmas Market

Winchester Christmas Market (24^th Nov – 21^st Dec 2011)

This Christmas market is recognised for its unique location – Winchester Cathedral’s inner close surrounding a large open air real ice rink. Inspired by traditional German festivals, this market attracts more than 350,000 visitors each year thanks to its great exhibitors who stock products that often are not available on the high street.

If you are in town to enjoy this great event, or to just to enjoy the festive season, we offer car hire in Winchester to help you make the most of your trip. 

Find out more information about the Winchester Christmas Market

Oxford Christmas Market (2^nd Dec – 18^th Dec 2011)

The Oxford Christmas market is a German-style market held in the heart of the city at the historic Oxford Castle. For these couple of weeks, the castle and its surroundings are decorated by wooden stalls selling unique Christmas gift ideas and seasonal treats.

In addition, local choirs and brass bands will be performing Christmas carols for the duration of the event to add to the festive atmosphere with a few rides to also keep children entertained.

We offer car hire in Oxford should you feel like seeing more of this great city.

Find out more information about the Oxford Christmas Market

London Christmas Markets  

There are many Christmas markets across our capital city. From the wooden chalet-style stalls at Cologne market at the South Bank Centre to the beautiful architecture of St Katharine Docks where you can see Victorian heritage mixed with modern office blocks.

Choose from one of many markets to make shopping less of a chore, and more of a fun, festive experience! Some have already begun, some are waiting for December. Don’t miss out!

If, by the end of the day, you’re piled high with shopping bags and don’t fancy facing public transport then don’t forget Avis offers car rental in London. But we do recommend you pre-book to avoid missing out.

Check out the range of London Christmas markets today.

Share your experiences

If you have been to a Christmas market previous or are planning to visit one this year, we would love to hear from you. Please leave a comment.

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