The best city in the UK for its standout Christmas market has been named, and it might not be where you expect it to be. Christmas might seem far away yet, but many spots across the UK have already or will soon open their Christmas markets, giving people across the country the chance to enjoy some wholesome festivities in the form of comforting Christmas food, live music and locally crafted gifts. 

London and Manchester are known for their substantial Christmas markets, as are places like Bristol and Leeds. However, there is one city that has a Christmas market that one study has revealed to be the best. The Travel website Insider Local conducted a comprehensive study of major cities in the UK that host annual Christmas markets, and compiled a ranking based on the scores each city received. The results were calculated based on visitors, stalls, duration, reviews, accessibility, setting and cost. 

The UK city that came out on top was Edinburgh, scoring an impressive 79.7 out of 100 in the nationwide index. Located on East Princes Street Gardens, it runs for a total of 12 weeks in the lead-up to Christmas. 

At this Christmas market, you will find a thrilling Ferris wheel, festive games, Christmas food and drink, gift options and plenty of delightful lights and decorations.

Spokesperson for Locals Insider, Martin Danemaq, said: “Edinburgh continues to set the standard when it comes to festive markets in the UK. Its spectacular city-centre setting, variety of stalls and long-running event make it a favourite for locals and tourists alike.”

Online, visitors to Edinburgh’s Christmas market have had amazing things to say. One previous visitor wrote on TripAdvisor: “Awesome atmosphere. The gardens and backdrop of the market with the castle is just beautiful. The gift stalls were the same as last year, really nice products and good prices. We went on the big wheel at night and it was wonderful, £11 per person we thought was well worth it.”

However, others complained that the market was overcrowded. Despite some negative reviews, it remains a popular Christmas activity for locals and visitors alike. 

“With over 85 beautifully decorated chalets lining East Princes Street Gardens offering everything from locally made crafts, bespoke gifts and ornaments to an array of festive food and drink, we’re proud that Edinburgh’s Christmas continues to attract visitors year on year to experience the magic of winter in Edinburgh,” said a spokesperson for Unique Assembly, producers of Edinburgh’s Christmas market

They added: “Last year over 2.3m visitors enjoyed the markets, experiencing impressive views of the city’s historic skyline from the LNER Big Wheel and exhilarating Starflyer, and taking in the twinkling market set against Edinburgh’s iconic castle backdrop.”