The best Christmas markets in Yorkshire
Twinkling lights, wooden chalets, a merry cheer of voices and the aroma of Bratwurst and mulled wine fills the cold night air – Christmas has landed and it’s market time here in the Yorkshire Dales!
The Devonshire Arms Hotel and Spa at Bolton Abbey and The Devonshire Fell at Burnsall are lucky to be located in the midst of four popular Christmas markets less than an hour’s drive from both hotels.
Leeds Christmas Market
The most popular market of them all is the Leeds Christmas market only 50 minutes away. However back in September it was confirmed the market would be cancelled for a 2nd year running due to the uncertainty of COVID-19 pandemic.
With some good luck the Leeds Christmas market will return in 2022.
Harrogate Christmas Fayre
3rd to 12th December.
Open daily from 10am and closing at 7pm Monday to Wednesday, 9pm Thursday to Saturday and 5pm on Sunday.
This year Harrogate launches ones of the newest Christmas markets in Yorkshire. Packed with a mix of European and local traders plus children’s entertainers to captivate young ones, it’s truly a family event and only around 30 minutes from The Devonshire Arms Hotel and Spa at Bolton Abbey and The Devonshire Fell at Burnsall.
You’ll discover stalls including arts and crafts from artisan creators, mouth-watering festive treats, seasonal decorations for your home and a whole range of unique gift ideas. The market is located in the heart of Harrogate’s shopping streets which means you can blend your visit with Harrogate’s range of high street names and boutique stores.
So write your present list and start ticking off the gifts, because you’ll probably find everything you need plus more at the Harrogate Christmas Fayre!
For extra festive fun in Harrogate, underneath the night sky why not visit Glow2021 at RHS Harlow Carr? See the garden sparkle and follow their dazzling displays lighting up a magical trail at night.
Grassington Dickensian Festival
4th & 5th and 11th & 12th December.
Opening and closing times will be announced soon.
Nestled in the Dales, only 10 minutes from The Devonshire Fell at Burnsall and 25 minutes from The Devonshire Arms Hotel and Spa at Bolton Abbey, this is one market not to be missed!
Imagine stepping into a scene from Charles Dickens ‘A Christmas Carol’…
For those looking for some old charm, the Grassington Dickensian festival will transport you back in time. Transformed into a bygone era with full Victorian dress, and the festive glow of open braziers around its cobbled streets, you’ll find buskers, shoe-shine boys, pick-pockets (actors) and chestnut sellers – but you won’t find any Scrooges here!
There will be outdoor entertainment throughout the village with bands, choirs, dancers, magicians, story-tellers, street theatre, Punch and Judy, and Santa who will be hiding away in his grotto!
Not to forget the Christmas market and range of unique shops – perfect for gifts!
On your way home, why not take the longer scenic route (during the day light) and enjoy some spectacular views of Malham Cove from all angles Did you know that a scene from Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows was filmed on the cove? Harry and Hermione set up camp in a tent on the Limestone Pavement at the top of Malham Cove - scenes from the film feature views across Malhamdale.
Skipton Christmas Market
5th & 12th December.
Open from 10am and closing at 4pm.
Less than 25 minutes away from The Devonshire Fell at Burnsall and 10 minutes from The Devonshire Arms Hotel and Spa at Bolton Abbey, Skipton Christmas market can be referred to as ‘proper good’ by the locals.
A traditional British Christmas market with no chalet in sight! Join Skipton and their award winning market this festive season. With over 140 stalls featuring some of the regions, artisan makers, producers and crafters you’ll be sure not to leave empty handed.
With traditional entertainment including Carol Singers, Brass Band and donkey rides, even the Scrooges will leave with a warm fuzzy Christmas feeling in their heart!
While you’re in Skipton you must also visit the medieval 900 year old Skipton Castle, situated at the top of the High Street. You simply can’t miss it especially in the winter time, when it somehow appears to look even more impressive dazzling in the frost. And if you get the chance, take a walk through the castle’s magical ancient wood before ending the day at the top of the high streets looking down at the market glow and the beautiful enchanting Christmas lights (if it’s dark enough)!