One of the most historic cities in the UK, York truly comes to life during the festive season. Here is everything you need to know about the York Christmas Markets.
Picture it now: you’re wandering the medieval streets of a historic English city as the snow falls all around, making it feel like you’ve entered a winter wonderland.
Alpine chalets line the streets selling everything from delicious hot chocolate to handmade gifts, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere.
Well, that’s pretty much what it’s like visiting the Christmas Markets in York. Often ranked among the best Christmas markets in the UK, there are plenty of reasons to check out this fantastic festive event.
So, whether you’re looking for some travel inspiration or you’re already planning to visit York this Christmas, then read on as we reveal everything you need to know about the Christmas markets in York.
Overview – the wonderful York Christmas Festival
Leading up to the big day, the northern city of York transforms into an incredibly festive city, with plenty of fun events and goings-on taking place.
Shops and restaurants in the town centre go all out to create a fun and Christmassy atmosphere with twinkling lights and seasonal decorations that truly add to the charm.
The festive happenings all centre around the wonderful York Christmas Festival. This festival, which kicks off in mid-November, features a wide range of activities and events for all ages, with one of the highlights being the fantastic St Nicholas Fair.
This year marks the 30th anniversary of the wonderful St Nicholas Fair, which sees cute wooden chalets line Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square. Inside these wooden cabins, you can find a huge variety of artisan traders offering festive food and artisanal gifts. It is indeed one of the best Christmas markets in the U.K.
When are the Christmas markets in York? – the best time to visit York
This year, St Nicholas Fair will arrive in the city on 17 November and will remain there until 23 December. So, you’ll have plenty of time to find the perfect gift and try all the delicious seasonal food.
The market will open at 10 am and close at 7 pm daily. Therefore, meaning you have the option to pop over to grab some lunch or dinner if you’re in the area.
What’s on – something for everyone
Aside from the vast array of local traders operating at St Nicholas Fair, there are plenty of other fun, seasonal activities happening as part of the Christmas markets in York to suit all ages.
The Winter Hütte is brand new to this year’s Christmas market. A traditional Swiss chalet, this dining experience promises ‘Swiss with a Twist’ from one of Yorkshire’s best-known Michelin-starred chefs, Andrew Pern.
If you’ve got kids with you, head to Kings Square, where you will find an old-school carnival, which is home to a vintage carousel, a helter-skelter, and more. They’ll also enjoy a trip to Santa’s Grotto in Coppergate, where they can meet the big man himself.
The Winter Village at York Minster is another one of the great activities taking place in the city during the festive period.
Set at the foot of the historic York Minster, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, this market hosts a wide array of artisan traders selling everything from food and drinks to crafts and more, and is a great place to visit in York for couples.
How to get there and parking – right at the heart of the city
The Christmas markets in York are located right at the heart of the city, with most of the festivities taking place along Parliament Street, St Sampson’s Square, and King Street.
If you’re driving to York along the M1, follow onto A1(M). Then, take exit 44 onto A64 in North Yorkshire. From there, follow the A64 and the road signs to York City Centre.
Alternatively, you can take a train and exit at York Train Station. From here, it is about a 15-minute walk to Parliament Street.
If you are driving, secure parking in the town centre is available at NCP York Station South and NCP York Tanner Row. Parking here is paid, and you can book in advance online before you arrive.
Notable mentions
Shambles Market: A year-long market in the city centre, Shambles Market gets a festive twist come December, making it the perfect place to pick up some festive gifts and seasonal favourites.
Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland at York Designer Outlet: If you fancy having some festive fun while out Christmas shopping, then head to York Designer Outlet. Home of the ‘Ice Factor’ outdoor ice rink, a Santa’s Grotto, a vintage funfair, and more, this festive activity remains in the city from 18 November to 8 January.
York Minster Christmas Tree Festival: There’s nothing that says Christmas quite like a beautifully-decorated pine tree. From 3 December to 5 January, there will be over 40 trees on display inside the historic York Minster.
Each decorated with individual themes by local businesses, schools, and charities, this is a festive event you won’t want to miss.
Christmas Fair Yorkshire: Taking place at Yorkshire Racecourse from 10 to 13 November, this is the perfect event to get you in the festive spirit early.
Hosting over 250 carefully-selected stands, from artisan designer-makers to local food producers and more, this is the perfect place to pick up some festive gifts.
FAQs about Christmas markets in York
What dates are York Christmas Markets 2022?
This year, York Christmas Market takes place from 17 November to 23 December.
Which city has the best Christmas Market UK?
Edinburgh, Bath, and Manchester are regarded as some of the best Christmas markets in the UK.
Where do you park at York Christmas market?
City-centre car parking can be hard to come by, especially at Christmas. So, it may be best to opt for a park and ride into the city or book your car into one of the NCP secure car parks listed above.
