About the Market
Winchester Cathedral
Food and Drink
Opening Times and Tickets
Facilities
If you can’t wait to don your favourite Christmas jumper and dive into the festive spirit this year at one of Hampshire's best winter markets, then Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market should top your Christmas list. Taking place from 17th November to 21st December 2023 in the footstep of Winchester Cathedral, it’s all set to provide a month-long celebration filled with mirth and family-friendly activities.
Let the anise and cinnamon scented air draw you in, ready to enjoy a wide selection of things to see and do from Christmas shopping to carol singing.
About the Market
Heralded as one of the best Christmas markets in Europe, Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market attracts Christmas shoppers and merrymakers from near and far every year. A highlight of the city’s festive calendar, the event spans more than a month of celebrations and offers something for all generations looking to get into the Yuletide spirit. Inspired by traditional German Christmas markets, it is supported by 118 traders selling their wares from pretty wooden chalets decorated with garlands and glistening lights.
If you’re looking to find that perfect Christmas gift for a loved one or treat yourself to something special (well, why not?), perusing the eclectic collection of stalls is sure to provide plenty of inspiration. Handpicked for their quality artisan crafts, the stalls’ owners showcase all sorts of incredible local produce and products, from handmade Christmas decorations to sumptuous blankets to deliciously scented candles. As you walk, you’ll be accompanied by a backdrop of happy chatter and carol singers setting the timbre as you browse.
Winchester Cathedral
The stunning backdrop of Winchester Christmas Market, the Norman-built Winchester Cathedral is one of the most famous in the world and one of the city’s top attractions. Constructed on the footprint of an early Christian church, it was opened in 1093 and adapted over the centuries – its Norman crypt, Renaissance chantry chapels and Gothic nave reflecting each chapter of its history. Of course, if you are visiting this Christmas, a trip to Winchester Cathedral in the heart of the city is a must, made all the more magical by its Christmas services, carol concerts and events.
In the winter, tours provide a fascinating introduction to the cathedral, revealing stories about the building’s past and all the characters intertwined with its history. You can also seize the opportunity to enjoy a crypt tour, one of the oldest parts of the Cathedral. This year, the cathedral’s popular lantern parade will also return this year, along with carol services on select days throughout the festival. Put time aside during your visit to the market and let the magic of the cathedral sweep you away.
Food and Drink
With the irresistible aromas of herbs and spices mingling in the cold air, thoughts quickly turn to food and drink at Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market. Featuring a dedicated food court and a café in the cathedral, as well as lots of restaurants and eateries nearby, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to treating tastebuds and warming tums. Traditional favourites to look out for include grilled Bratwurst, pretzels, hot mince pies, churros and, of course, dreamy mulled wine. A warming hot chocolate or boozy coffee is also a welcome warmer, perfect for cradling between mitten-clad hands as you weave your way around the market.
Opening Times and Tickets
Kicking off with an opening ceremony and lantern procession, the Winchester Christmas Market will begin on 17th November and run until 21st December 2023. Opening times will generally be between 10am and 6pm throughout the week, with Fridays and Saturdays staying open until 8pm. Depending on what mood you’re looking for, mornings are the best time to go for quieter Christmas shopping, while later in the evenings are best for lapping up the atmosphere and catching up with friends over a clove-infused glühwein. Happily, entry to the Christmas market is free, although if you arrive during peak times you may need to queue.
Facilities
With so much to see and do, there’s plenty to keep you entertained and enthralled during your visit to the family-friendly Winchester Christmas Market. While there are no toilets inside the market itself, there are facilities available in the cathedral’s visitor centre. There are some access ramps, but the uneven cobbles can make access a little tricky. The event is dog-friendly; however, it is very loud and busy and not suitable for most four-legged friends. There is also parking available nearby in the form of council car parks, and the city also offers park-and-ride buses.
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