A season of swirling steam rising from spiced mugs, sumptuous scarves wrapped around rosy cheeks, magical evenings singing carols under star-flecked skies, and days spent strolling through snow-dusted Christmas markets looking for the perfect gift.
In Lincolnshire, where idyllic countryside unfurls into historic towns and chocolate-box villages, Christmas markets offer an enchanting experience, whether they take place in grand mansions, country estates, or quaint market towns that have been hosting festive fairs for centuries.
Uncover magical moments bedecked in golden lights and smiling faces as Lincolnshire’s spellbinding Christmas markets weave the perfect setting for a storybook sojourn.
Christmas Market at The Barn Hotel & Spa, Grantham
7th and 8th November
This Christmas market in Grantham begins the Yuletide season with a beguiling blend of artisanal stalls and festive cheer. The Barn Hotel & Spa sets a spellbinding scene, with the ambient glow of festoon lighting gilding the celebrations below. Stalls are bedecked with local gifts and crafts, from jewellery to Christmas decorations to cherish. The spiced aromas of mulled wine lend their sweet fragrance to the air, while mince pies tempt around every corner. There’s an array of street food for delectable repasts as you shop, and Santa is available for photos for those visiting with little elves in tow.
Baytree Christmas Market Square, Spalding
14th November - 23rd December
Spalding is home to one of the longest-running Christmas markets in Lincolnshire, with their beloved seasonal square promising an endless array of handcrafted treasures to uncover. Framed by cabins that turn the space into an Alpine wonderland, the Christmas market beckons for daily inspirations. Browse the many stalls home to all manner of gifts and trinkets, pause for a festive feast, or take a moment of mirthful mindfulness and immerse in the blend of lilting carols and twinkling fairylights. Children are well catered for here, whether they seek a glimpse of the man himself in Santa’s grotto, or embark on a glittering adventure with a turn around the fairground rides. All undercover, this Christmas market enthrals in every weather.
Navenby Christmas Market
21st November
With the cherished Christmas tree switch-on the evening before, and a winsome market running between 3pm and 7pm on the Saturday, Navenby is the perfect place to embrace the festive spirit. The historic high street, whose wide setting whispers of ancient markets past, bursts with colour and celebration as stalls craft a merry atmosphere. This year, the soulful market is extending its offering, inviting shoppers to stroll through the ancient streets at leisure, perusing local goodies while sipping on decadent mugs of mulled wine. A stone’s throw from the Viking Way, pair a visit with a spellbinding stroll along Lincolnshire’s famous trail.
Burghley Christmas Fair, Peterborough
26th - 29th November
Whisk away to the opulent setting of Burghley House for Lincolnshire's largest Christmas market. With the pinnacled visage of the Elizabethan prodigy house behind, the Burghley Christmas Fair promises a fairytale setting for a festive day out. Chalets adorned with unique gifts and treasured curios frame the seasonal scene, with stalls ranging from gorgeous luxury clothes to handmade decorations and exquisite homewares. Tempting shoppers with Yuletide repasts, mulled wine and indulgent hot chocolates are there to warm fingers and souls, while decadent bowls of raclette offer a hearty pause while shopping. With a Victorian carousel, helter-skelter, and bookable festive afternoon tea adding a touch of traditional charm, this winter wonderland beckons for a storybook outing at one of Lincolnshire’s beloved historic houses. Tickets must be pre-booked online, along with a chosen time slot for entrance to the beloved fair.
Lincoln Cathedral Christmas Market
3rd - 5th December
An enchanting twist on tradition, this year’s Christmas market in Lincoln is a ticketed event held in the captivating cathedral, lending a grandiose setting to the already special fair. Beneath vaulted ceilings and jewelled stained-glass windows, a collection of stalls fill the hallowed space with merriment, inviting shoppers to uncover a plethora of local gifts and ornaments, perfect for thoughtful stocking fillers and cherished presents beneath the tree, as well as seasonal delights for a curated Christmas full of flavour and flair. The indoor market runs through the nave, cloisters, and chapter house, while outside in the Dean’s Green, a sumptuous food court ensures shoppers are well catered for.
Normanby Hall Christmas Market
5th and 6th December
Normanby Hall Christmas Market beckons for festive forays set against a striking Regency backdrop. Nestled within the winter-kissed grounds, the market, this year organised by 2B Events, promises a trail of seasonal stalls selling everything needed for the dreamiest of Christmases, from beautiful accessories to heavenly homeware. Cash is recommended as not all stallholders accept card, and parking is cash only. When bags are full and cheeks kissed by winter, extend explorations further with a stroll around the idyllic parkland, where russet-coated red deer roam, and arcadian adventures await.
Festive Artisan Market, Thetford
5th December
For those seeking truly unique delights this Christmas, the Festive Artisan Market at Thetford Farm Barn promises a winsome array of handcrafted gifts. Over 60 local makers and creatives gather in early December to bestow visitors with their specially crafted wares. Uncover art, seasonal treats, and more as each stall reveals its hidden treasures. Alongside the market, a series of delightful activities fills the air with frivolity. Pause for a moment of creative inspiration with the bauble painting workshops, get lost in magical musical stylings in the courtyard, or gather your loved ones for a festive photo to cherish for years to come. The event welcomes canine companions, and the onsite bar invites a restful repose while shopping, with artisanal coffees and delicious street food on hand.
Horncastle Christmas Market
6th December
A beloved destination for shopping throughout the year, with a selection of antique and artisan shops peppering the cobblestone streets, Horncastle Christmas Market is a cherished tradition that turns this historic town into a bustling celebration of festive tidings. A patchwork of stalls decorates the streets and market square, inviting those who seek timeless revelries to peruse a tapestry of handcrafted tokens, from charming decorations and homewares to buttery fudge so delectable it might not make it home. This year, Horncastle’s market promises to be bigger than ever, making it the perfect place to tick off Christmas shopping lists.
Stubton Hall Christmas Market, Newark
6th December
Perched on the border between Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire, Stubton Hall beckons for serene browsing amidst a storybook setting this Christmas. Leave the woollen coats at home, as twinkling lights and flickering fires craft the cosiest of atmospheres at this magical indoor market. Over 50 stalls laden with local gifts and unique finery fill the regal halls, inviting shoppers to fill stockings while sipping on something special from the bar. A Christmas photo area promises card-ready portraits while a live choir fills the air with seasonal song. Dog-friendly and boasting an enthralling backdrop overlooking the grounds, this Lincolnshire Christmas market is an all-weather favourite.
Seeking a seasonal sojourn? Uncover our collection of luxury cottages in Lincolnshire.
