Pick of the Bunch of London Christmas Markets

Although most of us can’t afford to pack up our bags and jet off for an impromptu trip to scour the genuine Christmas markets of Berlin or Scandinavia to shop and drink Gluwein to our heart's content, London does a pretty good job of bringing traditional German festivities (and more!) to us!  I thought I’d share my pick of the bunch of London Christmas markets in plenty of time so that you don’t miss out!

Although many of the markets are overpriced, there is the opportunity to find (or haggle) a bargain for a unique pressie.  For traditional Christmas markets selling a selection of food, jewellery, decorations and handmade gifts head to:

• The Southbank Christmas Market is set against the backdrop of the River Thames, with over 60 little wooden huts lining the bank between the London Eye and the Southbank Centre stuffed full of everything you would expect to find at a German market with plenty of Gluwein available to warm you up (although it is at a price of £4.50?!) 

• Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland (until January 3^rd 2012, Tube: Hyde Park Corner, Free) – includes festive rides, stalls and crepes galore!

• National Maritime Museum Christmas Market (Thursday 8^th December, 6-9pm) has stalls selling unique gifts and food (including Christmas cakes and puddings).  The evening will also be accompanied by a brass band and carolers (it doesn’t get much more festive than that?!)
  
  
• Petersham Nurseries Candlelit Christmas Carols and Market, (Richmond, 7^th & 14^th December, 6-9pm) Petersham Nurseries have transformed their Victorian Greenhouse into a Christmas extravaganza complete with festive food and drinks.  In the atmospheric candlelight, Christmas trees and gifts, including angora winter warmers, candles and decorations, will be on sale while the Petersham Opera choir serenade shoppers with carols.   
  
  
  For Something a little different, head to:

• The Barbican Duckie Christmas Market (10-30^th December) The Barbican foyer will be transformed into an ‘indie’ Christmas bazaar selling anything from artwork, food, home-ware, clothes and potions.  There will be a ‘posh car boot sale’ where anyone can apply for a stall and also bohemian workshops and pop-up performances.
  
  
• Southbank Centre Real Food Christmas Market (December 16th-23th) Festive food market with seasonal gourmet grub such as chutnies, wild game,  mince pies, Christmas puddings and mulled wine.  Good for foodie presents!
  
  
• National Theatre Dazzle (until January 8^th 2012) Jewellery market showcasing designers from all over Europe, aiming to promote and reveal new and exciting talent.  The scale of the market allows for a range of styles, prices and items!