Christmas is fast approaching, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than visiting one of Wales’ magical Christmas markets? Whether you’re after delicious food, unique stocking fillers, or a good dose of mulled wine, these markets offer the ultimate winter wonderland experience. From traditional wooden chalets selling handmade gifts to vibrant city squares lit up with festive cheer, there’s a market for everyone in Wales this year. Let’s dive into the best Christmas markets for November and December 2026!
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Christmas Markets in South Wales
Whether you’re after traditional wooden chalets, twinkling Christmas trees, or the warming taste of mulled wine, the Christmas markets in South Wales are the perfect way to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year! These markets are not just about the festive atmosphere but also about the unique Welsh crafts and local produce you won’t find anywhere else. Grab your loved ones and discover the festive magic taking place.
Christmas Market in Cardiff
Thursday 12 November until Wednesday 23 December 2026
Welcome to my hometown and the exciting Christmas Markets in Cardiff!
Set in the heart of the city centre, the Cardiff Christmas Market is a must-visit this year. Known for showcasing local Welsh crafts, food, and drink, it’s the perfect spot to pick up unique gifts and indulge in festive treats. There are over 200 individual businesses. You can also meet Father Christmas.
Cardiff Christmas Market Opening Times
The Cardiff Christmas Market is open daily from Thursday 12 November to Wednesday 23 December 2026. Opening hours are 10am–6pm Monday to Saturday, with late-night opening until 7pm every Thursday in December, and 10am–5pm on Sundays.
Cardiff Victorian Christmas Market
Thursday 12 to Sunday 15 November 2026
Step back in time at the brand-new Cardiff Victorian Christmas Market, bringing a traditional Victorian festive atmosphere to Queen Street for four days of Christmas shopping and entertainment. Expect beautifully decorated stalls, independent traders, handmade gifts, and seasonal food and drink.
The Victorian theme runs throughout the event, with traders dressed in period-inspired costumes, festive music, live entertainment and roaming performers adding to the atmosphere. With free entry and a central location, it’s an easy addition to a festive shopping trip in Cardiff.
Cardiff Festive Attractions
The annual Christmas Winter Wonderland is also in the city centre, on the City Hall lawn. The Christmas festival has funfair rides, games and a big wheel. There’s plenty of food and drink on offer, too. The Sur la Piste and Ski Lodge Bar are my favourites. Here is where you can grab a mulled wine or mulled cider and festive food whilst enjoying the views of Cardiff from the outdoor roof terrace.
Or brave the cold of the Cardiff Ice Bar, where the whole bar is made of ice, there are ice sculptures, and you even drink out of an ice glass. Winter Wonderland events spill over to Cardiff Castle, where you’ll find the ice rink and ice walk within the castle grounds.
Behind Cardiff Castle is the most extensive Christmas light trail in Wales, Christmas at Bute Park Cardiff. The park is filled with dazzling light displays, interactive installations, a flickering fire, and an enchanting fairy tree forest. (It’s dog-friendly, too!)
Christmas Market Cardiff Bay
Cardiff Bay hasn’t had a Christmas market during the holiday season for a few years. However, if you’re looking for unique Christmas presents, indulging in seasonal food and drink, or simply soaking in the merry atmosphere with twinkling lights, it’s the perfect spot to embrace the holiday spirit.
Christmas Shopping in Cardiff
Cardiff is the ideal destination for a shopping experience. The real highlight of the retail scene is the Victorian and Edwardian arcades, full of independent boutiques and cafes. In fact, Cardiff is known as the City of Arcades. Alongside this, there’s Cardiff Indoor Market, a traditional Victorian indoor market, where you can get some of the best street food, and huge high street retailers in St David’s Shopping Centre.
This is just the tip of the iceberg! Check out my extensive guide to Christmas in Cardiff or discover the Weird and Wonderful Welsh Christmas Traditions.
Where to Stay
Radisson Hotel Discount Code
The Radisson Blu Hotel Cardiff is in the city centre. The 4-star hotel has smart TVs in the bedrooms, private bathrooms with complimentary toiletries, laptop-compatible safes, and limited onsite parking.
Get 15% off 3 or 4-night stays, 20% off 5 or 6-night stays, or 25% off for 7 or more nights in luxury rooms and suites. When you use the Radisson Hotel Promo Code LONGER, you’ll also receive complimentary high-speed WiFi on unlimited devices. More information
Dog-friendly Hotels in Cardiff
Your perfect dog-friendly escape in Cardiff awaits! Before I had my rescue dog, Ivan, I didn’t think Cardiff was very dog-friendly. How wrong was I? The dog-friendly hotels in Cardiff include national chain hotels, budget brands, pubs and country houses.
Caerphilly Christmas Market
Saturday 21 November 2026
For a festive day out packed with Christmas cheer, Caerphilly Christmas Market is well worth a visit. Set in the historic town centre, with Caerphilly Castle as a spectacular backdrop, the market offers a wide variety of food, craft, and gift stalls, making it an ideal place to pick up unique presents and sample delicious seasonal treats.
Enjoy tempting street food, warming mulled wine, street theatre and funfair attractions for all the family. You can also explore the additional craft and food markets around the town, including the popular Crafty Legs Craft Fair and Castle Court Craft and Food Market. Best of all, entry to the market is free, although standard admission charges apply if you wish to visit Caerphilly Castle.
Blackwood Christmas Market
Saturday 28 November 2026
Head to Blackwood Christmas Market for festive stalls, seasonal food and drink, and entertainment in the heart of the town. It’s a great opportunity to pick up Christmas gifts and enjoy the festive atmosphere in the South Wales Valleys.
Ystrad Mynach Christmas Market
Saturday 5 December 2026
The Ystrad Mynach Christmas Market brings festive cheer to the town with stalls selling food, crafts and gifts, alongside seasonal entertainment and a Christmas lights switch-on. It’s a lovely local event for getting into the Christmas spirit and supporting independent traders.
Swansea Christmas Market
Sunday 29 November to Tuesday 22 December 2026
For a taste of Wales’s finest produce and artisan crafts, Swansea Christmas Market should be high on your list. The festive chalets and Christmas lights are along Oxford Street and Portland Street. Along with shopping stalls, there is a range of food and drink stands, a Bavarian Bar, and Bratwurst. The Caroler’s Cabin is the hub for festive entertainment, including school choirs.
Museum Park transforms into a Waterfront Wonderland, featuring an ice rink, a big wheel, fairground rides, and a cosy grotto where families can meet Santa.
Christmas Markets in West Wales
West Wales’ Christmas markets offer a festive season of artisan crafts, local produce, and picturesque settings, from historic towns to beautiful gardens. They are perfect for unique holiday shopping and seasonal cheer.
Aberglasney Winter Fair
Friday 4 December to Sunday 6 December 2026
Set in the stunning surroundings of Aberglasney Gardens, the Aberglasney Winter Fair is a magical festival winter weekend experience. This market features a wide selection of local crafts, unique gifts, and gourmet food stalls, all housed within the mansion and its grounds.
Visitors can wander through beautifully decorated gardens, picking up a range of beautiful handmade products, including jewellery, ceramics, and local Welsh produce. The fair also offers mulled wine, mince pies, and live entertainment, making it a perfect festive day out in the heart of West Wales.
Where to Stay
If you know when you’d like to travel, try to book as soon as possible. Prices rise the closer you get to the travel date and are usually displayed per room rather than per person. However, there is a vast array to accommodate all budgets.
Aberystwyth Christmas Market
Saturday 28 November 2026
Imagine a cosy coastal town transformed into a festive haven! The Aberystwyth Christmas Market is ideal for those looking to combine Welsh produce, crafts, and breathtaking sea views. Perfect for picking up some last-minute finest prime stock!
Each year, the Aberystwyth Christmas Tree is lit to celebrate the arrival of the Lantern Parade, which makes its way from St Michael’s Church to Owain Glyndwr Square. Led by a chosen Mary and Joseph, the parade features glowing lanterns crafted by participants in free weekend workshops open to all. The event concludes with entertainment, market stalls, mulled wine, festive cookies, mince pies, and an open-air carol service, marking the near arrival of Christmas. These local traditions add a unique charm to the festive season in Aberystwyth.
The stunning seaside town of Aberystwyth is in Ceredigion, West Wales. The Aberystwyth seafront and streets still retain much of their Georgian and Victorian character. There are so many things to do in Aberystwyth. Get lost in the town’s winding streets, lined with shops and cafes, and enjoy the classic beauty and architecture. Explore Constitution Hill or take in the views at Aberystwyth Promenade. Whatever you decide to do, you won’t be disappointed.
Where to Stay
Ad | When it comes to luxury at affordable prices, you won’t want to settle for anything less than the best. Townhouse No.1 is the best place to stay for a truly unforgettable experience. From the moment you walk through the door, you feel at home. The rooms are finished with pure elegance and sophistication.
Even if you’re keen to go out and see the local sites, you’ll want to have a lie-in because the bed is divine. When you are up, you can make coffee with the Tassimo machine, tea, or hot chocolate. Along with the beautiful power shower with White Stuff toiletries, you’ll be ready to start the day. But before you head out, grab a light breakfast in the kitchen – toast, cereal, fruit, yoghurt and a selection of cheese, biscuits and cakes, alongside bottled juice, pop and water – all the fuel you need for exploring Aberystwyth.
The hotel is a 10-minute walk to the town centre and the Promenade. There is free parking available on the streets surrounding the building, and, as previously mentioned, it offers all the amenities you need for a night or two away. Check it out – you won’t regret it! I didn’t want to leave!
Dinefwr Christmas Fair
Friday 20 to Sunday 22 November 2026
Held at the stunning National Trust property, Dinefwr Park and Castle, the Dinefwr Christmas Fair is a magical event that combines festive shopping with breathtaking history and nature. Set within the grand Newton House, this Christmas market offers a wide range of stalls featuring local crafts, unique gifts, and delicious Welsh food.
Visitors can explore Dinefwr Park’s beautiful surroundings, enjoy live music, and warm up with mulled wine and festive treats. With its blend of heritage and holiday spirit, this fair is a true gem of West Wales.
🐾 Dogs are welcome on short leads; you can take them in most areas. There are clearly signed dog zones and dog-friendly experiences, including the ground floor and basement of Newton House, outer park and café.
The event is free, but standard admission charges apply from £5 for children and £10 for adults, plus £5 for car parking. However, National Trust Members get free entry and free parking.
The National Trust membership includes:
- Unlimited free entry to all of the properties.
- An essential companion card that allows you to bring up to two carers if you have a disability. These can be different people; the card is in your name.
- Free parking at the majority of car parks. Some National Trust car parks are located in other natural areas, such as beaches and countryside walks.
- Annually, you’ll be sent a handbook full of information about the properties. However, the website is easy to navigate, allowing users to find places to visit by area or postcode.
- Regular members’ magazine, sent three times a year.
- Regular e-newsletters.
- Join by direct debit and get a £15 gift card to spend in the National Trust shops or café.
How much is a National Trust membership?
Memberships can be purchased in total, by direct debit or as a gift voucher and are for a year. Get yours here.
- Adult Membership (age 26 plus) = £91.20 a year (£7.60 per month)
- Young Person Membership (age 18-25) = £45.60 a year
- Junior Membership (age 6-17, under 5’s are free) = £10 a year
- Joint Membership (2 adults) = £151.20 a year (£12.60 per month)
- Family Membership (for 2 adults) = £159 a year (£13.25 per month)
- Family Membership (for 1 adult) = £99 a year (£8.25 per month)
Use Top Cash Back when purchasing your membership
I’ve been a member of TopCashBack UK for several years and, to date, have earned over £1000 from it. Trust me, it’s a no-brainer, and you can make extra money by shopping online. I use what I make throughout the year to buy Christmas presents. Currently, you can get 3.15% back on your National Trust membership.
Where to Stay
National Trust Holidays offer a selection of holiday cottages, campsites and bunkhouses set in spectacular locations. They have everything you need for a night away, from kitchen facilities to cosy gardens to relax in during warmer weather.
Pembroke Castle Christmas Market
Friday 27 to Sunday 29 November 2026
For a festive shopping experience in a truly historic setting, Pembroke Castle Christmas Market is well worth adding to your Christmas calendar. Held within the castle’s atmospheric Outer Ward, this popular annual event features more than 80 stalls selling handmade crafts, unique gifts, toys, clothing, jewellery and local produce from Pembrokeshire and across West Wales.
There’s plenty to enjoy beyond the shopping, with local school choirs and musicians providing festive entertainment throughout the weekend. Santa arrives at 6.30pm on Friday, then welcomes children to his grotto on Saturday and Sunday. Entry is free, but visitors must book free tickets online in advance. Dogs are welcome on short leads in the outdoor areas but aren’t permitted inside the busy marquee.
Christmas Markets in Mid Wales
Mid Wales’ Christmas markets blend festive charm with a strong sense of community spirit. They offer a craft fair with everything from handcrafted gifts to seasonal delights, all set against the region’s picturesque countryside and welcoming towns.
Royal Welsh Winter Fair
Monday 30 November and Tuesday 1 December 2026
A major highlight in Mid Wales, the Royal Welsh Winter Fair, held at the Royal Welsh Showground in Builth Wells, is a festive event not to be missed. While primarily an agricultural show, the fair also boasts a fantastic Christmas market with over 300 trade stands offering local crafts, artisan goods, and festive food and drink. It’s the perfect place to pick up unique Christmas gifts, from handmade jewellery to luxury food hampers.
Alongside the shopping, visitors can enjoy livestock displays, festive entertainment, and a bustling atmosphere, making this a standout event in the Welsh Christmas calendar.
Where to Stay
The award-winning business Sykes Cottages has properties across the UK, and those in Mid Wales are particularly beautiful. They range from cosy lodges with traditional woodburning stoves to contemporary accommodation with a hot tub. With all the amenities you could need, including parking, WiFi and many dog-friendly places, check out Sykes Holiday Cottages.
Hay Christmas Markets
Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 November 2026
The picturesque town of Hay-on-Wye hosts a delightful series of Christmas markets that celebrate local craftsmanship and the spirit of the festive season. Known for its literary heritage, Winter Weekend features an array of stalls showcasing handmade goods, including unique gifts, artisanal food, and locally produced drinks.
Visitors can enjoy the charming atmosphere as they explore the market and take in the scenic backdrop of the Brecon Beacons. With live music, food stalls offering seasonal treats, and the opportunity to discover one-of-a-kind treasures.
Where to Stay
Using TripAdvisor when booking a hotel allows you to access a wealth of reviews and ratings from fellow travellers, helping you make an informed decision on where to stay, while also providing recommendations and insights on planning activities during your trip.
Christmas Markets North Wales
Christmas markets in North Wales offer a variety of bustling seaside fayres in charming historical settings, each showcasing local crafts, festive foods, and a warm, community spirit perfect for the holiday season. So, where should you head for Christmas in North Wales?
Snowdonia Christmas Market
Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 November 2026
For a festive shopping experience surrounded by the beautiful scenery of Eryri (Snowdonia), the Snowdonia Christmas Market takes place at the Royal Oak Hotel in Betws-y-Coed. Known as Nadolig Eryri ar Fro, the market brings together local producers, talented artisans, and independent makers, offering a great opportunity to shop for unique Christmas gifts and support Welsh businesses.
Browse stalls selling handmade crafts, jewellery, pottery and locally produced food and drink, while enjoying seasonal treats and the festive atmosphere. Live performances from local choirs and brass bands add to the Christmas spirit, making this a lovely excuse to explore Betws-y-Coed and enjoy a winter break in the heart of North Wales.
Swallow Falls Inn
Make a festive break of it at Swallow Falls Inn in Betws-y-Coed, with cosy, modern rooms, a dog-friendly pub and restaurant, making it a great base for exploring Eryri (Snowdonia). With the spectacular Swallow Falls waterfall just across the road and woodland walks nearby, it’s ideal for combining Christmas market shopping with a scenic North Wales escape.
Llandudno Christmas Market
Saturday 28 November 2026
One of the biggest festive events in North Wales, the Llandudno Christmas Fayre offers a charming experience with over 150 stalls showcasing local crafts, gifts, and food. Set against Llandudno’s Victorian seaside backdrop, this market is a festive paradise for shoppers.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of local Welsh delicacies, including cheese, cider, and chocolates, while soaking in the holiday atmosphere with live music and entertainment. Don’t miss the chance to pick up unique gifts, such as handmade jewellery and traditional Christmas decorations.
Where to Stay
North Wales is a fantastic region to explore. Nearby towns include Colwyn Bay, Conwy, Llanwrst and Betws-y-coed. If you know when you’d like to travel, try to book as soon as possible. Prices rise the closer you get to the travel date and are usually displayed per room rather than per person. However, there is a vast array to accommodate all budgets.
Britannia Hotel in Llandudno
Make a festive break of your panto trip by staying at the Grand Hotel Llandudno, a characterful Victorian seafront hotel overlooking Llandudno Bay, right beside the pier. With comfortable accommodation, on-site dining and evening entertainment, it’s a convenient base for exploring the town’s Christmas attractions.
Wrexham Victorian Christmas Market
Thursday 26 to Sunday 28 November 2026
For a genuinely nostalgic festive experience, the Wrexham Victorian Christmas Market is a must-visit. This market brings history to life with its Victorian-themed stalls and entertainment. Shopkeepers and performers dress in period costumes, adding a unique touch of tradition to the event. In addition to stalls selling festive goods, there’s also a wealth of street food to enjoy, with hot drinks to keep the winter chill at bay.
Where to Stay
The Best Western Llyndir Hall Hotel in Wrexham is in the prestigious Signature Collection. The hotel is situated in a stunning countryside setting. With gardens, a swimming pool, a gym and a beauty salon. There’s high-speed free WiFi and free parking. Pets are welcome, too.
Portmeirion Christmas Fair
Friday 4 to Sunday 6 December 2026
For a truly magical festive day out, the Portmeirion Christmas Fair transforms this colourful Italianate village in North Wales into a Christmas shopping destination. Browse artisan stalls showcasing handmade Welsh crafts, unique gifts, local food and drink, with everything from seasonal treats to distinctive presents made by Welsh producers.
In addition to discovering independent makers and sampling delicious local produce, visitors can enjoy festive entertainment throughout the village, with Christmas-themed menus available at the restaurants. It’s a wonderful opportunity to explore Portmeirion’s distinctive architecture and picturesque surroundings while getting into the Christmas spirit. The fair runs from 9.30am to 5.30pm each day, and you can buy tickets on arrival. Parking at the village is limited, so take advantage of the free parking and shuttle bus from Porthmadog.
Shacks – Nature-Loving Hideaways
If you fancy a truly unique stay, Shacks offer handcrafted off-grid cabins perfect for nature lovers. These cosy, eco-friendly retreats are tucked away in beautiful landscapes across North Wales and beyond, designed to help you slow down, unplug and reconnect with the great outdoors.
Each Shack blends sustainable materials with stunning views, comfy interiors and a real sense of peace – ideal after a day exploring. Whether you’re toasting marshmallows by the wood burner or gazing at stars from your doorstep, a stay at Shacks feels like a mini adventure in the wild without sacrificing comfort. Many are dog-friendly, too!
Getting around Wales
Wales is a great country to explore and travel through by train on Transport for Wales. Not only are many of the routes stunning, but the public transport system in Wales is reliable and well-equipped to support your trip through the region.
Transport for Wales now offers Multiflex, which gives you 12 journeys for the same price as 5 returns. And who doesn’t want to save money? Especially when you can spend the savings on your staycation. There’s also a pretty excellent Capacity Checker tool that helps indicate the trains that are often full and the ones with plenty of seats available, so you can decide the best time for your journey.
Dog Friendly Christmas Markets
Taking your dog along for the festive fun? Check out my guide to the best dog-friendly Christmas markets in the UK, featuring everything from bustling city markets to charming smaller events where your four-legged friend can join the festive adventure. Just remember to check individual market rules and choose quieter times if your dog isn’t keen on crowds.
Best Christmas Markets UK
With so many festive destinations, there’s no excuse not to wrap up warm and explore the best Christmas markets Wales has to offer. It’s time to immerse yourself in a Christmas shopping expedition!
Happy Christmas shopping! 🎄
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there Christmas markets in Wales?
Wales has a fantastic selection of Christmas markets throughout November and December, from the traditional Cardiff Christmas Market to festive events in Swansea, Caerphilly, Aberystwyth, Pembroke and North Wales. You’ll find stalls selling handmade gifts, Welsh crafts, local produce, and festive food and drink, plus Christmas fairs, live entertainment, and seasonal attractions.
Where is the best Christmas market in Wales?
Cardiff Christmas Market is one of the best choices for a festive shopping trip, with more than 200 individual businesses showcasing arts, crafts, gifts and food in the city centre. For a different experience, Caerphilly Christmas Market offers a historic castle backdrop, while Swansea combines festive shopping with its Waterfront Wonderland attractions. Portmeirion and Pembroke Castle are also worth considering for Christmas markets in distinctive historic settings.
Is there a Christmas market in Cardiff?
Cardiff Christmas Market runs from 12 November to 23 December 2026 in the city centre. Expect Welsh crafts, independent traders, handmade gifts, food and drink. You can also combine your visit with Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland, the Christmas ice rink at Cardiff Castle and the Christmas light trail at Bute Park.
Are there any Christmas markets in North Wales?
North Wales has several festive events in 2026, including the Snowdonia Christmas Market in Betws-y-Coed, the Llandudno Christmas Fayre, the Wrexham Victorian Christmas Market, and the Portmeirion Christmas Fair. These offer opportunities to shop for handmade gifts, discover local produce and enjoy festive entertainment while exploring the region.
When do Christmas markets start in Wales in 2026?
Christmas markets in Wales begin in November, with Cardiff Christmas Market opening on 12 November 2026. Other events take place throughout the month and into December, including markets in Caerphilly, Swansea, Aberystwyth, Pembroke and Betws-y-Coed. Dates and opening times vary, so check the individual event details before travelling.
What is the biggest Christmas market in Wales?
Cardiff Christmas Market is one of Wales’s largest established Christmas markets, featuring more than 200 individual businesses across the city centre. However, the number of traders and stalls varies between events, and other Christmas fairs and winter festivals offer different experiences, from artisan shopping to larger family attractions.
Are Christmas markets in Wales free to enter?
Many Christmas markets in Wales are free to visit, including Cardiff Christmas Market and Caerphilly Christmas Market. However, some events may require advance booking, and separate charges can apply for attractions, activities, parking or entry to historic properties. Always check the official event website before setting off.
Are there dog-friendly Christmas markets in Wales?
Some Christmas markets and outdoor festive events welcome dogs, but policies vary. Busy markets can be overwhelming for dogs, particularly at peak times, so check the rules before visiting and consider going during quieter periods. For more ideas, see my guide to the best dog-friendly Christmas markets in the UK.
Does it snow in Wales at Christmas?
Snow is possible in Wales in December, particularly in higher areas such as Eryri (Snowdonia) and the Brecon Beacons, but a white Christmas is never guaranteed. Coastal towns and cities such as Cardiff and Swansea are generally less likely to experience settling snow than upland areas. If you’re hoping for a snowy festive break, check the weather forecast before travelling and be prepared for winter driving conditions.
What can I do in Wales at Christmas besides visiting Christmas markets?
There are plenty of other festive activities to enjoy in Wales, including Christmas light trails, ice skating, pantomimes, festive food and drink experiences, historic houses decorated for Christmas and seasonal events at castles and country estates. In Cardiff, you can visit Winter Wonderland and Christmas at Bute Park, while North Wales offers scenic winter walks and cosy countryside accommodation.
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We’ve just been to Cardiff actually but must go back for the Christmas markets! And some other great choices that I wouldn’t have known about too!
More than happy to give you some ideas when you visit again