Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market
Experience the magic of Christmas in historic Winchester with over 125 traditional chalets, festive treats, and enchanting cathedral events.
Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market is a celebrated festive event held annually in the historic Cathedral Close of Winchester, England. Running from late November to late December, it features over 125 traditional German-style wooden chalets offering handcrafted gifts, artisan crafts, festive foods, and seasonal treats. Set against the stunning backdrop of Winchester Cathedral, the market combines a magical atmosphere of twinkling lights, Christmas carols, and the aromas of mulled wine and cinnamon, attracting visitors from across the UK and beyond.
A brief summary to Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market
- Winchester, Winchester, SO23 9LS, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-8 pm
- Saturday 10 am-8 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays or mornings to enjoy a quieter shopping experience before the crowds arrive.
- Try traditional festive foods like mulled wine, bratwurst, and mince pies from the food chalets.
- Combine your market visit with a tour inside Winchester Cathedral to explore its rich history and attend seasonal concerts.
- Use Winchester’s Park and Ride services to avoid busy city centre parking during peak times.
- Check the market’s opening hours as they extend later on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays for evening visits.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
Winchester Railway Station is approximately a 10-minute walk from the Cathedral Close where the Christmas Market is held. Trains from London Waterloo take around 60 minutes, providing a convenient day trip option. The station and walk are accessible, but the route includes some cobbled streets.
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Park and Ride
Use Winchester's Park and Ride services located on the city outskirts to avoid busy city centre parking. Buses run frequently during market hours, with a journey time of about 15-20 minutes to the city centre. This option is recommended for visitors driving into Winchester.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Winchester with surrounding towns and villages, with stops near the city centre. Bus travel times vary by route but typically range from 20 to 45 minutes. Check local timetables for frequency and accessibility.
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Walking
If staying nearby in Winchester, the market is easily accessible on foot via well-signposted pedestrian routes. The terrain includes historic cobbled streets and some gentle inclines, suitable for most visitors but requiring comfortable footwear.
Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Cold Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market
A Festive Tradition in a Historic Setting
The Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market is widely recognized as one of the finest Christmas markets in Europe. Located within the atmospheric Cathedral Close, this event transforms the area into a winter wonderland each year from 21 November to 22 December. The market’s wooden chalets, inspired by traditional German Christmas markets, create a charming and authentic festive environment. Visitors are greeted by the glow of festive lighting, the sound of carol singers, and the inviting scents of mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and cinnamon, immersing them fully in the Christmas spirit.Artisan Crafts and Unique Gifts
With over 125 chalets, the market offers an extensive range of high-quality, handpicked exhibitors. Shoppers can find everything from handcrafted jewelry, ceramics, and glassware to textiles and festive decorations. The market also features a dedicated British Crafts Village showcasing local artisans. This variety ensures visitors can discover unique gifts and keepsakes, perfect for the holiday season. The chalets’ barn door style design allows easy browsing, enhancing the welcoming atmosphere.Food, Drink, and Festive Delights
Food lovers will find plenty to enjoy, with stalls serving traditional festive fare such as bratwurst, mince pies, stollen, and mulled wine. The aroma of these treats fills the air, inviting visitors to indulge while exploring. For those seeking a more comfortable setting, the nearby Cathedral Refectory and Café Bar & Kitchen offer warm seating and menus featuring seasonal dishes. The market’s food court is a lively hub where visitors can gather, eat, and soak up the festive ambience.Events and Cathedral Experiences
Beyond shopping, the market is closely linked with Winchester Cathedral’s Christmas events. Visitors can attend carol concerts, Advent services, and festive workshops such as copper decoration making and glass fusing. The cathedral itself, with over 1,000 years of history, is open for exploration, offering exhibitions like the Kings and Scribes display. The cathedral’s spiritual and cultural activities enrich the festive experience, inviting visitors to engage with the season’s traditions.Accessibility and Visiting Tips
The market is free to enter and open daily with extended hours on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. It is easily accessible on foot from Winchester Railway Station within 10 minutes, and visitors are encouraged to use the city’s Park and Ride services due to limited city centre parking. The market’s layout allows entry from multiple points around the cathedral, including Curles Passage and Colebrook Street. The event is family-friendly and suitable for visitors of all ages, offering a safe and secure environment with 24/7 security.Seasonal Atmosphere and Community Spirit
Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market is more than a shopping destination; it is a celebration of community, tradition, and festive joy. The combination of historic architecture, artisan crafts, seasonal foods, and joyous events creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Whether visiting for a day trip or a weekend getaway, the market offers a rich holiday experience that captures the essence of Christmas in a uniquely English setting.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
King Alfred the Great Statue
0.4 km
A towering bronze tribute to England’s Saxon king, standing proudly in Winchester’s historic Broadway since 1901.
Hilton Reading
47.4 km
Discover the perfect blend of modern luxury and convenience at Hilton Reading, your ideal base to explore the vibrant city and surrounding attractions.
Edward VII Statue
50.2 km
A distinguished Edwardian bronze statue near Reading station, embodying regal history and artistic heritage from the early 20th century.
Holy Well of St Anne
51.2 km
A tranquil medieval pilgrimage site in Reading, dedicated to St Anne, echoing centuries of healing waters and local legend.
Tunsgate Arch
55.3 km
Historic neoclassical arch on Guildford’s High Street, once a bustling cornmarket gateway and now a cherished civic landmark.
Lord Wantage Monument
55.4 km
Historic Victorian monument atop an ancient Bronze Age barrow offering scenic views and a tribute to Lord Wantage near Wantage, Oxfordshire.
Liddington Hillfort
57.3 km
Discover the ancient history and breathtaking landscapes at Liddington Hillfort, a remarkable historical landmark in Swindon, England.
Barbury Castle Country Park
57.5 km
Discover the enchanting Barbury Castle Country Park, a historical landmark perfect for hiking, nature walks, and breathtaking views in Wiltshire.
Hackpen White Horse
57.7 km
Discover the enchanting Hackpen White Horse, a remarkable chalk figure in Wiltshire, where history meets stunning natural beauty in the heart of the English countryside.
Oldbury Castle Hillfort
58.8 km
Discover the ancient wonders of Oldbury Castle Hillfort, a historic landmark offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Iron Age Britain.
Wallingford Castle
61.7 km
Discover the enchanting Wallingford Castle, a historical gem with captivating ruins and scenic meadows on the banks of the River Thames.
Bincknoll Castle
62.3 km
Experience the enchanting allure of Bincknoll Castle, a historical gem in Wroughton, perfect for heritage enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
BCA Zoo
63.5 km
Discover the wonders of wildlife at BCA Zoo in Maidenhead, where adventure and education come together in a beautiful natural setting.
Miniland
64.4 km
Explore Miniland at LEGOLAND® Windsor, where famous landmarks are reimagined in stunning LEGO detail, offering a family-friendly adventure for all ages.
The Savill Garden
64.4 km
Discover the tranquility and beauty of The Savill Garden, a stunning botanical garden in Windsor Great Park, perfect for nature lovers and families.
Unmissable attractions to see
Winchester Cathedral
0.1 km
Explore the longest medieval nave in Europe and centuries of English history at Winchester Cathedral, a majestic blend of art, architecture, and living worship.
Castle Ave
0.5 km
Historic cobbled street leading to Winchester’s Great Hall, home of King Arthur’s legendary Round Table and medieval heritage.
Jane Austen's House
24.1 km
Step into Jane Austen’s cherished Hampshire home where her timeless novels were crafted and history lives on.
iFLY Basingstoke Indoor Skydiving
26.4 km
Experience the thrill of flight indoors with expert coaching at iFLY Basingstoke’s exhilarating vertical wind tunnel.
Highclere Castle
29.8 km
Explore the enchanting Highclere Castle, home of Downton Abbey, with its breathtaking architecture and rich history in Hampshire, England.
Old Sarum
34.5 km
Explore Old Sarum’s ancient hillfort, Norman castle, and medieval cathedral ruins—the birthplace of Salisbury with over 2,000 years of layered history.
Stonehenge Rd
35.9 km
Stonehenge Road leads you through the timeless Salisbury Plain to the legendary Stonehenge, where ancient mysteries and natural beauty converge.
Woodhenge
35.9 km
Explore Woodhenge, a Neolithic timber circle near Stonehenge, revealing ancient ceremonial mysteries through its aligned wooden posts and sacred landscape.
Durrington Walls
36.1 km
Explore Durrington Walls, the UK’s largest Neolithic henge and ancient village site, a monumental ceremonial landscape near Stonehenge.
The Nature Discovery Centre
37.9 km
Explore wildlife, interactive exhibits, and scenic trails at Berkshire’s vibrant Nature Discovery Centre.
West Berkshire Museum
37.9 km
Explore West Berkshire’s rich history and heritage in Newbury’s iconic 17th-century Cloth Hall and Granary buildings with free entry and engaging exhibits.
Victoria Park
38.2 km
Newbury’s vibrant green heart with diverse activities, historic charm, and scenic riverside walks for all ages and interests.
Northcroft & Goldwell Parks
38.2 km
Award-winning green spaces in Newbury offering playgrounds, sports pitches, woodland walks, BMX thrills, and stunning panoramic views.
The Ladywell
38.9 km
Discover The Ladywell at Speen, a serene ancient holy well steeped in history, healing legends, and tranquil rural charm in Berkshire.
Shaw House
39.1 km
Explore Shaw House, a stunning Elizabethan manor blending Tudor grandeur, royal history, and vibrant community life on Newbury’s peaceful edge.
Essential places to dine
GOAT ON THE ROOF
37.9 km
A vibrant British tapas restaurant and sustainable wine bar in Newbury, celebrating local flavours with a stylish, relaxed atmosphere.
Bella Luna
38.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality at Bella Luna, Thatcham’s vibrant Italian restaurant on High Street.
The Woodspeen Restaurant
39.6 km
Michelin-starred modern British cuisine in a charming farmhouse with seasonal menus, award-winning wines, and an adjoining cookery school near Newbury.
The Spring Inn
42.8 km
A charming gastropub in Sulhamstead offering locally sourced British cuisine, a vibrant drinks selection, and a welcoming countryside atmosphere.
Bunk Inn Pub & Dining
43.0 km
A charming Berkshire country pub blending Mediterranean-inspired dining with classic British hospitality in the heart of Curridge.
Damson Restaurant
43.1 km
An intimate, sustainably driven dining experience in a beautifully transformed historic pub in Winterbourne, Newbury.
The Pot Kiln
44.4 km
Historic country inn with Basque-inspired tapas, boutique rooms, and tranquil Berkshire countryside charm.
L'Ortolan
46.1 km
Experience the legacy of L'Ortolan, Reading’s iconic Michelin-starred French fine dining restaurant housed in a historic 1840s building.
Harvester Mansion House Reading
48.1 km
Family-friendly British grill and bar in a historic setting with fresh salads and hearty meals in Reading’s Prospect Park.
The Herd Restaurant
49.6 km
Experience expertly grilled British steaks and vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Pangbourne at The Herd Restaurant.
Buenasado Argentine Steakhouse - Reading
49.8 km
Savor authentic Argentinian steaks grilled to perfection in a vibrant riverside setting at Buenasado Argentine Steakhouse, Reading.
Coconut Bar & Kitchen
49.8 km
A vibrant Pan-Asian hotspot in Reading blending bold flavors, crafted cocktails, and an industrial chic vibe for all-day dining and late-night fun.
Miller & Carter Oracle
49.8 km
Savor expertly aged Black Angus steaks and vibrant bar & grill fare in the heart of Reading’s Oracle Centre.
Bill's Reading Restaurant
49.9 km
Elegant Georgian setting meets hearty British fare with all-day dining, private rooms, and a sunny terrace in Reading’s town centre.
London Street Brasserie
49.9 km
Elegant riverside dining in Reading offering refined British cuisine with local, seasonal ingredients and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Kennet Shopping
37.7 km
A central Newbury shopping hub blending 1980s retail charm with modern stores, cafes, and cinema in a unique historic town setting.
The Works
37.8 km
Affordable arts, crafts, books, and toys come together at The Works Newbury—a creative hub for all ages and interests.
La La Vintage
37.9 km
Discover unique retro and vintage fashion treasures with a sustainable spirit in the heart of Newbury.
No 96 Home and Gifts
38.2 km
Discover unique, upcycled furniture and quirky homeware at No 96 Home and Gifts, Newbury’s charming independent boutique.
Artisans Handmade UK
38.2 km
Discover unique handcrafted jewellery, prints, and gifts at Newbury’s beloved independent artisan shop in Parkway Shopping Centre.
Parkway Shopping Centre
38.2 km
A vibrant shopping destination in Newbury blending major brands, boutique stores, and community culture under one roof.
Bonmarché
38.7 km
Affordable ladies’ fashion and accessories nestled within Thatcham’s welcoming Wyevale Garden Centre.
Peach's Stores
39.8 km
Discover the convenience of Peach's Stores, your go-to stop for snacks, beverages, and essentials in Reading, UK.
Englefield Stores & Tea Room
45.2 km
A charming village tea room and store in Englefield offering hearty meals, local produce, and a tranquil rural retreat near Reading.
Yattendon Village Stores & Post Office
45.8 km
A welcoming village hub combining convenience shopping and postal services in the heart of Yattendon.
B&M Store
46.1 km
Shop smart and save big at B&M Store in Reading, where unbeatable prices meet a wide selection of products for every traveler.
Litten Tree Antiques
47.3 km
Discover unique decorative antiques and bespoke vintage furniture in a charming historic Wesleyan Chapel in Hampstead Norreys.
Well Cool Stuff
48.3 km
Explore one-of-a-kind gifts and unique souvenirs at Well Cool Stuff, a charming gift shop in Reading that celebrates local culture.
The India Shop
49.4 km
Discover vibrant fair trade treasures and authentic Indian craftsmanship in the heart of Marlborough’s charming market town.
Curate
49.5 km
Discover artistically inspired fashion and homewares at Curate, Marlborough’s award-winning independent boutique on High Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Lock Stock & Barrel, Newbury
38.0 km
Charming canal-side pub in Newbury offering seasonal dishes, craft ales, heated terraces, and vibrant live entertainment in a family-friendly setting.
The Sesh Bars
42.2 km
Transform your event with The Sesh Bars’ stylish mobile cocktail service, delivering expert mixology and vibrant vibes in Reading and beyond.
The Fox and Hounds
43.9 km
Charming dog-friendly gastropub in Sulhamstead offering hearty British fare, scenic beer garden, and a warm countryside welcome.
The Bell
47.1 km
A charming Georgian coaching inn in Ramsbury offering exquisite farm-to-fork dining in a historic, countryside setting.
The Fox at Peasemore
48.2 km
A warm and inviting gastropub in the heart of Peasemore, serving freshly prepared British classics with a modern touch.
The White Eagle
49.3 km
A lively Polish pub in Reading offering hearty cuisine, a vibrant beer garden, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The Nag's Head
49.5 km
A vibrant traditional pub in Reading famed for its exceptional real ales, craft beers, and welcoming atmosphere.
The Face Bar
49.7 km
Experience Reading’s vibrant live music and club scene at The Face Bar, where two rooms bring diverse sounds and late-night energy together.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Reading
49.8 km
Vibrant two-floor cocktail bar in Reading’s centre, blending eclectic style with expertly crafted drinks and lively events.
The Purple Turtle
49.8 km
A vibrant bar in Reading famed for its unique layered outdoor spaces and diverse drinks menu, perfect for lively social nights.
All Bar One Reading
49.8 km
Stylish riverside wine bar in Reading’s Oracle, perfect for cocktails, casual dining, and social gatherings in a modern setting.
High Spirits Cocktail Company
49.9 km
Expertly crafted cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere in Reading’s city centre, perfect for relaxed evenings and lively weekends.
Milk Bar Reading
50.1 km
A vibrant cocktail bar in Reading blending classic flavors with creative twists and a lively urban atmosphere.
Wild Lime
50.1 km
A vibrant, modern bar in Reading offering fresh food, creative cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere all week long.
The Three Tuns
50.2 km
Historic Reading pub blending traditional charm with lively bar and restaurant vibes on bustling Wokingham Road.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
3sixty
49.6 km
Experience vibrant student nightlife and live events at 3sixty, the University of Reading’s premier nightclub and entertainment venue.
Gun Street Garden
49.8 km
Experience Reading’s vibrant nightlife in an urban jungle-themed club with diverse music, rooftop bar, and VIP lounges.
Popworld - Reading
50.0 km
A vibrant pop-themed nightclub in Reading’s city centre, where retro beats meet neon-lit fun for unforgettable nights.
Reading Lola Lo
50.0 km
Experience Reading’s premier tiki-themed nightclub with vibrant cocktails, lively music, and a unique Polynesian atmosphere on Friar Street.
Q Club
50.1 km
Experience Reading’s energetic nightlife at Q Club, a lively nightclub and bar offering music, drinks, and late-night fun on Friar Street.
The Binfield Club
55.1 km
Historic social club in Binfield offering vibrant nightlife, live music, sports, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
Venue Five-0 Night Club
67.5 km
Energetic weekend nights and diverse music await at Venue Five-0 Night Club, Royal Wootton Bassett’s lively nightlife hotspot.
The Music & Words Club
67.5 km
Discover the heartbeat of Windsor at The Music & Words Club, where live performances and creative energy come alive in a cozy atmosphere.
Pink Gentleman's Club.
67.6 km
Sophisticated adult entertainment with exclusive VIP rooms and topless pole shows in the heart of Windsor’s nightlife scene.
The Boom
67.8 km
Historic arches meet vibrant beats at The Boom, Windsor’s energetic nightclub and bar for unforgettable nights.
The Scotch
67.9 km
Windsor’s iconic Victorian arch nightclub blending historic charm with eclectic music and circus-themed nightlife.
Labyrinth Nightclub Windsor
67.9 km
Experience Windsor’s vibrant nightlife with live DJs, multiple bars, and an electrifying atmosphere at Labyrinth Nightclub.
E11evn's Nightclub
71.4 km
A lively late-night hotspot in Chippenham offering weekend clubbing with a spirited local vibe and energetic dance floors.
The Venue, Bucks
74.2 km
Experience High Wycombe’s vibrant nightlife at The Venue, Bucks – a lively nightclub with great music, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Trilogy Nightclub High Wycombe
74.3 km
A lively multi-room nightclub in High Wycombe offering dynamic music, vibrant crowds, and late-night fun on Paul’s Row.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Festive
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
