Top 5 prettiest Christmas markets in the UK and number 1 is next to a spectacular castle
When it comes to finding the most picturesque Christmas markets, some festive scenes are better than others - and the UK has some of the best in the world
Brits are known for their love of a festive market wander, but when it comes to the most enchanting Christmas scenes, some twinkling lights outshine others. Recent research by Icelandair has unveiled the most photogenic Christmas markets of 2025, ranking popular markets based on their Instagram hashtag count.
Edinburgh's renowned Christmas market clinches the top spot with the highest number of festive snaps, boasting over 58,100 hashtags using #edinburghchristmasmarket, closely followed by Winter Wonderland in London with 46,500 hashtags. As a bonus, it is right next to the spectacular Edinburgh castle.
Edinburgh Christmas Market
With the imposing silhouette of Edinburgh Castle looming overhead, the city's Christmas Market has amassed 58,100 Instagram hashtags, captivating visitors with its stunning views, festive flavours and genuine Scottish charm.
This market is an ideal backdrop for social media content, featuring scenes from the bustling Princes Street Gardens to Edinburgh Castle lit up against a frosty sky. Edinburgh Christmas Market dates 2025 : November 15, 2025, to January 4, 2026.
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Winter Wonderland, London
Set against the sparkling backdrop of Hyde Park, London's Winter Wonderland has amassed over 46,500 Instagram hashtags, attracting crowds with its mesmerising lights, festive attractions, and quintessential Christmas spirit. From capturing glowing walkways after sunset, to photographing the brightly lit Rainbow Arch, or taking panoramic shots from the Giant Observation Wheel, Winter Wonderland is a must-visit.
Wherever you wander, the holiday spirit is easily captured. Winter Wonderland 2025 dates: November 14, 2025, to January 1, 2026.
Bath Christmas Market
Adding Christmas charm to Bath's stunning Georgian architecture, cobbled streets, and elegant squares results in an incredibly Instagrammable destination. It's no surprise that Bath Christmas Market has collected more than 37,100 Instagram hashtags.
Whether it's snapping the illuminated Bath Abbey, strolling through the twinkling market stalls, or savouring the cosy riverside views, there's no shortage of festive, Instagram-worthy moments. Bath Christmas Market dates: November 14, 2025, to November 27, 2025.
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Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market
Nestled in the heart of Birmingham, the Frankfurt Christmas Market has amassed over 22,600 Instagram hashtags, bewitching visitors with its festive stalls, German-inspired delicacies, and vibrant holiday atmosphere. It's an ideal spot for food enthusiasts to snap photos, with rows of twinkling lights providing a magical backdrop.
Savour a sizzling bratwurst, sip on piping hot mulled wine, immerse yourself in the festive spirit, and capture the moment on camera. Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market dates: November 1, 2025, to December 24, 2025.
York Christmas Festival
Framed by York's historic streets and medieval walls, York Christmas Festival has garnered over 13,900 Instagram hashtags, captivating visitors with its festive stalls, handcrafted gifts, and seasonal treats. From capturing the twinkling lights along Shambles and the illuminated York Minster, to meandering through cosy market lanes with steaming mulled wine in hand, York is a must-visit destination this festive season. York Christmas Festival Dates: 13 November – 21 December 2025.
