Cambridge Christmas Market: The Complete Guide
Most people know Cambridge for its famous University, although there are so many more interesting things about this city. It is filled with gorgeous greenspaces and beautiful historic buildings that make it one of the most famous cities in England. Cambridge is even more stunning in the wintertime when it is covered in white snow and decorated with Christmas lights!
This winter wonderland hosts lots of seasonal events and attractions, including fantastic Christmas markets. Tourists and locals alike tend to flock to these markets to find unique gifts at the independent shops that get set up, and when the markets are open you know that the festive season is close. Make time to visit the markets and fairs before Christmas Eve, and when your arms are full of purchases, stop by Bounce luggage storage in Cambridge. Stow your holiday buys for pickup later after you're done.
Cambridge Christmas Market
The main market in Cambridge (close to Cambridge Station) is found in Market Square. Its central location attracts people from all over the city centre who come to see what is being sold in its market stalls. You can shop for items from 60 independent businesses so there will definitely be something that you like. This Market Square has been a trading hub all the way since the Middle Ages! It is open every day throughout the year but takes on a festive atmosphere during the holidays.
With so many businesses in one place, there is really no shortage of things that you can find. Keep an eye out for a wide selection of handcrafted gifts like vintage clothing, arts and crafts, plants, movies, handmade jewellery, accessories, books and more. If that isn't enough for you, you can also stop by on Sundays when there is a local food and crafts market showcasing works from talented artists, potters and ceramists as well as produce from nearby farmers. This is a great place to buy festive food from local businesses!
What to do near Cambridge Christmas Market
Want to make a day out of visiting the market? Take a tour of the historic Cambridge Court Room! You can also walk to one of the two nearby performing arts theaters; The Cambridge Arts Theater or the Cambridge Corn Exchange. Chances are that they have some sort of live entertainment for you.
All Saints Market
The All Saints Market, located just across the street from Trinity College in Cambridge, is your next stop for festive fun. This marketplace is one of the best spots to find stocking fillers and unique gifts and it is only held once every week on Saturdays. There are some great independent shops that gather here to sell you their creations, and we hope that you will find something that you love.
Some of the things that you buy include handcrafted jewellery, pens, stamps, cards, sculptures, leather-worked items, wooden crafts and stained glass, just to name a few. These crafts are one of a kind and can't be found anywhere else in the world, so make a point to stop by in November or December to get all of your Christmas shopping done.
What to do near All Saints Market
After enjoying the festive spirit at this market, we suggest seeing if there are any other things to do nearby. If you head to the entrance of Trinity College you can see Newton's Apple Tree in person! Afterward, take a stroll through the Trinity College Angel Court, or head the other way and do some sightseeing at the beautiful Bridge of Sighs.
Mill Road Winter Fair
Ready for some more festive cheer? The Mill Road Winter Fair captures the community spirit of Cambridge with live music, performances and stalls selling all sorts of wonderful items. It is only happening on the first Saturday in December, so don't miss out! The date for this year's fair is December 3rd.
Instead of buying your Christmas gifts from a shopping centre, this year you should try to shop from local businesses. This market has been a yearly occurrence since 2005 and has gathered quite a fanbase of visitors who love to celebrate the holiday season with Christmas carols, live performances and, of course, tasty treats with mulled wine.
What to do near Mill Road Winter Fair
This winter fair is located right next to Parker's Piece which transforms into its own winter wonderland during the holidays. The area offers its own set of festive delights with the North Pole Ice Skating Rink, an Alpine Bar serving hot chocolate and mulled wine as well as a Big Wheel and an ice slide. There is something for both adults and children to enjoy, but getting in isn't free, so prepare for an extra cost.
Presents Galore
If you are on the search for more festive things to do near Cambridge, take a small trip to Newmarket. This gift fair is held at the Rowley Mile Racecourse for three days only! The dates for this year are from the 25th to 27th of November and it is one of the best Christmas markets in Cambridge, so write it down in your calendar.
At the fair, you will find close to 100 markets filled with items of all kinds. You can shop for personalized gifts, gorgeous jewellery, clothes, tasty treats like jam and so much more. The best part is that 100% of the proceeds, including ticket costs, will go to charity. If you shop here you will be supporting the National Horseracing Museum and the Cambridge Children's Hospital.
What to do near Presents Galore
Since you are already in Newmarket and supporting the National Horseracing Museum, why not make a stop here? Opened in 1983, this family friendly museum will keep you intrigued for hours. There is even the opportunity to meet former racehorses.
Getting Festive at the Christmas Markets in Cambridge
Although there aren't many festive Christmas Markets in Cambridge there are some other fun markets to wander around in the nearby cities of East Anglia. Take the kids to see Father Christmas at a nearby Santa's Grotto or any other exciting festival! If you don't mind taking a bit of a drive you can stop by the March Christmas Market at the March Town Hall as well.
There is also lots to do in Peterborough, like the Christmas Craft and Gift Market at the Peterborough Cathedral where you can buy things like vegan soaps and bamboo socks. You should also visit the nearby Burghley House Christmas Fair with its cute chalets and heated marquees that will keep you warm as you shop. The Ely Cathedral Christmas Market in Ely is worth checking out as well. The UK has some of the best Christmas markets so try to visit as many of them as you can!