There’s so much festive fun to be had in London, but sometimes the bustling crowds can take away from the magic of the holiday. Head outside of the city for a day trip with a car hire to some of these events and Christmas markets in the South of England, and have yourself a merry little Christmas season!
Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market
Nov 2 – Dec 24
Drive from Measham’s: approximately 2 hour 15 minutes
Birmingham centre is transformed into a German Christmas market with wooden open-air stalls and specially made goods, perfect for gifts under the tree. The German-style bratwurst and glühwein keep you energised and warm as you peruse the stalls or watch the little ones have a go on the mini fairground rides! Visit the website for more information.
Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market
Nov 17 – Dec 21
Drive from Measham’s: approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
Heralded as one of Europe’s best Christmas Markets (and therefore the greatest Christmas Market in the South of England), there are wonderful gifts for everyone! Highlights include traders in traditional wooden Christmas stalls, sustainable present options, and scrumptious food stalls. The decorated Winchester Cathedral is a must-see, enveloping you in the cosy Christmas atmosphere with a reflective self-guided walk around the building. You’re also invited to attend an Advent and Christmas service featuring an internationally acclaimed choir. On November 24th, there is also a much-beloved Lantern Parade attended by locals and tourists alike. Visit the website for more information.
Christmas at Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest
Nov 17 – Dec 31
Drive from Measham’s: approximately 1 hour 45 minutes
Enjoy a crisp evening stroll at the magically illuminated light trail at the Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest. With the help of the twinkling lights, you’ll be able to spot the nocturnal wild-life, catch a glimpse of Father Christmas, and walk under the Liquid Sky. Grab some festive food and a hot drink from the street food vendors to keep warm, and make some merry memories! Visit the website for more information.
Christmas at Blenheim Palace
Nov 17 – Jan 1
Drive from Measham’s: approximately 1 hour 5 minutes
Blenheim Palace’s spectacular light trail is not to be missed! Explore the grounds looking their holiday best thanks to twinkling lights, tinsel, and ornate ornaments, under a night sky with seasonal songs. Head into the house for their Christmas retelling of Sleeping Beauty, each room depicting a scene from the beloved tale.
From November 17th to December 17th, put your Santa hat on and check your naughty and nice list (twice!), because the Christmas Market will be in town. With plenty of artisan stalls filled with gifts that would warm the heart of the Scrooge-iest recipient, you’ll find something for everyone. Visit the website for more information.
Christmas at Hever Castle
Nov 18 – Jan 1
Drive from Measham’s: approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
Hever Castle is sprinkled with Christmas magic this holiday season, with lights and ornaments adorning the gardens and lakefront. Take on the Christmas trail to see everything the estate has to offer or take a wintery boat ride from the Edwardian boathouse! On weekends, meet with Father Christmas to ask for your dream present for the big day. Finally, browse the gift shop for a relaxed gift-buying experience. On select dates, catch a professional demonstration to learn how to make the perfect wintery wreath for your home! Visit the website for more information.
Christmas at Waddesdon
Nov 22 – Dec 17
Drive from Measham’s: approximately 1 hour 5 minutes
The beautiful Waddesdon Manor tour experience is a must-see as the house and grounds are decked out with bright lights and baubles. Warm up by a fire and imagine past Christmases in the magnificent manor. Between November 22nd and December 17th, an extensive Christmas market envelopes the grounds. Go gift-shopping, peruse the pretty presents, or grab a glass of mulled wine and a warm bite to eat at the food village! Visit the website for more information.
Bath Christmas Market
Nov 23 – Dec 10
Drive from Measham’s: approximately 2 hour 20 minutes
Venture into the beautiful Cotswold city of Bath for their annual Christmas market. This historic city is beautiful by day but breathtaking on crisp December nights. The festive coloured lights illuminate the facade of the Bath Abbey and sparkling lights shine down on the street of market stalls. Vendors and artisans sell their unique wares of prints, pottery, alcohol, food, candles, knitwear, jewelry, and more. Visit the website for more information.
Oxford Christmas Market
Nov 30 – Dec 23
Drive from Measham’s: approximately 1 hour 10 minutes
In the heart of historic (and academic) Oxford, Broad Street plays host to the Oxford Christmas Market. In pop-up canopies decorated in shades of traditional red and green, local artisans and craftspeople man stalls filled with gifts, curiosities, and treats that make the perfect presents (either for yourselves or loved ones)! Visit the website for more information.
Walmer Castle Christmas Light Trail
Dec 1 – Jan 1
Drive from Measham’s: approximately 2 hour 20 minutes
Follow the interactive light trail hosted at Walmer Castle! Decorative lights enhance the natural beauty of the landscape, and the historic castle will immerse you in the Christmas spirit. Visit the website for more information.
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If you’re planning to go to any of these Christmas Markets in the South of England, take a look at our range of cars, vans and minibuses for hire today. Crank up the Christmas carols and have a jolly festive trip!