Canterbury Christmas Market
Canterbury Christmas Market transforms the historic city into a winter wonderland. Explore over 120 traditional wooden huts across three vibrant areas, offering unique gifts, festive treats, and the scent of mulled wine. Experience magical activities like Santa's Grotto and a VR adventure, all set to the sounds of live Christmas music. It's a truly enchanting festive spectacle.
What to Expect
One of the largest Christmas markets in the South East
Event Details
Duration
43 days
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
City Centre
Timed Entry
Yes
Featured Performers
- Langton Brass Band
Organizer
Rockhopper Events Ltd
Food & Drink
Festive food and drink offerings, including mulled wine and hot chocolate, available from market stalls and vendors.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, shoppers, festive atmosphere seekers
Vibe
Magical, festive, traditional, bustling
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Partially covered
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $ – Get tickets
- Parking: Numerous car parks are available within the city walls and park and ride options. Roads and car parks can be extremely busy during the festive season. Coach drop-off is in St George’s Lane, in front of Whitefriars Shopping Centre. Canterbury Coach Park is a 10-minute walk from the city centre.
- Accessibility: The majority of the market is on even ground, but the Cathedral Precincts have uneven surfaces and the route between sections can be cobbled. Buggy parking is available at all activities. Breakfast with Santa is on the first floor, with staff assistance available. The grotto has a small lip to enter.
- Pets: Pet-friendly for Santa Paws event
Tips & Advice
- Arrive at least 15 minutes before your booked time slot for activities to avoid missing your reservation, as refunds are not offered for late arrivals.
- Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the busiest crowds, especially if you prefer a more relaxed shopping experience.
- Check the 'What's On' page frequently for updates on new events and late-night opening schedules.
- Utilize the 'Visitor Info' section for detailed maps of the three market areas to plan your route efficiently.
- Book popular activities like Santa's Grotto and VR experiences early, as they tend to sell out quickly, especially on weekends.
Special Events & Promotions
- 10% discount on bookable activities with code XMAS2026 for orders over £50
- Win a VR character 'DASH'
- Late night shopping events
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cancellation policy for booked activities?
You can cancel up to 7 days prior for a full refund minus booking fees. Cancellations within 7 days are not refundable, and bookings cannot be rescheduled; you must cancel and re-book.
What should I do if I don't receive a confirmation email?
Check your junk/spam folders and add hello@canterburychristmasmarket.co.uk to your whitelist. Confirmations are usually sent within 20 minutes. You can also check booking status on the website's account page.
Is the market accessible for people with disabilities?
Most of the market is on even ground, but some areas have uneven or cobbled surfaces. Staff can assist with accessibility needs at specific activities like Breakfast with Santa.
Can I bring my own food and drink?
No outside food or drink is allowed in activities. Only food and drink purchased at the market can be consumed in seating areas. Bringing outside alcohol will result in immediate removal.
What are the opening hours for the market?
The market is open Monday-Friday 10 am-6 pm, Saturday 9 am-7 pm, and Sunday 10 am-5 pm. Christmas Eve closes at 4 pm. Check for late opening nights.
More Christmas Events Near Canterbury
More Christmas Events near Canterbury
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.