The Southbank Christmas Market is renowned as one of the most notable festive markets. It consistently competes with the Edinburgh Christmas Market for prominence. Each year, millions of visitors from the UK, Europe, and numerous other nations across the globe come to experience it. This year, the London Christmas Market is scheduled to take place from 3 November 2025 to 4 January 2026.
| Address and venue | Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London, SE1 8XX. From Jubilee Gardens to Waterloo Bridge |
| Date | From 3 November 2025 to 4 January 2026 |
| Opening hours | Monday to Sunday from 11:00 to 22:00, on 24 December the market will close at 16:00, on 25 December the market will be closed, on 26 December the market will be open from 11:00 to 15:00 |
| Entertainment | Ice skating, Christmas performances, exhibitions, art installations, Christmas concerts |
| Christmas goods | Christmas trees, metal and glass Christmas figurines, garlands, decorations and much more |
| Nearest underground stations | Waterloo, Embankment |
| Food | Dutch pancakes, truffle burgers, roasted marshmallows, cheese toasties, fresh fruit, lobster rolls and more |
| Nearest hotels | Premier Inn London County Hall, The Suites — St Pancras Hotel Group, Magnificent Marble Arch Hotel |
Background of the Southbank Christmas Market
The Southbank Christmas Market takes place annually, commencing in November and concluding in early January. Typically, the festive fair is situated along the banks of the River Thames, as historically, entertainment along this river was a significant aspect of London’s communal life.
During the 17th and 18th centuries, such locations hosted numerous public assemblies where vital matters were addressed. These gatherings also played a crucial role in fostering trade and cultural interactions among various peoples, cultures, and nations.
In contemporary times, the stretch of the River Thames from Jubilee Gardens to Waterloo Bridge is transformed into a cheerful destination in the lead-up to Christmas. Numerous wooden market stalls, crafted in the style of Alpine chalets, are erected here for commerce.
Entertainment Options
Alongside the sale of various Christmas items (Christmas trees, metal toys, decorations, garlands and much more), the Southbank Christmas Market provides attendees with a diverse array of additional entertainment, such as Christmas performances, ice skating, amusement rides, concerts featuring renowned artists, Christmas exhibitions, and art installations.
Christmas Market at Southbank Venues
In 2025, the festive market will take place along the Queen’s Walk pedestrian promenade. The Southbank Christmas Market spans roughly 3 kilometres, beginning at Jubilee Gardens and extending to Waterloo Bridge.
The specific location of the Christmas market is Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London, SE1 8XX. The closest underground stations are Waterloo and Embankment.
Location Overview
Diagram of the Christmas Market at Southbank
Ways to Reach the Christmas Market in Southbank
If you wish to attend the Christmas Market in Southbank, there are multiple options available for reaching the venue.
By bus
The nearest bus stops to the Christmas Market at Southbank are located at Waterloo Bridge and York Road. Over 20 bus routes in London service these stops. Consequently, to reach the Christmas market, you can take any bus route that travels through these stops.
By underground
The nearest underground stations are Waterloo and Embankment. You can reach the Christmas Market at Southbank from Waterloo station in just a few minutes on foot. Waterloo underground station is accessible via the Northern, Jubilee, Bakerloo, and Waterloo and City lines of the London Underground.
If you alight at Embankment underground station, the Christmas market is approximately an 8-10 minute walk away, which can be done via the Golden Jubilee bridges.
By car
The Christmas Market at Southbank is situated nearly in the heart of London, resulting in numerous routes leading to this location. However, it is crucial to recognise that several roads in central London are frequently partially closed to vehicular traffic. For instance, driving west on Belvedere Road is not permitted.
Moreover, it is important to note that parking options at the Christmas market are quite restricted. Additionally, parking spots are typically occupied during public holidays and may not be accessible. Consequently, in many instances, using public transport to reach the Christmas Market in Southbank is a more practical choice.
Visitor Information
The subsequent details will be beneficial for numerous individuals planning to attend the Christmas Market at Southbank.
Accommodation in the vicinity
The following accommodations are situated close to the Christmas market location:
- Premier Inn London County Hall. Positioned roughly 700 metres from the Christmas Market in Southbank.
- Premier Inn London Southwark (Southwark Station). This hotel is found 800-900 metres away from the Christmas market site.
- The Suites — St Pancras Hotel Group. A pleasant hotel located 2 kilometres from the Christmas Market in Southbank.
- Magnificent Marble Arch Hotel. This establishment is about 3 kilometres from the Christmas Market in Southbank.
There is an extensive selection of hotels available, but it is important to keep in mind that during the holiday period, they may be fully booked. Thus, we advise you to think about reserving your lodging ahead of time.
Cuisine Available at the Southbank Christmas Market
The Christmas market presents culinary options to satisfy nearly every palate. Attendees can savour the following delights:
- Dutch pancakes.
- Burgers.
- Cheese toasties.
- Lobster rolls.
- Fresh fruit.
- Toasted marshmallows.
- Duck sandwiches.
- Truffle burgers and much more.
With such an extensive selection of food available, every visitor to the Christmas Market in Southbank is guaranteed to discover something appealing.
Opening dates and hours
The Christmas market is scheduled to take place from 3 November 2025 until 4 January 2026. It will operate daily from 11:00 to 22:00, from Monday to Sunday. The market at Southbank will not be open on Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve. On 24 December, it will close early at 16:00, and on 26 December, it will welcome visitors from 11:00 to 15:00.
Parking Information
You may leave your vehicle in the car parks situated close to Waterloo Bridge or at the Southbank Centre itself. Additionally, there are several nearby underground car parks available for parking. The typical cost for parking in these areas ranges from £10 to £20 per hour.
Common inquiries
What is the closing date for the Christmas Market in Southbank?
The Christmas Market at Southbank will conclude on 4 January 2026. It operates every day of the week and shuts its doors at 10 p.m.
What is the opening date for the Southbank Christmas Market?
The Christmas Market at Southbank commences on 3 November 2025 and operates from Monday to Sunday starting at 11:00.
