The Best Christmas Markets in Essex
With December almost here and temperatures getting frosty, thoughts are jumping ahead to the most wonderful time of year! Festive tunes are already playing and fairy lights are already twinkling on many Christmas trees. The festive season is upon us!
One of our favourite traditions is the abundance of Christmas markets and fairs that spring up at this time of year. A reason for young and old alike to brave the cold and come together over some mulled punch and mince pies. We may be biased but we’ve always thought Christmas markets in Essex were especially full of festive spirit and fun.
So where do you start? Most towns and villages across the county will have a Christmas fair of some description. But if you are willing go a little further in search of that special gift or festive atmosphere, here are some of our absolute favourites:
Museum of Power Christmas Fair
Santa in his grotto, children’s rides, indoor Christmas stalls and a miniature train to ride. What more could you ask for from a Christmas Fair?
The Museum of Power’s mission is to keep Britain’s industrial history alive and working so any little ones with an interest in engines and practical science will feel right at home. Many of the Museum’s star attractions will be open over the festive season such as the ‘Astaria’ model village, Crafty Cabin and ‘Marshall’ the Lilleshall pumping engine. But for one weekend, you can also visit Santa, enjoy a miniature train ride and enjoy all the festive sight and sounds of a classic Christmas Fair.
When? 30th Novmber - 1st December
Where? Museum of Power, Langford, CM9 6QA
How much? Standard entry fees apply with added prices for Santa visit and train ride
Billericay Christmas Market
Head for the bustling High Street of Billericay to kick off your Essex Christmas season. A popular event in the local Christmas calendar, Billericay brings out all the fun and festive spirit with fairground rides, a circus troupe, street entertainers, flash mobs and an impressive parade. Santa guides the parade to open the festivities and hand out presents from his free grotto.
The market itself spans over 150 stalls, packed full of festive crafts, food and drinks, clothing, gifts and a farm shop. The perfect place to indulge in all the treats of the festive season - and pick out a gift or two too.
When? 1st December
Where? Billericay High Street (CM12 9AS)
How much? Free entry
Christmas at Tiptree
Head to the Tiptree Tea Room Marquee for a taste of Christmas cheer. Father Christmas and his Tiptree elves will be on hand to spread festive spirit and mince pies. Enjoy a warm glass of mulled wine, pick out your real Christmas tree - grown on the farm itself - and sample some delicious festive treats.
At the market, local independent traders will be bringing an array of unique, handmade gifts. From high-quality ceramics to bead jewelry to textile creations, you’ll find all the gifts you need. You can even book on to a Christmas wreath making workshop to create your own festive decorations.
When? 2nd - 3rd December
Where? Tiptree Tea Room Marquee, CO5 0RF
How much? Free entry
Folk & Bespoke Artisan Craft Market
It wouldn’t be Christmas without visiting a market full of amazing crafts from local designer-makers. Our pick of the artisan Christmas markets in Essex would have to be Folk & Bespoke.
More than 40 makers will be exhibiting their finest work at Folk & Bespoke, each one totally unique. There is something special about meeting the person who designed and lovingly created the unique items you’ll take home. There’s a story behind every piece and you get to hear it first-hand.
When? 7th December
Where? Firstsite, Colchester, CO1 1JH
How much? Free entry
Cathedral Christmas Market
Chelmsford Cathedral is inviting everyone to one of the more unique Christmas markets in Essex.
The grand architecture and twinkling Christmas tree provide an atmospheric backdrop to this stunning Christmas market. A wide range of local artisans and makers will be exhibiting their handcrafted, one-of-a-kind work - seasonal decorations, jewellery, textiles, handmade crafts, gourmet food items and more. Take a moment to sit and enjoy the festive atmosphere at the pop-up cafe and listen to local choirs and musicians perform as you browse.
When? 7th December
Where? Chelmsford Cathedral
How much? Free entry
Step into Christmas at the White Hart
After a day exploring the best Christmas markets in Essex, you’ll need somewhere cosy to rest and relax. Our charming coach inn is the perfect option, centrally situated near Halstead. Refresh in our spacious rooms and enjoy some hearty pub classics - or opt for our oak-beamed restaurant for something a little fancier.
A stay with us will always have great hospitality at the ‘hart’.