Scottish Christmas Markets Round-up

Scotland is a country with a great deal to offer culturally – to both native Scots and those travelling from further afield. With that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the best Christmas markets in the country!

Edinburgh

No roundup of Christmas markets in Scotland would be complete without a look at the nation’s capital, and so it seems as good a place as any to begin.

Edinburgh’s European market is set to take place, as it has for the past two decades, in the space between the Mound, Garden’s terrace and the Scott Monument. It’s the largest of the three different markets that the city is hosting.

The European Market is a traditional affair, which offers visitors a range of different products from artisans across the continent. These include craft shops, painters, gift shops, and, of course, a huge variety of different foodstuffs. If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience at heart of what is often described as a uniquely European city, then look no further!

If, on the other hand, you’re looking for something a little more recognisably Scottish, then you’ll want to pay a visit to the Scottish Market in St Andrew Square. It showcases some of the best food, drink and artisan craftsmanship that the country has to offer. Whether you’re after the best Scottish sausages, seafood, chocolate, or cupcakes, you’ll find something to indulge your palette. But those looking for Scottish jewellery, woodwork, accessories and other crafts will also be sure to enjoy a visit.

Also in Edinburgh we have the Children’s Market, where a number of different child-friendly events are to take place, including face painting, crafts and, of course, shopping. If you’ve got children to entertain, then there are few better locations.

Each of the markets is open between the 20^th November and the 4^th January, between 10am and 10pm.

Perth

Just a short drive north of Edinburgh lies Perth, whose streets are transformed every year into a wintry shopping Mecca. The Fair City is a draw for travellers from across the country, thanks to its cosmopolitan culture and beautiful architecture – from which its nickname is derived. These features are especially prominent during the Christmas period.

This market boasts some extra-special touches which set it apart from its contemporaries. There are the ubiquitous alpine-style market stalls, along with a marquee that’s both carpeted and heated – allowing you to enjoy your mulled wine in comfort. You’ll also find a wealth of entertainment, including live animals, acrobats and, of course, carol singing.

Glasgow

Glasgow’s Christmas market will once again return to St Enoch Square in November – and remain there right up until the 20^th of December.

The market will be home to a raft of continental bars, where patrons can secure themselves a beer or a mugful of mulled wine to enjoy in the provided seating. Be aware, however, that children are not allowed to stay in the bar area unsupervised, or at all after 7pm.

The market offers all of the unique charm that one might expect from a city as large as Glasgow. It’s filled with a huge variety of different stalls, forming a small festive village of wooden cabin buildings. There you’ll find everything from Christmas scarves to chutney, cheese and waffles.

As well as the innumerable shelves of dried and jarred produce for you to take home and fill your festive fridge with, you’ll also be able to enjoy freshly-cooked food and drink from the vendors at the heart of the market. Whether you’re after a bratwurst and a stein of lager, or a crepe and a gluhweine, you’ll find what you’re looking for right in the heart of Glasgow.

If you’re in the area, then you’ll want to come down and sample the sights, sounds and smells – but even if you’re not, then its well worth making the trip from further afield.

Aberdeen

For those based a little further north, Aberdeen runs a Christmas Village, which boasts an ice rink alongside the usual bustling entertainments. It’s to take over Union Terrace, in the heart of the city, which for five weeks leading up to Christmas will be replete with little market stalls, crammed to bursting with crafts, toys, good and drink.

As well as the market itself, there are set to be a series of events in the run up to Christmas Day, including carol services and the switching on of the Christmas tree lights. It’s the perfect day out for those looking to get into the spirit of things!