Chester’s market is storybook pretty: a pyramid of a Christmas tree, the Gothic Town Hall and the city’s famed black‑and‑white Rows framing a ring of wooden huts.
Expect small‑batch gin, local bakes, crafts and cosy knitwear. The footprint is manageable for families, and you’re steps from independent shops on Watergate and Bridge Street for extra browsing. Make time to walk a section of the city walls at sunset for glowing views. Chester’s rail links are solid and Park & Ride is straightforward; driving into the centre is possible but parking fills quickly on peak days. It’s a charming, traditional stop; perfect for a relaxed, gift‑focused day out.
What’s New and Why Visit in 2025
Organisers are ramping up the artisan offering: more local makers, fresh jewellery, ceramics and eco-friendly gifts will feature alongside the traditional favourites. This builds on the craft focus introduced in 2024. The city brings back major festive events to anchor the market experience:
The “12 Days of Christmas Parade” lights up Chester’s streets and officially switches on the Christmas lights on 21 November.
Lantern Parade -featuring hundreds of hand‑made lanterns will take place on 28 November
From 22 November to 5 January the Cathedral Tree Festival will feature more than 80 decorated trees inside Chester Cathedral (£3).
What to Explore at the Stalls
Expect an excellent mix of: hand-crafted gifts, local produce: (regional cheese truckles, small-batch chutneys, and even award-winning ice cream from local producers; Festive tipples (from spiced rum and local gin tastings to a classic glühwein; street food & eco finds: Hot bratwursts, churros dusted in cinnamon sugar, plus eco- and upcycled gifts flagged under a “Green Chester”.
Eat, Drink & Soak up the Ambience
As daylight fades, the character of Chester’s centre transforms: the timber-framed Rows overlooking the market light up, becoming fairy-lit caverns for après-shopping cocktails. A mulled wine bar with live acoustic sets adds the perfect festive soundtrack. Pop-up tastings — such as cheese & chutney nights at nearby indoor markets — give extra reasons to linger.
Where Is Chester Christmas Market?
The Chester Christmas Market returns in 2026 with a rich blend of festive charm and artisan flair. Located in the city’s picturesque heart around Town Hall Square and Northgate Street, this event invites visitors into a winter-wonderland set against medieval architecture and historic lanes. Chester Christmas Market Opening Times
- Open Sun–Wed 10:30–18:30
- Thu–Sat 10:30–20:00.
How to Get to Christmas Market Chester
Entry to the market is free, Take the train to Chester Railway Station (direct from London Euston, Liverpool Lime Street, Manchester Piccadilly) and walk into the centre. For drivers, the city’s park-and-ride hubs feed the market area conveniently.
Things To Do in Chester
For more travel inspiration go to the Visit Chester website, or discover what Mark Bibby Jackson did when he visited there.
