I visited an ‘underdog’ UK Christmas market – it has really upped its game

Each year when the festive season rolls around in the UK, most major cities open up their Christmas markets – and wandering around is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. 

Full of chalet-like stalls brimming with thoughtful gifts, delicious seasonal snacks and mulled wine, there’s certainly no short of options to visit here in the UK. 

But if you’re keen to experience one that’s a little bit unique, you’ll want to add one city to your list, as its Christmas market has been described as a real ‘underdog’ by the people at Which?. 

Loved for its food options as well as some ‘weird and wonderful twists’, this city is also one of the cheapest places to spend a night, with hotel prices averaging £90. 

Chronicle Live writer Barbara Hodgson paid a visit to the Newcastle Christmas Market on its opening day at the weekend, discovering that it has a ‘whole new vibe’ for this year – here’s her thoughts on why you should visit. 

This year, the market has expanded to include a new Christmas Village in Old Eldon Square and six ‘North Pole’ igloos that you can book.

Decked out in fairylights and florals, with furry throws over wooden bench seats, the igloos are warm and inviting – their heating was particularly welcome on such a cold day and it made them more cosy than Barbara expected.

She said: “From their elevated position, the igloos – which are available to pre-book – have great views and if you pick the right one you can see down Grey Street or else take in the hustle and bustle of the market. And during my morning lookaround, the surrounding area became increasingly busy.”

The market boasts plenty of chalet-like stalls packed with gifts such as jewellery and knitwear. And not to mention the food vendors, such as the Grill Tower which serves up delicious bratwurst for waiting customers.

Most of the 35-plus traders this year are local and they span a great range. The Moosenwirt alpine bar is an annual favourite and is back in its usual spot where several people are already gathered around fire pits with their drinks.

Barbara continued: “I make my way to Old Eldon Square and here I find a whole new experience. The Christmas Village, a market first, puts the green on an equal footing this year with its family-focused attractions. The fairground carousel is the first thing to catch the eye and then there’s its giant Christmas tree opposite a double tipi where Santa will be hosting story sessions throughout the season.

“I have a look inside the tipi and it’s clear how much attention to detail has gone into this new kids’ experience. Santa and his elves really look the part and next to them cushions and seating are laid out in readiness for the growing queue of children waiting patiently outside.”

There’s an Elf School on the green and an outdoor Rockin’ Robin performance stage where families can book a mix of festive sessions.

There were soon lots of people milling around and they had a pick of food and drink stalls here too. The Christmas Market can be expensive of course – which city’s isn’t – and Barbara saw food dishes advertised at £12 and mulled wine from £6 but there are cheaper snacks to be had and this is a season for treats after all.

And gift-wise, you might well find things here that you haven’t seen anywhere else – and most are locally made.

The market, which will be open daily from 10am until 8pm and until 5pm on Sundays, will continue to operate until December 22.