Brighton Christmas Market Dates, Location and Tips
Christmas in Brighton brings the perfect blend of seaside charm and festive cheer. From twinkling lights to bustling markets and unique holiday events, the city sparkles with warmth and excitement all season long.
Is Brighton a good place to visit during Christmas?
Absolutely! Brighton is a brilliant spot for a winter escape. The city is known for its seaside charm and lively holiday spirit, making it perfect for soaking up Christmas cheer. With festive lights, cosy cafes, and the buzz of seasonal events like the Brighton Winter Fayre, it's a top choice for a winter day out or weekend away.
Where is the Brighton Christmas Market?
The Brighton Winter Fayre takes place right in the heart of the city at St Peter's Square on York Place. This central location makes it easy to reach, and it's close to all the best Brighton has to offer.
When does the Brighton Christmas Market start?
The Fayre kicks off on December 5th and runs for three festive weekends, ending on Christmas Eve. Each week, the event is open from Thursday to Sunday, with hours from 10 am to 11 pm, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Do you need a ticket?
Entry to the main Fayre area is free, so you can wander, browse, and soak up the festive spirit without a ticket. However, some of the workshops, shows, and special experiences, like Claus's Grotto, require tickets, so it's worth checking in advance if you want to join any of these.
How to get to the Brighton Christmas Market?
The Brighton Christmas Market is located in the heart of the city, easily accessible by various modes of transport.
- By train: Brighton Station is the main railway hub, just a 15-minute walk from the markets. Trains run frequently from London Victoria, London Bridge, and Gatwick Airport, with direct services taking around 1 hour from central London. There are also regular connections from other parts of Sussex.
- By bus: Brighton is well-served by local buses. The main bus stops near the markets are at the Old Steine, Churchill Square, and the Royal Pavilion. Routes such as the 2, 7, 12, and 25 serve the city centre, with frequent services from various areas in and around Brighton.
- By car: If driving, Brighton is easily accessible via the A23 from London and the M23. Once in the city, follow signs for the city centre or seafront.
Where can you park?
There are several parking options near the Brighton Christmas Markets. The NCP car parks at Trafalgar Street and Churchill Square offer convenient and affordable parking. You can also use the Park and Ride service at Withdean or Mill Road, offering direct bus routes into the city centre.
Popular attractions at the Brighton Christmas Market
The Brighton Winter Fayre is filled with festive fun for everyone, offering a mix of free entertainment and ticketed events. From live shows to seasonal workshops, it's the perfect place to unwind and make new memories with family and friends.
Food and drink delights
The Fayre brings a taste of Brighton with street food, cosy cafe treats, and licensed bars. There's something to satisfy every craving, with options for vegans, vegetarians, and those looking for gluten-free bites. Warm up with mulled wine or hot chocolate, try local beers, or just enjoy a snack on the go - food and drink stalls stay open till late, so you're covered from brunch to after-dinner treats.
Stalls
Explore a fantastic variety of stalls featuring unique gifts and crafts from local makers. From handmade decorations to tasty seasonal treats, the stalls are perfect for gift shopping or simply browsing for a bit of holiday inspiration.
Things to do
The Brighton Winter Fayre is packed with activities for all ages. Here are some highlights to look out for:
- Workshops: Get creative with festive craft workshops where you can make your own decorations and gifts. These are great for kids and adults alike and add a personal touch to your Christmas.
- Entertainment: "A Very Merry Bezzmas" with Happy Mondays' maraca-shaking musician kicks off on December 6th, and "Barrioke" hosted by Shaun Williamson from Eastenders on December 15th is bound to bring laughs and holiday cheer.
- Santa's Grotto: A truly magical experience, the Grotto takes you right into the Claus's cosy home. Mrs Claus welcomes you with stories and cookie decorating in the kitchen, while Mr Claus joins in with festive tales and laughter. Each family gets a chance to snap a photo by the fireplace, and kids leave with a special gift. Be sure to book tickets in advance, as this is one of the Fayre's most popular attractions!
Where to stay in Brighton?
Brighton has a range of places to stay, perfect for making the most of the festive season. For a central stay close to the Fayre, The Grand Brighton and The Old Ship Hotel are classic options, while the Artist Residence offers a more unique, boutique experience. For a cosy Christmas getaway that won't stretch the budget, check out all the fantastic festive deals on this page and treat yourself to Brighton's seasonal magic!
Other things to do in Brighton
- Brighton Palace Pier: Enjoy a classic British seaside experience with arcade games, thrilling rides, and scenic views over the water. The pier is lit up with festive lights during the season, making it a magical spot to stroll and take in the coastal charm.
- Royal Pavilion: Step into the grandeur of the Royal Pavilion, an exotic palace with unique Indian and Chinese-inspired architecture. During Christmas, the Pavilion is often decorated for the season, adding to its fairytale-like allure and offering a peek into Brighton's regal history.
- North Laine: Wander through North Laine, Brighton's bohemian district packed with independent shops, quirky boutiques, and cosy cafes. It's a top spot for picking up unique gifts and souvenirs or enjoying a warm drink after a day of sightseeing.
- Brighton Marina: Head to Brighton Marina for dining, shopping, and leisure activities by the water. With a mix of restaurants, bars, and a cinema, the Marina is a lively spot to unwind and soak up the festive atmosphere with family or friends.
- Sea Life Brighton: Discover the wonders of the ocean at Sea Life Brighton, the UK's oldest aquarium. From sharks to sea turtles, there's plenty to see, making it a fantastic outing for families or anyone curious about marine life.
Christmas Essentials: Christmas Shop | Christmas Gifts | Christmas Pyjamas | Christmas Decorations | Christmas Market Breaks | Christmas Jumpers | Christmas Trees