Leeds Christmas Market Dates, Location and Tips
Experience the magic of the season at Leeds Christmas Market, where the city comes alive with festive charm and winter cheer. Set across Millennium Square and nearby spots, this beloved event blends traditional Christmas market vibes with Yorkshire character. From the scent of sizzling bratwursts and sweet roasted nuts to the sparkle of lights strung across cosy wooden stalls, it’s a proper seasonal escape in the heart of the city.
When do the Leeds Christmas markets start?
The Leeds Christmas Market ran from 22nd November to 22nd December in 2024, transforming Millennium Square and City Square into a festive wonderland inspired by traditional German markets. While this year’s official dates haven’t been announced yet, it’s likely the market will return around the same time in 2025. The event usually begins in late November and offers four weeks of Christmas cheer, complete with twinkling lights, hearty food, and family-friendly fun in the heart of the city. Do check our site later to confirm the exact dates once they’re released.
Do you need tickets?
Entry to the Leeds Christmas Market is completely free, so you can enjoy the festive atmosphere without worrying about booking in advance. However certain attractions may require booking in advance.
Things to do at Leeds Christmas Markets
The Leeds Christmas Market transforms the city centre into a festive hub filled with twinkling lights, joyful vibes, and plenty to see, eat, and do. Whether you’re planning a family day out, a date night, or a wander through the wintery streets with friends, here’s what not to miss:
- Sample festive street food favourites: Warm up with bratwursts sizzling on the grill, Yorkshire pudding wraps, loaded crumbles, garlic mushrooms, and all kinds of sweet and savoury delights from across the UK and Europe.
- Glide across the ice rink: Head to Millennium Square and try your skills on the open-air Ice Cube skating rink, complete with sessions for all ages and beginners.
- Explore the artisan stalls and pop-ups: Discover handmade gifts, decorations, and independent goodies from weekend artisan markets and pop-up traders across Bond Court, Victoria Gardens, and more.
- Get into the spirit with live entertainment: Expect live music, festive performers, and a merry atmosphere across the city centre thatâÂÂs sure to lift your Christmas spirits.
- Let the kids enjoy the fairground fun: With mini rides, twinkling lights, and sweet treats all around, little ones will love the magical feel of the market.
How to reach the Leeds Christmas markets?
If you’re planning to visit the Leeds Christmas markets, here are some easy ways to get there:
- By tram: Leeds has excellent tram connections, with stops close to both City Square and Millennium Square. The city’s tram network makes it easy to hop on and off, ensuring quick access to the markets.
- By train: Direct services run regularly from London King’s Cross to Leeds Station, taking around 2 to 2.5 hours. Once you arrive at Leeds Station, it’s just a 10-minute walk to both City Square and Millennium Square, where the Christmas markets are located.
- By bus: The nearest bus stops to the Christmas markets are Millennium Square and City Square. Local bus routes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 operated by First Leeds provide easy access from across the city.
- By car: Leeds is well-connected by road, and you can drive into the city centre. For those driving from London, they can reach the Leeds Christmas Markets in about 4 to 5 hours via the M1 motorway.
Where can you park?
Parking near the Leeds Christmas Market is available but can get busy during weekends and peak hours, so arriving early or pre-booking a spot is a smart move. Here are some reliable options:
- The Light Car Park (QâÂÂPark): Just a couple of minutes’ walk from Millennium Square, this multi-storey car park is secure and open 24/7, making it one of the most convenient choices for market visitors.
- Woodhouse Lane Car Park: A large, centrally located car park thatâÂÂs open round the clock. It’s a short walk from the main festive areas and usually has good availability.
- Merrion Centre Car Park: Close to Millennium Square, this covered car park is another great option with competitive rates and easy access to the markets.
- Victoria Leeds Car Park: A spacious car park at Victoria Gate, ideal if you’re planning to mix in some Christmas shopping. It offers modern facilities and extended hours.
- Leeds Station Car Park: Convenient for those arriving by train, this car park is around a 10-minute walk from both City Square and Millennium Square.
Is Leeds Christmas Market worth visiting?
Absolutely, Leeds Christmas Market is well worth a visit if you’re looking for a festive day out that blends traditional charm with a modern city atmosphere. Set across vibrant spots like Millennium Square and Victoria Gardens, the market offers a magical setting with twinkling lights, rustic wooden stalls, and cosy pop-up bars. It’s known for its diverse food scene, featuring everything from German bratwursts and Yorkshire favourites to international sweet treats and hearty seasonal drinks. What makes Leeds stand out is its mix of attractions: think real ice skating at the Ice Cube rink, panoramic views from the Wheel of Light, artisan weekends with independent makers, and live music that keeps the festive mood alive.
When is the best time to visit Leeds Christmas Market to avoid crowds?
To enjoy Leeds Christmas Market without the hustle and bustle, the best time to visit is during weekday mornings or early afternoons. Mondays to Thursdays tend to be quieter, especially before 4pm, giving you more space to browse the stalls, enjoy festive food, and take in the atmosphere at a relaxed pace. Avoid weekends and weekday evenings if possible, as these are peak times when the market gets especially busy with locals, tourists, and after-work crowds.
Where to stay in Leeds?
Leeds offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and style, making it easy to find a place that fits your Christmas Market plans. If you want to be close to the festive action, look for hotels or serviced apartments in the city centre, areas around Millennium Square, City Square, and Briggate put you within walking distance of the markets, shops, restaurants, and nightlife.. To make the most of your visit, be sure to explore the fantastic deals available on this page for maximum savings on hotel stays.
Other things to do in Leeds
Leeds offers plenty of attractions and activities for visitors beyond the Christmas markets. Here are some of the popular things you can do in the city:
- Visit the Royal Armouries Museum: Explore a world-class collection of arms and armour, from medieval to modern, in this impressive museum located on the banks of the River Aire.
- Explore Leeds Art Gallery: Admire a diverse collection of contemporary and classic masterpieces, housed in a beautiful Victorian building, showcasing works from renowned artists.
- Stroll around Roundhay Park: Enjoy over 700 acres of lush parkland, lakes, and woodlands, perfect for a leisurely walk, a picnic, or a visit to the park’s tropical and gardens.
- Shop at Trinity Leeds: Experience a mix of high street fashion, independent boutiques, and restaurants in this modern shopping centre, ideal for retail therapy and dining.
- Tour Leeds Corn Exchange: Discover this iconic, Grade I listed building known for its stunning architecture, home to an array of independent shops, cafes, and events.
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