There’s nothing better than visiting the dog friendly Christmas markets in the run-up to the big day – the twinkly lights, the cosy drinks, the irresistible food, and the chance to pick up something lovely to take home. But why should humans have all the fun? If you’ve got a four-legged friend who loves an adventure, you’ll be pleased to know there are plenty of UK Christmas markets where dogs are actually allowed to join in the festive magic too.
Dog Friendly Christmas Markets 2025
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Best Christmas Markets UK
From huge city extravaganzas to charming little town markets, you and your pup can embark on a delightful adventure, wandering between colourful stalls, soaking up the festive atmosphere and enjoying a seasonal experience together.
I may be stating the obvious, but some days (especially on weekends) can be loud and crowded, making visits intense, especially for anxious pups. So, choose the best time to visit wisely.
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1. Bath Christmas Market
Set amidst the gorgeous Georgian streets of Bath, this market is a sparkling festive treat. The Bath Christmas Market features over 200 stalls offering a diverse range of handmade gifts, homeware, food, and drink, all set within the beautiful historic city of Bath.
The city is packed with activities you can do with your furry friend, from scenic walks in green spaces like Sydney Gardens to exploring the historic streets and charming corners of town together. Dogs are allowed on the ground floor of the Holburne Museum, take a trip on the Avon Valley Railway, and The Little Theatre Cinema hosts dog-friendly screenings. Bath is the perfect spot for a festive stroll, a cosy pit stop, or just soaking up the atmosphere.
📅 Thursday 27 November until Sunday 14 December 2025
📍 36 Stall Street, Bath, BA1 1QH
🐾 Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead.
2. Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market
Held in the precincts of Winchester Cathedral, this German-style festive market is packed with hand-crafted gifts, food stalls, and a really atmospheric backdrop of historic architecture.
Head to the riverside along the serene River Itchen or explore the nearby meadows and trails for fresh air and adventure. After you’ve worked up an appetite, relax at one of Winchester’s many dog‑welcoming cafes or pubs such as The Black Boy, The Bishop on the Bridge and The Mucky Duck.
📅 Friday 21 November until Monday 22 December 2025
📍 9 The Close, Winchester SO23 9LS
🐾 Dogs are welcome in the cathedral, are allowed within the market area and in the grounds. Dogs should be well-behaved and not disruptive.
3. Edinburgh Christmas Market
Spectacularly, the capital of Scotland becomes a festive playground from mid-November into early January. Located in East Princes Street Gardens and beyond, the Edinburgh Christmas Market offers rides, stalls featuring crafts, a variety of food. Plus, a generous dose of holiday charm that will surely get you and your dog in the Christmas spirit.
Edinburgh is a brilliant city to explore. Take your dog for a stroll in Holyrood Park or up Arthur’s Seat for spectacular city views. Wander through the open spaces of The Meadows, or enjoy a longer riverside walk along the Water of Leith Walkway. For a different perspective, you can hop on a Firth of Forth boat trip, explore the city with a walking tour, or even visit attractions like Camera Obscura that welcome dogs. Edinburgh also boasts a range of dog-friendly pubs and cafes, including The Bow Bar in the Old Town or the quirky Chihuahua Cafe.
📅 Saturday 15 November 2025 until Sunday 4 January 2026
📍 Princes St, Edinburgh EH2 2HG
🐾 Well-behaved dogs are welcome. Stephanie Fox and her dog, Arthur, have written a comprehensive dog-friendly review.
4. Frankfurt Christmas Market, Birmingham
Often billed as the largest authentic German Christmas market outside Germany and Austria. The Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market is a dazzling affair, featuring wooden chalets, bratwurst, mulled wine, live music, and a serious festive atmosphere.
Birmingham is a fantastic city, boasting numerous dog-friendly parks and gardens, including Sutton Park, Cannon Hill Park, and Castle Bromwich Historic Gardens. After some outdoor fun, relax at one of the city’s dog-friendly pubs and breweries, including The Distillery, Birmingham District Brewing Company, and The Jewellers Arms.
📅 Saturday 1 November until Wednesday 24 December 2025
📍 Victoria Square & New Street, Birmingham B1 1BD
🐾 Well-behaved dogs are welcome, but must be on a lead at all times.
5. Manchester Christmas Markets
Spread across several locations in Manchester city centre, this market brings together dozens of stalls, a variety of food treats, and a festive atmosphere. It’s a major draw for the pre-Christmas period. Albert Square will host ‘A Taste of Christmas’: a festive ‘mini market’ selling food, drinks and crafts. The square will also be home to a huge Ferris wheel, giving breathtaking views of Manchester’s Town Hall.
Take a stroll through Heaton Park, Fletcher Moss Park, Clifton Country Park, or the new Mayfield Park for plenty of open space and fresh air, and hop on trams or buses with your pup on a lead to explore the city. You can enjoy a coffee or a bite at dog-friendly cafes and pubs such as 19 Cafe Bar, The Wharf, and Albert’s Schloss, or browse unique shops like Afflecks, Fred Aldous, and Northern Flower.
📅 Friday 7 November 2025 until Sunday 4 January 2026
📍 Albert Square, Manchester M2 5DB
🐾 Well-behaved dogs are welcome. Dogs are not allowed in Albert Square, but they are welcome in the other market areas.
6. Oxford Christmas Market
In the historic city, the Oxford Christmas Market offers a lovely combination of traditional stalls and a festive atmosphere. There’s a live performance stage, which will host Christmas choirs, bands, solo artists, and even DJs who know how to create the perfect Christmas vibe.
You can stroll through Westgate Oxford while shopping. Dog-friendly pubs such as St Aldate’s Tavern are perfect for a cosy break. Explore the historic city streets, quaint alleys, and riverside paths along the Cherwell and Isis for a scenic stroll.
📅 Friday 7 November 2025 until Sunday 4 January 2026
📍 Broad Street, Oxford, OX1 3BS
🐾 Well-behaved dogs are welcome, but must be on a lead at all times.
7. Winter By The River, London
Set along the scenic banks of the Thames with Tower Bridge as a stunning backdrop, Christmas By The River offers festive chalets, seasonal food and drink, and unique gifts. The riverside location gives a truly atmospheric London Christmas experience.
Follow the frosted paths along the banks of the iconic River Thames and see the brand-new look for The Glasshouse, now a spectacular two-storey festive venue with panoramic views across the Thames. Guests can relax under an enclosed, heated rooftop canopy or step onto the open balcony to soak in the riverside views. Serving a full menu of seasonal drinks, craft beers, pizza and hot waffles,
📅 Saturday 13 November 2025 until Sunday 4 January 2026
📍 London Bridge City, SE1 2DB
🐾 Dogs are welcome
8. Chester Christmas Markets
In the charming city of Chester, the Christmas market offers a cosy, historic town vibe. Stalls with locally made produce, handmade crafts, jewellery, accessories, stocking fillers and plenty more festive finds! Plus, festive lights, local food, and drink all combine in this picturesque setting.
Take your pup for a scenic walk along the Chester City Walls, explore the open spaces of Grosvenor Park, or enjoy woodland trails, lakes, and meadows in Delamere Forest. Other great outdoor spots include Westminster Park, the Chester Greenway trail, and the Countess of Chester Country Park. Additionally, the River Dee offers dog-friendly boat trips. Dogs are welcome at Chester Castle and Chester Cathedral. When it’s time to relax, head to The Saddle Inn, The Brewery Tap, Chalk Coffee, or The Architect.
📅 Friday 19 November 2025 until Monday 22 December 2025
📍 Town Hall Square, Northgate Street, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 2HQ
🐾 Dogs are welcome
9. York Christmas Market
With its medieval walls, cobbles, and a magical old-town atmosphere, the York Christmas Market is packed with charm, stalls, and festive food, making it perfect for a winter break around the city. With over 80% of the traders coming from Yorkshire, it’s the perfect opportunity to support local businesses while enjoying the very best of the region.
Take a stroll through the Museum Gardens, along the York City Walls, or enjoy the gardens at the York Art Gallery. For a day out a little further afield, the grounds of Castle Howard, Yorkshire Arboretum, and Helmsley Walled Garden are all dog-friendly. You can also wander the streets of the Shambles, or even explore parts of the JORVIK Viking Centre with your pup.
📅 Saturday 13 November 2025 until Sunday 21 December 2025
📍 St Sampson’s Square and Parliament Street, York YO1 8QT
🐾 Dogs are welcome
10. Bristol Christmas Market
Located in the heart of the city, at Broadmead and Millennium Square, the Bristol Christmas Market features festive chalets filled with gifts, seasonal treats, and street food, all set against a lively and bustling city atmosphere. The market also features a variety of entertainment options, including a VR Sledge Ride, local performers, and themed character appearances.
Bristol is full of dog-friendly activities. Take your pup for a stroll through Ashton Court Estate, Blaise Castle Estate, or the woodland trails of Leigh Woods, and the gardens at Tyntesfield, which is free for National Trust Members. You can even bring your dog on some Bristol Ferry Boats or Bristol Packet trips, and enjoy walks around Chew Valley Lake.
📅 Friday 7 November 2025 until Tuesday 23 December 2025
📍 Bristol Shopping Quarter, Broadmead, Bristol BS1 3DX
🐾 Dogs are welcome, but must remain on their lead. Dogs are allowed in designated seating areas, such as the gondolas and igloos.
11. Chichester Christmas Market
The small but lovely market in Chichester combines festive stalls, historic architecture, and boutique shopping – a more relaxed alternative to the big-city markets.
Chichester and the surrounding area offer plenty of dog-friendly outdoor experiences. Explore the scenic trails of the South Downs National Park and walk along sections of the South Downs Way, or enjoy the gardens at Fishbourne Roman Palace and the grounds of Petworth. In the city, well-behaved dogs can join you at Chichester Cathedral and roam the outdoor areas of the Weald & Downland Living Museum, including a dog-friendly section of the cafe. Nearby Hotham Park is also a lovely spot for a stroll with your pup.
📅 Saturday 6 to Sunday 7 December and Saturday 13 to Sunday 14 December 2025
📍 East Street and North Street, Chichester, PO19 1LQ
🐾 Dogs are welcome
12. Dundee Christmas Village
In the Scottish city of Dundee, the Christmas Village offers festive charm, stalls, food, and drink, as well as a chance to immerse oneself in the seasonal spirit in a northern setting. Highlights include the Christmas Lights Switch-On on Sunday 16 November, featuring live music, street food, and a 40ft tree.
Dundee is full of dog-friendly walking routes and outdoor spaces. Enjoy a stroll along the scenic Dundee Waterfront Path with views of the River Tay, or wander through city parks like Camperdown Park, Dudhope Park, Baxter Park, and Stobswell Park. For longer adventures, head to Broughty Ferry Beach for some off-lead fun, explore the woodland and trails at Monikie Country Park, or tackle circular walks with panoramic views at Balkello Hill and Auchterhouse Hill.
📅 Thursday 4 December until Wednesday 31 December 2025
📍 City Square, Dundee, DD1 1DA
🐾 Dogs are welcome, but must be kept on a lead.
13. Swansea Christmas Market
Situated in the heart of Swansea’s city centre, the Swansea Christmas Market features festive stalls brimming with gifts, seasonal treats, and delicious street food, creating a lively and cheerful atmosphere for visitors of all ages. The Alpine Bar area offers sheltered, cosy seating and delicious deluxe hot chocolates, as well as warming mulled wine, making it the perfect treat after all that shopping!
📅 Saturday 29 November until Monday 22 December 2025
📍 Portland Street and Oxford Street, Swansea, SA1 3AE
🐾 Dogs are welcome, but must be kept on a lead. Can’t go to Santa’s Grotto.
14. Totnes Christmas Market
Held in the charming medieval town of Totnes in Devon, the Totnes Christmas Market takes place during three special late‑night shopping evenings, from 3pm to 9pm. Expect a magical atmosphere along the high street, featuring live entertainment, over 70 craft and food stalls, and a genuine sense of community.
Wander along the historic High Street with its independent shops and cafes that often welcome dogs, explore the scenic Dart Valley Trail, or take a walk along the River Dart. Nearby parks and green spaces offer plenty of room for your pup to stretch their legs. Many local pubs and eateries are happy to provide water and treats, making Totnes a charming spot for a relaxed day out with your dog. We love Totnes Castle, which is free for English Heritage Members.
📅 Tuesday 2 December, Tuesday 9 December, and Tuesday 16 December 2025
📍 Fore Street, Totnes, TQ9 5NL
🐾 Dogs are welcome
English Heritage Offer
English Heritage Deals: Get 20% off memberships purchased by direct debit by using the promo code PV20OFF at the checkout. It is valid until 31 December 2025. Making a single membership £57.60 per year and a couple’s membership £100.20. Get yours here.
Dog-friendly Breaks in Devon
Devon is a firm favourite among dog owners, thanks to its stunning coastline, sandy beaches, and extensive walking trails. From adventurous hikes to lazy seaside strolls, Devon is ideal for UK breaks with dogs. Want more ideas on where to stay? This guide to dog friendly holidays in Devon will help you find your perfect location.
15. Plymouth Christmas Market
In the vibrant port city of Plymouth in Devon, the Plymouth Christmas Market brings nautical-town charm to the festive season, featuring over 60 twinkling wooden chalet stalls, unique gifts, seasonal treats, and a variety of street food. Take in the festive atmosphere, with daily entertainment on the Piazza from local schools and community choirs, plus a mix of Jazz, steel bands, favourite covers and Christmas tunes.
We love visiting Plymouth, and there’s plenty to keep both you and your dog entertained. Alongside dogs being welcomed in the Mayflower Museum and the Elizabethan Gardens, you can enjoy walks along the South West Coast Path, explore Mount Edgcumbe Country Park just across the Tamar, or let your pup run on dog-friendly beaches like Wembury and Jennycliff. The Plymouth Hoe is perfect for a scenic stroll with views over the Sound, and many cafes, pubs, and eateries in The Barbican welcome well-behaved dogs, such as the Harbour Seafood Restaurant.
📅 Thursday 27 November until Sunday 21 December 2025
📍 Armada Way and New George Street, Plymouth, PL1 1DA
🐾 Dogs are welcome
The Tudor Guest House
We’ve stayed at the Tudor Guest House in Plymouth. Located in a peaceful area, a few short steps from Plymouth Hoe, it’s the perfect base for exploring the main attractions. The guest house features comfortable rooms, a hearty breakfast to start your day, and friendly, attentive service that ensures a pleasant stay. Dogs are welcome, and there’s even a dog friendly breakfast room.
Bonus – Cardiff Christmas Market
Welcome to my hometown! The Cardiff Christmas Market is renowned for its local Welsh crafts, food, and drink, featuring over 200 individual businesses. The annual Christmas Winter Wonderland is also in the city centre, on the City Hall lawn. Here, you’ll find funfair rides, games, and a big wheel. The Sur la Piste and Ski Lodge Bar offer a great spot to grab a mulled wine, mulled cider, or festive food. Or brave the cold of the Cardiff Ice Bar, where the whole bar is made of ice, there are ice sculptures, and you even drink out of an ice glass.
Winter Wonderland events spill over to Cardiff Castle, where you’ll find the ice rink and ice walk within the castle grounds. Behind Cardiff Castle is the most extensive Christmas lights trail in Wales, Christmas at Bute Park. The park is filled with dazzling light displays, interactive installations, a flickering fire, and an enchanting fairy tree forest.
📅 Thursday 27 November until Sunday 21 December 2025
📍 Armada Way and New George Street, Plymouth, PL1 1DA
🐾 Dogs are welcome at the Christmas Market, the grounds of Cardiff Castle and Christmas at Bute Park. Unofficially, they can’t enter Winter Wonderland, but we have walked through before.
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Tips for Visiting Dog Friendly Christmas Markets
- Pack a water bowl and maybe a small treat for your pup – all that festive food smells irresistible.
- Make sure your dog is comfortable around crowds and noise – some markets can get quite busy, especially on evenings and weekends.
- Choose less busy times (mid-morning, weekdays) to give your furry friend a calmer experience.
- Check signage and any restrictions (indoor stalls, rides, or live music zones might exclude pets).
- Keep your dogs on a short lead and be considerate of other visitors, smells and distractions.
- If your dog gets cold easily, bring a warm dog-jumper or coat to protect them from the rain.
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