The UK's Best Dog-friendly Christmas Markets / PetsPyjamas

There are so many fantastic Christmas Markets in the UK, and we have sniffed out the very best to visit with your canine companion. Plus, we explore some wonderful dog-friendly hotels to stay in nearby, so you can make it a Christmas break to remember for you and your pooch. Each market is totally dog-friendly, so you can rest assured your four-legged friend can join in on the festive fun, too!

Bath Christmas Market, Bath

(source: Bath Echo)

For 25 days, the historic streets of Bath (specifically between Bath Abbey and the Roman Baths) are transformed into a magical festive shopping wonderland. Soak up the sights and scents of Christmas as you walk the cobbled streets; lined with over 130 twinkling chalets, boasting a beautiful array of hand-crafted decorations, as well delicious food and festive tipples. Take a stroll with your four-legged friend from Bath Abbey to the Roman Baths and experience the finest festivities, all whilst surrounded by some of Britain’s most iconic architecture.

Where?

Streets of Bath

When?

28th November – 15th December

Monday – Wednesday: 10am – 7pm

Thursday, Friday & Saturday: 10am – 8pm

Sunday: 10am – 6pm

Where to stay nearby?

The Bird In Bath

Located in the city centre, this unique and quirky hotel offers close proximity to the amazing Thermae Spa, the famous Roman Baths the Royal Cresent, and Royal Victoria Park, as well as being just a few minutes away from the Christmas market itself.

Dukes Bath B&B, Somerset

Located on the Great Pulteney Street, you will find Bath’s impressive Duke’s Hotel. This stylish B&B is only a 5-minute walk from the centre of this wonderful heritage city. Your furry friends will truly feel like VIPs from the moment they enter, as they are welcomed in with a lovely dog bed, bowl, and a Woof Box full of snacks and treats!

Explore our full collection of dog-friendly accomodation in Bath

Winchester Christmas Market, Winchester

(source: Visit Hampshire)

Renowned for its unique location – the spectacular Winchester Cathedral – Winchester Christmas Market is considered to be one of the best in Europe; so it’s no surprise it attracts more than 400,000 visitors each year! Inspired by traditional German Christmas Markets, this festive fairyland boasts a wonderful selection of crafters and exhibitors; selling all sorts of homemade Christmas goodies. The Cathedral’s historic inner Close is lined with an abundance of pretty chalets, which are surrounded by a magical open-air ice rink made from real ice.

Where?

Winchester Cathedral

When?

22nd November – 22nd December

Sunday – Wednesday: 10am – 6pm

Thursday – Saturday: 10am – 8pm

Where to stay nearby?

Lainston House

Set in 63 acres of stunning Hampshire countryside, this 17th-century 5* hotel offers luxury accommodation in a secluded rural location, as well as close proximity to a variety of fantastic attractions. Winchester is just a 10-minute drive away, whilst the River Test, Marwell Zoo, Paultons Park and Bombay Sapphire distillery are all nearby.

Explore our full collection of dog-friendly accommodation in Hampshire

Edinburgh Christmas, Edinburgh

Edinburgh Christmas Market

A real Christmas cracker, Edinburgh’s Christmas market has absolutely everything; from festive rides and Big Wheels to live shows, glittering stalls, amazing market food and a spectacular oval ice rink that loops around the historic Melville Monument. Time your visit with Edinburgh’s infamous Hogmanay and you’ll get to experience a fantastical display of lights, with an enchanting array of festive sounds, sights and flavours. The Scottish capital truly does come alive at Christmas time, creating a vibrant, bustling atmosphere like no other.

Where?

St Andrew’s Square and East Princes Street Gardens

When?

15th November – 4th January

Where to stay nearby?

The Black Ivy, Edinburgh

The perfect Bohemian escape, The Black Ivy boutique hotel is just 5-minutes away from the City Centre and the Christmas Market. Each of the wonderful 21 bedrooms have been uniquely designed to tell a story, and are incredibly relaxing!

Melville Castle Hotel

This newly renovated castle hotel boasts the perfect mix of real Scottish grandeur with original, characterful touches. Set in 54 acres of beautiful castle grounds, there’s plenty for you and your curious canine to explore. The hotel is also just a few minutes drive away from the centre of Edinburgh and its many fantastic attractions.

Explore our full collection of dog-friendly accommodation in Edinburgh

Winter Wonderland, London

(source: Londonist)

When it comes to festive destinations, Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park is in a league of its own. Located in the heart of London, the six-week-long family fun event is one of the capital’s best winter attractions. Featuring a fabulous selection of festive entertainment, activities, from ice skating (at the UK’s largest ice rink) and a Santa Land to live music and a Christmas market, it truly is a Winter Wonderland.

The market itself is one of the largest in London; with over 200 charming wooden chalets, offering a variety of handmade gifts, unique crafts and decorations, and delightful festive delicacies. Sample some of the tasty Christmas treats, enjoy a cup of mulled wine and have a mosey through the cute festive stalls with your best furry friend in tow.

Note: As spectacular as they are, the evenings do tend to get busy, so if you’d prefer to experience the Wonderland at a slower pace with the family and Fido, it may be better to go earlier in the day.

Where?

Hyde Park

When?

21st November – 5th January

10am – 10pm (except Christmas Day)

Where to stay nearby?

The Rubens at the Palace

Lying right at the centre of London’s biggest tourist attractions, The Rubens at the Palace is a majestic 4* hotel that oozes class. The gorgeous Royal Parks are right on the doorstep, whilst Buckingham Palace is also just a short walk away. You can get to Winter Wonderland in just under 20 minutes, too!

The Lanesborough, London

Are you ready to embark on a lavish festive stay in the heart of London? The Lanesborough is a dog-friendly haven that is just a stone’s throw away from Hyde Park. This luxurious hotel stands as a paragon of sophistication, radiating a unique blend of British charm and international grandeur.

Explore our full collection of dog-friendly accommodation in London

Oxford Christmas Market, Oxford

(source: European Best Desitnations)

Where better to get into the Christmas spirit than the city of dreaming spires? Located in the heart of the historic city, the Oxford Christmas Market is a truly magical festive experience. Picture glistening wooden stalls offering unusual, handcrafted gifts and seasonal delicacies, pretty lights and decorations draped throughout the streets, the sound of Christmas carols, and the aroma of mulled wine and cinnamon drifting in the crisp Oxfordshire air. In the run-up to Christmas, the city of Oxford transforms into a scene from a fairytale – something you and your pooch will never forget!

Where?

Broad Street

When?

14th November – 17th November

Where to stay nearby?

Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons

A beautiful, grand old house situated in the picturesque village of Great Milton, this dog-friendly hotel has it all – impeccable service, magnificent rooms and a Michelin-starred restaurant. When you and your furry friend have finished exploring the captivating countryside that surrounds you, the hotel is roughly a 25-minute drive from Oxford city centre.

The Crown and Thistle, Oxfordshire

A dog-friendly coaching Inn located within Abingdon, The Crown and Thistle has all the comforts of a luxury hotel and is delightfully cosy. The perfect spot for a festive getaway that’s only a short drive away from Oxford and its lovely Christmas market.