Christmas Markets in Wales

With bobble hats on and a hot chocolate in hand, there is nothing more festive than strolling amongst the twinkling fairy lights of a Christmas Market. Stalls laden with handmade crafts and decadent treats draw you in as you diligently tick off your Christmas list. As we hop across the border, we discover the magic of a Christmas market in Wales, so often accompanied by the backdrop of a castle. From Cardiff in the south to Portmeirion in the north, uncover the beauty of this country as Christmas Day nears.
Cardiff Christmas Market
14th November to 23rd December
Wooden chalets pop up throughout the city offering everything from arts and crafts to food and drink. Grab a festive tipple as you dip in and out of the stalls meeting local sellers, finding truly unique gifts for family and friends, and yourself of course! While in the capital, visit the castle to see the Roman walls, Norman keep and Victorian apartments, a story told over 2000 years.
Portmeirion Food and Craft Fair
6th to 8th December
For a real taste of Wales, the Portmeirion Food and Craft Fair is the place to be. Artisan producers display their wares alongside local crafts in this spectacular location. Portmeirion village was designed to complement the landscape’s natural beauty and its distinct baroque style creates a unique Italianesque feel. Pick up some world-famous Portmeirion Pottery while you are here.
Picton Castle Christmas Fair
14th to 15th December
Santa Claus is coming to town! Picton Castle welcomes the man himself to their Christmas Fair and children that visit him will get a small gift. You can’t help but feel festive amongst the stalls which are scattered around the castle. At this time of year you can also attend tours and a wreath making workshop.
Pembroke Castle Christmas Market
29th November to 1st December
Over 80 stalls gather at Pembroke Castle to the soundtrack of carollers beneath festive lights. Shop gifts, toys, local produce, clothing and jewellery so you can be sure you’ll find something perfect for even the pickiest person on your list. On the Saturday and Sunday Santa will be there to meet the children.
Llanerchaeron Christmas Fair
6th to 8th December
This elegant Georgian manor is a festive feast for the eyes in the weeks coming up to Christmas. At the Christmas Fair over 70 sellers bring an array of treats which you can browse whilst sipping a mulled wine. Hear the story of “A Cat’s Christmas” and join the frivolities, keeping an eye out for Santa during the day.
Hay-on-Wye Christmas Fayre
11th December
Hay-on-Wye is a delight at any time of year, but there is an extra special touch in the run up to Christmas. Amongst the plethora of independent book shops that the town is so well known for, you will find over 40 traders throughout the market hall with the Hay Shantymen and Community Choir add some jolly entertainment to the scene.
Cottages nearby: Outshot Barn, Hay-on-Wye , Kentchurch Court, Kentchurch, Beaufort Farmhouse, The Weir House, Symonds Yat.