The Magic of Christmas — Just a Short Journey from London
As soon as November rolls in, towns across the UK begin to sparkle. Lanterns glow in narrow lanes, wooden stalls fill cobbled squares, and the smell of cinnamon, roasted nuts and mulled wine floats through the air. London is packed with its own festive hotspots, but some of the most atmospheric Christmas markets are only a short drive beyond the capital.
At 247 Coach Hire, we believe the journey should feel just as enjoyable as the destination. Whether you’re organising a group day trip, a festive weekend break, or a family outing, our private coaches and minibuses make travelling smooth, warm and stress-free.
Below, we’ve rounded up some of the most enchanting Christmas markets near London—all easy to reach with a comfortable ride from our team.
Winchester – A Cathedral City Full of Christmas Charm
Winchester’s Christmas Market has earned a reputation as one of Europe’s finest — and it’s easy to see why. Set in the shadow of the majestic cathedral, more than 100 traditional chalets showcase handmade gifts, local crafts and irresistible festive treats. Choirs perform beneath the illuminated cathedral façade, adding to the sense of magic.
When: Mid-November to late December
Travel Tip: Around 1.5 hours from London. Skip the traffic and parking and book a London to Winchester transfer with 247 Coach Hire for a relaxed start to your festive adventure.
Bath – Festive Lights Beneath Georgian Elegance
If there’s a city made for Christmas, it’s Bath. The warm glow of its Georgian architecture creates a postcard-perfect backdrop for its award-winning market. Over 150 chalets line the streets near Bath Abbey, offering everything from luxury handmade soaps to artisan cheeses and jewellery.
Warm up with hot chocolate, browse the local stalls, and take a magical evening walk past the Roman Baths.
When: Late November to mid-December
Travel Tip: Roughly 2.5 hours from London. Let us look after the journey — our Heathrow to Bath taxi and London to Bath coach services make festive day trips effortless.
Oxford – Christmas Spirit in a Historic University City
Oxford’s Broad Street transforms into a lively Christmas market each December, filled with twinkling lights, mulled wine stands and independent craftspeople selling unique gifts. With choirs performing throughout the day and the city’s famous spires rising above, it’s a wonderfully atmospheric place for a winter wander.
When: Early to mid-December
Travel Tip: Just over an hour from central London. Our London private transfers make it an easy, comfortable trip for small or large groups.
Rochester – Step Into a Dickensian Christmas
For a Christmas market with a distinctly Victorian flavour, Rochester is the place to be. Its Dickensian Christmas Festival brings characters from classic stories to life — think carol singers, period costumes, parades and traditional craft stalls. Children adore it, and adults can’t help but feel nostalgic.
When: First weekend of December
Travel Tip: Around 60 minutes from London. Book a London to Rochester transfer and arrive right in the heart of the festivities without dealing with crowded trains.
Canterbury – A Cosy, Traditional Christmas Escape
Canterbury feels extra special during winter. Its medieval streets glow with festive lights, and stalls selling local crafts, seasonal food and handmade decorations fill the city centre. Between browsing, take time to visit the cathedral or enjoy a warm meal in one of the city’s many independent restaurants.
When: Late November through December
Travel Tip: About 90 minutes from London. Our door-to-door coach or minibus service gets you there comfortably and right on time.
Why Travel With 247 Coach Hire for Your Christmas Market Trips?
Whether you’re organising a company outing, a festive getaway with friends or a family market tour, we make sure your journey runs smoothly from the moment you step on board.
With 247 Coach Hire, you’ll enjoy:
✅ Comfortable, modern vehicles for any group size
✅ Professional drivers and fixed, transparent pricing
✅ 24/7 service across London and the South East
✅ Door-to-door festive transfers — no public transport, no parking hassle
Your Christmas market adventure begins the second you hop into your vehicle.
From the cathedral glow of Winchester to the Georgian sparkle of Bath, the UK is packed with Christmas markets that feel straight out of a winter storybook — and they’re all just a short journey from London.
Let 247 Coach Hire handle the travel so you can focus on what matters most: great company, festive food and the comforting warmth of mulled wine.
Ready to plan your Christmas market trip?
Book your festive transfer today at 247coachhire.com and enjoy a relaxed, magical winter day out.
