Uni cities' best Christmas markets

There’s nothing quite like mulled wine or a yummy hot chocolate surrounded by Christmas lights and cheer. If you’re looking for that extra sparkle before the term ends, here are the best Christmas markets in your uni cities.

Manchester

Christmas Market

The whole of Albert Square is lit up with Christmas stalls and German eateries - The city will be lit with sparkly lights, illuminating the city centre and there'll even be Santa paying a visit. With 300 beautiful stalls all selling various Christmas inspired goodies, from hand crafted gems to delicious food and drink, you don't want to miss it.

Only a 25-minute bus ride (bus 50) from iQ Manchester Gardens and Lambert & Fairfield, and a 15-minute walk from Hollingworth House and Fletcher House. These are now open every day from 10am to 9pm and will close on 22nd December.

London

Winter Wonderland

Hyde Park will transform into a magical Winter Wonderland again this year from 18th November to 2nd January, full of attractions, games, the famous feris wheel perfect for those pictures and of course lots and lots of food. The closest Tube stops are Marble Arch (Central Line) or Hyde Park Corner (Piccadilly Line) – easily accessible from all iQ properties in London. Winter Wonderland is open until 10pm every day.

Nottingham 

Winter Wonderland Christmas Market

Nottingham Christmas market is jam-packed with stalls, bars and an ice rink ready for you festive thrill seekers. With everything from hand-made gifts to delicious food and mulled wine you can be there in only a 5-minute walk from iQ Newland House and Newtown House and a 9-minute walk from Exchange.

These Christmas markets will close on 31st December so make sure you visit beforehand. Open every day until 8pm (closes at 6pm on Sundays).

Edinburgh

Christmas Market

Right in the heart of Edinburgh it's time to spread the festive cheer between 25th November 2022 and 3rd January. From mulled Irn Bru to vegan delicacies the amazing Christmas Market in East Princess Street Garden has something fun for everyone. Have a lovely evening out with pals and even ride Santa's Grotto if that's your vibe.

In just a 15-minute walk from iQ Grove and Fountainbridge, or a 20-minute walk from Elliott House, you can visit all things Christmassy. Open every day (other than festive days) from 10am to 10pm.

Birmingham 

Frankfurt Christmas Market

The Frankfurt Christmas Market is the largest German market outside of Germany or Austria and is set up every year in Birmingham City Centre. From a range of traditional gifts and a selection of tempting food and drink like pretzels and schnitzels, there's something for everyones tastebuds. Come down with your mates and enjoy the live music programme on Victoria Square. (You might even pick up some prezzies)

With only an 18-minute walk from iQ Broderick House and a 20-minute walk from Studios 51 and Penworks. Frankfurt Christmas Market is open every day from 1pm to 9pm and closes on 23rd December so be sure to grab your winter hot chocolate before then.

Spending Christmas in student accommodation?

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