Best Christmas markets in the UK

Where better to stock up on festive food while sipping delicious mulled wine at the same time as striking a few gifts off the Christmas list than at one of the UK\'s many Christmas markets?

The concept of a Christmas market goes back centuries. However, in the 1600s Cromwell banned traditional Christmas celebrations as a pagan festival and the markets quickly died out.

See also: Alternative Christmas events in London

According to ChristmasMarkets.com, Lincoln was the first UK city to revive the festive tradition - and these days they\'ve never been so popular.

These days, wonderful Christmas markets springing up across the UK in all sorts of guises, forms, some come fit with funfairs, beer tents and mulled wine by the gallon and others stacked high with homemade crafts that make for a perfect gift.

See also: Best Christmas shopping breaks for 2015

London\'s Winter Wonderland and the capital\'s \'alternative\' Christmas market, Winterville, both return this Christmas with plenty of fun activities on offer for everyone. Take a spin around the ice rink at either market or brave the skies at Winter Wonderland by taking a turn on the giant observation wheel which guarantees spectacular views of London.

Delve into the spirit of Christmas in Birmingham where the biggest German Christmas market outside of Europe is held.

With a whole host of markets popping up all over the UK, you\'ll want to know which ones are closest to you. Take a look at our slideshow below to find out where you could be warming up with seasonal drinks and festive foods this Christmas.

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