It’s no secret our holiday parks are a superb base to explore the North York Moors and Yorkshire Dales, but did you know we’re also spoilt for choice for wonderful nearby Christmas shopping destinations?
It’s hard to beat the twinkling lights of a traditional Christmas market or fair for discovering unique gifts and getting you in the festive mood, and there are so many delightful options to choose from right on our doorstep. So, read on for more details about six of our favourite places for Christmas shopping in North Yorkshire.
St Nicholas Fair, York
November 14th – December 23rd
Take a stroll among the wooden chalets selling traditional Christmas gifts including jewellery, homeware, crafts and local wine or cheeses. Or why not sample festive food and drink including hot chestnuts and warming mulled wine? The beautiful medieval streets of York truly come alive at this time of year with choirs and bands adding to the magical Christmas atmosphere.
The Christmas Fair at Ripley Castle
November 21st – 24th
For indoor festive shopping, head to the luxury heated marquee in the historic courtyard at Ripley Castle. There’ll be 155 companies selling gorgeous Christmas gifts and fabulous stocking fillers for the home and garden, as well as toys, fashion and festive decorations. And if you need a break from all the shopping, you can head to the Champagne bar!
Thirsk Christmas Fayre Weekend
November 29th – December 1st
A weekend of ‘all things Yorkshire and all things Christmas’ awaits at the Thirsk Christmas Fayre. Alongside the usual Saturday market, there will be food and gift stalls in the Town Hall adding to the festive atmosphere.
Knaresborough Christmas Market
December 7th and 8th
This traditional market is popular with locals and visitors to the town, and is a fabulous festive experience. Amble through the market square, surrounding lanes and cobbled courtyards and see for yourself all the bustling stalls selling seasonal goods, gifts and delicious local produce.
Christmas Gift & Food Fair, Ripon Cathedral
November 23rd
The magnificent Ripon Cathedral is the setting for a gift and food fair featuring stalls from over 100 local independent businesses. This is sure to make you feel festive, with turkey sandwiches and mulled wine also on offer, carols in the background, and even the chance to visit Santa in his grotto.
Richmond Town Christmas Market
December 8th
The annual Richmond Town Christmas Market features stalls selling an eclectic mix of local produce and Christmas gifts including handcrafted products. Set in the town’s quaint market place and inside the Town Hall, the event also includes live music as well as traditional carol singing.
This blog was originally posted in November 2018 and updated in 2019 to provide an accurate picture of some of the Christmas Markets taking place in North Yorkshire.