Find out which markets in Kent you should visit this holiday season, whether you’re interested in festive foods, handcrafted gifts, or live entertainment.
Key Takeaways
- The Canterbury Christmas Market is one of the largest in the South East. It features over 150 stallholders, delicious festive food, and live festive music, making it a top holiday destination.
- Rochester Christmas Market, near Rochester Castle, combines shopping with festive fun. There is a Bavarian food village and free entertainment for all ages.
- Faversham Christmas Market emphasises local businesses, showcasing unique handmade gifts while fostering a sense of community and holiday spirit.
Canterbury Christmas Market
If you are looking for the ultimate Christmas experience in South East England, the Canterbury Christmas Market needs to be on your list. Starting in mid-November 2025, this market completely transforms Canterbury’s historic city centre into a festive wonderland, packed with 95 beautifully decorated huts and over 150 vendors offering everything you need to make your holiday season magical.
Coming here to shop, you will discover a vast selection of handcrafted items such as decorations, soaps, jams, scarves, and fudge, all of which are perfect for those looking to purchase distinctive gifts for Christmas. And if you love festive treats, you will find seasonal culinary delights like steaming mulled wine or traditional mince pies that offer warmth to the heart during cold days.
Live performances resonating with familiar Christmas carols alongside joyful songs typical of this season immerse visitors in Yuletide gaiety, contributing to an environment rich with enchantment and celebratory tunes. Santa Claus also graces the festivities with his presence, bringing unparalleled joy, especially for younger attendees.
Enhancing this captivating atmosphere is special section within Canterbury Cathedral opens up to visitors at no cost, making it a perfect addition to your holiday plans. This provides a perfect addition to your visit during this festive season. At the Canterbury Christmas market, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Rochester Christmas Market
The Rochester Christmas Market, set in the historic backdrop of Rochester Castle, is a wonderful place to celebrate the holiday season. From late, the market features over 100 stalls offering a variety of festive treats and decorations, perfect for finding unique Christmas gifts.
A highlight of the market is the Bavarian food village, where visitors can enjoy traditional delights such as bratwurst and pretzels, along with warm mulled wine, all in a festive culinary atmosphere.
In addition to shopping, the market offers a wide range of activities for seasonal enjoyment, including live music performances that create a vibrant atmosphere and children’s rides at the funfair, providing plenty of entertainment options for younger visitors. Entrance to this magical winter wonderland is free, though there is an admission charge for the Children’s Christmas Village.
With its festive lights and uplifting melodies from local choirs, the Rochester Christmas Market captures the true spirit of Christmastime, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to fully embrace and celebrate the joy of the season.
Faversham Christmas Markets in Kent
From the second week of December 2025, Faversham’s town centre will transform into a charming Christmas market with a strong focus on supporting local businesses. Over 40 festive stalls showcase everything from handmade crafts to fresh, locally sourced produce, making it a fantastic place for one-of-a-kind Christmas gifts.
But it’s not just about what you can buy but also about the warm community vibe that makes this market extra special. Enjoy roasting marshmallows, sampling delicious festive treats, and browsing through carefully crafted, high-quality products.
If you love authentic holiday experiences that highlight tradition, craftsmanship, and local talent, Faversham Christmas Market should be on your Christmas bucket list.
Folkestone Festive Marketplace
Spanning from mid November 2025 to late December, the Folkestone Festive Marketplace provides a lengthy opportunity for both festive shopping and seasonal enjoyment. With an array of booths offering distinctive handcrafted items, holiday specialities, and scrumptious treats like mulled wine and other seasonal delights, visitors can indulge in the essence of Christmas. The addition of live tunes by local talents enhances this merry ambience – ideal for either a family excursion or a romantic evening during the festive period.
A central feature of the Folkestone Festive Marketplace is its dedication to hosting community-centric events. Entertainment that caters to families includes complimentary screenings of films on a large screen along with vibrant street performances guaranteeing pleasure for all ages.
No admission fee is required, and everyone is welcome at the marketplace. Extended hours are offered on Christmas Eve, catering specifically to those with last-minute shopping needs—truly capturing the enchanting spirit synonymous with Christmastime.
Christmas at Hever Castle
Immerse yourself in the festive enchantment at Hever Castle during the holiday season as it transforms into a captivating winter wonderland complete with dazzling light displays, warming hot chocolate, and cosy marshmallow toasting stations. This delightful event runs from late November 2025 through January 1. The historical castle grounds are illuminated starting at 4 PM each day, delivering a spellbinding experience for visitors of all ages.
The highlight is the whimsical Christmas Trail, which brings to life timeless stories like Peter Pan and Alice in Wonderland against the backdrop of festively adorned gardens. Both children and adults can lose themselves amid these magical narratives while wandering along the trail. Make sure you book an encounter with Father Christmas in his grotto for a memorable moment within this charming setting.
Those desiring leisurely exploration can opt for self-guided tours inside Hever Castle itself, now radiantly decorated to celebrate Christmas. Twilight tickets provide exclusive access to marvel at night-time views brimming with festive lights across the estate’s landscape.
Celebrating Christmas here offers more than just scenery. It’s about embracing an extraordinary spectacle that embodies everything happy and bright about this special time of year.
Chartwell Christmas Fair
From mid November 2025, the Chartwell Christmas Fair will become a hub for festive fun and local artisan talent. As a visitor, you can browse through a variety of vibrant market stalls showcasing handmade crafts and regional products. You are sure to find unique Christmas decorations and gifts that are perfect for the Christmas season. The atmosphere is further enhanced by live carol performances, bringing harmonious enchantment to the fair.
The experience also includes interactive activities, such as workshops where participants can create their own Christmas wreaths. These sessions offer a chance to craft personalised adornments that add a unique touch to festive celebrations.
This event seamlessly combines seasonal shopping with a sense of community warmth and holiday cheer, establishing itself as one of Kent’s premier destinations for immersing oneself in the best of Christmas markets.
Whitstable Castle Christmas Fair
Scheduled for early December, the Whitstable Castle Christmas Fair runs from 10 AM to 4 PM. It features both indoor and outdoor stalls selling a variety of Christmas items, including gifts and holly wreaths. The fair’s picturesque setting at Whitstable Castle adds to its charm, making it a perfect destination for festive shopping and enjoying the holiday spirit.
As a visitor, you can indulge in refreshments such as mulled wine and mince pies at the Orangery Tearooms, which enhance the festive experience with delicious food.
Be sure to book in advance to secure a visit with Santa, adding a magical touch to your holiday season.
Dreamland Margate Christmas World
From mid-December, Dreamland Margate turns into a wonderful Christmas World, perfect for people of all ages. This festive event features exciting fairground rides, indoor snowball fights, and a variety of seasonal stalls showcasing unique holiday goods.
You’ll also get to enjoy live performances and meet festive characters throughout the day, making it a fun experience for the whole family.
Admission to Dreamland Margate Christmas World is completely free! This makes it super easy for everyone to come out and enjoy the holiday spirit. Just keep in mind that while entry is free, some attractions might require tickets, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead if you want to make the most of your visit.
So whether you are looking to tackle thrilling rides, finish your Christmas shopping, or enjoy some tasty festive treats, this event offers a great day full of holiday cheer!
Tonbridge Christmas Village
Tonbridge Christmas Village is the place to be from late November until December 23. The town centre gets a complete makeover, turning into a lively hub filled with holiday cheer. You’ll find a fantastic selection of festive foods like bratwurst, burgers, and churros, plus spots where you can toast marshmallows for a delicious treat.
The market stalls at Tonbridge Christmas Village offer a perfect chance to pick up those last-minute Christmas gifts and decorations. The atmosphere is vibrant and truly captures the spirit of the season. If you’re looking to experience the festive fun in Kent, this is definitely a must-visit. Come enjoy the festive spirit.
Gravesend Christmas Event and Light Switch On
Get ready for the Gravesend Christmas Event and Light Switch happening in mid or late November! This event marks the beginning of the festive season and is sure to be a highlight of the year. The area will light up with a beautiful display of lights, creating a lively atmosphere that celebrates the holiday spirit.
You can also enjoy performances from local artists, including live bands, which adds to the fun. Plus, there’s a Christmas market featuring unique handcrafted items and vintage finds, perfect for picking up special gifts for your loved ones.
Attending the Gravesend Christmas Event is a wonderful way to soak in the festive vibe and enjoy the community spirit that makes the holiday season so special in Kent.
Hire2You: The Best Way to Travel This Christmas in Kent
The holiday season in Kent is a magical time filled with dazzling Christmas markets, festive lights, and seasonal events. But getting around during this busy time can be stressful. That’s where Hire2You comes in! Wherever you are planning to do your festive shopping in Kent, our premium car rental service ensures you travel in comfort and style.
At our company, we offer competitive rates and high customer satisfaction. For rentals that last three days or more, Hire2You provides added convenience by including a complimentary drop-off and collection service. Customers can also access extra equipment, such as sack barrows and ratchet straps, at no additional cost.
With our promise to beat any legitimate price quote, we are the most budget-friendly option dedicated to exceptional client care in the vehicle rental market in Kent.
With a range of vehicles to suit all needs, from compact cars to spacious SUVs and vans, we provide the perfect ride for individuals, families, and groups. Our easy booking process, competitive pricing, and 24/7 customer support make Hire2You the best choice for hassle-free transportation this festive season.
Skip the crowded public transport and experience the convenience of driving on your own schedule. Book your car today and explore Kent’s Christmas magic with ease.
Why Choose Hire2You for Your Festive Travel?
- Wide Vehicle Selection: Choose from a variety of well-maintained cars for a smooth and enjoyable ride.
- Affordable and Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees, just great rates.
- Comfort and Convenience: Modern, fully equipped vehicles to make your journey stress-free.
Book Your Car Today with Hire2You. Let us be your travel companion this holiday season in Kent.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the dates for the Canterbury Christmas Market?
The dates for the Canterbury Christmas Market 2025 have not been fixed, but it is expected to run from mid November to December 24.
It’s a great opportunity to enjoy the festive season!
Is there an entry fee for the Rochester Christmas Market?
Great news! Entry to the Rochester Christmas Market is free, but there is a fee for the Children’s Christmas Village.
What activities are available at Hever Castle during Christmas?
Hever Castle is a magical place during Christmas, featuring enchanting light installations, a festive Christmas Trail, special visits from Father Christmas, and self-led tours of the beautifully decorated house.
It’s a perfect way to celebrate the season!
Conclusion
Kent’s Christmas markets offer a magical escape into a world of festive cheer, delicious food, and unique gifts. From the expansive Canterbury Christmas Market to the enchanting Christmas at Hever Castle, each market provides a unique experience that captures the holiday spirit.
Whether you’re exploring the charming stalls of Faversham or enjoying the festive activities at Dreamland Margate, these markets are sure to make your holiday season memorable. So, gather your loved ones and immerse yourself in the festive magic that Kent has to offer.