Liverpool Christmas Market Dates, Location and Tips
Christmas in Liverpool is a magical experience, where the city's grand architecture and twinkling lights create a picture-perfect festive setting that rivals some of Europe’s most charming winter destinations. From the historic waterfront to the bustling city centre, Liverpool transforms into a lively hub of seasonal cheer, complete with carollers, cosy chalets, and the unmistakable scent of mulled wine in the air. As one of the UK’s most culturally rich cities, it offers an unforgettable Christmas atmosphere that blends tradition with a uniquely Scouse flair.
Where is the Liverpool Christmas Market?
The Liverpool Christmas Market takes place right in the heart of the city, outside one of its most iconic landmarks - St George’s Hall - making it easy to access and impossible to miss. Its central location means you’re just steps away from Liverpool’s top attractions, shops, restaurants, and transport links.
Location: St George’s Plateau, St George's Place, Liverpool L1 1JJ
How to reach the Christmas Market:
- By Bus: The nearest major bus hub is Queen Square Bus Station, which is just a five-minute walk from the market. Local services frequently stop at Lord Nelson Street or directly outside St George’s Hall.
- By Train: Liverpool Lime Street Station is directly opposite the market and serves both Northern and National Rail networks. Liverpool Central Station is only a six-minute walk away, and Moorfields or James Street stations are within a 15-minute stroll.
- By Boat: The Mersey Ferry Terminal is around a 17-minute walk from the market. If you’d rather not walk, e-scooters, taxis and local buses are readily available nearby to get you straight to St George’s Hall.
- By Car: The Christmas Market is close to Liverpool Lime Street Station and St John’s Shopping Centre, easily reachable via major city centre routes. While there’s no on-site parking, several car parks are nearby, including Queen Square Q Park, Mount Pleasant Car Park, and Lime Street Station Long Stay. Blue Badge bays are also available around the city centre, and there’s a designated drop-off area for disabled visitors at Commutation Row.
What are the opening dates for Liverpool Christmas Market?
The Liverpool Christmas Market 2025 will be open daily throughout the festive season, bringing Christmas cheer to the heart of the city.
- Opening dates: 15 November - 24 December 2025
- Opening times: 11 am - 10 pm daily
- Entry: Free
Decorations
Liverpool’s Christmas Market is a visual delight, with sparkling lights strung across St George’s Plateau and a festive backdrop of the neoclassical St George’s Hall adding grandeur to the entire setting. Expect charming wooden chalets lit up with warm fairy lights, life-size nutcrackers, polar bears, and a beautifully adorned Christmas tree that stands proudly in the centre of the market. While there's no official theme announced yet, the blend of traditional décor and modern festive installations creates an enchanting ambience from day to night.
Best Activities to Do
There’s no shortage of festive fun at the Liverpool Christmas Market, with activities for all ages woven through the cobbled square. You can ride the iconic Big Wheel for sweeping city views, visit Santa Land for themed children’s rides, and take a spin on the classic carousel. Don’t miss the Alpine Bar’s much-loved Karaoke Ski Lifts or festive games dotted around the market – and stay tuned for a full schedule of live music, community performances, and special events closer to the season.
Food to Try
This market is a dream for food lovers, serving everything from hearty classics to sweet treats. Dig into Yorkshire pudding wraps, bratwursts, Greek gyros, halloumi fries, and loaded mac ‘n’ cheese, or go for comforting roast pork baps and noodles. For dessert, you’ll find churros, waffles, fudge, brownies, hot crumble puddings and plenty of vegan-friendly bakes – all best enjoyed with a cup of mulled wine, hot cider, or festive bubble tea.
Shopping
The Liverpool Christmas Market is a fantastic place to pick up unique gifts and seasonal finds. Stalls feature a mix of local and international sellers offering handmade crafts, jewellery, homeware, festive trinkets, and artisan goods. Whether you’re looking for a thoughtful present or a last-minute stocking filler, this is the place to browse and buy something with true festive character.
Tips & FAQs
When is the best time to visit the Liverpool Christmas Market?
If you prefer a quieter experience, try visiting on weekday afternoons, particularly Monday to Wednesday. Evenings and weekends tend to be busiest, especially closer to Christmas. Early December is a great balance between full festivity and manageable crowds.
Can I pay by card or do I need cash?
Most stalls now accept card payments, including contactless and mobile wallets. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash just in case, especially for smaller stalls or games that may have minimum spend limits.
What should I wear to the market?
Liverpool weather in December can be chilly, damp and windy, so wrap up warm with layers, a waterproof coat, and comfy shoes for walking on cobbled and potentially slippery ground. Don’t forget gloves and a hat, especially if you’re planning to stay into the evening. Umbrellas are handy, but some parts of the market can get crowded, so consider a hooded coat instead.
Where to Stay in Liverpool?
If you’re visiting for the Christmas Market, staying in or near Liverpool city centre is your best bet - you’ll be within walking distance of all the festive fun and major attractions. We’ve listed some of the best areas below, each offering something a little different depending on your travel style and budget. Don’t forget to check out exclusive discounts on hotel stays on this page and secure a cosy spot for your winter getaway.
- City Centre: Around 1-5 minutes’ walk, this location is perfect for first-time visitors, families, and anyone wanting to be right in the heart of the action. You’ll be steps away from the Christmas Market, Liverpool ONE shopping and major train stations.
- Ropewalks: Roughly 10minutes’ walk, this area is ideal for young couples, groups of friends, and those who love a vibrant nightlife scene. This creative quarter is packed with trendy bars, indie shops, and cool restaurants.
- Baltic Triangle: Great for digital nomads, creatives, or visitors after something a bit edgier. Known for its street art, pop-ups and cultural events, it’s a 15 minutes’ walk from the market.
- Georgian Quarter: Best suited for architecture lovers, couples, and those after a quieter, picturesque stay, this area is roughly 10 minutes’ walk from the market. Expect charming streets, historic buildings, and some of Liverpool’s top cultural venues.
- Albert Dock: Perfect for families and culture enthusiasts, this location is a 20-minute walk from the market. It offers waterfront views, museums and a relaxed atmosphere just a short stroll from the festive buzz.
Other Things to Do While in Liverpool
This vibrant city offers a variety of activities beyond the enchanting Christmas markets, especially during the festive month of December.
- See the Royal Albert Dock Lights: Stroll along the historic waterfront as the Albert Dock is beautifully illuminated with festive light displays, creating the perfect wintry photo spot.
- Catch a Christmas Show at the Liverpool Empire Theatre: From pantomimes to festive musicals, the Empire Theatre offers seasonal productions ideal for a cosy evening of entertainment.
- Visit the Liverpool Cathedral Christmas Tree Festival: Marvel at dozens of beautifully decorated trees displayed inside one of the UK’s most stunning cathedrals - open throughout December with a peaceful festive atmosphere.
- Explore Festive Events at Liverpool ONE: In addition to Christmas shopping, Liverpool ONE hosts live music, pop-up food stalls, and dazzling light installations all month long.
- Join the Santa Dash: Held in early December, this fun run sees thousands dressed as Santa racing through the streets of Liverpool - whether you join in or just watch, it’s a local favourite.
Christmas Essentials: Christmas Shop | Christmas Gifts | Christmas Pyjamas | Christmas Decorations | Christmas Market Breaks | Christmas Jumpers | Christmas Trees