The best Christmas markets in the Peak District
It’s almost that time of year!
Offering food, drinks, gifts and even entertainment, Christmas markets have become a staple of the festive season here in the UK in recent years.
Whilst you may have heard of the famous, biggest-in-the-country Manchester Christmas markets, or similar ones in cities like York, Sheffield, Edinburgh (plus many many more), we prefer the smaller, bespoke and local ones here at Secret Wood.
As a glamping retreat based on the doorstep of the stunning Peak District National Park, we have plenty of local attractions beside our woodlands in Holmesfield, Derbyshire.
Our nearby Christmas markets are smaller, bringing together Derbyshire and the Peak District’s independent businesses, crafters and artists together to share their local produce with the rest of the world.
Chatsworth Christmas Market
Chatsworth Estate’s Christmas Market has been running for over 20 years, at the historic home of the Devonshire family – which you may also recognise from the famous Pride and Prejudice film!
This market is free to attend, but parking costs do apply. We would advise you to park at the nearby villages, such as Edensor or Baslow, for a short 15 minute walk into the estate’s grounds (which is a beautiful walk itself).Dogs are also welcome, disabled parking is available, and public transport is an option, too.
At the market, you’ll find over 100 stalls offering Christmas gift items, decorations and live music, too. There’s also, of course, plenty of food and drink on offer, such as gourmet burgers, hot pork rolls, pancakes, churros, and mulled wine, beer and hot chocolate – to name a few.
Key Information:
Market Duration: 9 Nov – 1 Dec
Booking: Book in advance to park within Chatsworth
Parking Prices: Full Day, £20; After 3pm, £10
Find out more here.
Haddon Hall, Mercatum Christmas Artisan Market
Running every week from Wednesday to Sunday between 20th November and 15th December, Haddon Hall’s Christmas Artisan Market is a truly unique and bespoke market.
Taking place within the medieval Haddon Hall, one of the great survivors of the Medieval Age, this market is steeped in history, celebrating local vendors and creating a cosy atmosphere.
At the market, you’ll find over 180 artisans and makers, including ceramicists, artists, chocolatiers, jewellers, candle makers, artisan stationers and perfumers, offering local and luxury Christmas gifts.
Freshly made food is also available at Haddon Hall’s market, as well as hot chocolate, mulled wine and live music.
Key Information:
Market Duration: Wed – Sun, 20 Nov – 15 Dec
Booking: Tickets are available to purchase online
Ticket Prices: Adult (16+), £11; Child (5-15), £3.50; Infant (0-4), Free
Parking Prices: £3.80
Find out more here.
Thornbridge Estate Christmas Market
With a Santa’s Grotto, a Christmas Trail and over 10 acres of garden to explore, Thornbridge Estate’s Christmas Market makes for a perfect family day out.
Featuring over 30 local artisan stalls, including the famous Thornbridge Brewery, you’ll find plenty of unique gifts and items at this market. What’s more, the market also includes a variety of workshops, including Christmas card embroidery, candle making, lino printing, and wreath making, as well as live music.
Dogs are also welcome at Thornbridge, and disabled parking / entry is available.
Key Information:
Market Duration: 10 AM – 4PM; Nov 15–17, Nov 22–24, Nov 29–Dec 1, Dec 6–8
Booking: Pre-book to save 20%
Ticket Prices: Family (2+2), £20; Adult (17+), £8; Child (3-16), £4; Under 3s, Free
Parking: Free of charge
Find out more here.
Looking for somewhere to stay in the Peak District?
Perhaps you’re visiting these Peak District Christmas markets, or simply looking for a winter break in the peace and quiet…
Whilst our woodland glamping site is closed for a well-deserved winter rest, our other site can be found on our quiet, rural Derbyshire farm, Unthank.
Nestled upon the rolling countryside hills, this retreat is secluded, yet within near reach of the Peaks, Sheffield and Chesterfield. A luxury bell tent, log burning stove, local produce and beautiful scenery – all to yourself.
Check it out online here.
