If you’re like me, then you’ll probably be going – or even already been – to a Christmas market. There’s nothing that gets me in the festive spirit more than pottering around stalls going ‘ooh’ and ‘ahh’ with a cup of mulled wine, trying all of the cheese samples. Here I’ve rounded up some of my favourite markets in the Midlands for you to enjoy – they’re the perfect places to be if you fancy shopping with local, independent businesses this Christmas.

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Chatsworth Christmas Market – until 3rd December

You’ll have to be quick with this one, because the last day for it is tomorrow, so if you’re looking for last minute plans then I cannot recommend Chatsworth enough. It’s always been a family tradition for us to go each year, although we haven’t actually managaed to find a day we’re all free this year and I’ve really missed it. Soak up all of those idyllic Derbyshire views and make sure you pop in to the Chatsworth gift shop too!

More details here.

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Fabulous Places ‘Deck the Halls’ Festive Evening - 5th December, 6pm-9pm

I absolutely adore everything Fabulous Places do – after visiting their Christmas Market at the Roundhouse back in November, I’m hoping to be able to make it to their festive evening in Wirksworth next week. There’s always the most beautiful selection of stall holders, plus there’ll be a couple of festive demonstrations going on too, so it’s ideal if you’re looking for a bit of Christmas inspo…

More details here.


Matlock Victorian Christmas Market - 6th - 8th December

Matlock is absolutely one of my favourite Derbyshire towns, and this Victorian-themed Christmas market combines over 150 stalls with street performers and a fun fare. Visit on Saturday to see the Christmas lights turned on, or on the Sunday to see the epic fireworks display.

More details here.

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Belper Christmas Food Festival - 8th December

If there’s one thing the folk of Belper know how to do, it’s host a food festival. I always pop along to their Summer event and the streets are lined with the most delicious food and drink. There are, of course, some great bars and pubs in Belper too so it’s definitely worth a visit so you can make a day out of it.

More details here.


Christmas Markets in The Riding School - 7th - 8th December

The Riding School has a special place in my heart – it’s where we host our beautiful weddings at work and it’s such a dreamy venue. Have a mooch around their Christmas market, and whilst you’re there, you can take advantage of the grounds, have a coffee in their cafe, and have a look at the National Trust gift shop too – there are always some gems in there! For an extra cost, you can have a wander around the house and gardens – believe me, if you’ve not visited the gardens before, it’s SO worth it. They have a stunning Orangery, and always have some seasonal fruit and veg for sale with an honesty box too.

More details here.