Best Dog-Friendly Christmas Markets in the UK

We love a Christmas market. There’s just something so magical about all the twinkling lights, the aroma of mulled wine and the lively stalls filled with treats, handmade gifts and festive décor. Everyone and their dog – literally – is in a great mood at a market, and it’s a great excuse to get into the spirit of Christmas before the big day. It’s one of the many reasons so many people visit dog-friendly Christmas markets during December.

While you’re sipping hot chocolate and browsing gifts, your dog gets to take in a wonderland of new sights, smells, and sounds. From meeting other pups to sniffing out treats, dogs often find the bustling atmosphere just as exciting as we do. Many markets even offer dog-friendly perks, like pet-friendly stalls or water bowls, and some even go the extra mile with pet products and treats specifically for your four-legged friend.

But as always, not all dog-friendly Christmas markets are created equal and there are definitely some better than others! As someone who has frequented many Christmas markets – yes, I’m addicted to mince pies at this point– I’m ready to give you a complete rundown of all the best dog-friendly Christmas markets in the UK, including dog-friendly Christmas markets near you!

Before I get into some of the best dog-friendly Christmas markets in the UK, let’s first start by discussing preparation. It’s incredibly important to plan in advance if you are wanting to take your dog Christmas shopping. For example, many markets are bustling, especially on weekends, so if your dog is sensitive to crowds or loud environments, you will want to consider visiting during quieter times, like weekday mornings or early afternoons. Choosing the right time can make the experience less stressful for both of you and allow your dog to enjoy the holiday sights and sounds in a more relaxed setting.

Another important thing to note is that most dog-friendly Christmas markets require your dog to be kept on a lead. It ensures both you and other visitors are kept safe and comfortable. We recommend a short lead, if possible, as this can prevent you from tangling with other visitors or pets, especially in narrow walkways.

Be aware that the lively atmosphere also means lots of delicious smells. Let’s be honest, one of the best parts of visiting dog-friendly Christmas markets is the food stalls filled with tempting snacks for both you and your dog! But that does mean even the best-trained pup will want to investigate so keep a watchful eye out for dropped foods or wrappers to avoid any quick snatches that could upset their stomach.

You should also be aware of grit on the streets whilst you’re out and about. While this is great for preventing slips and falls for humans, it can pose a danger to your dog. The grit and salt can get stuck in their paws, potentially causing irritation or may even burn if left untreated. Additionally, dogs may lick their paws after coming in contact with the grit, which could result in them ingesting harmful chemicals. To keep your dog safe, it's a good idea to wash their paws thoroughly after visiting one of the dog-friendly Christmas markets or even have some dog-friendly wipes on hand! This way you can remove the grit easily and prevent any irritation or discomfort.

Finally, if your dog is reactive or nervous around other dogs and lots of people, consider whether a Christmas market is the right choice. It’s great if your pup is social and loves other dogs, but even then, be cautious and ready to step away if things get too lively. Also, remember to bring water, as markets can be long outings, and all the excitement can make your dog thirsty. Having a refillable bottle and a collapsible dog bowl with you is a great idea! With a little planning and awareness, dog-friendly Christmas markets can be a wonderful way to celebrate the holidays together.

Okay, now the important stuff is out the way, let’s crack on and discover the best dog-friendly Christmas markets in the UK. These festive spots are packed with seasonal charm, delicious treats, and the perfect dog-friendly setups that make them ideal for you and your pup. From dog-friendly Christmas markets set in cosy villages with plenty of open space to stately homes for an opulent day out and even bustling city markets, there’s something for every owner and their dog!

Chatsworth House Christmas Market offers a truly magical dog-friendly experience with its stunning backdrop of the Chatsworth Estate, known for its breathtaking countryside and historic beauty. The market is set right within the Chatsworth grounds, meaning you and your dog can enjoy both the festive atmosphere and the estate's scenic landscapes. Stroll through over 100 stalls offering handcrafted gifts, gourmet food, and seasonal treats, all while surrounded by the estate’s majestic architecture and gardens.

Your dog can soak in the holiday excitement too, with plenty of open space for a comfortable wander and pet-friendly stalls to explore. Once you’ve finished exploring the Christmas market, Chatsworth has lots of fantastic walks nearby too for walking off the mulled wine and mince pies!

When?: 9th November to 1st December 2024

Edinburgh Christmas Market is an absolute treat for you and your dog and is often quoted as one of the best dog-friendly Christmas markets in the UK. Set in East Princes Street Gardens, this market brings the magic of the season to life with over 70 stalls, offering everything from handmade gifts to European treats.

With Edinburgh Castle as a backdrop and the towering Scott Monument nearby, every corner of this market feels enchanted. Take a walk past artisan stalls, snack on seasonal goodies, and enjoy the glow of the holiday lights as they reflect off the city’s historic buildings. There’s plenty for you and your dog to see, and if your pup loves new places and friendly faces, they’ll be thrilled with all the excitement. Just be sure to go at a quieter time if your dog prefers calmer strolls— this one can be busy, but it’s worth every magical minute!

When?: 15 November to 4th January 2025

Known for being one of the oldest and largest dog-friendly Christmas markets in the UK, Manchester Christmas Market spreads its holiday cheer across ten different sites in the city centre. While Albert Square itself is off-limits to pups, the rest of the market is yours to explore together, giving you plenty of chances to soak up the holiday spirit with your furry companion.

Each site offers a mix of treats, gifts, and holiday decor, perfect for browsing while enjoying a mulled wine or a hot chocolate. The market’s lively atmosphere, combined with its unique stalls from all over Europe, makes it a perfect outing for you and your dog, especially if they’re as curious about the world as you are. There’s even a chance to snap a “Santa Paws” photo, aka a photograph of your pup with Santa himself!

When?: 8th November to 22nd December 2024

Another one of our personal favourite dog-friendly Christmas markets is the Blenheim Palace Christmas Market. While pups aren’t allowed inside the palace or on the illuminated trail, they’re welcome in the market area, where charming wooden chalets and festive treats make it a winter wonderland for humans and dogs alike.

The spacious, magical setting allows plenty of room for wagging tails, and there’s even outdoor seating to enjoy festive street food together. Your four-legged friend will love exploring the Great Court, sniffing seasonal scents, and enjoying the cheerful, dog-friendly vibes of this Cotswold outing. Plus, all of the stall holders at Blenheim palace are hand-picked, ensuring you have access to some of the most unique and often hand-made items.

When?: 15th November to 1st January 2025:

I’m a little bit bias with this one, as I’ve grown up taking all my dogs to this Christmas market, but I will forever love the Matlock Victorian Christmas Market. It’s not only quaint and relatively quiet, since so few people know about it, but it’s also one of the best dog-friendly Christmas markets in the UK – at least in my opinion!

Set in the heart of the Peak District from December 6th to 8th 2024, you and your pup can explore festive stalls overflowing with artisanal goods, handcrafted treasures, and seasonal treats—all under cosy marquees (because we all know how unpredictable the weather can be this time of year). It’s completely free to enter and there’s a fantastic grand fireworks finale on the last day, although we suggest coming back to watch this without your pup! Fireworks can be overwhelming on our pup’s sensitive ears, after all.

When?: 6th December to 8th December 2024

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland in London is a great Christmas activity for dogs and owners alike that live near London. Dogs on leads are welcome to join you as you wander the festive markets, browse holiday treats, and enjoy street food options. The dazzling lights, cosy fire pits, and festive ambiance create an enchanting scene to explore together.

Though dogs aren’t allowed on rides or certain attractions, they can still enjoy the open-air magic of Winter Wonderland. Evenings can get quite busy, so for dogs sensitive to noise, it’s best to visit earlier in the day.

When?: 21st November to 5th January 2025

For those looking for one of the best dog-friendly Christmas markets in the south of England, we recommend Bath Christmas Market. Set in the heart of Bath’s historic city centre, the market is a free, open-air event with a cosy, seasonal atmosphere. With nearly 200 chalets showcasing talented makers from the southwest and beyond, you’ll find unique, hand-crafted gifts as you wander the cobblestone streets together.

For extra seasonal fun, Bath on Ice—a scenic ice rink—returns this year, adding a lively energy to the scene, though your pup might have to admire the skating from the sidelines! Given that weekends can get crowded, weekday mornings and lunchtimes are ideal times to visit, letting you and your dog enjoy the festive sights, smells, and sounds at a more leisurely pace.

When?: 28th November to 15th December 2024

Last but certainly not least, we have Worcester Victorian Christmas Market. Bringing the historic streets of Worcester to life with Victorian charm, this fair offers a delightful stroll for both you and your pup amidst 200 stalls filled with handcrafted gifts, holiday treats, and delicious street food.

During the weekend, you’ll get to enjoy the market alongside several Victorian characters, stilt walkers, and live musicians who together create a brilliant atmosphere. There’s also a traditional carousel and barrel organ to add to the old-fashioned magic. Well-behaved dogs are welcome on short leads, and as always, weekdays or quieter hours are recommended for a relaxed visit.

When?: 28th November to 1st December 2024

So there you have it, some of the best dog-friendly Christmas markets in the UK. But of course, while these are just some of our personal favourites, there are plenty more out there just waiting for you and your pup to explore! Dogs absolutely love these markets, with all the smells, sights, and chances to meet new furry friends. It’s a fun and exciting outing for both you and your dog, plus, the festive atmosphere makes everything feel extra special.

That said, remember to consider your dog’s personality before setting out. Busy times with large crowds can be overwhelming, especially for anxious or nervous pups. If your dog’s not a fan of noise or crowds, it might be better to visit a quieter market or choose a less busy time, like a weekday morning. After all, the goal is for you both to have a good time, and if you or your dog is stressed, it’s not worth it!

We hope you have a fantastic Christmas filled with joy, warmth, and all the seasonal magic these dog-friendly Christmas markets bring. Be safe, enjoy every festive event out there, and don’t forget to indulge in some mince pies (as long as you leave a few for us!).

10 Best Dog-Friendly Pumpkin Patches in the UK 

Reflective Dog Essentials: How to Keep Your Pup Visible at Night

Interactive Dog Toys to Keep Your Pup Entertained When It’s Raining