Christmas markets in Wales

Croeso to festive Wales! During the festive season, Wales becomes home to magical Christmas markets and winter fairs that are guaranteed to get you into the spirit of the holidays. From traditional events set in historic castle towns in North and West Wales to vibrant city markets in the South, we’ve covered the best Christmas markets in Wales for 2026 and how to get there by train.

Taking the train lets you skip the traffic and avoid parking and traffic hassles. Explore our top 2026 festive destinations below, check live travel advice on our app and buy your tickets early to save money and ensure a smooth journey.

Top Christmas markets in Wales for 2026

One of the most popular seasonal markets in Wales, Cardiff Christmas Market spans the city centre from 12 November to 23 December 2026. Stretching across St John Street, Working Street, Trinity Street and Hills Street, dozens of themed stalls bring the capital alive:

• European-style chalets selling handcrafted gifts, jewellery and local crafts.
• Gourmet food stalls featuring raclette, bratwurst, artisan Welsh cheeses and mulled wine.
• Easy access to Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland ice rink and big wheel nearby on City Hall Lawn and Castle Street.
• Nightly live entertainment and carol performances.

Getting there by train: From Cardiff Central station, it’s just a five-minute walk to the market. Cardiff Queen Street station is equally convenient. Trains run regularly across Wales and England, making Cardiff ideal for festive day trips from Bristol, Swansea and Newport.

Swansea Christmas Market

Swansea Christmas Market is perfect for those looking for local Welsh charm along Oxford Street and Castle Square. Dates for 2026 are being finalised. Be sure to check out their Facebook page for more information. At the market you’ll find:

• Traditional wooden stalls selling artisan crafts, hand-blown glass and unique gifts.
• Street food from local producers, including freshly made Welsh cakes and warm cawl.
• Live music, storytelling and festive performances.
• Evening illuminations that light up the city centre and nearby marina.

Getting there by train: Swansea station is a convenient 10-minute walk from the city centre, with regular services from Cardiff, Carmarthen and London. To get the best fares for your group, buy your tickets early on the TfW app or website.

Caerphilly Christmas Market

Returning on 21 November 2026, Caerphilly Christmas Market is the perfect place to get into the festive spirit, with the sights, sounds and smells of the town and castle preparing for Christmas:

• Delicious street food, local ciders, and mulled wine.
• Street theatre and funfair attractions for the whole family.
• A wide variety of craft and gift stalls across the town centre, Twyn Community Centre and Castle Court.

Getting there by train: Caerphilly station is a short five-minute walk from the market, with regular services from Cardiff and surrounding Valley lines, making it easy to combine with a day trip. Nearby festive events in the borough include the Blackwood Winter Fair and Bargoed Winter Fair.

Portmeirion Christmas Fair

Portmeirion is a whimsical experience in itself, but come 4 to 6 December 2026, you can also enjoy the annual Portmeirion Christmas Fair. Highlights include:

• A range of food and drink stalls ideal for sampling local produce.
• Over 120 artisan craft and gift stalls scattered throughout the Italianate village.
• Festive music and entertainment throughout the day.
• A unique opportunity to explore Portmeirion decorated for Christmas.

Getting there by train: Portmeirion can be reached from Minffordd station on the scenic Cambrian Coast Line. Please check the official event website for walking instructions once you leave the station.

Wrexham Victorian Christmas Market

Taking place from 27 to 30 November 2026, the Wrexham Victorian Christmas Market transforms Queen’s Square and the historic grounds of St Giles Church into a bustling holiday fair:

• Atmospheric Victorian-themed stalls showcasing local crafts, toys and festive decor.
• Hot street food, mince pies, roasted chestnuts and spiced mulled drinks.
• Festive carolling and entertainment set against Wrexham's historic townscape.

Getting there by train: Walk just five minutes from Wrexham Central station or 10 minutes from Wrexham General station straight to the heart of the market.

Other fun festive events in Wales

Luminate Wales Winter Light Trail at Margam Country Park

Experience a dazzling adventure at the Luminate Wales Winter Light Trail in Margam Country Park from 24 November 2026 to 2 January 2027. Wander through enchanting illuminated pathways, discover spectacular light displays, toast marshmallows over open fire pits and enjoy the festive atmosphere set against the backdrop of the historic castle.

Getting there by train: Catch the train to Port Talbot Parkway station, where connecting bus services run straight to Margam Country Park.

Hay Festival Winter Weekend at Hay Castle

Join the Hay Festival Winter Weekend from 26 to 29 November 2026 for a celebration of literature and culture. Enjoy a diverse programme of events, including author talks, performances and candle-lit storytelling, all paired with the town's official Christmas lights switch-on in Market Square.

Getting there by train: Take the train to Hereford station or Abergavenny station and connect directly with local bus services straight into Hay-on-Wye.

Christmas at Bute Park

Step off the train and wander through Cardiff’s Bute Park from 19 November to 31 December 2026, transformed into a festive winter wonderland. Visitors can stroll along the mile-long trail, enjoying festive food and drinks and soaking up the seasonal atmosphere created by stunning illuminations and festive installations.

Getting there by train: Bute Park is located in central Cardiff, just a 10-minute stroll from Cardiff Central station. Remember to buy your tickets early to save money and enjoy a smoother journey.

Frequently asked questions