We all 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, including their dogs, is in a great mood at a market. It’s a wonderful excuse to get into the spirit of Christmas before the big day, and the shared joy and sense of community make it even more special. It’s one of the many reasons so many people and their furry companions visit dog-friendly Christmas markets during December.
As you sip hot chocolate and peruse gifts, your dog gets to revel 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 exhilarating as we do. Many markets even offer dog-friendly perks, like pet-friendly stalls or water bowls, and some go the extra mile with pet products and treats specifically for your four-legged friend. It’s a journey of discovery for both you and your dog.
But as always, not all dog-friendly Christmas markets are created equal, and some are 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!
A Few Things to Keep in Mind When Visiting Dog-Friendly Christmas Markets
Before I delve into some of the best dog-friendly Christmas markets in the UK, let’s first discuss the importance of preparation. It’s incredibly important to plan in advance if you want to take your dog Christmas shopping at beautiful Christmas markets. This not only ensures a stress-free experience for both you and your dog but also promotes a sense of responsibility. For example, many markets, like the Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market, are bustling, especially on weekends. If your dog is sensitive to crowds or loud environments, consider visiting during quieter times, such as 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 crucial aspect is that most dog-friendly Christmas markets require your dog to be kept on a lead. This ensures the safety and comfort of both you and other visitors. We recommend using a short lead to prevent tangling with other visitors or pets, especially in narrow walkways often found in charming Christmas markets like those on George Street in Nottingham.
Be aware that the lively atmosphere at these markets also means an abundance 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 you and your dog! However, this does mean that even the best-trained pup will want to investigate, so watch for dropped foods or wrappers to avoid any quick snatches that could upset their stomach. The festive spirit is truly enhanced by the beautiful seasonal aromas wafting through the air.
You should also be aware of grit on the streets while 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 irritating or burnburdening if left untreated. Additionally, dogs may lick their paws after contact with the grit, which could result in them ingesting harmful chemicals. To keep your dog safe, washing their paws thoroughly after visiting one of the dog-friendly Christmas markets or even having some dog-friendly wipes on hand is a good idea! You can easily remove the grit and prevent irritation or discomfort.
Finally, if your dog is reactive or nervous around other dogs and many people, consider whether a Christmas market is the right choice. It’s fantastic 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, allowing you to embrace the authentic Christmas spirit.
Best Dog-Friendly Christmas Markets in the UK
Okay, now that the important stuff is out of the way, let’s crack on and discover the best dog-friendly Christmas markets in the UK. These beautiful Christmas markets 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, including the stunning Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market, there’s something for every owner and their dog!
Chatsworth House Christmas Market
Chatsworth House Christmas Market is a beautiful Christmas market that offers a magical dog-friendly experience against the stunning backdrop of the Chatsworth Estate. Known for its breath-taking countryside and historic beauty, the market is right within the Chatsworth grounds, allowing you and your dog to enjoy the festive season and the estate’s scenic landscapes. Stroll through over 100 stalls offering handcrafted gifts, gourmet food, and seasonal treats, surrounded by the estate’s majestic architecture and gardens, creating an enchanting holiday destination.
Your dog can soak in the holiday spirit 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 many fantastic walks nearby to walk off the mulled wine and mince pies, making it a perfect Christmas gift for you and your furry friend.
When?: From 9 November to 1 December 2024, this festive outing will surely be an unforgettable Christmas experience.
Edinburgh Christmas Market
Edinburgh Christmas Market is an absolute treat for you and your dog, often hailed as one of the best Christmas markets in the UK. Set in East Princes Street Gardens, this stunning Christmas market brings the season’s magic to life with over 70 stalls offering everything from handmade gifts to delicious festive food.
Every market corner feels enchanted, with Edinburgh Castle as a backdrop and the nearby towering Scott Monument. As you stroll past the charming artisan stalls, you can snack on seasonal goodies and soak in the glow of the holiday lights reflecting off the city’s historic buildings. The festive atmosphere is perfect for you and your dog, especially if they enjoy new places and friendly faces amidst the excitement. Just be sure to visit during quieter times if your pup prefers a more relaxed outing—this market can get busy, but it’s worth every magical minute!
When?: 15 November to 4 January 2025. Take advantage of this beautiful Christmas fair, a true festive season highlight!
Manchester Christmas Market
Known for being one of the UK’s oldest and largest dog-friendly Christmas markets, the Manchester Christmas Market spreads its holiday cheer across ten different sites in the bustling city centre. While Albert Square is off-limits to pups, the rest of the market invites you to explore together, giving you plenty of chances to soak up the Christmas spirit with your furry companion. This festive destination is reminiscent of beautiful Christmas markets in cities like Exeter and Nottingham, where the enchanting atmosphere captivates visitors.
Each site offers a delightful mix of treats, gifts, and holiday decorations, perfect for browsing while enjoying a mulled wine or a hot chocolate. The market’s lively atmosphere and its unique stalls from all over Europe make it an ideal outing for you and your dog, especially if they’re as curious about the world as you are. You might even find local gifts that capture the essence of the festive season, enhancing your shopping experience.
When?: 8th November to 22nd December 2024. Don’t miss the chance to snap a “Santa Paws” photo, a photograph of your pup with Santa himself, and make unforgettable memories while visiting one of the best Christmas markets in the UK!
Blenheim Palace Christmas Market
One of our favourite dog-friendly Christmas markets is the Blenheim Palace Christmas Market, which embodies the spirit of a beautiful Christmas market. While pups aren’t allowed inside the palace or on the illuminated trail, they are welcome in the market area, where charming wooden chalets and festive treats create a winter wonderland for humans and dogs alike. This enchanting holiday destination features a spacious, magical setting that allows plenty of room for wagging tails, complemented by outdoor seating to enjoy festive street food together.
Your four-legged friend will love exploring the Great Court, sniffing seasonal aromas, and soaking in this delightful Christmas town’s cheerful, dog-friendly vibes. Plus, all of the stall holders at Blenheim Palace are hand-picked, ensuring you have access to some of the most unique and often handmade handmade items. It’s a perfect opportunity to find local gifts while enjoying the festive season.
When can you visit? The market runs from 15 November to 1 January 2025, making it an ideal stop for last-minute Christmas present shopping and an excellent way to embrace the holiday atmosphere.
Matlock Victorian Christmas Market
I’m slightly biased with this one, as I’ve grown up taking all my dogs to this beautiful 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 6 December to 8th 2024, you and your pup can explore festive stalls overflowing with artisanal goods, handcrafted treasures, and seasonal treats—all under cosy marquees. This charming setting is perfect for enjoying the holiday season atmosphere, as 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 for our furry friends, so consider enjoying the festive spirit with them at the market during the day instead.
Hyde Park Christmas Wonderland Market
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland in London is a great Christmas activity for dogs and owners near this enchanting holiday destination. Dogs on leads are welcome to join you as you wander the festive markets, including the beautiful Christmas market stalls, browse holiday treats, and enjoy delicious street food options. The dazzling lights, cosy fire pits, and festive ambience create a magical atmosphere to explore together during the holiday season.
Though dogs aren’t allowed on rides or certain attractions, they can still enjoy the open-air magic of Winter Wonderland. The festive spirit is palpable, especially when the stunning decorations shine brightly in the evenings. However, for dogs sensitive to noise, it’s best to visit earlier in the day to ensure a more comfortable experience.
When?: 21st November to 5th January 2025. This period coincides with many beautiful Christmas markets across the United Kingdom, making it an excellent time for a festive outing with your furry friend.
Bath Christmas Market
For those looking for one of the best dog-friendly Christmas markets in the south of England, we recommend the Bath Christmas Market. Set in the heart of Bath’s historic city centre, this beautiful Christmas market is a free, open-air event that offers a cosy, seasonal atmosphere. With nearly 200 chalets showcasing talented makers from the southwest and beyond, you’ll discover unique, handcrafted gifts as you wander the cobblestone streets together, making it a perfect Christmas destination.
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! Since weekends can get crowded, weekday mornings and lunchtimes are ideal times to visit, allowing you and your dog to enjoy the festive spirit and beautiful Christmas decorations more leisurely.
When?: 28th November to 15th December 2024. Plan your visit to soak in the enchanting holiday destination and experience the magic of the festive season.
Worcester Victorian Christmas Market
Last but certainly not least, we have the enchanting Worcester Victorian Christmas Market. This beautiful Christmas market brings the historic streets of Worcester to life with Victorian charm, offering a delightful stroll for both you and your pup amidst 200 stalls filled with handcrafted gifts, holiday treats, and delicious street food.
You’ll enjoy the market alongside several Victorian characters, stilt walkers, and live musicians during the weekend, creating a brilliant festive atmosphere. The traditional carousel and barrel organ add to the old-fashioned magic, making it one of the best Christmas markets to visit. Well-behaved dogs are welcome on short leads, and as always, weekdays or quieter hours are recommended for a relaxed visit.
When?: 28 November to 1 December 2024, just in time for the festive season.
Conclusion
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 love these markets, with all the smells, sights, and chances to meet new furry friends. It’s a fun and exciting outing for you and your dog; 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!).
The Author: Charlotte Harris
Charlotte has been a writer and dog owner her whole life, so combining these two things is a dream come true. Her greatest love is her oversized Golden Retriever, Milo, who loves tough chews and anything filled with peanut butter!
Is it safe to bring my dog to a Christmas market?
Bringing your pup to one of the UK’s dog-friendly Christmas markets can be a magical experience. They’ll love all the smells and the sights and may even make a new doggy pal. But as with everything, it’s always important to consider your dog’s personality. Every dog is different, and while some may be completely comfortable with loud noises and large crowds, others may find the atmosphere stressful. If your dog is suited to the latter, it might be best to skip the outing or pick a quieter time to visit. Also, always ensure they’re leashed and watch for any signs of stress or discomfort.
What should I do if my dog gets stressed at a Christmas market?
If your dog starts to feel overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle of the Christmas market, don’t panic! The first step is to find a calm, quieter spot away from the crowds and flashing lights to give them a moment to collect themselves. Some dogs may need a break from the excitement. Offer them water, comfort, or a tasty treat to help them relax. Having some relaxing dog treats is always useful at events like this.
You know your dog best, so if you notice signs of anxiety like panting, whining, or tail tucking, cutting the outing short is a good idea. A trip to the market should be fun for both of you, so if your dog isn’t enjoying themselves, it’s okay to turn around and head home for some cuddles and a quieter day.
How do I keep my dog warm during winter Christmas markets?
Winter markets are full of festive fun, but let’s face it, it can get cold out there! While you’re bundled up in your cosiest scarf and gloves, don’t forget about your four-legged friend. Keeping them warm and toasty during a winter outing is key, so layer them up in style!
A well-fitted harness will keep them comfortable and cosy while providing complete movement control. If you’re navigating through crowds, a short lead will give you the confidence to manage them closely without worrying about slipping away in the hustle. To top it off, a snuggly coat or blanket can make a huge difference in keeping them warm and content. We have a fantastic range of warm and cosy dog gear at WOOOF that is perfect for the colder season.
