Come wintertime, London gets absolutely FILLED with Christmas cheer. From dazzling Christmas lights to ice rinks and Christmas movie marathons, our city simply loves the festive season. And one of the most enchanting things to do at this time of year is visit one of London’s dazzling array of Christmas markets. But how about a Christmas market for a good cause? Because that’s exactly what you’ll find in London’s iconic Guildhall building, as the Red Cross Christmas Market drops down for just one full day.
The Red Cross Christmas Market, or, more officially, the Guildhall Christmas Market, is an annual celebration of the festive season that also raises money for the British Red Cross. Celebrated in partnership with Culture Mile BID, it’s a chance to browse countless stalls selling “luxury handmade, unique and exclusive gifts”. But it’s also much more than that, with entertainment, special afternoon tea, and festive lunch menus. Plus, visitors will also get access to explore Guildhall’s hidden spaces like the Great Hall, Old Library, and Crypts.
Opening up on December 8 with an evening celebration, the Red Cross Christmas Market will only take place for one full day. Following the opening night market, it will run through the day on December 9 from 10:30am to 7pm.
In between picking up unique gifts, visitors can sit down for a special afternoon tea or a festive lunch in the stunning surroundings of the venue’s Crypts.
The market was founded in 1961 and is one of the city’s most striking examples, thanks to its stunning, gothic setting. Now, after over 60 years of operating, it’s still going strong. Funds raised from the market “support the humanitarian work of the Red Cross, helping people in crisis in the UK and in 191 countries across the world.”
So whether you’re shopping, sipping on tea, or enjoying lunch, you’re supporting a good cause when you visit the Guildhall Christmas Market.
📍 You can find the Guildhall Christmas Market for The Red Cross at Guildhall Art Gallery, Guildhall Yard, EC2V 7HH. The nearest stations are St. Paul’s and Moorgate.
Find out more about the market and grab your tickets here.