Crisp winter air, a lovely riverside spot, and all the trimmings and trappings of Christmas. Really, Winter by the River has it all. One of London’s prettiest Christmas markets, the festive fiesta has returned once again this year (with a new name) to London Bridge – just a stone’s throw from Tower Bridge. And there’s plenty of time to visit the festive destination, which will run until January 1.
Nestled against the backdrop of Tower Bridge and the City skyline, 2023 marks the launch of the Winter by the River market. Previously operating as ‘Christmas by the River’ for eight years, this year they’ve gone for a more diversely wintry theme. And that can only mean more things to do, see, taste, and browse!
At Winter by the River
A cluster of cute winter cabins now line the riverside, stuffed with crafty creations, pop-up bars, and delicious street food outlets. New for 2023 is the ‘Karaoke at the Pier’ experience, “where brilliant music, delicious cocktails, and Prosecco by the bottle await”. (So if you’re wandering through the markets and hear some tortured wailing – it’s just me on my second bottle of Prosecco, warbling my way through a Lana Del Rey track.)
Since Christmas shopping is thirsty work, there are also two pop-up bars to take advantage of. Choose between an outdoor or indoor bar (with heating!) and sip on a variety of festive and classic drinks.
As part of the market’s commitment to giving back, there are also social enterprise stalls and various ways to support local partner St Giles.
Winter by the River lets you crack on with your Christmas shopping whilst admiring the panoramic expanse from Tower Bridge and getting steadily sloshed on steaming mugs of glühwein… Really, that’s all we’ve ever wanted out of a Christmas market!
Find Winter by the River at London Bridge City, SE1 2DB, between November 14, 2023 and January 1, 2024. It’s open daily from 12–10:30 PM.