Family Friendly Winter Walks
Hot chocolate season is here, and this can only mean one thing, the South of England is turning into a wonderland of frosty walks.
The festive season is upon us and what better way to get into the Christmas spirit than visiting a local Christmas market? Whether you’re looking for sparkling lights or warming hot chocolates, the South of England has some great options that will get the whole family excited. Here are our top 5 Christmas markets for 2025 in Hampshire, Dorset and Sussex.
Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market
Date: Friday 21st November to Monday 22nd December 2025
Location: Winchester Cathedral, Hampshire, SO23 9LS
The run up to Christmas has to be one of the best times to visit Winchester Cathedral. This well-loved market returns on 21st November and is running all the way up until 22nd December, making it a great place to get those last-minute gifts! It is filled with handmade gifts, toys, treats, food samples and is even free to enter! This year there is a fun, family friendly trail called ‘Follow the Start Trail’, which takes place in the cathedral grounds and will add a playful touch to your visit. This is a really great market to kick start the festive season, so grab the thermals and get ready for Christmas at Winchester Cathedral’s Christmas Market.
Mapperton House & Gardens Christmas Market
Date: Saturday 29th to Sunday 30th November 2025
Location: Mapperton Estate, Mapperton, Dorset, DT8 3NR
This beautiful Christmas market is set in an impressive estate and has over 80 stalls, so you can browse for those special gifts all while enjoying the festive community atmosphere. This market has live music and you can even meet Father Christmas! So, whether you’re shopping for thoughtful gifts or just wanting to soak up a bit of seasonal joy, this market is one to add to your list this winter. Please note that entry costs £5.
Dorchester Christmas Cracker
Date: Sunday 14th December 2025
Location: High East Street, Dorchester, DT1 1HF
This festive favourite is popular for families in Dorset. It transforms the charming town into a beautiful, community driven winter wonderland. Starting from 11am up until 4pm, there will be over 100 stalls to explore across High West Street, Trinity Street, the Corn Exchange and Dorset Museum and Art Gallery. There will even be seasonal entertainment where you will see Santa arrive in a camper van and little ones will even get the chance to win a free hat from the Santa Hat Parade. This event has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, so why not get the family out and celebrate the Christmas season with your community.
Shoreham Ninth Grand Christmas Charity Art & Craft Fair
Date: Saturday 29th November 2025
Location: Shoreham Centre, 2 Pond Road, West Sussex, BN4 5WU
This year The Shoreham Centre hosts its local tradition on Saturday 29th November 2025 and this year’s chosen charity is Love to Move. It is a great event for families, here you’ll find over 50 incredibly talented exhibitors hosting activities from face painting to drop-in workshops. There will also be a festive pop up by Seashore Bakes cafe too but best of all entry is completely free. Making this a wonderful budget friendly festive outing, that not only brings the community together, but supports local makers too.
Blackstock Estate Christmas Fair
Date: Sunday 30th November 2025
Location: Blackstock Road, Hellingly, East Sussex, BN27 4HF
Set across the estate’s stunning meadows, this fair invites families to kick off the festive season in the heart of the Sussex countryside. This event brings together a wonderful mix of seasonal food, drink and handmade decorations carefully made by local makers. This is a great opportunity to find those unique presents to put under your tree this year. Whether you’re wanting to sample some local produce or meet independent makers, this is a truly magical way to kick off the Christmas season. With its family friendly atmosphere, this fair is a must visit, so wrap up warm and make a day of it.
There’s a Christmas market for every family out there in Hampshire, Dorset and Sussex. Whether you’re hunting for that perfect handmade gift or just wanting a relaxed family outing, these markets are a must! So, pick and date and get ready for some seasonal magic.
Don’t forget our brand-new addition to our Busy activity books is here, our Busy Elf Book. These are great for long car journeys or if you just need some extra help when out and about this season. Order yours by clicking here, but be quick while stocks last.
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