Southbank Centre Winter Market — Local services in London

I recently visited the Southbank Centre Winter Market, expecting a festive and Christmassy experience, but unfortunately, it fell short of the mark. While the setting along the Thames is undeniably scenic, the market itself lacked the warm, magical atmosphere one hopes for during the holiday season.

The market had the usual wooden chalet-style stalls, but many seemed to lack a cohesive festive theme. Instead of evoking the joy and wonder of Christmas, it felt more like a generic outdoor food and craft fair. The selection of food was decent, with a few interesting international options, but it was overpriced for what it was, and there wasn’t much that screamed “holiday treat.” A few mulled wine and hot chocolate stands were present, but they didn’t quite compensate for the overall lack of seasonal charm.

The same could be said for the shopping stalls. There were some nice handmade crafts and gifts, but the variety was limited, and the prices were steep. It felt more like a collection of independent vendors rather than a thoughtfully curated Christmas market. The absence of festive decorations, twinkling lights, or Christmas music further contributed to the lackluster atmosphere.

The market’s saving grace was its location. Being right on the Southbank with stunning views of the Thames and the London skyline added some enjoyment to the experience. However, the setting alone couldn’t make up for the absence of the holiday spirit.

Overall, the Southbank Centre Winter Market was fine, but it didn’t deliver the Christmassy experience I was hoping for. If you’re in the area, it might be worth a quick visit for the views or a bite to eat, but if you’re seeking a truly festive winter market, you may want to...

Went on a day trip with a local group of people. Got dropped off by London Eye at around 10 ish and headed towards to the river and Winter Market. It was dead, so thought we might be a bit early so went for a coffee to kill time as there were literally about 12 huts under the bridge. Walked further along the Thames and it was dead. Spoke to a guy asking where the market was and he pointed back to the 12 huts. So went back that way and saw 2 security guys standing at an entrance that said Winter Market! This was around 11.30am Went in there and it was all food stalls and a bar. Saw hidden in the corner Craft Fayre, but that didn't open until Midday! So we hung around and it opened just after Midday, but people were still getting set up!

Having said that, there were a couple of nice stalls with reasonably priced items, but a lot was quite expensive, but you kind of expect it at these places!! It took me and my friend all of 20 minutes to walk around. We left and went back to the stalls under the bridge and had a mooch. Much more of an atmosphere there.

Went and had lunch then a stroll along the waterfront before turning round. Had some Churros - 6 for £8 which were lovely! Went and watched some.strwet entertainers before heading back to coach at 3.30, which was about right.

Very disappointing in the market, it was the day after Storm Bert so I don't know if there should have been more stalls out. But there are better markets out there.

Me and my friend had a lovely day out in London. It is...

what a joke! This is not a Christmas/Winter market. along the river all the stall were food and drink, duck, cheese, burger, hotdog, mulled wine and hot chocolate then repeated. There is an area called Between 2 Bridges which we tried to enter but was stopped by the security staff telling us that we couldn't take in our hot chocolates so had to just stand around and drink them, as there was nothing to do.

Once we had finished our drinks we gained entry, however once through the archway there was only 3 bars, 2 of which were empty and the 3rd was semi busy and sounded like it was playing live music. before going into the bar we had a walk around the corner to the food and drink stall to my surprise were selling the exact same food and drink that was being sold outside along the river.. so we turn back and went for the live music upon getting to the door we were stopped by 2 more security staff telling us that we needed wristbands to gain entry!? No signs anywhere telling you that you need to buy wristbands to gain entry to a tent. we swiftly left the Southbank "lousy" Market and headed home.

DO NOT WASTE YOUR TIME OR MONEY!!!

£9 for 2 hot chocolates just to walk around in circles......