Best Christmas markets and attractions near Kent
Fancy doing something a little different this Christmas? Make lasting memories with the whole family by staying at our Kent Coast Holiday Park over the holiday period! We’re open from 13 December, and there’s so much to do to get into the festive spirit.
We’ve scoured the county to find the best Kent Christmas markets and fairs that are a short drive from our park.
1. Rochester Christmas Market
10 miles from Kent Coast
Where: Rochester Castle Gardens, Castle Hill, Rochester ME1 1SW
When: 13 December - 15 December
Now in its 15th year, Rochester's traditional Christmas Market has become quite the local attraction. Expect over 100 stalls, a children's funfair and Christmas village (entry fee applies), a Bavarian food village and live music performances - all in the shadow of Rochester Castle.
And you'll have plenty of time to explore it all if you do visit - it's open from 10am to 9pm in the run up to Christmas.
2. Christmas at Gravesend Borough Market
15 miles from Kent Coast
Where: Queen Street, Gravesend, Kent DA11 0AZ
When: throughout November and December
Behind the Old Town Hall you’ll find the Christmas market in Gravesend, serving up everything you could want from a festive fair! Running alongside the usual weekend market, there are unique handcrafted and vintage items for sale. Santa’s little helpers can join in making holiday crafts with the kid’s craft workshops, and to really get you in the Christmas mood, live musicians and DJs play as you wander to get food and drinks.
3. Faversham Artisan Crafts and Gift Market
31 miles from Kent Coast
Where: 15 - 17 Preston St, Faversham, Kent ME13 8NZ
When: 15 December
If you’re looking for Christmas fairs in Kent to browse independent makes and bakes, pop to Faversham for the Christmas Market. Entry is free and you’ll get to see some of Kent’s finest arts and crafts for sale by talented makers. It’s the perfect opportunity to buy presents for your loved ones, with a selection of jewellery, art, homewares, toiletries, clothing, and much more under one roof.
No craft fair would be complete without tea and cake. Thankfully, there's a pop-up tearoom on-site!
4. Christmas At Hever Castle
40 miles from Kent Coast
Where: Hever Castle & Gardens, Hever Rd, Hever, Edenbridge TN8 7NG
When: 22 November - 1 January
Over 125 acres light up with stunning Christmas light installations, including arrangements on the lake and lights to brighten up this 14th-century castle’s landmarks under the stars. You can grab a lovely hot drink to warm your hands as you walk the Christmas Trail through the forest, or go inside the castle where roaring fires await!
For more festive fun there are traditional rides and amusements like a big wheel and carousel. Little ones can meet Father Christmas at his snowy grotto, and of course, no Christmassy event would be complete without delicious festive food and drink. Pop into one of the restaurants to fill your belly, then head to the gift shop to finish off your chrimbo shopping.
5. Canterbury Christmas Market
43 miles from Kent Coast
Where: 15 Parade, Canterbury CT1 2SH
When: 15 November - 24 December 2024
Canterbury’s beautiful at Christmas and hosts one of the best Christmas markets in Kent. When the market’s on, the streets transform into a winter wonderland with dozens of festive stalls and entertainment. You’ll find artisanal gifts, handmade crafts, food and drink. As you browse, you’ll get to listen to live music and see street performers as festive characters.
Of course, the usual high street shops are open too, so you can do all of your Christmas shopping at the same time.