We'd hate to be the ones to mention Christmas when it's still about two months away, but here we go anyway... Everyone loves a Christmas market - with their amazing foods, tasty seasonal beverages and unique gifts you'd be mad not to - so we've picked out a handful which will be happening right by our Cruise stores in Newcastle, Edinburgh and Glasgow. If you're out doing a spot of Christmas shopping in-store then why not pop along and soak in the festive spirit!
Edinburgh
Edinburgh’s European Christmas market can be found in the picturesque setting below the Mound and has been there every festive season for the past 20 years! This year the market continues on 2013’s expansion and will meander its way from the Mound, along East Princes Street Gardens Terrace and around the Scott Monument with a delightful selection of crafters, artists, gift shops, and plenty of food and drink to keep you going.
Newcastle
Newcastle has a double helping of Christmas markets this year, each with something different to offer.
First up the International Market rolls into town on Saturday 15 November and runs until Saturday 29 November at Grey’s Monument, Grey Street and Grainger Street right in the heart of the city. Here you’ll be able to stock up on some of the very best gourmet ingredients from around the world (perfect for when it comes to making impressing the in-laws with your Christmas dinner) as well as snack on German currywurst, Dutch waffles, Spanish paella and many more international delights.
And if that wasn't enough, the annual Monument Christmas Market will be at the same location from Wednesday 3 December to Sunday 7 December offering goodies from a little closer to home. Local microbreweries, home-made jams, delicious cakes and handmade chocolates will all be in abundance – pick some up for a special someone if you can resist them for yourself.
Glasgow
The Continental Christmas Market returns to Glasgow’s St Enoch’s Square this Christmas and comes boasting traders from as far afield as Ecuador, Russia and Finnish Lapland – along with all the much-loved European stalls who grace the event each year.
As well as the dozens of stalls, the Glasgow Christmas market also offers shoppers the chance to indulge in the finest Bavarian beers and Gluhwein (mulled wine) in their beer hall – the perfect way to wind down after a long, hard day of shopping.