As far as my outlook on life goes, I like to think I am a glass half-full type of guy but I have got to admit, this particular morning, I wasn’t feeling on top form.

Another demanding week at work had taken its toll and to make matters worse, I had just cracked my head getting out my car.

“Hey, there’s no need for that language,” my partner said. She was, of course, right. “And where’s your Christmas spirit?”

And with ‘perfect’ timing, Shakin Stevens came on the radio with his near 30-year-old

‘classic’ Merry Christmas Everyone.

Snow is falling all around me

Children playing having fun

It’s the season of love and understanding

Merry Christmas everyone.

“And he can clear off, as well,” I said, pushing down the radio off-button.

It was 6.30am at Dover docks and I was definitely not in the mood for Shakin, Noddy Holder or Mariah Carey.

Don’t get me wrong, I love this time of year but I don’t normally show much festive cheer on the penultimate day of November. I’m more of a noon-on-Christmas Eve type of man. Sorry, that’s just the way it is.

We were France-bound, heading for Lille to experience the traditional Christmas market and everything else the city might offer for those looking to enjoy some early festive cheer.

The DFDS Seaways crossing between Dover and Dunkirk is a convenient way for people to visit European festive markets.

It’s a great way to get into the festive spirit and the beauty of travelling by car means you can bring back as many Christmas presents as you like. The trip can be done in a day and is so easily accessible from Kent.

And I must say, what a difference a day made. A little less than 30 hours later, my whole demeanour had changed. Lille is the perfect destination for a day trip or weekend break.

The month-long Christmas market – which closes on December 30 – is the largest in northern France and has been a tradition for centuries. The Place Rihour area comes alive and transforms into a real winter wonderland. The market is home to more than 50 wooden chalets and stalls offering festive gifts and culinary delights.

We first took our seats on the 50 metre high Big Wheel for a stunning view of the historic city. Once we had our feet firmly back on the ground, we joined the hundreds of locals and tourists for a ‘stroll’ around the market and cobbled streets.

I use the word ‘stroll’ but it must be said when we were there, I’ve seen North Greenwich underground station less busy 10 minutes after the end of a Michael Buble concert at the 02 Arena.

It is advisable to get any drink you are holding down you first before it goes over you – as my partner found out to her dismay!

The market features independent traders, artists, crafts people, hot food stalls and, of course, bars selling mulled wine. The trip was the perfect opportunity to combine Christmas shopping and a little gastronomic indulgence. The city is an ideal shopping destination, with cobbled streets, boutiques, shopping centre and discount shops.

No way did we shop-until-we-dropped but what we did do was enjoy a little early festive cheer.

Apparently, I was even seen smiling at the penguins on a certain television advert when we got home. Now, I’m not having that.

FACTFILE

Mike Rees travelled with DFDS Seaways.

With an enjoyable onboard experience, frequent daily crossings and competitive prices, their Dover to Dunkirk and Dover to Calais routes are favourites with holidaymakers.

Mike stayed at the charming Hôtel Barrière in Lille which enjoys a central location right next to the historical centre of Lille and all public transport.