The market opens on Friday November 15th and has an impressive 84% retail stalls right in the heart of the city, so Canterbury is perfect for serious Christmas shopping and a fun, family-friendly, festive day out.

New for 2024 is The Artisan Marketplace, an area dedicated to makers, producers, artists and designers, located in the Cathedral precincts.

There is a vast programme of live and local music, performances, choirs, carol services and interactive theatre. For the kids there's a ride on Santa’s magical VR sleigh, marshmallow toasting, a visit to the grotto with a talking letter box, breakfast with Santa, the singing reindeers, a spin on the carousel or the 18 hole Christmas themed mini golf. Activities are bookable at www.canterburychristmasmarket.co.uk

Don't forget the fabulously festive food and drink offerings including bratwurst, mulled wine and cider, pigs in blankets, crepes, slow-roasted meats, schnapps cocktails and crumbles.