The little Christmas market that's 1 of UK's most underrated in gorgeous city

An exceptional Christmas market in an underrated city will be full of independent and unique goods, making it one of the 'best places' for your festive shopping. Hundreds of children will walk through the city with lanterns and the classic sound of Christmas carols will fill the streets

The Durham Christmas Festival will have over 250 extra small independent businesses trading at the December market with gifts and treats to tempt locals and visitors alike. It's held in the city centre which is teeming with many attractions, pubs, eateries and historical sights. Durham is praised for its vibrant atmosphere especially over the festive season and its castle and cathedral make up a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Three festive markets with seasonal entertainment are held on Friday 5, Saturday 6 ,and Sunday December 7, the festivities have been held in Durham city centre for nearly 30 years (with a break in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic).

The Durham Christmas Festival website said: "We'll have brilliant markets, full of small independent businesses, unique goods, and great gift ideas.

"Our markets bring more than 250 extra small independent businesses into the city centre so it's the best place for your Christmas shopping - and the festival is a fabulous time to enjoy the city of Durham, with Christmas carolling on the streets."

Reviews of the market and festival go back to 2010 on TripAdvisor, with visitors describing the markets being 'fantastic' with seasonal cooler weather in the North adding to the festive vibe.

One visitor described the Christmas delights as a 'gem of a find' with the market and town 'great for shopping' and generally charming to visit.

Andrea Cairns, is the senior events and customer services manager for Durham University, which organises the festival with Durham Markets Company.

Speaking via the festival's website, she said: "Durham Christmas Festival brings together so many things, all in the heart of Durham. If you want to get all your Christmas shopping sorted in one go, then there's going to be plenty of choice.

"If you're keen to support small businesses this year, then the festival showcases some of the best from across the North East, as well as several from further afield."

There will also be 'Carols for All' in Durham Cathedral over the festivities - and the Children's Lantern Parade will be held on Sunday, December 7, this will coincide with the St Nicholas Service at the cathedral.

Anyone wishing to take part in the lantern parade can visit the Durham Christmas Festival website to sign up for the procession.

The festival organisers, writing about Durham and the Christmas Market on the website say, the city with its busy vibe and 'world-class attractions' is a place you're sure to 'fall in love with'.