As a self-confessed Christmas enthusiast who begins festive preparations in October, I embarked on a mission to determine which of Birmingham's two city centre Christmas markets truly deserves the crown. With the famous Frankfurt Christmas Market and the newer Christmas In Cathedral Square Craft Market both vying for attention, I braved the November drizzle to conduct a thorough investigation.
The Frankfurt Christmas Market Experience
Beginning my journey at Tim Hortons despite heavy rainfall, I first explored The Frankfurt Christmas Market, which holds the distinction of being the largest German market in the UK. Stretching along New Street and up to Victoria Square, this established market offers an impressive variety of goods.
Shoppers can find everything from winter accessories like £10 thermal socks and £18 beanies to unique house-shaped plant pots priced between £28 and £32. While there are Christmas-specific items such as tree decorations and snow globes ranging from £7 to £25, I noted that many stalls also sell non-festive trinkets perfect for gift-giving.
However, the market's expansive layout revealed an unavoidable flaw. The festive atmosphere briefly disappears near the McDonald's on the ramp leading to New Street station, where the market pauses for tram tracks. This interruption, though necessary for safety reasons, momentarily breaks the Christmas spell.
Food and Drink Highlights
Where the Frankfurt market truly excels is in its authentic German cuisine. Visitors can enjoy pretzels ranging from £4 to £5, a classic bratwurst for £6.50, or for those with heartier appetites, a half-metre sausage for £9.
The drinking experience, particularly around Victoria Square, creates a vibrant social hub. Though the weather during my visit wasn't ideal for outdoor drinking, the setup clearly caters to groups enjoying mulled wines at £6.50 or pints at £7. The availability of £12 double pints proves practical for reducing bar queue trips.
The Cathedral Square Craft Market Alternative
Walking towards St Philips Cathedral, I wondered if the smaller Christmas In Cathedral Square Craft Market could possibly compete with its larger counterpart. The answer, I discovered, was a resounding yes.
Immediately striking upon arrival was the festive helter skelter, setting a uniquely playful tone. Unlike the Frankfurt market, this space exclusively features independent traders from across the Midlands. Highlights include Brummie's Funny Pictures, selling Birmingham-themed posters for £20 and postcards for £3.50, and Beckford's home-brewed rum in flavours from caramel (£27) to banana (£35).
The food offering demonstrates greater variety, with Asha's Indian Restaurant (reportedly Ed Sheeran's favourite curry spot) operating a vendor stall, and POSH Street Food serving loaded hot dogs for £8. The Pigeon in the Park pub provides a cosy Victorian-style pop-up drinking establishment, though its popularity makes securing a seat challenging during busy periods.
The Ultimate Verdict
While the Frankfurt Christmas Market offers substantial gift options (though not all handmade), traditional German food, and a spacious bar area, the Christmas In Cathedral Square Craft Market emerges as the clear winner.
Its intimate size, plotted exclusively outside St Phillip's Cathedral on Pigeon Park, creates an inescapably cosy festive atmosphere. The stunning cathedral backdrop provides a captivating scene, especially when evening lights enhance the magical ambiance.
The craft market's unique offerings—from local artwork to distinctive food vendors—make it the ideal destination to showcase Birmingham's character to visiting friends. It represents the picture-perfect image of our city during the festive season.
Beyond determining my personal favourite, this investigation confirmed something equally important: Brummies truly know how to celebrate Christmas well, and for that achievement, our city deserves considerable pride.
