As mid-November arrives, the festive spirit begins to ignite across the UK, with Christmas preparations shifting into high gear. For many, the weeks leading up to the big day, filled with light switch-ons and seasonal markets, are even more magical than Christmas Day itself.
Escaping the City for Festive Charm
The West Midlands transforms into a particularly wonderful destination during the festive season. It offers a perfect alternative for those wishing to avoid the overwhelming crowds of major cities. Instead of urban hustle and bustle, you can discover the region's idyllic, chocolate-box villages, which become havens of festive cheer with their charming light displays and cosy pubs.
While there are numerous beautiful villages to explore, two smaller locations truly stand out for their exceptional and historic Christmas celebrations.
Sutton Coldfield Victorian Christmas Market 2025
The Sutton Coldfield Victorian Christmas Market for 2025 will be held across two separate weekends. The first runs from Thursday, December 11th to Sunday, December 14th, followed by a second session from Thursday, December 18th to Sunday, December 21st.
This market is a fully immersive historical experience. Stallholders dress in authentic period costume, instantly transporting visitors back to a Christmas in the 1800s. The entertainment lineup is thoroughly Victorian, featuring street performers, carollers, living statues, stilt walkers, storytellers, and magic shows.
At its heart, the market is a celebration of local artisans and community spirit. Visitors can browse a wonderful selection of homemade and unique gifts, enjoy hearty festive food, and sip on warming drinks. A classic Christmas carousel will be among the many attractions adding to the magical atmosphere.
Lichfield Victorian Christmas Market 2025
The Lichfield Victorian Christmas Market offers its own dose of festive nostalgia, taking place slightly earlier from 4th to 7th December 2025.
Similar to its Sutton Coldfield counterpart, this market will be brimming with artisan stalls. Shoppers can find a perfect array of unique gifts, handmade decorations, and delicious festive food and drink. The historical theme is maintained with stallholders and characters appearing in full Victorian costume.
The market will also be alive with the sound of live music, creating a vibrant and joyful atmosphere for all the family to enjoy. It's the ideal setting to find that special present while soaking up the authentic Christmas spirit.
Both markets provide a quintessentially British festive experience, highlighting why these West Midlands towns are considered among the UK's prettiest destinations during the Christmas season.
