It may seem only moments ago since we were rubbing in the sun cream but one of London’s best Christmas markets is already opening its gates this week. Now a leading travel expert chooses the capital’s top Seasonal Seven Christmas markets. She also shares her secret to staying in London on a shoestring – or at least a Christmas stocking string.

Lily Smith, a travel expert from the specialist accommodation finder UniversityRooms.com, says: ‘Christmas markets are among the highlights of the season and London boasts many of the most interesting and atmospheric in the country. It wouldn’t be Christmas without a seasonal stroll through colourful stands laden with gifts. There are always wonderful craft products to discover while sipping steaming mulled wine and nibbling hot chestnuts.

‘Sadly, some wonderful regional Christmas markets have disappeared in recent years. For example, it is sad that Lincoln’s wonderful and historic market has been cancelled. However, London’s Christmas venues are thriving. As well as traditional fairs that Charles Dickens would feel at home in, new specialist markets seem to spring up every year. Some of them are unmissable for the canny shopper on a budget.

1. Covent Garden: Top of my list is that perennial piazza favourite – Covent Garden. It’s such a colourful event with three daily markets filled with handmade crafts and unique gifts. In addition to some genuine bargains, there are also many fascinating acts to enjoy, and don’t forget the mulled wine stations and this year’s Christmas sandwich festival! Opens 12 November.

2. Southbank Winter Festival: There are few locations more atmospheric than beside London’s Old Father Thames. Alpine chalets and fire pits add to the welcoming atmosphere and don’t miss this year’s Fire and Fromage igloo. The Southbank’s hot apple cider looks set to be the equal of Covent Garden’s mulled wine! Opens 1 December.

3. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland: There’s more to walking (or skating) in a winter wonderland at Hyde Park this year. Expect a distinctly Scandinavian vibe with over 100 wooden stands featuring items such as crafts and jewellery. Don’t miss the meatballs! Opens 21 November.

4. Leadenhall Market: Hagrid and Harry stride through Leadenhall Market as they head for Diagon Alley in the first Harry Potter movie. It’s even more magical at Christmas. This year, on 14 November at 6pm, the Lord Mayor of London will turn on the market’s Christmas lights. There’s everything from crafts to antiques on sale during the weekends leading up to Christmas. Opens 14 November.

5. Kings Cross markets: Another beloved Harry Potter location is Kings Cross station. Forget Platform 9½, however. The area’s multiple Christmas markets will transport you to a Christmas wonderland. Expect gifts from fashion to crafts, with live music and even a special vegan food market. Opens 21 November.

6. Borough Market: If you are a food lover, look no further than Borough Market for all your Christmas treats. Borough Market is open year-round six days a week but at Christmas it’s dressed in its finest and even opens on Mondays for special festive events. Opens 2 December.

7. Kingston Christmas Market: Venturing slightly outside the centre, there’s a traditional German feel to the cosy market cabins that fill Kingston’s Ancient Market Place. Look out for Bavarian curling lanes and Continental Bratwurst. If you’re feeling more traditional, look out for the hog roast and carol singing. Opens 14 November.

‘For seasonal shoppers who live outside of London, staying in the capital can be very expensive, even outside peak tourist season. University rooms have become an increasingly popular budget option during the summer months, when they are not in use by students. The great news is that a number of student accommodation centres are available during term time this autumn and winter, including:

Elm Grove (University of Roehampton)
Goodenough College, Bloomsbury
Roomzzz London Stratford
The Victoria League Student House, Bayswater
‘This December, the Victoria League Student House in Leinster Square offers accommodation in a historic building from just £33 a night. It dates back to 1853 and features beautiful gardens. Like all UniversityRooms.com properties, you don’t have to be a student to rent a room there. However, it is specifically intended for young people aged 18 to 30 to stay safely in London. One final caveat: it has a (very friendly and non-shedding breed) house dog on site!

‘It doesn’t take an educated guess to realise that more limited university term-time accommodation is likely to get booked up. For more information and to book your London stay, see: https://www.universityrooms.com/city/london/home/