Top 6 Christmas Markets in & around Derby

Sadler Gate Christmas Night Market - 27 November

Why visit:

This annual night market in Derby’s Cathedral Quarter is one of the most atmospheric ways to kick off the season. Sadler Gate, with its narrow cobbled street, independent shops and historic setting, is transformed by festive lights, street theatre, artisan stalls, and late-night shopping.

What to expect:

The market is set from 5pm onward, featuring over 60 artisan stalls, festive drinks and local food. 

Tips:

It’s free to attend. Arrive early (around 5 pm) to browse before it becomes very busy. Pair it with a late-night dinner in a nearby café or restaurant.

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The Sadler Gate Night Market 2025

Derby

Place

Sadler Gate

Derby

Derby's Ethical Christmas Market - 29 Nov

Why visit:

If you want your gift-giving to align with sustainability values, this is the one to explore. It’s a curated market focusing on ethical, sustainable, and socially conscious makers.

What to expect: 

There will be around 30 ethical and sustainable businesses. There’s also hot food & drinks, live music and creative workshops.

Why it stands out:

This market provides a great alternative to mass-produced items and celebrates small local businesses doing good.

Tips:

Since it runs during daytime hours, combine it with other city-centre visits (ice rink, lights switch-on and lantern parade). Booking is not required, and entry to the market is free.

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Derby's Ethical Christmas Market

Market Place, Derby

Place

Derby Market Hall

Market Place, Derby

Festive Markets (30 November - 24 December)

Why visit:

For ongoing seasonal browsing, Derby’s Festive Markets at Derby Market Hall give you multiple chances to shop beyond a single “market day.”

What to expect:

From November through to 24 December, Derby Market Hall hosts pop-up traders offering unique gifts, festive decorations, and seasonal treats.

Bonus feature:

In December, Derby Market Hall becomes a festive hub with lots of entertainment for all ages.

Tips:

Many of these events are free, though some workshop elements might have charges. It’s ideal for an immersive Christmas shopping experience.

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Festive Markets

Market Place, Derby

Place

Derby Market Hall

Market Place, Derby

Chatsworth Christmas Market (8 Nov – 14 Dec)

Why visit:

Set against the stunning backdrop of Chatsworth House, this is one of the most iconic Christmas markets in Derbyshire. It combines retail and spectacle in a grand setting.

What to expect:

Over 100 stalls offering gifts, decorations, artisan goods, seasonal food & drink, plus live music, and entertainment. Entry to the market itself is FREE (though parking must be booked).

Tips:

Pre-book your car parking ticket. Combine with a “Christmas at Chatsworth” visit (inside the house, gardens & light trail). Arrive earlier in the day to avoid crowds.

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Chatsworth Christmas Market

Bakewell, Derbyshire

Place

Chatsworth

Bakewell, Derbyshire

Christmas Artisan Market at Elvaston Castle (22 – 23 November)

Why visit:

For a more local, heart-warming festive experience, Elvaston Castle hosts an outdoor market in its courtyard.

What to expect:

Derby Uncovered brings you a Christmas Artisan Market with a full variety of makers only from Derbyshire! Entry is free.

Tips:

Pack for the weather - this market is outdoors.

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Christmas Artisan Market

Borrowash Road , Elvaston , Derby

Place

Elvaston Castle Country Park

Borrowash Road , Elvaston , Derby

Mercatum Christmas Artisan Market (12 November – 14 December)

Why visit:

If you want artisan, high-end, beautifully curated gifts in a fairy-tale historic setting, Haddon Hall’s Mercatum is a must-see.

What to expect:

Over 180 makers and artisans inside and outside the Hall, offering ceramics, candles, jewellery, stationery, artwork & more. The event is staged over multiple weekends (Wednesday–Sunday) in the run-up to Christmas.

Tips:

Tickets must be booked in advance. Dogs are typically not allowed inside due to narrow spaces. Visit early to avoid the busier afternoons. Combine with exploring Bakewell or the surrounding Peak District villages.

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Christmas Artisan Markets at Haddon Hall

Bakewell, Derbyshire

Place

Haddon Hall

Bakewell, Derbyshire

Bonus suggestions & practical tips

Bonus Markets:

•  Bakewell Christmas Market Weekend – a short drive from Derby, with around 100 stalls and a cosy market town atmosphere.
• Matlock Victorian Christmas Market  (5 – 7 December) – lots of stalls, period charm, and a Victorian atmosphere.

Practical tips:

• Book in advance when required (Chatsworth parking, Haddon Hall tickets).
• Arrive early at the larger markets to avoid queues or sold-out parking.
• Weather planning: Dress in layers; many stalls are outdoors; waterproof shoes help.
• Transport & parking: Use Park & ride where available, or local public transport to city markets.
• Cash & card: Many stalls accept card/contactless, but small vendors may prefer cash.
• Combine visits: It’s possible to pair two markets in one day (e.g. Derby in the morning, plus, Chatsworth in the afternoon).