THE BEST OF
KENT ’ S CHRISTMAS MARKETS
SEASONAL SNEAK PEEKS
SHOP LOCAL THIS FESTIVE SEASON
SEASONALSPECIAL
AS THE LONG WINTER NIGHTS DRAW IN AND THE WEATHER GETS COLDER , THE EXCITEMENT OF CHRISTMAS AND ITS GLITTERING FESTIVITIES PROMISES TO WARM UP OUR SOULS AND BRIGHTEN UP OUR DAYS , AND THERE ’ S NO BETTER WAY OF GETTING INTO THE YULETIDE SPIRIT THAN BY VISITING A MERRY KENTISH CHRISTMAS MARKET .
ROCHESTER CHRISTMAS MARKET
With lamplit Dickensian streets and doorways festooned with holly wreaths , Kent is a magical place in which to enjoy advent , and , unsurprisingly , is packed with bustling festive markets in the lead up to Christmas . As well as traditional outdoor markets , chalet-style huts and trading stalls , Kent is also home to a plethora of independent traders promising visitors some marvellous artisan shopping experiences . Whether you are choosing gifts for a loved-one , wanting to stock up your Christmas parlour with unique delicacies , or simply want to enjoy these special advent festivities that only come once a year , Kent is certain to be the place where you will find your yuletide treasures . From food and drink to clothes and crafts , jewellery and art to sweets and soaps ( plus a whole heap of other things you ’ ve never even dreamt of ), the indie shops , traders and markets come in a diverse array with each one promising their own unique Christmas sparkle .
So , get ready to clutch a mulled wine to warm your cold hands and breathe in the crisp winter air scented with enticing yuletide foods as you fully immerse yourself in the sights , scenes and sounds that are sure to get even the most Scrooge-like characters into the festive spirit - right here in the Garden of England .
Rochester Christmas Market
As one of the most atmospheric of our Christmas markets , Rochester has Mr Dickens to thank . Also known as ‘ The Man Who Invented Christmas ’, Charles Dickens was a constant frequenter of Rochester , with the town appearing in some of his works . Although it did not feature in A Christmas Carol , the enchanting Victorian approach to Christmas floats through Rochester ’ s lamplit streets just like the ghosts from the book . Set in the spectacular Rochester Castle Gardens , the Christmas markets are held over three consecutive weekends , from 26 November until 11 December , Friday to Sunday from 10am . It ’ s the ideal place to search for that special gift and those exciting stocking fillers by wandering around the many craft and trade stalls . Food and drink stalls are available to purchase hot and cold beverages , mulled wine , roasted chestnuts and much more .
After perusing the market , visit The Cheese Room Deli and Café ( www . thecheeseroomrochester . co . uk ) for your chance to buy lots of lovely cheesy things as well as wine , bread , charcuterie and gifts . For continental homeware with a Nordic flair , visit Capture the Castle ( www . capturethecastle . co . uk ) where you will find an eclectic selection of beautiful things for the home to gift friends and family , from decorative throws and cushions to lanterns , lamps and jewellery .
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