The Devon town making waves in a new list of top UK Christmas markets

Totnes has been ranked one of Britain’s top small Christmas markets, recognised for its support of independent traders and makers.

New data from WhichBingo places the town in the top 10 small and medium-sized festive markets for 2025, highlighting events that prioritise local craftspeople and small businesses.

Totnes earned its position for its whole-high-street “indie takeover”, with late-night shopping taking place every Tuesday in December.

A spokesperson for WhichBingo said there had been growing interest in locally made gifts over mass-produced items. “The big Christmas markets are great, but there’s been a real surge in supporting local,” they said. “What better way to celebrate that than by showcasing some of the UK’s best small to medium markets, places where local craftspeople and sellers bring genuine festive spirit to life.”

The study assessed markets across four areas: the proportion of local and independent sellers, community value, social presence, and visitor access. Each category was weighted equally at 25 points.

Researchers drew on organiser information, council listings, tourism boards, and recent event activity, focusing on regional markets known for their emphasis on creativity and sustainability.

Totnes featured alongside events in West Yorkshire, Cambridgeshire, Norfolk, Northumberland, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Derbyshire in the 2025 top 10 list.

The full list includes:

• Totnes Christmas Markets, Devon

• Hebden Makes Christmas, West Yorkshire

• Ely Cathedral Gift & Food Fair, Cambridgeshire

• Kelham Island Victorian Market, Sheffield

• Dalegate Market Pop-Ups, North Norfolk

• Hexham Christmas Market, Northumberland

• Hay-on-Wye Winter Weekend, Wales

• Crieff Christmas Festival, Scotland

• St George’s Twilight Market, Belfast

• Belper Winter Food & Gift Fair, Derbyshire