Southbank Centre Winter Market 2025–2026 – Last Days Guide (Closes 4 January 2026)
The festive season may be ending, but one of London’s most atmospheric winter food markets is still glowing by the Thames — for a few final days only.
Southbank Centre Winter Market 2025–2026 is now in its closing stretch, making this the perfect moment for one last riverside walk, comforting street food, and classic winter views before the market closes for the season.
If you missed it before Christmas or simply want to savour the final festive atmosphere, this guide covers what to eat, when to go, and what to explore nearby before the market wraps up on Sunday 4 January 2026.
When Does Southbank Centre Winter Market Close?
The Southbank Centre Winter Market 2025–2026 officially closes on Sunday 4 January 2026, marking the end of the Christmas and winter market season along the Thames.
After this date, the wooden chalets are removed and the riverside returns to its regular layout until next winter. The final weekend (Friday 2 January to Sunday 4 January 2026) is especially popular, attracting visitors who want one last festive experience in London.
Opening Times in the Final Days (January 2026)
Standard Opening Hours
Craft stalls: late morning to evening
Food stalls: late morning to late evening
Bars: open later into the night
New Year Period Changes (2025–2026)
Closed on key festive dates around Christmas Day and New Year
Reopens for the final run in early January 2026
Late opening days during the final weekend before closing
What to Eat at Southbank Centre Winter Market
Southbank Centre Winter Market is one of London’s most food-focused festive markets, known for its international street food, warming winter dishes, and indulgent desserts served along Queen’s Walk.
Cuisine Types at Southbank Centre Winter Market
One of the biggest strengths of the market is its wide range of cuisines, making it easy to find something you’ll love — whether you want comfort food, global flavours, or sweet winter treats.
American & Comfort Food
Baked Bird (American | Halal)
Hearty American-style comfort food, perfect for a filling winter meal.Bang Bang Burger (Burger | Vegan, Vegetarian)
Bold-flavoured burgers with strong plant-based options.
Burgers & Hot Dogs
Bang Bang Burger (Burger | Vegan, Vegetarian)
Oh My Dog Hot Dogs (Hot Dogs | Vegan)
Ideal for quick, satisfying street food while strolling along the river.
Mexican & Latin American
Yorkshire Burrito (Mexican | Vegan)
A Yorkshire twist on a classic burrito — filling, warming, and fully plant-based.Pabellón (Venezuelan | Vegetarian, Vegan)
Venezuelan comfort food with rich flavours and inclusive dietary options.
Asian & Nepalese Flavours
Chulo (Nepalese | Vegetarian)
Warming, spice-led Nepalese street food — ideal for cold January evenings.
Duck & Speciality Savoury Dishes
The Duck Shed (Duck | Vegan options available)
Indulgent duck dishes alongside vegan alternatives for a flexible choice.
Sweet Treats & Desserts
Blondies Kitchen (Cookies)
Freshly baked cookies and dessert-style treats.Chocolate Kiss (Chocolate | Vegetarian, Halal)
Rich chocolate desserts, perfect for winter cravings.LOS CHURROS AMIGOS (Churros)
Freshly fried churros — a classic winter market favourite.Stacked Dutch Pancakes (Dutch Pancakes | Vegetarian, Vegan)
Mini pancakes with sweet toppings, including vegan options.
Coffee & Hot Drinks
Bean & Blend Coffee Co (Coffee)
Coffee, hot chocolate, and warm drinks — essential for January visits.
Dietary-Friendly Options at a Glance
Vegan Options
Southbank is one of the most vegan-friendly winter markets in London.
Vegan food is available at:
The Duck Shed (vegan options)
Vegetarian Options
Vegetarian choices are widely available, including:
Halal-Friendly Food
Halal options are available at:
Best Time to Visit in the Final Days (January 2026)
For Photos & a Relaxed Walk
Weekday daytime visits in early January are calmer, with better photo opportunities along the Thames.
For Atmosphere & Lights
Evenings bring festive lighting and a cosy riverside buzz, especially during the final weekend.
Final Weekend Tips
From 2–4 January 2026, expect higher footfall. Arriving earlier helps avoid queues and ensures better food choice.
Things to Do Near Southbank Centre Winter Market
One of Southbank’s biggest advantages is how easily you can combine food, sightseeing, and entertainment during the last days of Christmas 2025–2026.
London Eye
Distance: approx. 0.6 miles / 1 km – 10–15 minute walk
One of London’s most iconic landmarks, offering panoramic views across the Thames, Westminster, and the city skyline.
🎟️ Get your ticket before it sells out during the last days of Christmas 2025–2026.
Thames River Cruise
Distance: approx. 0.4 miles / 650 m – 8–10 minute walk
A relaxing way to see London’s landmarks from the water while staying warm, ideal after a market visit.
🎟️ Book early — final festive-season sailings in January 2026 fill up fast.
The London Dungeon
Distance: approx. 0.5 miles / 800 m – 8–10 minute walk
An interactive, actor-led experience that brings London’s darker history to life through live shows, special effects, and rides — great for teens and adults.
🎟️ Popular in the final holiday week — advance booking recommended.
SEA LIFE London Aquarium
Distance: approx. 0.5 miles / 800 m – 8–10 minute walk
A family-friendly attraction featuring sharks, rays, penguins, and immersive underwater tunnels. Ideal for visitors exploring Southbank with children or looking for an indoor activity during winter.
🎟️ Tickets often sell out during the school holidays — book in advance.
London: 5 Top Attractions Pass (Best Value Option)
Distance: attractions included are all within walking distance or a short ride from Southbank Centre
If you’re planning to visit more than one attraction, this combined attractions pass is often the cheapest and easiest option during the final days of Christmas.
With one ticket, you can explore 5 of London’s top attractions, including:
Instead of booking individual tickets, this pass lets you save money, skip repeated booking steps, and plan multiple experiences around your Southbank visit.
Planning Your Visit with Food Marketplace
Before heading out in January 2026, use Food Marketplace to:
Explore all Southbank Centre Winter Market vendors
Plan what to eat before arriving
Stay informed about seasonal updates
Final Thoughts – One Last Riverside Winter Walk (2026)
Southbank Centre Winter Market’s final days in early January 2026 are your last chance to enjoy this festive riverside atmosphere before the season ends. It’s the perfect way to close out winter in London with great food, Thames views, and nearby attractions.
When the chalets come down, the food journey doesn’t stop. Just nearby, Southbank Centre Food Market continues as a year-round outdoor market, and many of the same vendors trade there and at other markets across London and the UK. On Food Marketplace, you can discover where these traders appear next, what they sell, and explore food markets in every season.
Wrap up warm, enjoy the final stroll — and keep discovering food markets beyond winter.
