Introduction
Get ready for a truly magical experience as the banks of the River Thames transform into a festive wonderland. Winter by the River 2025, held at London Bridge City, returns on 13 November 2025, inviting visitors to wander along frosted riverside paths, explore artisan market stalls, savour global street food, and soak up the holiday cheer with London’s iconic skyline as a backdrop.
With views of Tower Bridge, twinkling lights, and the gentle flow of the Thames, this Christmas market is one of the most atmospheric festive destinations in London.
What to Expect
Dates & Times
13 Nov 2025 – 4 Jan 2026
Daily trading: 11:00 – 22:00
Christmas Eve & New Year’s Eve: adjusted hours
Christmas Day: closed
Location
London Bridge City, SE1 2DB
Riverside stretch between London Bridge Station and the Tower of London
Easily accessible from London Bridge Tube & Rail, Monument, and nearby stations
Key Features & Atmosphere
Wooden chalets with handmade crafts, giftware, and seasonal décor
Street-food stalls and riverside bars serving mulled wine, festive bites, and international cuisine
Stunning views of Tower Bridge and the city skyline
Live music, choirs, pop-ups, photo spots, and festive installations
🎟️ Plan Your Visit & Nearby Attractions
Winter by the River is perfectly located for combining festive food with iconic London experiences — all within walking distance.
🎡 Tower Bridge Exhibition - Tower Bridge Exhibition tickets
🚢 Thames River Sightseeing Cruise - Thames River Cruise London tickets
🗼 The View from The Shard - The View from The Shard tickets
Must-Do Experiences
Sample Festive Food & Drink
Start with mulled wine or hot cider as you stroll the riverside
Try gourmet waffles, raclette, or bratwurst from international food stalls
Pick up a handmade gift and wrap it in festive packaging — because why not?
Shop for Unique Gifts
Browse artisanal candles, wood-crafts, bespoke décor, and quirky homeware
Look out for social-enterprise stalls and gift-for-good options
Soak in the Festive Atmosphere
Visit at twilight to see the lights come on and the skyline glow
Enjoy live performances or relax riverside with a warm treat
🗺️ Do More Nearby
Already out in central London? Turn your visit into a full festive day or evening.
🎭 West End Theatre Shows - West End Theatre tickets London
🍷 London Food & Drink Walking Tours - London Food Tour
🏛️ Historic London Walking Tours - London Walking Tour
Insider Tips for Visitors
Arrive before 17:00 for more space and daylight; after dark the atmosphere is magical
Dress warmly — layers, gloves, and comfortable shoes are essential
Use public transport: London Bridge Station is the easiest access point
Set a meeting point if visiting with friends or family — the market is long and scenic
Budget for food and souvenirs — offerings are premium but worth it
Check event listings for special performances or workshops that may require early arrival
Why This Market Stands Out
Unlike some larger big-brand Christmas markets, Winter by the River delivers a more boutique, riverside experience with some of the best festive views in London. The mix of iconic scenery, quality artisan traders, and festive food makes it a must-visit for both locals and visitors. It consistently appears in top London Christmas market lists for 2025.
Conclusion
If you’re planning a festive outing, food-focused trip, or seasonal experience in London, Winter by the River 2025 truly ticks every box. From warming street food and thoughtful handmade gifts to golden-hour views and a riverside setting that feels genuinely special, it’s one of the most atmospheric Christmas markets in the city.
At Food Marketplace, our mission is to help you discover the best food markets across the UK — from iconic riverside Christmas markets like this one to hidden local gems worth travelling for. We bring together market guides, vendor stories, and nearby experiences so you can plan where to eat, what to explore, and how to make the most of your visit.
Mark the dates — 13 November to 4 January — wrap up warm, bring friends or family, and step into the festive scene by the Thames.
See you at the market, with a hot drink in one hand, a gift in the other, and city lights reflecting on the river.
Discover more food markets, seasonal guides, and experiences at Food Marketplace — putting every food market on the map.