Winter is a wonderful time to visit Shropshire – the crisp air, twinkling lights, and the market towns around our holiday cottage near Ludlow getting ready for the season. If you’re planning a stay at St Milburga Chapel — our cosy, character-filled Grade II listed holiday cottage — you’ll find some of the region’s loveliest Christmas markets right on your doorstep.
Whether you’re hunting for handmade gifts, warming up with a mulled wine, or simply soaking up the festive atmosphere, here’s our guide to the very best Christmas markets across Shropshire and the Three Counties in 2025.
Ludlow Christmas Market
30 November, 4 December, 18 December — 9am to 4pm
Every Tuesday in December: Tinsel Tuesday
Just ten minutes from the chapel, Ludlow’s historic market square turns into a festive haven throughout December. Expect artisan stalls, local makers, seasonal treats, and plenty of opportunities to pick up something special. And if you’re here on a Tuesday, don’t miss Tinsel Tuesday — the square glows under the Christmas lights, with even more stalls and a wonderfully cheery atmosphere. It’s the sort of place where you’ll “just wander through” and somehow return with half your Christmas shopping done.
Apley Estate Christmas Market
22–23 November, 10am to 4pm
Around 40 minutes from St Milburga Chapel
Apley Estate’s cosy under-cover market is ideal for those who like to start their festive shopping early. Browse handmade crafts, taste local produce, and wander through the excellent farm shop for something delicious to enjoy back at the chapel. A scenic drive and a wonderfully atmospheric day out.
Walcot Hall Christmas Market
Sunday 7 December, 11am to 4pm
Approx. 40 minutes away
Set in the grounds of a grand stately home, Walcot Hall offers one of the most charming Christmas markets in the area. Expect festive food, quality gifts, and even the chance for children to meet Father Christmas in the grotto (booking essential). Adults: £2.50, children: free, Santa visit: £10. A lovely mix of tradition and gentle magic.
Much Wenlock Christmas Fayre
Saturday 6 December, 10am to 5pm
A proper old-fashioned Christmas fayre, full of character and community spirit. Think delicious local food, handmade presents, a male voice choir, Morris dancing, and the Salvation Army band playing carols. It’s everything you want from a traditional winter celebration.
Bridgnorth Christmas Market
Sunday 14 December, 10.30am to 2.30pm
A friendly and relaxed market at Bridgnorth Rugby Club, perfect for local gifts, seasonal treats, and a relaxed festive wander. before heading back to the chapel to warm up.
Shrewsbury Christmas Market
Friday 19 & Saturday 20 December, 9am to 5pm
Shrewsbury’s beautiful Town Square hosts this bustling two-day market filled with food, drink and craft stalls. Enjoy a mulled wine, tuck into street food from around the world, and wander through one of Shropshire’s prettiest towns at Christmastime.
After a full day of festive exploring, there’s nothing better than returning to the warm glow of St Milburga Chapel: slippers on, kettle singing, and Christmas finds spread out on the table. With off-road parking and a free private EV charging point, our Shropshire holiday cottage is the perfect base for exploring winter markets, countryside walks, and everything the region has to offer.