TOP CHRISTMAS MARKETS

WADDESDON MANOR

With over 80 wooden chalets set against the backdrop of this fairytale historic home, this is a shopping experience not to be missed.

Producers, makers and craftsmen will offer the very finest and, in many cases, unique gifts. Waddesdon Manor, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire HP18 0JH. 16 Nov-22 Dec. waddesdon.org. uk; 01296 820414

LEEDS CASTLE

A splendid array of seasonal gifts, toys, festive decorations and specialist food and drink will be on offer.

Take a break from the shopping to enjoy the nostalgic fairground rides such as the big wheel for a spectacular view of the castle. Leeds Castle, Maidstone, Kent ME17 IPL. 23 Nov-15 Dec. leeds-castle.com; 01622 765400

MANCHESTER ICE VILLAGE

Consistently voted as one of the best Christmas markets in Europe, Manchester offers the usual artisan shopping experience as well as an unmissable Ice Cavern filled with dazzling ice sculptures.

Head to the Ice Tiki Bar, too, for cocktails served in ice cups!

Ice Village Manchester, Cathedral Gardens, Corporation Street, Manchester M4 3BG.

8 Nov-5 January. icevillage.co.uk

LINCOLNSHIRE FAIR

Sample the best of the county’s produce from award-winning pork pies to speciality cheese, locally made gin to handmade fudge. Have a go at Christmas crafts, too, such as festive pottery painting. Lincolnshire Showground, Grange-de-Lings, Lincoln

LN2 2NA. 30 Nov-1 Dec. lincolnshireshowground.co.uk; 01522 522900