Christmas might still be a little way off, but for those who live in Hampshire, plenty of Christmas markets will be popping up soon.

It will be an opportunity for people to purchase Christmas-related crafts and enjoy some street food as the temperatures get a little colder.

Plus, you may even be able to try out an ice rink, go on some funfair rides and see some live music.

With that in mind, we have put together a list of some of the best Christmas markets across the county that you need to explore during the most wonderful time of the year.

Hampshire Christmas Markets for 2024

Southampton Christmas Market

Southampton's Christmas market will take place from Friday, November 15 until Sunday, January 5.

It will be located on Above Bar Street and feature live entertainment and fairground rides, including a traditional horse carousel.

Alongside that, visitors can enjoy plenty of festive stalls selling tasty treats and gifts for the season.

Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market

Winchester Cathedral has confirmed that its Christmas market will begin on Friday, November 22 and run until Sunday, December 22.

Traders at the market will be selling accessories and clothing, arts and crafts, decorations and homeware, food and drink, games and toys.

As always, the market will feature a number of exhibitors, such as Wiltshire Chilli Farm; Tikka Guys; West Wight Alpacas; The Sussex Handmade Soap Company; and The Potting Shed.

Milestones Christmas Market

The Milestones Christmas Market in Basingstoke will be taking place over the weekend of Saturday, November 30 and Sunday, December 1.

There will be more than 40 stalls selling seasonal gifts and treats throughout the museum.

Alongside that, there will be children's entertainment including a chance to meet Santa in his grotto (at an additional cost).

Pre-booking for the market is essential, with tickets being available to purchase on the website here.

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Hawk Conservancy Trust Christmas Market

The Hawk Conservancy Trust in Andover will be hosting a Christmas market from Thursday, November 28 to Saturday, November 30.

More than 60 local businesses will be in attendance selling Christmas decorations, handcrafted treats, beautiful homeware and much more.

Various festive treats will also be available to buy including German Bratwurst, barbecue food and churros.

Tickets for the event can be purchased on the website here or at the door of the venue.

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Petersfield Christmas Festival

Petersfield's Christmas Festival will be taking place over the weekend of Saturday, December 7 and Sunday, December 8.

On Saturday, there will be an evening session lasting from 7pm to 10pm with Christmas music live on stage in the Square.

There will also be family fun and entertainment including lit-up tractors from the Petersfield Charity Tractor Run and the Fitzroy Firewalk with people walking over hot coals.

Meanwhile, on Sunday the actual market will take place from 10am to 4pm featuring more than 100 stalls for people to browse for their Christmas shopping needs.

Live music and entertainment will also be provided during the day.