Shop local this Christmas to support small businesses

The Capital’s festive markets will solve your present-buying woes and support local makers hit hard by Covid-19

(Kings Cross Coal Drops)

‘Shop local’ has been one of the most enduring messages of this turbulent, topsy-turvy year. So its fitting that now the festive season is upon us there’s a whole host of markets popping up across London to showcase some of the best local businesses in need of our help. 

The brand new White Post Lane Makers’ Market is set to bring some festive cheer to Tower Hamlets on 18, 19 and 20 December, from 10am-6pm. This twinkly outside market will bring together some of the East End’s finest independent makers, designers and artists. Expect beautiful gift ideas, artworks, textiles, plants, jewellery, homeware, fashion, records and lots of delicious street food.                                                                                              

The market includes a very Instagrammable grotto, handcrafted by local artists, which will be home to none other than Father Christmas. Visits will be at a suitable social distance, of course.

Over in Kings Cross’ Granary Square, the Christmas under the Canopy market is serving up the very best seasonal food and drink favourites alongside quirky gift ideas and lots of locally sourced products. 

Tuck into hot mince pies, mulled wine and plenty of delicious street food options every day until 20 December, from 10am - 6pm.

Meanwhile every Friday through to Sunday until Christmas, Eccleston Yards just a stone’s throw from Victoria Station will be hosting a festive market with an impressive mix of stalls selling everything from pottery to plants, jewellery and pyjamas.  

Running from 11am to 5pm, there will be live music every day from midday, and food options include Wild by Tart, famous for their charcoal grills and wood oven, Latin American-inspired café Morena, and Jones Family Kitchen, known for its glorious steaks.

Away from the hustle and bustle of central London, Peckham’s hugely popular annual festive market Pexmas market also runs until 20 December. Taking over the vast Copeland Gallery (so plenty of space to keep a social distance),  you’ll find crafts, unique present ideas and warming nosh from more than 50 vendors. 

If you're not able to make it down to south London, you can browse most popular products online.

This Christmas will be difficult for many traders, and we are seeing an increase in the numbers of companies falling day by day, which means getting out to support local has never been more important. As John Biggs, Mayor of Tower Hamlets, says “it has been a difficult year for our markets, so it is vital that we support traders by shopping locally over the festive period.”