The official start of the festive season is nearly upon us! Greenwich kicks off its Christmas celebrations on Wednesday 19 November with the return of the popular Lantern Parade and Christmas Lights Switch-On.

Don’t miss this much-loved annual event that begins with the 4pm procession of schoolchildren who light up the streets of Greenwich with their handmade lanterns. Watch as they weave their way to the Market for the 5pm Christmas lights switch-on when the Market glows and sparkles with festive cheer.

Greenwich Market will be open from 10am to 6pm that day (10am to 5:30pm on other days), making it the perfect time to get ahead on your Christmas shopping. Our friendly traders and creators can help you find a gift for even the pickiest of Secret Santas.

With a diverse range of artistic prints, handmade crafts and unique accessories – many of which can be personalised – Greenwich Market is the best place in London to buy one-of-a-kind presents this Christmas.

Be inspired to start your shopping with this gift guide. After all, Greenwich Market is where London’s most authentic makers and flavours meet.

Gifts to help stay warm this winter

Snuggle up warm with cuddly toys, hypoallergenic hats and cosy jumpers all made from alpaca wool at Alpaca Emporio. These soft fluffy accessories are the ideal heartwarming present for all the cool people in your life. Keep those fingers toasty and stylish this winter with the unique designs of Suzie Lee Knitwear’s 100% lambs wool hand warmers. Edgy Threads has a range of crochet items using recycled materials that have been hand-woven to perfection, and there’s more crochet at Handmade by Sue Jenkins, the perfect spot for gorgeous baby clothes, booties and cuddlies made from environmentally-friendly natural yarns.

Make any room feel like home with candles, ceramics and prints

Pick up a hand-poured candle or diffuser created by Pergola London. This family-run business is committed to using cruelty-free products that smell simply fantastic, bringing warmth and elegance wherever you use them. Find beautiful porcelain, stoneware and clay at Harbour Pots, selling functional and decorative ceramics made by hand in Greenwich. Shopping for a Londoner or looking for the perfect Greenwich souvenir? Catford Creates, with stunning screen prints and gold-leaf maps inspired by the city, has the ultimate gift for you.

Unique and unusual presents for that special someone

Design lovers will adore a present from Teabird, which sells a range of soy wax candles in antique British tea cups from different periods of design and craft history. Upcycled oyster shells by Quirky Pixie Decor make the perfect decorative gift to hold all your trinkets, available in a range of sizes, patterns and colours. Find beautiful hand-crafted bird-themed ornaments and coasters, made from responsibly-sourced wood, at The Things From Trees. There are memorable gifts galore at Paper Wonderland, where simple paper is transformed into 3D art to create magical light boxes and pop-up cards. Need something to make a statement? Visit Agnes Creations for colourful fabrics and African-inspired arts, crafts and jewellery.

Mindful and handmade crafts that show thought and care

If you are looking for something truly authentic and genuine, Greenwich Market is THE place to find it in London. For babies and young children, look no further than Little Loomers where charming animal-themed cotton dolls are lovingly made by hand. The unique designs and beautiful colourful prints, created by sisters Sam and Laura, encourage interaction and imaginative play. Pick from one-of-a-kind treasures at Laura’s Hand Jewellery with resin bangles, earrings and rings that are all hand-painted. For the spiritual people in your life, stop by Corrine Creates for candles, trinkets and a range of handmade jewellery.

Stomach rumbling? Here are the best things to eat at Greenwich Market

Once you’ve worked up an appetite with all that Christmas shopping, treat yourself to something delicious from our range of foods from around the world. Check out Chai Junction for authentic Indian flatbreads that use fresh, simple and tasteful ingredients. Try Turkish shish kebabs from Rumbling Flame, traditional Chinese food at Yee-Dim Sum or the bold and authentic flavors of Persian street food at Persian Delights. Got a sweet tooth? Don’t worry, from Doreen’s Jamaican Homemade Rum Cakes to Milktree Gelato, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings.

For creative and thoughtful presents, delicious food, and a local community vibe, make Greenwich Market your one-stop-shopping experience this Christmas.