The best Christmas markets in the UK for dog owners looking to immerse their furry friends in the festive spirit have been revealed.
Up and down the land flocks of merry-makers have been slurping mulled wine, chomping on gingerbread and buying European seeming wooden toys from yuletide stall-holders.
As strong as the country's Christmas market scene now is, some are less welcoming of dogs than others - a major issue for owners looking to set the festive mood with their pooches.
Luckily, some do welcome pooches. For example, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland and Birmingham's Frankfurt Christmas Markets, which are arguably the biggest in the UK, allow dogs, but they must be under control and on leads at all time.
Below is a list of the seven most dog-friendly Christmas markets in the country, compiled by Big 7 Travel.
Bath Christmas Market
For 25 days from the 24 of November, the streets of Bath are full of dog-friendly Christmas cheer.
Its streets are lined with over 170 chalets which takes punters and their pooches on a walk from the Bath Abbey to the famous Roman Baths.
You’ll be able to witness some of the most wholesome festivities in the West Country, all happily accompanied by a dog enchanted by the stall owners and festive smells they are producing.
The market takes place in the city centre, with the dog friendly Homewood Hotel & Spa a good place to stay if you're making a weekend of it.
Edinburgh Christmas Market
The Edinburgh Christmas Market has everything you could possibly want, including a huge Ferris wheels, stalls selling Scottish wares, and live shows all day long.
Almost everything is dog-friendly (except for the ice rink, for obvious reasons) so it's ideal for families wanting a fun day out with their beloved pet.
The Black Ivy is a very welcoming dog-friendly hotel and restaurant situated only five minutes from the city centre of Edinburgh.
With 21 bedrooms all uniquely fitted with their own look and charm, you will feel right at home with your dogs in tow.
This year Edinburgh's Christmas market is running until January 4, so there's ample opportunity for a festive day out (or some last-minute Christmas shopping!).
London's Winter Wonderland
From ice skating on the UK's biggest ice rink to whizzing around on roller coasters, Winter Wonderland is a fun filled, action packed market in London's iconic Hyde Park.
It's one of the city's largest markets with 200 wooden stalls, food and dining options, rides and heaps of attractions.
There is plenty for your dog to enjoy too – and you could even pick up a few handmade dog treats and warm winter coats they will love.
That being said, it can get quite busy. If your dog is nervous in crowds, perhaps try and come during the day, as the market is typically most popular in the evenings.
A good dog friendly place to stay is The Rubens at the Palace, a gorgeous 4-star hotel minutes away from Buckingham Palace.
Winchester Christmas Market
The charming Winchester Cathedral is regularly hailed as one of the best in Europe, and it's not difficult to see why.
The city really knows how to do Christmas, and your furry friends will love all the smells and tastes - including those from a stall specially tailored towards dogs.
If it all becomes too much of a sensory overload for your pooch, then a walk into the stunning South Downs way my be in order.
Oxford Christmas Market
Oxford is one of the most picturesque places in the whole of the UK all year round, but comes into its particularly charming own at Christmas time.
Your dog will love the endless smells and attention they get from pottering around this market.
The Randolph Hotel is a famous hotel in the heart of Oxford and takes inspiration from the University of Oxford’s rich history.
The stained glass windows, incredible staircase and general architecture look like something out of a picture book – and it is all dog friendly.
