Portsmouth Christmas Market 2026 & Lights Switch-On

Most people visit Portsmouth for the Historic Dockyard or the Spinnaker Tower, but the Portsmouth Christmas Market gives the waterfront city a different reason to visit in winter. The stalls and lights switch-on add a seasonal layer to a city that already has plenty to fill a day trip from London or Southampton.

Portsmouth Christmas Market 2026

Dates

Status: Expected, based on previous years
Portsmouth dates: 21st November to 30th December 2026
Last checked: July 2026

Update: Last year’s dates were announced in October. Sign up for our newsletter to be notified of changes.

Source: Verified by Ultimate Christmas Markets via Portsmouth City Council.

Plan Your Visit

Location and Times

Location: Commercial Road.
Opening times: 11am to 6pm.
Christmas Day: Closed.

Travel and Accommodation

Recommended tour: Old Portsmouth historical walking tour.
Public transport: Train: Portsmouth and Southsea Station.
Parking: Please take public transport to help limit congestion. NCP Portsmouth Market Way is nearby.
Where to stay: Royal Maritime Hotel is near the harbour.

Convenient Hotels

Although it’s an 18-minute walk to Commercial Road, I highly recommend the Royal Maritime Hotel for its highly rated service and comfortable rooms. You could also take the train from Portsmouth Harbour station to the city centre.

Recommended Tours

With its historic dockyard and iconic landmarks, Portsmouth has plenty to explore. A city tour with a local guide enables you to see many of the city’s highlights.

The Old Portsmouth historical walking tour takes you through 900 years of history, from the area’s darker past to its cultural heritage, as a passionate local guide brings the city’s stories to life.

Discover more places to visit with my UK Christmas Markets guide.

Event Location

Wrapped up your Christmas visit? We’d love to hear about your experience. Share your story and tag photos with #UltimateChristmasMarkets on social media.

What to Expect

Explore the wooden cabins lining the city centre, featuring a mix of local makers, producers and vintage finds. Enjoy a range of offerings, from German sausages and glühwein to stockings, tree decorations, and personalised baubles.

Join the festivities at the Christmas Lights Switch On Parties over 3 days in November. Discover unique gifts at the Love Southsea Market on Palmerston Road, featuring treats and creations from local designer-makers.

Food Specialties

• Fish and Chips: A classic British dish typically featuring freshly caught local fish, deep-fried in a crispy batter, served with chunky chips.
• Mulled Cider: Warm spiced cider made from local apples, available from vendors specialising in regional drinks, particularly popular in colder months.
• Bratwurst: German-style sausages, grilled and served in fresh buns.
• Portsmouth Pasty: A local twist on the Cornish pasty, filled with ingredients sourced from nearby farms.
• Artisanal Cheese: Cheeses produced by local dairies, ranging from soft brie style to hard cheddar.
• Portsmouth-made Fudge: Handmade fudge sold by local confectioners, including traditional vanilla and sea salt caramel.
• Local Seafood: Fresh oysters, crab, and other seafood caught off the Portsmouth coast, available at select stalls.
• Vegan Bakes: Eco-conscious vendors offering plant-based cakes and pastries.

Gifts and Stocking Fillers

• Crafts: Locally crafted items like ship models, seafaring memorabilia and nautical home décor.
• Portsmouth Gin: Locally distilled gin with unique botanicals.
• Handcrafted Jewellery: Local jewellers craft unique pieces, including necklaces and rings.
• Upcycled Items: Gifts crafted from reclaimed maritime materials, including old boat wood and recycled rope.
• Art Prints and Photography: Prints and photos of Portsmouth landmarks and seascapes.
• Books: Works by authors based in Portsmouth, available at book stalls, ranging from local history and culture to contemporary fiction.
• Woollen Goods: Scarves, mittens, socks and hats made from British wool.
• Gourmet Food Hampers: Packed with local produce such as artisanal cheeses, homemade jams and chutneys, locally brewed ales, and other regional specialities.

Sustainability Tips

• Eco-Friendly Hotels: Look for hotels that utilise renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind power. Some hotels in Portsmouth are committed to reducing their environmental impact through energy-efficient practices and waste reduction.
• Minimise Food Waste: Share larger meals at local eateries or order smaller portions. Many restaurants in Portsmouth participate in initiatives aimed at reducing food waste.
• Ethical Shopping: Purchase items made by local craftspeople, such as ceramics, textiles, or artwork, to support the community and minimise the environmental impact of importing goods.
• Vegetarian and Vegan Dining: Try the vegetarian or vegan options at Portsmouth’s local eateries.
• Public Transportation: Utilise Portsmouth’s buses, trains, or rental bicycles to explore the city. The Park & Ride service provides a convenient way to reduce car use in busy areas.
• Explore on Foot: Portsmouth’s compact city centre is best explored by walking. Discover local attractions like the Historic Dockyard or Southsea Castle without needing transport.

Comment below if you want to leave a Xmas review, have any questions or would like to report any inaccuracies.

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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. While we make every effort to provide accurate information, the dates and details listed here should not be relied upon as definitive. Please consult the official website before booking your trip or planning a visit.