As the countdown to Christmas begins, get in the mood by visiting one of the many festive markets taking place across Yorkshire this year. By Olive Jabra

YORK CHRISTMAS MARKET

November 14th – December 22nd

York is about to get even more magical with the arrival of its annual chalet-lined market. Wander down the shambles then wrap round onto Parliament Street to indulge in some serious Christmas retail therapy. Support some real local businesses and creators at this market and get lost within the castle walls. Christmas really does come alive in this city .

HARROGATE CHRISTMAS FAYRE

November 29th – December 15th

Experience the joy of Christmas in the heart of Yorkshire this December. Harrogate’s famous Christmas Market returns to the town centre for 17 days of festive shopping opportunities from an eclectic mix of local traders and traditional European Christmas stalls. The Candy cane express train will be returning every weekend, during the fayre, so hop on and whizz round the town centre. Try some festive samples and squeeze in some last minute Christmas shopping!

CHRISTMAS MARKET AT PIECE HALL, HALIFAX

November 15th – December 22nd

Not only is Piece Hall a must see attraction all year round, it’s definitely one to visit over the six weekends during the build up to Christmas. At this market, you’ll find something for everybody, including a cute gift for your furry friends. Tuck into mouthwatering street food or warm up with a seasonal beverage, maybe even take a whirl on the traditional Victorian carousel.

(The Christmas Market will be open on Fridays and Saturdays from 10am until 8pm, and on Sundays from 10am until 4pm)

LEEDS CHRISTMAS MARKET

22nd November  – 22nd December

This year’s market will be bigger and better, new and improved, covering just two prime locations in the city centre: Millennium Square and City Square. With an additional weekend market on Bond Court. As well as the huge variety of unique gifts, crafts and selection of food, there will be an independent market on every weekend to celebrate independent creators. And to top off the festivities, we will see the return of the iconic skating rink and who doesn’t love one of those?

KNARESBOROUGH CHRISTMAS MARKET

2nd and 3rd December

The beautiful cobbled town of Knaresborough is full of winding streets and quaint architecture, but it is transformed into a winter wonderland for the first weekend in December. There are brass bands, singers and dancers to keep you entertained as you shop.

This market is just the place to get into the Christmas spirit and to pick out a few Christmas presents in the run up to the big day. Explore the stalls and see what goodies you can uncover and take in that fantastic Christmas tree in the heart of the town over a glass of warming mulled wine.

SKIPTON YULETIDE FESTIVAL & CHRISTMAS MARKET

3rd and 10th December

Steeped in history, Skipton hosts one of the most popular and award winning Christmas markets in the area. The bustling market runs the entire length of the high street and incudes a centre piece of live music and is surrounded by a large array of charming market stalls. Grab a mince pie and mulled wine and linger near the Holy Trinity Church for their traditional carol service.