Five reasons why you need to spend Christmas at King's Cross and Coal Drops Yard

It's not much of a Christmas destination without an abundance of Christmas markets, is it? And that's something King's Cross does exceptionally well. With a line-up filled to the brim with festive markets running from 27 November to 22 December 2025, you're in for a real treat. A few highlights include this year's headliner, Charity Super.Mkt, returning to Coal Drops Yard with a special Christmas pop-up and supporting vital causes like Traid, The British Heart Foundation, Havens Hospices and Fight for Sight. Then there's the Wine Car Boot, with visitors enjoying the unique opportunity to sample wines from a host of independent wine makers. And if that's not enough, there's a total of 10 markets dropping across December. Sleigh.

The temperature's dropped, and roast season is finally upon us, so you'll be pleased to know you can find many a delicious Sunday roast in King’s Cross. But if you're not in the market for a roast (surely not), King's Cross is well known for its delectable choice of upscale restaurants, alongside its vibey casual hangout spots. From Caravan's well-travelled food and The Lighterman's killer menu (and views) to Lafayette's NOLA-inspired space, you're spoilt for festive food choices this Christmas.

While you might have sorted much of your present shopping at the Christmas markets, sometimes we just need the oh-so-faithful brands to pull us through. And that's where Coal Drops Yard comes in. Discover a well-curated, eclectic range of over 50 big brands and independent boutiques, including Earl of East, Uniqlo and Sostrene and Grene. Oh, and don't miss the Lower Stable Street Christmas Market from Thursday to Sunday either – it might just round off the last of that Christmas gift list.

It's no secret that King's Cross and the Coal Drops Yard are home to some pretty epic bars and pubs – and this Christmas season is no exception. The self-proclaimed 'favourite neighbourhood bar', Electric Shuffle, offers a bar doused in retro glamour and good vibes – while The Drop, tucked away under the arches, is where you’ll find an impressive wine list and perfectly poured Guinness. But if you're looking for something exceptionally festive, opt for the floating mulled wine pop-up on Regent's Canal, The Copper Quay, where you can enjoy spiced mulled wine, seasonal bites and a magically festive atmosphere across the board.

Returning to Coal Drops Yard for another Christmas season is the Club Curling lounge, bringing with it a sense-ational activity that explores 'how we use our senses to experience the most magical time of year'. Oo-er. Designed in collaboration with Professor Barry Smith and Professor Ophelia Deroy, the Club Curling Lounge will host a fun and festive series of science experiences centred around our senses during the Christmas season. As for the curling, the vibes are unmatched. Team up with five of your best pals and give it a whirl (or curl) in your 50-minute session, followed by festive cocktails in a vintage Italian ski setting, inspired by this year's Lo Spirto del '56 theme. Ice, ice baby.

Find out more about Christmas at King's Cross here.