Birmingham Christmas Markets Open Ahead of Five-Day Rail Shutdown
Birmingham's Frankfurt Christmas Market and Christmas in Cathedral Square opened on Thursday, 5 November, bringing two festive events back to the city centre. Visitors can browse German food stalls, independent crafts and evening entertainment until Christmas Eve. But anyone hoping to visit on the final day faces an unusual complication: Birmingham New Street will have no train services throughout 24–28 December because of major engineering work.
Where to Find Birmingham's Christmas Markets
- Dates: Both markets run 5 November–24 December 2026.
- Frankfurt market: Victoria Square, New Street and High Street; free entry, no booking.
- Hours: Monday–Thursday 11:00–21:00; Friday 11:00–21:30; Saturday 10:00–21:30; Sunday 10:00–21:00.
- Exception: Opens at 13:00 on 8 November.
- Cathedral Square: Beside St Philip's Cathedral; Monday–Wednesday 11:00–21:00, Thursday–Saturday 11:00–21:30, Sunday 12:00–21:00. Closes at 19:00 on Christmas Eve.
- Getting there: New Street, Moor Street and Snow Hill are nearby.
The rail closure affects every train to, through or from Birmingham New Street on 24–28 December, with services due back on 29 December. The station building and Grand Central will remain accessible. London Northwestern services from Euston will terminate at Birmingham International, with replacement buses into the city; other operators will use different interchange stations. National Rail has published route-by-route alternatives for affected bookings.
There is more to see beyond the two markets. A covered ice rink and Big Wheel return to Centenary Square, staying open until 3 January except Christmas Day. Standard skating costs £11.50 off-peak or £14 at peak times, with sessions lasting 45 minutes; booking online is recommended. Big Wheel rides cost £7–£8. Nearby Birmingham Cathedral also welcomes visitors to see its stained-glass windows.
The markets are both within walking distance of the city's central railway stations, making a short visit straightforward before the Christmas closure. On 24 December, however, reaching Birmingham by train will mean a different station or a replacement bus. At the Frankfurt market, keep the green token handed over with your drinks: returning it with an undamaged cup or glass gets your deposit back.