Pop-up shops in London

Shopping for the Ghibli fan in your life just got a whole lot easier this Christmas. A pop-up shop is opening up in Knightsbridge from Saturday November 15 til January 11, 2026, and it's teeming with cuddly friends and licensed memorabilia inspired by the anime universe of Japan's Studio Ghibli. You'll find extremely squeezable plushies of classic Hayao Miyazaki characters like Totoro, No-Face from Spirited Away and Jiji from Kiki’s Delivery Service. There are also models and minifigures, plus lots of other covetable merch, including puzzles, stationery and homewares. Finish off your visit by getting a snap at the Totoro photo opportunity in the window.

Immersive theatre company Secret Theatre are pitching up in Shoreditch this winter with The Nutcracker Noir, but you don't have to fork out for a ticket to sample some of the festive magic on offer at its starting point. The Merry & More Mart at Protein Studios is a sister experience that makes for an atmospheric way to pick up some Christmassy trinkets.  The Mart is packed with independent artisans selling stuff perfect for gifting. Expect London-exclusive candles from Burns by Burns, luxurious Soapsmith soaps, Novice Kitchen’s spicy condiments, and handmade goodies from Mission Kitchen members. Four-legged friends aren’t forgotten either, with Santa Paws offering pooch-friendly toys and drinks. Adding serious food cred, award-winning Utter Waffle takes over for their first East London residency, serving indulgent, entirely gluten-free creations. Warm drinks, from Dubai hot chocolates to mulled wine and gingerbread lattes, help keep the chill at bay. You can also enjoy a festive soundtrack and big visuals to really get you into the Christmas spirit.

If you're passing through King's Cross station in the run-up to Christmas, don't forget to stop by King's Cross Square to pick up some delectable gourmet goodies. Real Food Market's pop-up is on daily during December, offering artisanal delights from cheeseboards to toasted marshmallows to handcrafted gifts. There'll also be a stage for Christmas music, so time it right and you could enjoy a hot chocolate with a seriously festive soundtrack. 

London Bridge is already teeming with spots for foodies, with Borough Market attracting big crowds seeking out mulled wine and fine cheeses as the winter nights draw in. But there's an added lure this December, as Stainer Street (the station walkway between Tooley Street and St Thomas Street) hosts its very own market, courtesy of Real Food Markets. It'll sell all kinds of tempting things from independent designer-makers and artisanal food producers, making it a perfect spot to pick up a present or two - or a warming seasonal snack to munch as you soak up the city's festive atmosphere.

You might think that Camden is too alternative to throw a classic Christmas knees up, but it's 2025 and times have changed at its sprawling, eclectic markets. The shiny new market at Hawley Wharf is the hub of this year's festivities, with tons of family-friendly activities. The Ice Palace Grotto offers a meet-and-greet opportunity with Father Christmas and Mother Christmas, alongside festive crafts, face-painting and decorations (£10 per ticket). The Wharf will also host live musical performances from the Big Sing and Camden Rock Choir. The spirit of the season is also spreading to the rest of the markets, with a shimmering canopy of illuminations suspended over Water Lane, snowflake-themed lights, and of course Christmas trees galore. Perfect for picking up some pressies in festive style, whether you're after classy artisanal homewares or CBD beard oil. 

Turn off Islington's Upper Street and you'll find new shopping spot Islington Square behind two arches laden with festive garlands. It's putting on a special market every Saturday in the run up to Christmas, with a mix of local and specialist traders selling artisanal gifts and food. These include very fancy pet treats from Pure Pet Food, seriously spicy sauces from SB International, and cinnamon buns from Cinnabox. There'll also be special festive promotions at nearby shops, as well as live music to really get you into the Christmas spirit. 

Sometimes, the last weekend before Christmas arrives with a bit of a sinking feeling attached for last-minute shoppers. But before you resign yourself to a panicked trudge round your local high street, don't despair. Black Eats is hosting a special xmas market at Croydon's Boxpark that's full of gifts you can feel good about giving, with a curated selection of fashion, homewares, beauty, art, gifts and more, created by 40+ independent Black-owned brands. There'll be festive drinks and live DJs all weekend, as well as facepainting and activities for kids. Even better, there's a giftwrapping service so you make sure whatever pressie you choose looks picture-perfect on the big day.