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<\/p>\nBrits looking to discover new destinations around Europe this winter should look towards the Eurostar which can transport you to festive cities across the continent within just a couple of hours. One of the often overlooked destinations Brits can reach via the speedy train out of London St Pancras is Lille, in France.<\/p>\n
Lille is a city full of great history, beautiful buildings and delicious food, but it\u2019s particularly magical at the end of each year when its Christmas market opens for guests. It takes less than an hour and a half to reach the city on the Eurostar meaning it\u2019s a great choice for a quick getaway abroad! <\/p>\n
The Christmas market in Lille runs from November 22 to December 30 and while it\u2019s smaller than some other markets like London\u2019s Winter Wonderland or the Marienplatz market in Munich it\u2019s still worth a visit or even a day trip. It\u2019s full of stalls selling handcrafted gifts perfect for the family from snow globes and tree decor to candles.<\/p>\n
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Plus, there\u2019s lots of delicious food and drink on offer including mulled wine, gingerbread and chocolate pralines. Guests who visit the markets on Fridays are in for a treat as there are live music concerts under the twinkling Christmas lights. Children can enjoy a ride on the ponies at the market and there\u2019s a Ferris wheel that lets you enjoy views of the city. Of course, there\u2019s an enormous Christmas tree to take selfies next to.<\/p>\n
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The Lille Christmas market is located right in the centre of the city, with about 90 stalls on Place Rihour while the tree and Ferris wheel are by the Grand Palace also known as Place du G\u00e9n\u00e9ral de Gaulle. If you want to turn a day trip into a long weekend then there's lots more to explore in Lille.<\/p>\n
You can visit the Natural History Museum which holds both zoological and geological collections. Alternatively, wander the Old Town to gaze at the gorgeous Flemish buildings and enjoy the local cafe culture.<\/p>\n
The Palais des Beaux Arts is said to hold one of the best art collections in France, behind only the Louvre, while those who love contemporary art should head to the TriPostal. Of course, for those who prefer to relax there's plenty of bars and restaurants and PintPrice claims a pint costs around \u00a34.24.<\/p>\n
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There's also lots of shopping to enjoy from the high street names on Rue de Bethune to luxury goods on Vieux Lille. A number of markets including a second hand book market and an antiques market are held periodically in the city.<\/p>\n
Staying overnight in Lille doesn't have to be expensive either \u2013 the cheapest stay we found was a room in a homestay priced at just \u00a328 for two on booking.com. You can't get much better value than \u00a314 each per night. <\/p>\n
Those who would prefer a hotel room will need to shell out a touch more, but there are some great options from the Hotel Continental to Le Napoleon which both have nights from just \u00a349. You can book Eurostar tickets from London to Lille from \u00a351. <\/p>\n