I'm looking for the start of Christmas markets primarily around London and up to Scotland. We are planning to leave the US around 20 Nov and return in approximately 2 weeks. Is this to early to leave? Thanks
Here is a web page with dates/locations of markets.
http://www.christmasmarkets.com/UK.html
I LOVE the UK Christmas markets. Bath has a large one- very nice. Cardiff and York have slightly smaller ones, but lots of local craftsmen. Canterbury's is also good. Edinburgh usually has had a "German" style market- good for finding ornaments and hand crafted toys. Windsor usually has a "French" market with excellent fresh baked goods, cheeses, and some leather items and a few other booths. London has been hit or miss for us- but the usual markets (Covent Garden, Camden Locks, etc.) make up for that.
Manchester is one of the biggest and best. I lived there for five years and never missed it. Your timing is perfect for that. Roger