Manchester's Christmas Markets have ended for 2025. While some traders reported their worst year in 20 years, others saw strong sales. Read the full story on the festive season's economic impact.
The Competition and Markets Authority has ordered Sunderland's Hays Travel to pause integrating Polka Dot and Millington Travel. Read the full details of the investigation.
The UK's competition watchdog says drivers are likely overpaying for fuel due to high retailer margins. A new 'fuel finder' scheme aims to boost transparency and competition.
The UK competition watchdog finds fuel retailers' profit margins remain 'persistently high', with weak competition keeping pump prices up. New fuel finder scheme aims to empower motorists.
A new CMA report warns UK petrol and diesel drivers face persistently high fuel margins that cannot be explained by operating costs. Find out what this means for pump prices.
A first-time visitor to Birmingham's Christmas Market shares her experience of overwhelming crowds, relentless rain, and severe travel disruption. Discover why she plans to avoid the festive event in future.
Traditional UK folklore suggests the weather on Christmas Day can predict Easter's conditions, often in reverse. Discover the old sayings linking festive forecasts to spring weather and crop yields.
The government's £3 bus fare cap, extended to 2027, makes Christmas markets and New Year's Eve fireworks accessible and affordable. Discover routes and savings.
West Midlands Police increase patrols in Birmingham city centre after reports of anti-social behaviour and a firework incident. A dispersal order is now in place.
The UK's competition watchdog has launched a formal investigation into Associated British Foods' purchase of Hovis. The outcome could reshape the British bread market. Read the full details.
Time is running out to experience Birmingham's Frankfurt Christmas Market 2025. The festive attraction departs on Christmas Eve. Discover what's still on offer for your last-minute visit.
Jet2 announces eight 'fairytale' Christmas market destinations from Birmingham Airport for Winter 2026/27, including new flights to Copenhagen. Book your festive getaway.
West Midlands Police launch Winter in Action initiative with specialist officers to tackle knife crime and reassure visitors to Birmingham's Christmas Markets. Senior officers urge public not to fear the city centre.
Jet2 announces a brand-new festive route from Birmingham Airport to Copenhagen's Christmas markets for Winter 2026/27, expanding its seasonal offerings. Book your magical getaway now!
Parents in Birmingham are expressing deep concern over letting their children visit the city's Christmas Markets alone, following a spate of knife crime. Discover their fears and police safety advice.
Discover the three main contrasts between Birmingham's huge German Christmas Market and the Cathedral Square craft market. Plan your perfect festive visit with our guide.
From Transylvanian traders to economic impact, we explore the love-hate relationship with Birmingham's sprawling Frankfurt Christmas Market. Discover the facts and share your thoughts.
The new Cotswolds Designer Outlet near the M5 celebrates its first Christmas with festive markets, big discounts, and family activities. Find all your gifts under twinkling lights.
Discover Cheltenham's festive magic with four unique Christmas markets, an ice rink, and independent shopping, just a 35-minute train ride from Birmingham. Plan your perfect Christmas day out.
The Independent ranks Leicester's festive market 12th in the UK. Discover its dates, stalls, and the West Midlands favourites also on the list.
Kelly Osbourne receives Lord Mayor's Award for late father Ozzy and reveals her family's heartfelt Birmingham Christmas market tradition with son Sidney. Read her touching tribute.
The Independent's guide to the UK's best festive markets features Birmingham's Frankfurt Christmas Market and Worcester Christmas Fayre. Discover dates, highlights, and what makes them special.
A new poll reveals over half of Gen Z add ketchup or mayo to their Christmas dinner, with many choosing hot sauce over gravy. Subway marks the trend with free sauce baubles.
Discover how Birmingham's Christmas celebrations have transformed over the last century through 26 nostalgic photographs showing festive markets, decorations and community spirit.
Birmingham's two Christmas markets go head-to-head in our festive comparison. Discover which market offers the best food, gifts and atmosphere this winter season.
Discover five magical Christmas markets across the West Midlands this December 2025. From Birmingham's Cathedral Square to a Victorian market in Sutton Coldfield, find unique gifts and festive fun.
Discover Alcester, a charming Warwickshire town offering a traditional Christmas with timber-framed buildings, twinkling lights, and festive events like St. Nicholas Night.
Kennedy's Pub opens its doors in Moseley, Birmingham, offering live sport, music, and classic food. Visit the new community hub from Friday 28th November.
Merry Hill announces extended Christmas shopping hours, a new North Pole Express with Santa, and a festive artisan market. Plan your visit to the West Midlands centre now!
Discover why Stratford-upon-Avon's traditional Victorian Christmas market is a cheaper, more atmospheric alternative to Birmingham's for 2025. Plan your festive visit now!