Christmas and gift-giving go hand-in-hand, whether we like it or not, but why get bogged down by crazy High Street shopping when you could be enjoying the calm of a local market or fair? London's got plenty of pop-up fairs and special festive markets planned throughout December that are worth checking out, especially for those last minute buys or unique gifts.

London Bridge City Christmas Market
The annual riverside market is hugely popular, with over 60 independent traders selling everything from handmade presents to boutique accessories. But there's also food stalls, bars and festive workshops to take advantage of.
London Bridge City Pier, Thu 30 Nov to Wed 3 Jan.

Flea at Flat Iron Square
A weekly market with clothing, antiques, homeware and more to browse. Flea team up with the RHS for a festive weekend that includes free workshops, face painting, live music, Santa and a big mix of vintage and makers stalls.
Flat Iron Square, Sat 2 and Sun 3 Dec.

Crafty Fox Market
You'll find prints, textiles, homeware and more at this market that regularly pops up in different venues around London with independent makers and artists from all over the UK in tow. In December, the market will be visiting The Dogstar, the Bussey Building, Geffrye Museum and Mercato Metropolitano.
Various venues, London, Sat 2, Sun 3, Sat 9, Sun 10, Thu 14, Sat 16 Dec.

Sample
A free two-day event with over 70 traders in fashion, textiles, ceramics and handmade designs alongside entertainment, street food, bars and an art installation by designer Charles Jeffrey.
Greenwich Peninsula, Sat 2 and Sun 3 Dec.

The Garmhaus Christmas Pop-up Vintage Market
Garmhaus heads to the capital for the first time, for a vintage pop-up market that will feature top vendors as well as up and coming independent brands. Along with some terrific shopping opportunities, you'll also find Christmas workshops, live art, music, cocktails and delicious treats.
Hoxton Square Bar & Kitchen, Sun 3 Dec.

St John's Hospice Christmas Fayre
A Christmas fair for a good cause; what could be better? Visit St John's Wood High Street for fairground rides, Santa's grotto, Christmas carols and over 50 stalls from local sellers. There's even an ice rink for visitors to enjoy this year.
St John's Wood High Street, Sun 3 Dec.

Hampstead Village Christmas Fair
There's no Hampstead Christmas Festival this year but thankfully, you'll still find this festive fair on the High Street on Sun 3 Dec. Get some shopping done while you're entertained by choirs, musicians, vintage fairground rides and Santa himself.
Hampstead High Street, Sun 3 Dec.

Independent Ceramics Market
A market that showcases over 60 ceramicists and DIY potters, with a variety of exhibitors ranging from current students to established studios, including Turning Earth, Glebe Road Studios, The Kiln Rooms, Ceramics Studio Co-op and others.
Rich Mix, Sun 10 Dec.

Jolly Hobbies Japanese Christmas Market
Join Jolly Hobbies for the seventh edition of their annual Japanese Christmas market, which will include an array of traditional Japanese crockery, arts and crafts, accessories, pottery and more, as well as homemade sushi, bento, curry and sweet treats.
St Mary's Parish Hall, Sun 10 Dec.

Southbank Centre Wintertime Market
Southbank's a pretty special place around Christmas, thanks to the annual Wintertime Festival, which includes shows, markets and tasty food. Head to one of the many wooden chalets to find artisan gifts and stocking fillers that are bound to suit all tastes.
Southbank Centre, until Thu 4 Jan.