Londoners were treated to a delightful surprise as the festive season began on London’s Southbank with a charming miniature Christmas market featuring gnome-themed stores.

The enchanting stalls, which appeared overnight, were designed to be gnome-height following Asda’s recent Christmas advert with the tagline ‘The Gnome of Christmas’

David Hills, chief customer officer at Asda, expressed: “It’s been fantastic to see the response to our Christmas campaign. We’re thrilled that the nation seems to be falling in love with our gnomes, so what better way to celebrate than to bring some playful Christmas cheer to London with our gnome-sized market.”

Despite their small size, there’s plenty for visitors to explore at the tiny market, whilst enjoying complimentary festive treats. Fortunate passers-by also have the opportunity to win a special Christmas gnome, along with a bag overflowing with seasonal goodies.

The market stalls, standing at 3.5 feet high, will be open to the public for the 7th and 8th of November.

David added: “Visitors will not only get the chance to be up, close and personal with our pint-sized heroes, they’ll also get to sample some of the incredible products which makeup our Christmas range in a really fun and unique way.”

The market features five mini market stalls, all tailored to match the individual passions and personalities of each gnome – Max, Gnibbles, Gnorma, Gnicky and Gnarla.

Max, the head gnome, was in charge of the ‘Magical Mince Pie’ stall, while meticulous party planner Gnorma ran the ‘Glorious Grazing’ stall.

Meanwhile, surfer enthusiast Gnarla managed the ‘Festive Afternoon Sea’ stall, adorned with a variety of lavish fish canapes.