A London Christmas trip is a fun and festive way to celebrate the holiday season. The best Christmas markets in London buzz with merriment and jolly shoppers parade down glowing streets. Even on the dreariest of days, cheerfulness fills the air in London at Christmas!
Over the years we have been fortunate to spend Christmas time in London more than once. During our December trips, we have scouted out the most Christmassy corners and Yuletide enclaves.
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To help fellow travelers experience the joy and wonder of the holiday season in Britain, we are sharing our list of the best things to do in London at Christmas!
54 Best London Christmas Experiences
Our list highlights the most Christmassy things to do in December in London. We’ve separated it by categories to help you find the activities that are of most interest:
Magical Markets, Light Displays, Xmas Trees, Top Shopping, Ice-Skating Rinks, December Events, Theatrical Performances, Merry Restaurants and Holiday Afternoon Tea.
Use our Fun Christmas Ideas in London to plan your Perfect Itinerary for the Big Smoke!
BEST CHRISTMAS MARKETS LONDON
Shopping, feasting and imbibing at one of the festive London Christmas Markets is a fabulous way to usher in the spirit of the holidays.
In fact, these gatherings are some of the Best London, England Christmas events – and there are several markets to choose from this year.
#1 Have Fun at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
Touted by many as the Best Christmas Market in London, Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park is a must for your holiday trip!
Jam packed with holiday activities and entertainment, this spectacular festive mash up features fair rides, tasty treats, ice sculptures, shopping stalls and an ice-skating rink.
Ideal for families during the day, The Christmas Wonderland London Market is full of revelry at night.
The Hyde Park London Christmas Winter Wonderland event runs for 6 weeks – from the 21st of November through January 5th, 2025. Winter Wonderland London tickets are allocated by entry time and must be booked online.
Top Tip: The Clapham Common Winter Funfair is another Christmas time carnival. With games and rides, it’s one of the top things to do in London over Christmas with kids (and it’s a jolly good time for adults, too!). Find the dates.
#2 Warm Up at the Southbank Centre Winter Festival
With sparkling lights and the heavy scent of spiced hot wine and cider in the air, the Southbank Winter Festival is one of our favorites for the exceptional festive ambiance!
Classic winter treats – like hot toddies, toasted marshmallows and gooey raclette – are served from the dazzling mountain chalets.
#3 See Leicester Square Christmas Market
A bustling European-style market, Christmas in Leicester Square runs for nearly two months – from the second week of November through the first week of January.
The highlight of the Leicester Square Holiday Market is the seasonal La Clique performance that takes place under the Spiegeltent. Tickets are required to attend the show, but the market is free!
#4 Experience Winter by the River at London Bridge
An enchanting Thames riverside event, the London Bridge Christmas Market welcomes guests to shop for local wares, imbibe in atmospheric bars, play a game of curling or simply soak in the wintery atmosphere.
The pop up market is enhanced by light displays, live singing, artisanal crafts and fine views of Tower Bridge and the City of London skyline.
Plus, there is no admission fee to enter. It’s one of the top things to do in London at Christmas for free!
#5 Discover Kings Cross Christmas Markets
The Coal Drops Yard Kings Cross Christmas is dedicated to fashion, food and independent vendors selling one-of-a-kind holiday gifts. Themed weekend markets – like vegan fare and international goods – are held throughout the season.
Christmas Under the Canopy Market at Kings Cross is one of our favorite places to shop for hand-crafted presents. The holly jolly event is brightened by live music, fun libations and tasty street food eats!
#6 Get in the Spirit at Camden Market
Christmas at Camden Market buzzes with an alternative spin on the holidays. It’s a great place to shop for quirky gifts and vintage goods. Plus, they entertain shoppers with heaps of merriment – like Christmas choirs, an Ice Grotto and DJs.
#7 Go to Santa’s Grotto at Greenwich Christmas Market
The Greenwich Market, which opened in 1737, is one of the best London markets to explore. Here vendors sell unique antiques, fashion wear, jewelry, crafts and prepared foods.
One of the fun Places To Visit in Greenwich anytime of year, during the Christmas season, the halls are decked for the holidays. Shoppers are serenaded by carol singers and kids have a chance to meet Father Christmas in Santa’s Grotto.
The fun kicks off on select dates starting in mid-November with a celebratory event. It includes a parade, lanterns and singing before the big countdown to switching on the lights.
#8 Be Entertained at more of London’s Best Markets
London hosts a dizzying array of year-round markets. Even if they don’t have specific Xmas events, they all get dressed up for the holidays with sparkling lights, Christmas trees and festiveness.
We love visiting the Borough Market at Christmas. It’s one of our favorite spots for London Food and a fantastic place for foodie gifts. In fact, gathering items for a homemade holiday meal is one of the unique things to do in London at Christmas.
The Columbia Road Flower Market is the place for fresh-cut Christmas trees, evergreen wreaths and pretty poinsettias. Meanwhile, Spitalfields Market brims with cheer heightened by sweet delicacies and mesmerizing decor.
#9 Make Your Way to Markets beyond Central London
While central London is home to a fascinating number of holiday markets, there are a few festivals further afield that are worth making the trek to see.
A traditional affair in an epic setting, the Kingston-Upon-Thames Christmas Market is known for its twinkling lights, winter warmers and classic carousel. Plus, it’s a great place to pick up a special gift for that special someone! Get the details.
The Hampton Court Palace Fayre is a weekend-only event that is designed to wow. Set at the former home of King Henry VIII – and complete with the Ice Rink at Hampton Court – fair-goers can enjoy the Tudor palace illuminated in colorful lights. Learn more.
#10 Take a Day Trip to the Best England Christmas Markets
London isn’t the only city in England to have outstanding Xmas markets! On a day trip, it is possible to reach some of the country’s most sublime Christmas destinations.
Bath, England – a pristine and beautiful city – hosts a traditional market in December that is utterly superb. The quaint affair takes place on the cobblestone streets under the soaring cathedral bell tower and alongside the ancient Roman baths.
Birmingham is a UK city that doesn’t quite get the credit it deserves – especially at Christmastime! The city hosts a remarkable German-style Christmas Market that goes all out with holiday merriness.
Other day trip destinations that are fun in December are Windsor (the palace is beautiful during the holidays) and Bristol (which has a small Christmas market and loads of shopping options).
BEST CHRISTMAS LIGHTS LONDON
One of the amazing things about the holidays is the Christmas decorations – and London does a proper job of decorating! We are sharing our top picks for the Best Christmas Lights in London this year.
#11 See the Regent Street Angels
The best-known London light display is the Regent Street Angels – called The Spirit of Christmas – and it is a spellbinding canopy of illumination.
The glittering London Christmas angels rise dramatically in breathtaking beauty as classic, red double-decker buses ramble along the street below. Walking in the glow is one of the romantic things to do in London at Christmas.
#12 Stroll down Oxford Street
With thousands of twinkling bulbs lighting Oxford Street, the busy shopping thoroughfare simply glows. In addition to the gorgeous lights, be sure to take in some of the best London holiday window displays!
#13 Stand under the Bond Street Christmas Lights
An upscale shopping destination in London, New Bond Street dazzles visitors with new light displays each year – and they are always classy, epic and twinkly. While on Bond St., don’t miss the Cartier Christmas London light show, as well.
#14 Snap a Selfie at Annabel’s on Berkeley Square
An exclusive club that spares no expense, Annabel’s façade (and interior from what we hear) is elegantly decorated every year with a new theme. The stunning lights are like a London Christmas fairytale.
#15 Soak in the Atmosphere at Burlington Arcade
A historic, covered lane, the space exudes a sophisticated vibe with its stylish decor. Whether shopping or simply soaking up the magic of the holidays, strolling through Burlington Arcade is one the best things to do at Christmas in London.
#16 Glimpse the Covent Garden Christmas Lights
Boasting a legendary Christmas tree and glittering lights, the Covent Garden Piazza is an oasis of festiveness during the month of December. Traditional bells, baubles and Santa’s sleigh are all on display to enhance your holiday spirit!
#17 Don’t Miss the Carnaby Street Light Display
Modern and merry, Carnaby Street is one of the best places to visit in London during Christmas. The extraordinary holiday light installation is an immersive experience. It extends to nearby Foubert’s Place, Ganton Street and Newburgh Street, too!
#18 Strike a Pose among the South Molton Street Arches
The striking arches that straddle South Molton Street feature more than 60,000 gleaming lights. The display is one of the fantastic spots for outdoor Christmas London photo ops!
#19 Delight in the Cheerfulness at Marylebone Village
Centered around the main intersection of Marylebone and Baker Streets, the Merry Christmas Marylebone lights are charming and delightful. When the displays switch on in November, the village hosts an exceptional event to mark the occasion.
#20 Ponder the Exhibits at Winter Light at Southbank
An open-air exhibit of lightworks, the art installations at the Southbank Winter Light event add a warm glow to the crisp evenings. While not specific to a holiday theme, the colorful works by international artists are still one of the best places to visit in London at Christmas.
#21 Swirl around the Seven Dials Lights
Bursts of light decorate the star shaped Seven Dials district, bringing warmth to the picturesque streetscape. With twinkling lights overhead and glowing decorations in the trees, the whole area hums with London holiday spirit.
#22 Head out to the Holiday Lights in Belgravia
Belgravia gets all dressed up for Christmas with a sensational display. Visitors should walk under the canopy of lights on the pedestrianized Motcomb Street, see the giant wreaths on Elizabeth Street and take in the colorful twinklers at Eccleston Yards.
#23 Make Your Way to the Christmas Lights in Chelsea
New in 2024, Christmas in Chelsea is an epic light trail in the historic Ranelagh Gardens. Attendees are invited to stroll through the merry and bright winter landscape. Tickets are required.
If the event is sold out, you can still see swaths of illumination that decorate the streets of the London Borough of Chelsea. Not to be missed are Sloane Street, Duke of York Square and Sloan Square.
#24 Join a Guided London Christmas Tour
One of the top ways to see the best displays of holiday lights is on a Christmas London Bus Tour, Bike Tour or Walking Tour.
The vintage London Bus Christmas Lights Tour is a 2-hour event that features some of the most beautiful light displays around the city. The excursion includes live commentary that covers the history of London and fun, entertaining holiday facts, too. Book your seat!
Visitors can also embark on an enchanting bike ride through London to see the bright lights and Christmassy sights. The 3-hour bike tour, which is led by a professional guide, features London’s best holiday decor. Save your spot!
With two feet on the ground, let a guide lead the way on a walking tour of London Christmas lights. On this Christmas-themed London walking tour, participants will hear tales about Ebenezer Scrooge and sip mulled wine while learning about the history of London Christmases. Find out more!
BEST CENTRAL LONDON CHRISTMAS TREES
Christmas in London, UK is marked with celebrations, decorations and gigantic holiday trees. From traditional live evergreens to modern renditions, embellished Christmas trees adorn the city.
One of the best Christmas things to do in London is to seek out these decorated trees, which stand in squares, market halls and lobbies of luxury hotels.
#25 Stare Up at the Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree
Perhaps the biggest Christmas tree in London, the tree in Trafalgar Square typically extends to a height of 65 feet.
The Norway Spruce is a gift from the city of Oslo (as it has been annually since 1947) and is lit with more than 500 white lights.
#26 Contemplate the Unique Tree at St. Pancras Railway Station
A distinctive endeavor, the Christmas tree at St. Pancras International has taken on many forms through the years.
From the tower of books in 2023, to the London skyline in 2022 to a blue-and-white Tiffany & Co tree in 2018 and the 2015 tree of Disney characters, each year is special – and always highlights a specific charity.
#27 Appraise the Massive Tree at the Leadenhall Market
A splendid Victorian market hall that is popular with Harry Potter fans, Leadenhall hosts a massive evergreen to usher in the holidays.
Christmas cheer is felt throughout the area that features cobblestoned streets, classic pubs and an old-fashioned ambiance. Additionally, the space hosts fun holiday events throughout December.
#28 Size Up The Shard at Christmas
Although not a real Christmas tree, The Shard certainly resembles one! Better yet, during the yuletide season, the top 20 floors of London’s tallest building are illuminated by a light display that is set to classic holiday tunes.
#29 Sneak a Peek at London Hotel Holiday Trees
London’s luxury hotels aim to impress their guests with phenomenal Christmas decorations. Not a guest? No problem! Everyone is welcome to take a peek inside to see the holiday trees.
One of the best displays is the Claridge’s Hotel Christmas Tree. A modern take on a Christmas classic, it is a sight to behold. Each year, a different designer creates a special tree for the lobby. Additionally, the hotel’s festive façade is a sumptuous display of lights and trees.
The Renaissance Hotel at St Pancras is another fantastic spot to glimpse giant trees. Two enormous trees flank the grand staircase in a stunning holiday display. To make the scene all the merrier, carol singers entertain visitors on weekend evenings.
Always a creative spectacle, The Connaught Hotel displays their annual designer Christmas tree on Mount Street where it can be admired by all who pass by. Inside, the lush garland and richly decorated tree makes it one of the best Christmas hotels London.
The Ned Hotel also hosts a tree that is worthy of swooning over. Featuring a British-grown Christmas tree, The Ned uses burgundy and champagne-colored ornaments – plus thousands of fairy lights – to decorate their 20-plus-foot-tall tree. Don’t forget to look up to see the halo wreath hanging from the ceiling!
Marked with elegance and class, The Landmark London displays a gorgeous tree in their atrium Winter Garden. Guests can partake in their festive season offerings – from spa stays to decadent holiday meals.
LONDON XMAS SHOPPING
Shopping is one of the fun things to do in London at Christmastime, as all the premier stores put on a show for the holiday season.
The city is home to a diverse range of retailers – from luxury brands to mainstay stores to boutique shops.
London Christmas shoppers have plenty of opportunities to find that perfect present – and here’s our list of the Best Christmas Shops London!
#30 Go Shopping at Selfridges on Oxford Street
A high-end department store that opened in 1908, Selfridges is a top destination for shopping in London.
In addition to all the luxury goods, the Selfridges London Christmas Shop – where you can pick up baubles and other decor – is a must see!
Whether you are looking for a little retail therapy for yourself or are checking off your Christmas list, Selfridges is a fabulous place to do it.
Not up for shopping? We still recommend going to Selfridges…the window displays alone are worth the trip!
#31 Buy a Keepsake at Harrods on Brompton Road
The largest London department store – and perhaps the most famous store in the world – Harrods is certainly one of the best places to go in London at Christmas.
The elaborately decorated exterior only primes visitors for what awaits inside. The Harrods London Christmas Shop is an extraordinarily jolly place overflowing with everything you need for the holidays – including the store’s keepsake Christmas Bear, Louie.
#32 Find a Present at Historic Hamleys Toy Store
Well known as the oldest toy store in the world (founded in 1760), Hamleys is a 7-story extravaganza of toys.
Naturally, it’s one of the best places to go in London for Christmas presents for the wee ones. With Santa on hand and Christmassy displays, it’s fun for the young…and the not-so-young!
#33 Find Food for your Feast at Fortnum and Mason
Established in 1707 as a grocery store, the Fortnum and Mason Victorian era department store is a festive delight during the holiday season in London.
While many shoppers flock to the first floor Fortnum and Mason Christmas Store flagship location for delectable treats, the exquisitely decorated building and beautiful window displays are equally intriguing.
#34 Browse the Christmas Shop at Liberty on Regent Street
The Liberty London Christmas Shop is iconic and one of the best places in London at Christmas for shopping.
Housed in a stunningly decorated Tudor-style home, the warm and inviting Xmas shop hosts a huge holiday collection of ornaments and decorations.
LONDON ICE SKATING
One of the best outdoor Christmas events in London during December is ice skating! There is nothing quite like gliding around a rink at one of London’s epic locations.
In addition to the ice rinks at the Winter Wonderland and Hampton Court fairs that we already mentioned, there are a few more places that visitors can get their skate on!
#35 Go to Skate at Somerset House
Situated in the courtyard of the Neoclassical Somerset House, Skate is one of the most picturesque places to go ice skating in London.
The rink is open during the day until late at night, when there are DJs and an onsite lounge serving winter warmers. More info.
#36 Twirl and Tip at the Canary Wharf Ice Rink
With a glass roof (to ensure UK weather doesn’t spoil the fun) and marvelous skyline views, the Ice Rink at Canary Wharf is a top pick for London ice skating.
After a twirl on the ice, get cozy in the ski lodge inspired Oasis Bar, an alpine-themed pub that overlooks the Canary Wharf Skate Rink.
#37 Enjoy a Glide at Battersea Power Station
A new riverside ice staking rink at the iconic Battersea Power Station, Glide features three interconnecting rinks with a brilliant Christmas tree at the center. In addition to the skating rink, skaters at Glide can warm up at The Glass House bar.
#38 Whirl around the Queen’s House Ice Rink
The historical Royal Museums in Greenwich – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – host a spectacular Ice Rink at the Queen’s House. Visitors can twirl around in a setting that is simply captivating and dare we say, royal? UPDATE: Unfortunately, there will not be an ice rink at Queen’s House for winter 2024/2025.
#39 See the View from Skylight Tobacco Dock Ice Skating Rink
One of the coolest places to ice skate in London and still a bit of a hidden gem, the Skylight Ice Rink is a rooftop venue that offers outstanding views. Plus, they have igloos and a heated lodge for warming up! UPDATE: Closed for the 2024/2025 winter season.
#40 Have Family Fun at the Ice Rink at Winter Village in Westfield
The open-air ice skating rink at the Westfield London Christmas Village is a family-friendly rink that welcomes both experienced and novice skaters. Although the mall location is not nearly as atmospheric as other ice skating rinks in London, they do offer money-saving family tickets.
#41 Stay Warm at Indoor Skating Rinks in London
Visitors looking for indoor skating rinks that are open year-round have a few options, as well. QUEENS near Kensington Palace not only boasts an indoor ice skating rink, but also bowling lanes and eateries for a full day of indoor fun!
Alexandra Palace is another London event venue with an indoor rink, theater and holiday events. However, it’s pretty far north from the city center.
BEST CHRISTMAS EVENTS LONDON
London Christmas events aren’t limited to shopping and ice skating; the city is bursting with all kinds of marvelous happenings during the holiday season.
We are highlighting a few of the best Xmas events in London that you might want to include in your holiday trip itinerary. Just be sure to get your tickets early, as these fun things to do in London in December do sell out!
#42 Kick Off the Holidays at Kew Gardens London Christmas
Christmas at the Kew is one of the most popular holiday traditions in London. After dark, the botanical gardens transform into a magical wintery landscape. Visitors follow trails through illuminated tunnels, flickering lights and scenic installations.
The evening event takes place outdoors, so be sure to bundle up and bring the proper gear. The night we attended, we got absolutely drenched in a downpour. Regardless of the weather, Christmas at Kew Gardens London certainly brings about holiday cheer!
#43 Discover Gingerbread City at the Museum of Architecture
One of the interesting and unusual things to do in London around Christmas is to see the Gingerbread City at the Museum of Architecture.
The gingerbread city is designed by architects, engineers and designers to create an impressive (and mouthwatering) candy display! Plus, they offer workshops.
#44 Spend a Family Day of Christmas at London Zoo
The London Zoo Xmas experience is fun for the whole family! Top things to do at the London Zoo Christmas event are creating sustainable crafts, listening to the holiday-themed talks about the animals and visiting Father Christmas (aka Santa) in the holiday grotto.
#45 See Hogwarts in the Snow at Warner Brothers Studios
One of the best Christmas activities in London for Potterheads, Warner Brothers Studios allows visitors to experience the wizarding world in a wintery setting.
A blanket of snow and holiday cheer decorates the familiar Harry Potter sets – including the Great Hall, which is adorned with snowflakes and icicles for the Yule Ball.
#46 Feel Extra Christmassy at the Tower of London
Always a must-see attraction, the Tower of London is extra special at Christmas time. Located in the City of London, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the Crown Jewels and famous Beefeaters.
In December, the Tower of London enhances the magic of the holiday season with seasonal decorations, exhibits on royal Christmases of the past and special Xmas photo ops.
#47 Partake in London Museum Christmas Events
During the holiday period, Museums in London offer an array of festive events. At the London Transport Museum, visitors can play on Santa’s sleigh (which is definitely one of the fun things to do at Christmas in London with kids).
At the Museum of London Docklands, Santa himself will be on hand for holiday photos. Meanwhile, at the Natural History Museum, T Rex is decked out in his best Christmas attire (it’s quite the sight!).
Perhaps the best Christmas Museum London, however, is the Charles Dickens Museum. Visiting this venue, which is dedicated to the author of the classic, A Christmas Carol, during the holidays can’t be beat!
LONDON THEATERS & CHRISTMAS CONCERTS
Visitors seeking the best places in London for Christmas spirit should look no further than the top theaters and stages. From classics to comedy and choirs to orchestras, there is a wide range of top London performances throughout the festive period.
#48 Enjoy an Evening of London Christmas Theater
Our top picks for a classic theatrical performance during the holiday season are A Christmas Carol London Theatre, the Nutcracker ballet, or one of the West End London Christmas musicals.
That said, there are a number of holiday-themed London plays starting in November – so check what will be playing during your visit.
The Royal Albert Hall has been the site of Christmas celebrations for more than a century – and the tradition continues today. Some of the best performances are the London Christmas Orchestra, gospel choirs, jazz singers, seasonal ballet and entertaining drag.
#49 Attend London Christmas Concerts
As far as Christmas concerts go, there are numerous London events where the sounds of holiday music fill the air. While some of these require a ticket, many are free to attend (although booking ahead may still be required).
One of the best Christmas Choir London events takes place at St. Paul’s Cathedral on a special evening during Advent. There are also free choir shows and Christmas services at the famed Westminster Abbey.
Additionally, visitors can join carol singers at London St. Martin-in-the-Fields for a ticketed performance of carols by candlelight.
That said, many of the small historic churches around the City of London host free lunchtime and evening Advent Carols. We’ve enjoyed the music at St. Michael’s Cornhill and St. Helen’s Bishopsgate. The festivities are elevated with post-caroling minced pies and warm beverages.
BEST CHRISTMAS RESTAURANTS LONDON
Finding Christmassy places to eat in London is one of the fun ways to celebrate the season. We are highlighting a few of the top places to have a festive meal in London with a superb holiday atmosphere.
#50 Dine at The Ivy Chelsea Garden
Luxuriously decorated (both inside and out), The Ivy at Chelsea Garden elevates its fine dining menu during the holidays to include a special Golden Feast…and festive cocktails, too.
The refined restaurant, which is always at the top of London Foodie Lists, is also one of the best places to eat in London at Christmas!
#51 Marvel at the Decor of The Churchill Arms Pub
Without a doubt, one of the best places to visit in London at Christmas, The Churchill Arms goes all out with holiday decorations.
During December, the exterior of the cozy pub is decorated with 80 real Christmas trees and more than 20,000 lights. Inside, the decor is charming, the menu is (oddly) Thai food and the atmosphere always buzzing!
#52 Sip a Cocktail at the Miracle at Henrietta Hotel
Again this year, Henrietta in Covent Garden is hosting the Miracle pop-up bar that sweeps through cities worldwide every December.
Highlighted by tacky-yet-delightful decor and creative Christmassy cocktails, spending an evening at Henrietta is one of the best things to do in London this Christmas. Just be sure to book early, as reservations fill up in a flash!
#53 Dine at The Ritz London Christmas High Tea
Christmas Afternoon Tea in London is an excellent way to celebrate the holidays. The age-old tradition of snacking on delicious finger sandwiches, scones slathered in clotted cream and sweet cakes is all the more festive during the Christmas season!
High Tea at the Ritz during Christmas is an extravagant occasion. The certified Tea Master selects the best on offer from around the world and the resident pianist provides an exceptional soundtrack.
While the classic Ritz High Tea menu doesn’t change for the holidays, the occasion is highlighted by lavish decorations.
Alternatively, treat yourself to The Lanesborough Holiday Afternoon Tea. Full of merriment, the festive gathering features a Christmastime menu of classics, specialty pastries and seasonal cocktails.
A ride on the Afternoon Tea Christmas London bus is unique and unforgettable. The Brigit’s Bakery vintage bus tour combines classic sightseeing with a High Tea in London experience. It’s best to book in advance – as it will sell out!
#54 Cozy Up in a Historic London Pub at Christmas
After long days of Christmassy sightseeing, there is nothing better than warming up in a classic, old-world pub. With dim lights, creaking wood floors and crackling fires, it’s the perfect way to cap off a wintery London day.
The Horniman at Hays is one of our favorites during the festive period. The pub is decorated to the hilt and is full of Christmas cheer.
That said, nearly all Central London pubs feature jolly Xmas decor during the month of December. Our list of the Best London Pubs highlights the coziest places for a proper pint!
Map of Things To Do in London during Christmas
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Christmas Things To Do in London map below.
Planning a London Christmas Vacation
We have long believed that London is one of the Best Places To Spend Christmas in Europe! That said, those planning a London Christmas time vacation have some work to do first.
In addition to experiencing the magic of Christmas in London, travelers also need to decide where to stay and what to pack.
We are sharing our personal insight regarding how to plan a trip to London for Christmas – from when to go along with the top things to do on Christmas Day.
Sightseeing During your London Christmas Trip
In addition to the top things to do in London for Christmas, travelers will likely want to check off some of the other best attractions. We share our suggestions for what to see and do in our detailed sightseeing guides for London.
- One Week in London
- Westminster Walking Tour
- London in 1 Day
- Visiting Sky Garden London
- Best London Neighborhoods to Explore
- London on a Budget Tips
London Travel Planner
Our Things To Do London Christmas Edition is massive – and you will need to determine what you can squeeze into your Vacation to Europe.
Furthermore, many ticketed attractions and London restaurant reservations for Christmas need to be booked in advance.
As you plan what to see and do in London at Xmas, you will need to stay on top of all the details. We recommend using our Printable Travel Planner so that nothing gets missed on your London Holiday Trip!
Trip Planning Tips for London at Christmas Time
Congratulations, you’ve made it through our list of the best things to do over Christmas in London! It’s understandable if you have a few nagging questions. So, we are sharing some personal insight that will hopefully help answer them.
Schedules for Christmas Lights, Decorations and Trees
One of the highlights of Xmas in London is the festive lights and decorations. Travelers taking a trip to London in Christmas time will want to make sure their dates coincide with the illuminated holiday decorations.
The good news is that most Xmas Lights in London are turned on by the first week of November – and stay on through the New Year!
Things To Do in London between Christmas and New Year
The week between Christmas and New Year’s Eve is just as jolly as the days leading up to December 25. Most of the markets and ice skating rinks are open until at least January 1. The festive lights and holiday decorations stay up at least until New Year’s Day as well.
Cheap and Free Christmas Activities in London
It can be pricey to visit London at Christmastime. Many Christmas attractions in London require tickets – and some are quite expensive. Additionally, finding an affordable place to stay in London around Christmas can be difficult.
All that said, budget travelers can have a wonderful Christmas experience in London without breaking the bank. Participate in the free things to do in London at Christmas – like reveling in the glow of the lights and soaking in the atmosphere at the holiday markets!
How To Spend Christmas Week in London
Visitors planning to celebrate Christmas in London – actually December 25 – we have a few more holiday tips so that you can be prepared.
Christmas Eve
In London, December 24 is not a Bank Holiday. Meaning, most things are open (but may close early) and it’s actually quite busy. While some Londoners are preparing for the festivities of the following day, many more are out celebrating with family and friends.
Some of the top things to do in London on Christmas Eve are ice skating, attending a show and last-minute shopping. Concerts and midnight mass are two other top Christmas Eve events in London.
Christmas Day
Christmas Day in London is the quietest day of the year. Most stores and restaurants are closed – and the busy Transport for London network (Tube, Buses, Trains and Trams) all comes to a halt.
Getting Around London on Christmas Day
We really want to emphasize: ALL London public transport is closed on Christmas Day. Want to ride the London Tube Christmas Day? It’s closed. Buses, Overground Trains and London Trams are also parked for the day.
December is often also a time for strikes, so it’s best to stay up to date with any disruptions during your trip. To get around on Christmas Day, we recommend walking, cycling or booking an Uber or FreeNow.
Travelers who want to do a little sightseeing on December 25 can find some London Tourist Christmas Day Buses running. Additionally, a few Thames River Cruises are operating.
Things To Do on Christmas Day
If the weather is agreeable, parks are some of the best places to go on Christmas Day in London. Swing by Hyde Park on Christmas morning to watch the annual Serpentine Swimming Club race for the Peter Pan Cup or take a walk through Kensington Gardens.
Attending a Christmas service at one of the city’s finest churches – like Westminster Abbey, St. Paul’s Cathedral or St. Martin-in-the-Fields – is another way to spend Christmas Day in London.
Christmas Dinners in London
While most restaurants are closed on Christmas Day in London, there are a few exceptions. Some eateries and pubs are open for either lunch or dinner – and several hotels offer special London Christmas meals.
In addition to the set menus for dinner, select hotels and restaurants host holiday brunch and Afternoon Tea on Christmas Day.
Travelers looking for the Best Christmas Dinner in London – or any meal out on December 25 – will need to make reservations far in advance!
For an alternative Christmas meal in London, visitors can go to Chinatown, where many restaurants are open on December 25. Another option is Beigel Bake on Brick Lane. The small deli that cranks out meaty sandwiches and is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Boxing Day Events London
Boxing Day – the day after Christmas – is a national holiday in London. However, almost all the stores, restaurants, holiday markets, ice skating rinks, museums, theaters and tourist attractions are open!
One of the best things to do in London on Boxing Day is to go shopping. Many retailers discount items, so it a great time to score deals.
Watching football (or rather, soccer) is a Boxing Day tradition – as is cozying up in a British pub. Indulging in a boozy Boxing Day Brunch is a fun way to spend the leisurely day, as well.
New Year’s Eve in London
London loves to Celebrate New Year’s Eve. The biggest event is the London New Year’s Eve Fireworks over the River Thames. Tickets are required for the best spots (we particularly like the view from Westminster Bridge), but NYE Thames River cruises offer a great vantage point!
London New Year’s Day
New Year’s Day is a national holiday, and the biggest celebration is the London New Year Day Parade. A tradition that has been going strong since 1987, the January 1 London parade is free to attend.
New Year’s Day is also one of the last opportunities to enjoy many of the festive holiday London markets, Christmas-themed performances and illuminated Xmas trees.
Plan Your Christmas London Trip
By now, you’ve probably planned what to do in London over Christmas. So it’s time to sort out the rest of your trip details!
Where To Stay in London for Christmas
London is a sprawling metropolis with thousands of hotels in a range of prices. Deciding where to stay will likely come down to budget, desired amenities and preferred location.
A room at London’s poshest hotels that are dressed up for the holidays – like The Ritz and The Connaught – will cost upwards of $1,500 per night. Other luxury hotels with fabulous holiday decor – such as The Ned and The Landmark – fetch more than $500 per night.
Our best advice for where to stay in London at Christmas is to first search for a hotel within your budget, then choose one based on location.
It doesn’t necessarily need to be city center, as London Christmas attractions are located from one end to the other. It is best to be close to a Tube station to make getting around simple.
Additionally, popular places to stay in London at Christmas will be sold-out well in advance, so book early. Before you get started, read our tips for finding the Best Hotels for Cheap Prices.
What To Pack for London at Christmas
Our final advice is all about what to cram gently place in your suitcase or backpack. So grab your Free Packing Checklist and let’s get you to London, baby!
Durable Shoes
The most festive things to do in London will have you spending a lot of time on your feet. Make sure you pack a good pair of travel shoes. Ones that are warm and waterproof might be the best choice for London at Christmastime!
London Weather Gear
The weather in London during Christmas time will be chilly. Skies are overcast, days are short and precipitation (typically in the form of rain, but sometimes snow) is often predicted.
For your Christmas trip to London, you will want clothing that can be layered. A winter coat, gloves and hat are likely to be necessary. Additionally, you will want a lightweight raincoat and a travel umbrella…just in case!
Travel Camera
The amazing things to see in London at Christmas are stunningly beautiful! You will want to capture all that beauty by upgrading to a real camera.
We use a DSLR Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens. Not only does it take high quality photos, but is easy to use, comes with heaps of accessories and is a well-priced camera for budget travelers.
Versatile Day Bag
As you enjoy the best London things to do at Christmas – you will want a good day pack for essentials. We carry small backpacks where we can stow our extra layers, camera and a water bottle. Read our reviews on the Best Travel Day Bags.
UK Travel Insurance
As well as you prepare, there is always a chance something could go wrong – like getting sick or the airline losing your luggage. If you haven’t already purchased coverage, consider traveling protected with World Nomads.
More Christmas Places to Visit in Europe
- Madrid for Christmas
- Advent in Zagreb, Croatia
- What To Do in Paris
- Amsterdam at Christmas
- Christmas in Barcelona
- Classic German Markets in Frankfurt or Dusseldorf
Start planning your UK Christmas Trip! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for advice on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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