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!
A London Christmas trip is a fun and festive way to celebrate the 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!
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To help fellow travelers experience the joy and wonder of the holiday season in Britain, we are sharing our best Christmas things to do in London!
50 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 to you.
They are: 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! This is a massive list – but stay tuned to the end where we share important trip planning tips!
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 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 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 14th of November through January 1st, 2026. Winter Wonderland London tickets are allocated by entry time and must be booked online.
#2 Warm Up at the Southbank Centre Winter Festival
This wintery celebration aims to bring a little bit of the Alps to central London. With sparkling lights and the heavy scent of spiced hot wine in the air, the Southbank Winter Festival is one of our favorites!
Classic winter treats – like hot toddies, toasted marshmallows and gooey raclette – are served from the dazzling mountain chalets.
#3 Look in on the 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 is one we return to time and time again.
Here you can 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.
Additionally, themed weekend markets – like vegan fare and international goods – are held throughout the season.
Christmas Under the Canopy 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!
#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 Be Entertained at more of London’s Best Markets
London hosts a dizzying array of year-round markets. Even without 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 Eats and a fantastic place for foodie gifts – plus, it’s festively decorated for shoppers.
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.
#8 Make Your Way to Markets beyond Central London
While London is home to a fascinating number of holiday markets, there are a few festivals further afield. It’s actually possible to pair two together for a full day trip from London Waterloo Station.
First, stop at the Kingston-Upon-Thames Christmas Market. A traditional German-style festival, it is known for twinkling lights and classic carousel. Plus, it’s a great place to pick up a gift for that special someone!
If it’s a weekend, make your way to the Hampton Court Palace Fayre. Set at the former home of King Henry VIII – and complete with an ice rink – enjoy the Tudor palace illuminated in colorful lights.
#9 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 affair takes place on the cobbled streets under the soaring 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 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 picks for the Best Christmas Lights in London this year.
#10 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 most romantic things to do in London at Christmas. Actually, we believe it’s truly a must-do for anyone visiting London during the holidays!
#11 Stroll down Oxford Street
Home to nearly 100 flagship stores, Oxford Street is the not to be missed during the holiday season. With thousands of twinkling bulbs, 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!
#12 Stand under the Bond Street Christmas Lights
An upscale shopping destination in London, New Bond Street dazzles visitors with different light displays each year – and they are always epic!
While on Bond St., don’t miss the Cartier Christmas London light show, as well.
#13 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!
#14 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, strolling through Burlington Arcade is a top thing to do at Christmas in London.
Nearby are the Royal Arcade and Piccadilly Arcade, which also get spectacularly dressed up for the holiday season.
#15 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, giant baubles and Santa’s sleigh are all on display to enhance your holiday spirit!
#16 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.
The merriness extends to nearby Foubert’s Place, Ganton Street and Newburgh Street, too!
#17 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!
#18 Delight in the Cheerfulness at Marylebone
Evoking a quaint village atmosphere just a few blocks from bustling Oxford Street, the Merry Christmas Marylebone lights are charming and delightful.
When the displays light up on November 12th 2025, the enclave hosts an exceptional event to mark the occasion!
The area also abounds with boutique shops – with Daunt Books being the shining star – so be sure to pop in!
#19 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 creations by international artists are still one of the best places to visit in London at Christmas.
#20 Swirl around Seven Dials
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. Especially merry is the Seven Dials Market.
Housed in a former banana warehouse, the central dining area transforms into a real-life snow globe throughout December – with snow makers blasting the crowds with falling flakes!
#21 Head out to the Holiday Lights in Belgravia
Belgravia gets all dressed up for Christmas with a sensational display. Walk under the canopy of lights on Motcomb Street, see the giant wreaths on Elizabeth Street and take in the colorful twinklers at Eccleston Yards!
#22 Make Your Way to the Christmas Lights in Chelsea
Christmas in Chelsea is a cozy way to spend the holidays in London. In addition to the free-to-enter Winter Village, they also host an epic light trail at the historic Royal Hospital Gardens.
With a ticket, attendees are invited to stroll through the merry and bright winter landscape.
If the event is sold out, you can still see swaths of illumination that decorate the streets. Not to be missed are Sloane Street, Duke of York Square and Sloan Square.
#23 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 features some of the most beautiful displays around the city. The excursion includes live commentary with entertaining holiday facts.
You can also embark on an enchanting bike ride to see the bright lights and Christmassy sights. This 3-hour tour, which is led by a professional guide, features London’s best holiday decor.
Alternatively, let a guide lead the way on a walking tour of London Christmas lights. On this Christmas-themed London Walk, participants will hear tales about Ebenezer Scrooge while learning about the history of London Christmases.
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 fun Christmastime things to do in London is to seek out these decorated trees, which stand in squares, market halls and lobbies of luxury hotels.
#24 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.
Whenever we are in London for the holidays, we make a point to see the Trafalgar tree!
To enhance the holiday spirit, the square hosts a fantastic traditional market with vendors selling unique gifts and special holiday treats.
Situated between the National Gallery and Nelson’s Column, it’s an epic setting for a Christmas market!
#25 Contemplate the Unique Tree at St. Pancras
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 highlights a specific charity.
#26 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 and a small market throughout December.
#27 Size Up The Shard at Christmas
Although not a real Christmas tree, The Shard certainly resembles a giant one!
Better yet, during the yuletide season, the top 20 floors of London’s tallest building are illuminated by a holiday light display that can be seen miles away.
#28 Sneak a Peek at London Hotel Holiday Trees
London’s luxury hotels aim to impress their clientele with phenomenal Christmas decorations. Not a guest? No problem! Everyone is welcome to take a peek.
One of the best displays is the Claridge’s Hotel Christmas Tree. Each year, a different designer creates a special tree for the lobby. Additionally, the hotel’s festive façade is a sumptuous display of lights.
The Renaissance Hotel at St Pancras is another fantastic spot. Two enormous trees flank the grand staircase in a stunning display and carol singers entertain visitors on weekend evenings.
Always a creative spectacle, The Connaught Hotel displays their annual designer Christmas tree on Mount Street. Inside, the lush garland and a richly decorated tree makes it one of the best Christmas hotels in London.
Featuring a British-grown Christmas tree, The Ned Hotel 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!
#29 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!
#30 Buy a Keepsake at Harrods on Brompton Road
The largest London department store – and perhaps the most famous store in the world – Harrods’ elaborately decorated exterior only primes you 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.
#31 Find a Present at Hamleys Toy Store
Well known as the oldest toy store in the world (founded in 1760), Hamleys is a 7-story extravaganza of merry merchandise.
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!
#32 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.
Many shoppers flock to the Fortnum and Mason Christmas Store flagship location for delectable treats, like their signature Christmas Pudding and luxury hampers (gift baskets).
While shopping, don’t miss the animated display in the atrium and make sure to leave enough time to browse the rest of the exquisitely decorated building and intriguing window displays.
#33 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 these 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 you can get your skate on!
#34 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.
#35 Twirl and Tip at the Canary Wharf Ice Rink
With a glass roof (to ensure the 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. Find out more.
#36 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. Get the details.
#37 Whirl around the Queen’s House Ice Rink
The historical Royal Museums in Greenwich host a spectacular Ice Rink at the Queen’s House, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visitors can twirl around in a setting that is simply captivating and dare we say, royal? Plus, kids can meet Father Christmas in the Santa Grotto that was inspired by The Nutcracker. Prices and ticket info.
Ice skating and visiting Santa aren’t the only Things To Do in Greenwich during the holidays.
You can also shop for gifts at the Greenwich Market, see the Christmas Tree lights on Cutty Sark and attend the kick-off parade, which features lanterns and singing before switching on the lights.
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 that you might want to include in your London holiday trip itinerary. Just be sure to get your tickets early, as these London things to do in December will sell out!
#38 Kick Off the Holidays at Kew Gardens
Christmas at the Kew is one of the most popular holiday traditions in London. After dark, the 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!
#39 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.
#40 Spend a Family Day of Christmas at London Zoo
The London Zoo Xmas experience is fun for the whole family! Top things to do are creating sustainable crafts, listening to the holiday-themed talks about the animals and visiting Father Christmas (aka Santa) in the grotto.
#41 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.
#42 Feel Extra Christmassy at the Tower of London
Always a must-see attraction, the Tower of London is extra special at Christmas time. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the Crown Jewels and famous Beefeaters.
In December, they enhance the magic of the holiday season with seasonal decorations, exhibits on royal Christmases of the past and special Xmas photo ops.
#43 Partake in London Museum Christmas Events
During the holiday period, Museums in London offer an array of festive events, many of which are free!
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!
Perhaps the best, 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!
#44 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 plays starting in November – so check what will be on 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.
#45 Attend London Christmas Concerts
As far as Christmas concerts go, there are numerous spots where the sounds of holiday music fill the air. While some require a ticket, many are free to attend (although booking ahead may 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 where enhanced 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 top places to have a festive meal in London with a superb holiday atmosphere.
#46 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!
#47 Marvel at 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 trees and more than 20,000 lights. Inside, the decor is charming, the menu is (oddly) Thai and the atmosphere always buzzing!
#48 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!
#49 Dine at The Ritz London for Christmas Afternoon Tea
This 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!
Tea at the Ritz during Christmas is an extravagant occasion highlighted by lavish decorations.. The certified Tea Master selects the best on offer and a resident pianist provides an exceptional soundtrack.
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 true tea in London experience.
#50 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 December 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 these detailed sightseeing guides for London.
- 3 Day London Itinerary
- Westminster Walking Tour
- London in 1 Day
- Visiting Sky Garden
- Best London Neighborhoods to Explore
- London on a Budget Tips
- Things To See in West London
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 far 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 for your London Holiday Trip!
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. Those taking a trip to London in Christmas time will want to make sure their dates coincide with the maximum merriment!
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
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.
Christmas Day
December 25th 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 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 using 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 is another great way to spend Xmas Day in London.
Christmas Dinners in London
While most restaurants are closed, 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!
Alternatively, go to Chinatown, where many restaurants are open. Another option is Beigel Bake on Brick Lane. The small deli 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 public holiday. 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 liked the Big Ben view from Westminster Bridge), but NYE Thames River cruises offer a great vantage point, too.
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 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 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
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 is to first search for a property 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, be sure to read our tips for finding the Best Hotels for Low 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 our Free Packing Checklist and let’s get you to London, baby!
Durable Shoes
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 are 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’ll want a lightweight raincoat and an umbrella.
Travel Camera
The amazing things to see in London at Christmas are stunning! 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.
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
- Magical Paris
- Amsterdam at Christmas
- Christmas in Barcelona
- Classic Christmas Markets in Frankfurt, Vienna, Graz and Dusseldorf
Start planning your UK Christmas Trip! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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