Discover the top 20 things to do in London during Christmas! Explore magical light displays, festive markets, ice skating rinks, and top holiday events.
London is one of the best places in the world to spend the festive season. The Christmas lights go up in November, ice rinks open, markets fill the riverbanks and theatres stage their seasonal shows. This guide lists the 20 best things to do in London during Christmas, with practical tips on cost, timing and getting around. Dates change each year, so check each venue’s website before you go.
The best things to do in London at Christmas are Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, ice skating at Somerset House, the Oxford Street and Regent Street lights, the Southbank Centre Winter Market and a Christmas lights bus tour.
London's famous streets and landmarks become particularly beautiful during the festive season. These locations are ideal for evening walks, photography and enjoying the Christmas atmosphere.
The big lights switch-on is a London tradition. Walk from Oxford Circus down to Piccadilly Circus for the best view. Plan a weekday visit to avoid the heavy evening crowds.
Carnaby Street is known for creative light installations, while Bond Street offers a more elegant, luxury feel. Both are free and sit close to each other.
Every year a large spruce is donated by Norway as a thank you for British support in the Second World War. It is a free stop with a carol-singing atmosphere.
An open-top bus is a relaxed way to see the lights without walking in the cold. Tours leave from central points and are ideal for first-time visitors and families.
Christmas markets are among London's most popular seasonal attractions. They offer handmade gifts, festive decorations, street food and a welcoming winter atmosphere.
This is the biggest festive event in the capital. Expect fairground rides, an ice rink, food stalls and shows. Entry to the park area is free, while rides and attractions are paid.
Wooden chalets line the Thames, selling gifts, mulled wine and street food. Combine it with a walk along the river to the London Eye.
Set by the river near Tower Bridge, this market is calmer than the central ones and has great skyline views.
It is not a Christmas market as such, but it is excellent for festive food. Look for mince pies, cheeses, game and seasonal treats.
A good choice for handmade gifts. Pair it with the Cutty Sark and the Royal Observatory for a full day out.
Outdoor ice skating is a favourite Christmas activity in London. Several famous locations offer seasonal rinks with beautiful surroundings.
Skating in a grand courtyard under festive lights is a favourite for couples and photographers. Book ahead as sessions sell out.
This rink sits beside a famous riverside landmark and works well with a wider visit to the area.
A Tudor palace is a beautiful backdrop for a skate. It is further out from the centre, so plan your travel time.
London's theatres, historic venues and cultural attractions offer plenty of festive entertainment. These experiences are particularly suitable for visitors looking for something beyond Christmas shopping and markets.
West End theatres stage festive productions, and pantomime is a British Christmas tradition for all ages. Book early for December weekends.
The Royal Albert Hall, St Paul's Cathedral and Westminster Abbey all hold seasonal music events. Many services are free but ticketed or first come, first served.
A glowing evening trail through the gardens makes a magical outdoor walk. Wrap up warm and book a timed ticket.
Christmas in London is also a wonderful opportunity to enjoy family activities, seasonal dining and traditional shopping experiences.
The famous toy shop on Regent Street is a stop children remember. Even without buying, the displays are worth a look.
Many central hotels serve Christmas-themed afternoon tea. Booking in November gives you the best choice of times.
Department store windows are free to enjoy and often have clever themes each year. Visit after dark for the full effect.
Seeing Tower Bridge and the Houses of Parliament lit up from the water is a calm break from the crowds.
After Christmas Day, shops reopen and the sales begin. Many Londoners also take a long walk in Hampstead Heath or Richmond Park.
Christmas travel needs planning. On 25 December, the Tube does not run and bus services are very limited, and train services are minimal across the UK. Late evening trips in December are also busy because of parties and events. A pre-booked car removes the stress of crowded platforms and surge pricing.
If you are landing in London for the holidays, book your transfer before you travel:
Festive trips often mean luggage, gifts and family members, so the right car matters.
A little preparation can make your festive visit more enjoyable. Keep these useful tips in mind:
Prepare your itinerary and transport before the festive rush begins.
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is the most popular festive event, with rides, markets, food and an ice rink in one place.
Yes. Central areas such as Oxford Street, Covent Garden and Leicester Square are busiest on weekends and evenings in December.
Most shops, restaurants and attractions close, and public transport is almost entirely suspended. Pre-booked transport is the safest option.
The Christmas lights, the Trafalgar Square tree, shop window displays and many carol services are free.
Booking at least a few weeks ahead is wise, as demand rises sharply in the holiday period.
From glowing streets to skating rinks and riverside markets, London offers something for every traveller at Christmas. Plan your days around a mix of free sights and booked experiences, and arrange your transport early so the journeys stay as enjoyable as the destinations.
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