London at Christmas is simply smashing! When the festive season approaches, the bustling city sheds its dynamic, fast-paced appearance and decks itself out in sparkling Christmas lights and colourful Christmas markets. You could say it's quite a glow-up (pun intended :P).
Whether you’re strolling through the market at Covent Garden, gazing at the twinkling lights at Leicester Square or gliding across the ice rink at South Bank, you will be mesmerised by London's resplendent Christmas festivities.
Prefer something cosier away from the crowds? Go to the Churchill Arms in Notting Hill to appreciate its extravagant decorations, enjoy an early dinner by the River Thames, or catch a Christmas Eve show in the West End for a cultured evening.
Christmas in London offers festive fun for everyone - whether you’re planning a December trip for the whole family with the kids or a quiet night in for two. So pack your gloves, grab a hot chocolate and get ready for the most wonderful time of the year in the city.
Attractions and Events in London at Christmas
Christmas in London, England is a festive playground, with bright Christmas lights, traditional Christmas markets, and endless holiday cheer.
From Westminster Abbey’s stunning services on Christmas Day to jolly musical performances at Covent Garden, this city is packed with yuletide magic.
1. Christmas Lights Displays
Christmas in London transforms the city into a dazzling wonderland like no other. Whether you’re a local or a traveller, the magic of Christmas lights displays is impossible to resist.
Picture this: strolling through the snow-dusted streets of central London, where iconic shopping streets like Oxford Street, Carnaby Street, and Regent Street are decked out in glittering lights and eye-popping decorations.
Want to enjoy the display in style and comfort? Hop on a London Christmas Lights Private Tour and take a ride in a cab as you admire these radiant displays.
Alternatively, opt for a London by Night Open Top Bus Tour to have the best of both worlds - admire world-famous monuments such as the London Eye, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey while simultaneously taking in the Christmas lights from the top deck.
As the lights shimmer like snowflakes in the crisp December air, it’s a celebration of Christmas time that you won’t want to miss. This festive city is guaranteed to bring a warm smile to your face, even on cold nights.
2. Christmas Markets
Visiting a Christmas market is the ultimate holiday experience - think fairy lights, adorable wooden chalets, and the scent of mulled wine in the air.
Stroll through popular Christmas markets like Covent Garden or Leicester Square to find shops stocked with unique gifts, handcrafted goodies, and deals that’ll have your shopping wrapped up in no time.
With festive decorations, holiday treats and shopping opportunities galore, these markets are packed with entertainment for the entire family. Little ones will be wide-eyed with wonder, while you can sip on hot chocolate or mulled wine as you soak in the Christmas season vibes.
If you're looking to celebrate Christmas in London, why not get into the holiday mood by joining an award-winning Christmas market tour?
3. Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park
When it comes to Christmas in London, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is a magical place you and your loved ones must visit.
At this popular event held in Hyde Park, you will find a whole host of fun activities awaiting you - from an enchanting open-air Christmas market to carnival rides that light up the night and an ice rink set against the backdrop of twinkling lights.
And don’t forget, there’s loads of entertainment – live performances and shows to add extra magic to your London Christmas.
Hungry? You’ll be spoiled with seasonal food and drinks.
Simply put, London at Christmas isn’t complete without a visit to Hyde Park Winter Wonderland – it’s a fun day out that’s the essence of the Christmas season.
Opening Hours: Open Daily from 10 am - 10 pm
Directions: For those who wish to use public transportation, you can board the Piccadilly Line from King's Cross St. Pancras to Hyde Park Corner Station and take a short walk to Hyde Park.
4. Christmas Walking Tours
There's no better way to see London at Christmas than by joining a Christmas walking tour. Tour famous landmarks in the city while your guide regales you with stories of Christmas Day traditions and the history behind them.
If you are a fan of Charles Dickens, it's a no-brainer to join the Dickens-themed A Christmas Carol and Charles Dickens Old London Walking Tour.
Experience the world of one of the most famous authors of all time, Charles Dickens, coming alive for you, and see the sites that inspired his seminal classic, A Christmas Carol.
Walk through Leadenhall Market and the Royal Exchange as you follow in the footsteps of Scrooge and the Ghosts of Christmas Past.
It’s a great way to experience Christmas in London while getting your dose of history and culture.
Seasonal Shopping
5. Iconic Department Stores
Shopping in London at Christmas is like stepping into an enchanting world where every corner twinkles with holiday spirit!
Whether you’re browsing the iconic department stores like Harrods and Selfridges or searching for treasures at the Christmas markets, there’s something for everyone.
From the grand lighting displays on Oxford Street at John Lewis to the lovely Covent Garden market, you’ll be spoiled for choice for gifts and decorations.
Even as you're on the hunt for gifts, don’t miss the shops' windows, especially at Liberty’s and Fortnum & Mason where Christmas comes alive.
So, grab your bags to soak in the festive atmosphere and enjoy some serious Christmas shopping in London.
6. Festive Food and Drink
The food and drink scene during Christmas in London is a feast for the senses! Whether you’re sipping mulled wine or indulging in a hot chocolate from a cosy café, the city is bursting with seasonal treats.
Walk through the bustling Christmas markets like Leicester Square, where you’ll find stalls brimming with mince pies, gingerbread, and shops offering other holiday delights.
For a real treat, head to The Churchill Arms, the most Christmas-sy pub in town. With its hearty meals and holiday spirit, it’s a must-visit.
And don’t forget to warm up with a holiday-themed afternoon tea or hit one of the many restaurants offering special festive menus, because London at Christmas is all about celebrating with food, family, and fun.
Winter Activities
7. Ice Skating in London
Ice, ice Baby!
You can’t do Christmas in London without a spin around an ice skating rink or two! Whether you’re gliding under the lights at SKATE at Somerset House or spinning at the Canary Wharf Ice Rink, there is an ice skating rink for you to enjoy some wintry fun.
London at Christmas becomes a winter wonderland with outdoor ice skating rinks popping up all over the city. Wrap up, get your ice skates on and get ready to have a good time with family or friends.
After you have your ice skating fill, sip some mulled wine or hot chocolate to keep the festive feeling going.
Ice skating in London is the perfect way to combine entertainment, family fun and celebrating Christmas in one of the most magical cities in the world.
8. Winter Igloos
If you're looking to escape the winter chill while soaking in all the holiday vibes during Christmas in London, snuggling together in a winter igloo is the perfect festive retreat.
Enjoy mulled wine in a twinkling, heated igloo and get drunk on the views of London at Christmas all around you.
From the Insta-famous igloos at Coppa Club to the chic rooftop options offered by Igloos at The Aviary and the Mercer Roof Igloos, each offers a magical hideaway in the heart of the city.
Whether you're enjoying holiday snacks with the kids or chugging down some alcohol with family and friends, these igloos promise a snug spot to spend quality time with your loved ones.
It’s the ultimate Christmas London experience - homely, comfy and oh-so-charming.
Christmas Shows and Performances
9. Holiday-Themed Shows and Ballet Performances
Christmas in London is also the best time to immerse yourself in spectacular holiday-themed shows and ballets.
Whether you’re a fan of classic Christmas tales or looking to be enthralled by world-class performers, London has a plethora of plays and performances for you.
For an extra sprinkle of holiday cheer, treat yourself to a holiday-themed show that will make your Christmas London experience even more magical.
Enjoy a wholesome and enriching night out with the family by watching a ballet performance of “The Nutcracker” or a festive production of "A Christmas Carol." It’s the perfect way to get into the holiday mood, especially when the city is dressed up in its finest festive decorations.
Be sure to book your tickets early though - these shows are some of the hottest in December and sell out fast.
10. Live Christmas Carols and Music
Christmas and music are synonymous - nothing says Christmas in London like the sweet sound of live Christmas carols filling the air.
During the festive season, you’ll find traditional carol singalongs happening all across the city, from the grand halls of Westminster Abbey to the bustling streets of Covent Garden.
Whether it’s a choir of professional singers belting out some carols or an enthusiastic crowd joining in, the joyful melodies will serenade your soul with holiday cheer.
If you're looking for the best places to experience this, just keep your ears to the ground because there are countless spots where live music brings the magic of the season to life - perfect for making your London Christmas extra special.
Wondrous Experiences
11. Santa’s Grottos
Get ready to jingle all the way to one of London’s best Santa’s Grottos. Whether it’s at Shrek’s Adventure, Alexandra Palace or Hamleys toy shop, Santa’s Grottos are full of Christmas magic.
December in London wouldn’t be complete without meeting Santa himself and it’s not just for the kids.
Imagine wandering through festive shops, the city lit up, and then stepping into a winter wonderland. Games, gifts and of course, the big man himself – it’s a fun way to add some extra sparkle to your shopping trip and get into the Christmas spirit.
So get ready to make this Christmas one to remember with a visit to a Santa Grotto – perfect for spreading the Christmas cheer!
12. Harry Potter Experiences
For Potterheads, there is no better way to celebrate Christmas than stepping into the snowy realm of Hogwarts at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. Whether you’re shopping for enchanting gifts or just soaking up the spellbinding atmosphere, it’s an other-worldly experience for fans and families alike.
This Christmas you can experience the magic of Harry Potter for yourself as you wander through Diagon Alley, brave the Forbidden Forest or board the Hogwarts Express at Platform 9¾. As you experience the wondrous scenes and fan-favourite locations from the movie, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into the wizarding world.
Just don’t forget to book your Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Entry Ticket in advance – it’s a must-do to avoid the December crowds in London.
Famous Landmarks and Events
13. Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree
At Christmas time, the Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree is one of the most popular sights in London.
A gift from Norway to the UK, this giant tree is decorated with traditional Norwegian decorations and is lit up beautifully, adding a bit of magic to the city.
Whether you’re looking at the twinkling lights or just taking a festive walk around Trafalgar Square, the Christmas spirit will catch you up.
Seeing this magnificent tree, often dusted with a bit of snow, is a must-do for anyone who wants to get into the holiday spirit in London. So grab a hot choc, wrap up and let the Christmas tree get you in the mood.
14. Christmas at Kew
If you want to experience some festive cheer in London, then a visit to Kew Gardens in December is a must this holiday season. This massive botanical garden becomes a twinkling wonderland every year with its Christmas at Kew event.
Walk through tunnels of lights, find trees covered in sparkly decorations and taste festive food and drink along the way. It’s like stepping into a Christmas movie.
From the lights to the winter landscape, Kew Gardens is one of the best places in London to get festive. Whether you’re strolling through the lit-up gardens or just soaking up the atmosphere you’ll feel like you’re walking in a winter wonderland.
And don’t forget to take some pics - the Christmas lights at Kew are Insta gold!
15. Special Events and Services
During the holiday season, London pulls out all the stops with a whole range of special events and services that will make your Christmas truly unforgettable.
Start with a visit to Westminster Abbey for a breathtaking Christmas service, where the soaring architecture and angelic choir set the perfect festive tone.
Feeling peckish? Don’t miss The Gingerbread City, a whimsical, edible village where everything - from houses to bridges - is made entirely of gingerbread. It’s like stepping into a sweet, sugary dream.
And if you’re in the mood for some cultural cheer, the city’s jam-packed with holiday-themed shows and ballets that will have you feeling all festive. From Christmas concerts to ballet classics like The Nutcracker, there’s no shortage of entertainment.
So why not make your visit to London extra special this year with a dash of magic, a sprinkle of gingerbread, and a whole lot of festive joy?
Take a Christmas Day Trip
16. Christmas in Canterbury, Dover and Greenwich
Fancy escaping the madness of London for a day and getting into some real Christmas spirit? A Christmas visit to Canterbury, Dover and Greenwich is the answer.
Start by gliding through the Kent countryside to the magnificent Canterbury Cathedral where you’ll attend the magical “Sung Eucharist” service – often led by the Archbishop of Canterbury himself.
After that, you’ll enjoy a traditional Christmas lunch. Then it’s off to the iconic White Cliffs of Dover for some photo opportunities where the views are as impressive as your Christmas cheer.
On the way back to London, your coach will take you through historic Greenwich, famous for its maritime history and atmosphere.
Wrapping Up Your Christmas Adventure
Oh, X'mas in London - the city becomes a glittering wonderland during the holiday season and the festive feels are as infectious as a good old-fashioned carol sing-along.
If you want to deck the halls (or at least your Instagram feed) with twinkly lights and jolly vibes, you’re in the right place.
Stroll through magical Christmas markets where the smell of mulled wine mingles with the sweet scent of freshly baked mince pies.
Picture yourself gliding across the ice at Somerset House, like a swan (or at least not falling over).
And let’s not forget the views along the River Thames or South Bank where you can take in the sights while snacking on seasonal treats from pop-up stalls at a Christmas market.
This Christmas, London is full of festive cheer and we’re shouting “Ho-ho-ho!” with excitement. Whether you’re looking to make magical memories with loved ones or find that perfect gift at a lovely Christmas market, there’s something for everyone.
If you're looking to plan the perfect Christmas holiday with your family or loved ones, let Pelago by Singapore Airlines be your Santa elf to help you unwrap the best things to do in London during Christmas.
If you need more travel tips and activity ideas, consider checking out our list of can't miss experiences in the United Kingdom.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is London a good place to visit during Christmas?
Yes! London becomes a winter wonderland with twinkling lights, Christmas markets and a happy vibe, so it’s a great place to get in the holiday spirit.
Where is the most Christmassy place in London?
Covent Garden with its decorations, Christmas market and lively atmosphere is often the most Christmassy spot in London.
What happens on Christmas in London?
On Christmas Day, London comes alive with festive fun, Christmas services, holiday shows and you can visit decorated landmarks and parks.
What date do Christmas markets start in London?
They usually start opening around mid-November. Most will be open by the end of November.