Top 11: Things to Do in London at Christmas

All I Want for Christmas Is… London! There are lots of great things to do in London at Christmas, as the city comes alive with seasonal decorations, celebrations, and activities. So whether you’re looking to explore all the traditional attractions and viewpoints in the city or discover some alternative spots to taste a festive drink and buy a unique gift for a loved one, read on to find out how to make your time in London as Christmassy as possible.

1. Admire the London Christmas Lights

London is beautiful at any time of the year, but the British capital’s festive decorations are truly a must-see. The Christmas spirit finds its way into every corner of the city so if you’re shopping, exploring, or just soaking in the festive atmosphere, we’re sure London’s lights will blow you away!

Though lights appear across the entire city, we recommend exploring Piccadilly Circus, Oxford Street, and Regent Street in particular. This area, alongside Carnaby Street, whose decorations get more spectacular each year, showcases the city’s creativity and vibrant culture. Theatres, shops, restaurants, and pubs all pull out the stops to decorate their façades that are sure to delight anyone strolling through central London.

So what are you waiting for? It’s time to bundle up and venture out into the city centre to experience this unique moment of the year. For a comprehensive, budget-friendly option, why not book a free Christmas walking tour of London? If you’re looking for a warmer, more comfortable alternative, we also recommend hopping on a bus to experience a Christmas Light Sightseeing Tour. Fun for all the family!

2. Explore London’s Christmas Markets

One of the unmissable things to do in London during this time of the year is visit its Christmas markets. There is a huge variety dotted around the city, offering a range of tasty treats and unique gifts. Any one of them is sure to get you in the festive mood.

The most famous is Winter Wonderland, found in the iconic Hyde Park, featuring over 200 stalls, fairground rides, and an ice skating rink. However, the markets that pop up at the Southbank Centre along the Thames, in Leicester Square, and Borough Market are all worth a visit too. Take your experience at the Christmas markets to the next level by going on a private tour of London, where you’ll have the option to visit the most festive parts of the city with your friends and family and an exclusive guide. Don’t forget to try the most seasonal British pastry: the famous mince pie. The perfect warming treat to keep the cold at bay!

3. Wander Around Covent Garden

Covent Garden is a favourite place for many who have visited London before, but at Christmas, it is even more special. Dating as far back as the 17th century, this landmark blends historic charm with a festive ambience. Christmas tree enthusiasts, this is the place for you! The decorations of this old apple market are truly beautiful this time of year, and the square always boasts a 55-foot tree illuminated by 30,000 LED lights.

When wandering around, keep an eye out for the live entertainment in Covent Garden. The street performers and carol singers add to the holiday cheer and make this spot a must-visit in London at Christmas.

Pro Tip: Covent Garden is known for its up-market shops and bars. If you’re looking for a similar experience in an equally up-scale neighbourhood in London, we recommend checking out the Christmas Festival in Chelsea.

4. Immerse Yourself in the Festive World of Harry Potter

Potterheads assemble! With its massive Christmas feast scenes in the Great Hall and magical snowy moments, the Harry Potter universe is one imbued with the festive spirit. Spending December in London is the perfect plan for lovers of this franchise, as the city features a mix of iconic filming locations and places that inspired the books. Explore all these iconic spots further with a Harry Potter free walking tour or, for the super fans, why not treat yourself to a tour of the Warner Bros. Studio: The Making of Harry Potter?

Platform 9¾, Gringotts, Diagon Alley… All these places will spring to life before you in London, offering a unique way to explore the city through a wizard’s eyes.

5. Discover the City’s Best Viewpoints

Winter in England is known for its early sunsets and long nights, making it the perfect time of the year to see London’s skyline light up. Most people know about the great views you can get with a London Eye ticket, but if you’re looking for something a little different or even more adventurous, we have you covered.

An equally iconic landmark in London, a trip up Tower Bridge gives you access to a high-level glass-floored walkway, offering breathtaking views of the Thames, the Tower of London, and the nearby business centre. For an even more adrenaline-filled adventure that reaches new dizzying heights, head East to the famous O2 Arena. With a ticket to Up at The O2, you’ll get to experience a thrilling climb and unbeatable views of the city at a gravity-defying 170 feet! Additionally, the O2 offers a unique Christmassy Snow Globe Climb during the holiday season, with a gingerbread treat at the top.

6. Find the Perfect Christmas Gift in London

Struggling to find the perfect gift for a loved one? Camden is the place to be! This unique spot in London is as vibrant as it is eclectic, known in particular for its market that lights up with twinkling lights, seasonal decorations, and stalls offering unique gifts during Christmas. Camden’s edgy and artistic character gives its seasonal celebrations a unique, non-traditional twist, making it a top festive place to visit in London. There is something for everyone here, so we are sure you’ll find the perfect present for all your family and friends.

Pro Tip: Looking to explore this neighbourhood even more in-depth? Check out this free tour of Camden to discover its history and quirkiest shops. Booking it during the holidays will also mean you get to spot all the beautiful decorations!

7. Spend Christmas at Kew Gardens

Kew is by far one of the most charming and elegant places in London. Not only is this green space a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but it’s also one of the more tranquil spaces in London. Get away from the hustle and bustle of the city during Christmas and spend the day in a wintery wonderland with a visit to Kew Palace.

Like many places in the city, Kew comes alive during Christmas. It’s worth visiting just to see the beautiful festive lights and decorations that decorate its world-famous botanical gardens. Great for couples, families, and photographers alike, it’s a Christmas experience unlike any other in London.

8. Take a Loved One to a London Show

With Christmas around the corner, the pressure is on to find the perfect present for your family and friends. Why not gift them the experience of a lifetime with a show in London? Pantomimes, concerts, musicals… The city is full to the brim with Christmassy options!

For classical music lovers who enjoy traditional venues, why not explore Westminster Abbey or even St Paul’s Cathedral? These iconic landmarks often host choral performances and carol services over the Christmas season that are truly magical. Alternatively, for those looking for a night of dancing, we recommend booking a ticket to ABBA Voyage. Don your sparkliest outfit and get ready to become Dancing Queens for the night!

9. Ice Skate at Somerset House

Located in the grand 18th-century courtyard of Somerset House, this ice skating rink is a top Christmas attraction in London. Get ready to float over the ice surrounded by beautiful architecture and festive decorations.

As you glide over the ice, the notes of Christmas carols really add to the magical atmosphere, as well as another beautifully decorated Christmas tree. And when you’ve finished skating, you can enjoy a delicious and comforting hot chocolate, from the stalls nearby.

10. Sip on a Drink in a Cosy London Pub

‘Tis the season to curl up somewhere cosy with a festive drink. Eggnog, mulled wine, Baileys’ hot chocolate… There is no end to the Christmas beverages on offer! Did you know that London has over 3500 pubs, more than any other city in the UK? The oldest is thought to date back to 1602! Get to know some of the most interesting venues and their stories on a tour of historic London pubs. We’re sure you’ll love all the welcoming festive decorations and seasonal drinks many of them have on offer this time of year.

11. Go on a Day Trip to Oxford and Cambridge

If you’re in London for a little longer and looking to spend a day away from the city’s high-energy festivities, we highly recommend taking a day trip to one of the neighbouring towns. Just under 2 hours away respectively, the university cities of Oxford and Cambridge are the ideal get-away destinations to discover a new side to England. Quaint, charming, and historical, both places light up with a unique Christmas spirit over the holiday season. Strolling through their medieval buildings and admiring their festive decorations will make you feel like you’ve travelled back in time. Additionally, you’ll even get to see some iconic spots where scenes from the Harry Potter movies were filmed!

Can’t decide which of the two cities to visit? No need to choose with this convenient and exciting day trip to Oxford and Cambridge.

There you have it! Those are our top things to do in London at Christmas. If you’re making your way to London for the first time and want to make sure you hit all of the must-sees, have a look at our 3-day London itinerary, which includes top monuments, areas, and activities. Now, it’s time to bundle up in your warmest gloves and scarf and get ready to explore the city during the most magical time of the year. Be sure to check out all the activities and experiences on offer in London. Happy holidays!