The Best Things to Do in London At Christmas

This article is all about the best things to do in London at Christmas, whether you live in the capital or are visiting at the most magical time of year.

There’s truly nothing like London at Christmas. The city transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland filled with twinkling lights, festive markets, ice rinks, and cosy pubs.

Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re returning to experience the magic all over again, there’s something so special about exploring the capital during the holidays.

From wandering under the glowing lights of Oxford Street and Covent Garden to ice skating at Somerset House or sipping mulled wine at Winter Wonderland, you’ll find endless ways to soak up the festive spirit.

If you’re spending a Christmas break in the capital, here are the best things to do in London at Christmas.

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But before we delve into the list of the best things to do in London at Christmas, here’s a YouTube vlog of a Christmas weekend in London exploring all of the lights and festivities that London has to offer:

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The Best Things to Do in London at Christmas

In this guide, I’ll share the best things to do in London at Christmas, from classic holiday traditions to lesser-known festive experiences that’ll make your trip feel extra magical.

Whether you’re visiting London in December, planning a Christmas Day in London itinerary, or simply looking for the best festive spots to see the lights, this list has everything you need to make the most of the holiday season in the UK’s most enchanting city.

1. Winter Wonderland

No list of things to do in London at Christmas would be complete without mentioning Winter Wonderland, the city’s biggest and most famous festive attraction.

Located in Hyde Park, this massive Christmas fair features everything from roller coasters and ice skating to food stalls, craft markets, and mulled wine stands.

There’s something for everyone. Kids will love Santa Land, couples can enjoy the ice bar, and foodies can try everything from bratwursts to chocolate-dipped churros.

It’s best to book tickets in advance if you’re visiting in the evening or on weekends. Visit after dark to see Hyde Park transformed into a sparkling wonderland of lights and music.

I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve visited Winter Wonderland, it’s a must for any London Christmas itinerary.

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2. Ice Skating at Somerset House

Few experiences capture the essence of London in December like ice skating beneath fairy lights with the sound of Christmas music playing in the background.

The Somerset House Ice Rink is one of London’s most iconic, set in the courtyard of a grand neoclassical building that looks straight out of a movie.

For something new, head to Battersea Power Station, where a newer ice rink offers views of the Thames and a festive market vibe.

Both are perfect additions to your London winter itinerary, especially if you’re visiting as a couple or looking for romantic Christmas activities for couples in London.

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3. Covent Garden Christmas Decorations

Covent Garden is one of the prettiest spots in London at Christmas time, and its festive decorations are legendary.

The iconic market piazza is covered in giant baubles, mistletoe, and fairy lights, with a giant Christmas tree at its centre.

You’ll also find live music, pop-up stalls selling festive treats, and plenty of cosy cafes where you can warm up with a hot chocolate.

Covent Garden is perfect for couples and families looking for a Christmassy atmosphere without the crowds of Winter Wonderland.

Don’t miss a stop at Ladurée or Apple Market for a little festive indulgence!

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4. Christmas Markets

The Christmas markets in London are some of the best in Europe, and each one offers a different vibe.

• Southbank Centre Winter Market: Along the Thames, this riverside market features wooden chalets, fairy lights, and delicious street food.
• Leicester Square Christmas Market: Great for central London visitors, complete with a festive show tent and Santa’s grotto.
• King’s Cross Coal Drops Yard: A modern take on the market scene, with independent stalls and creative gifts.

Whether you’re looking for handmade crafts, mulled wine, or festive food, these are some of the best things to do in London at Christmas for travellers wanting a little bit of everything.

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5. Christmas Carol Singalong

Get ready to belt out your favourite Christmas tunes at one of London’s many carol singalongs.

Whether in a cozy pub or a historic church, these events are a surefire way to immerse yourself in the joyous sounds of the season.

A popular location is Colombia Road where a local church rolls a piano onto the street each Wednesday evening for some carols in the street.

Grab your friends, warm up those vocal cords, and let the festive singalong begin! This is one of the best local things to do in London at Christmas.

6. See A West End Christmas Show

There’s no better way to spend a cosy winter evening than seeing a show in London’s West End.

During the Christmas season, theatres come alive with festive productions, from A Christmas Carol to The Nutcracker, and family pantomimes filled with laughter and audience participation.

If you’re visiting London in December, make sure to book tickets early because these shows often sell out fast!

Even if you’re not usually a theatre person, a pantomime is a uniquely British experience you can’t miss during Christmas in London.

Seeing a show on the West End is one of the best things to do in London at Christmas, and most recently I went to see Harry Potter and the Cursed Child and as soon as we stepped out of the theatre it immediately started snowing. The most magical moment.

RELATED Things to Do in London at Christmas article to read: The Best Broadway Musicals You Need to See in New York

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7. Magical Lights of Regent Street and Oxford Street

When it comes to London Christmas lights, Oxford Street and Regent Street are where the magic begins.

Every year, these world-famous shopping streets are draped in glowing lights and festive displays that create a truly enchanting atmosphere.

Take a stroll from Oxford Circus down to Piccadilly Circus, and you’ll pass stunning department store windows from Selfridges and Liberty, both beautifully decorated for the holidays.

For the best photos, go after sunset when the lights shine brightest. Or hop on the top deck of a double-decker bus for a magical view of London at Christmas.

Walking down Regent Street is one of the best things to do in London at Christmas, and it really makes you feel like Christmas is here. it’s magical.

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8. Christmas Shopping at London’s Iconic Stores

Christmas shopping in London is an experience in itself. From sparkling window displays to festive markets, the city turns into a shopper’s paradise during the holidays.

Start at Harrods in Knightsbridge, where twinkling lights and a whole floor dedicated to Christmas make it feel like stepping into a festive wonderland.

Then visit Fortnum & Mason in Piccadilly for luxury hampers, tea sets, and beautifully wrapped gifts.

For high-end shopping, stroll down Bond Street, where designer boutiques like Chanel and Tiffany & Co. go all out with dazzling decorations.

Meanwhile, Selfridges on Oxford Street is a must for its famous window displays and huge Christmas department.

And if you’re after something a little more unique, explore the independent shops around Carnaby Street and Seven Dials, both known for their creative lights and local finds.

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9. Eat A Traditional British Christmas Dinner

Christmas in London isn’t complete without a visit to a traditional British pub.

When the temperature drops, London’s pubs transform into the cosiest spots in the city with roaring fireplaces, fairy lights, and hearty meals.

Try The Churchill Arms in Kensington (famous for its over-the-top Christmas decorations) or Trafalgar Tavern in Greenwich (pictured below) for a classic experience.

Many pubs serve a full Christmas roast dinner, complete with Yorkshire puddings, gravy, and mulled wine, a must for any London Christmas itinerary.

From turkey dinners with all the trimmings to creative twists on classic holiday dishes, London’s restaurants are a gift that keeps on giving and this is one of the best traditional things to do in London at Christmas.

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10. Christmas at Kew Gardens

For something truly magical, book tickets for Christmas at Kew, one of London’s most beautiful and immersive festive events.

Each winter, Kew Gardens transforms into a glowing world of light installations, sculptures, and projections that guide you through its botanical paths.

This is one of the most romantic things to do in London at Christmas, and it’s family-friendly too.

Tickets sell out quickly, so it’s best to book well in advance, but it’s absolutely worth it for the atmosphere and photo opportunities.

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The Best Things to Do in London At Christmas: My Recommendations

London really is one of the best cities in the world to visit at Christmas.

From its world-famous decorations and festive events to its cosy cafés and magical markets, there’s something on this list of things to do in London at Christmas for everyone, whether you’re travelling with family, friends, or your partner.

Whether you’re ice skating beneath the stars, picking up gifts at a Christmas market, or enjoying a traditional roast dinner in a pub by the fire, spending Christmas in London is a memory you’ll treasure forever.

So wrap up warm, grab a hot chocolate, and get ready to experience the best things to do in London at Christmas.