Usually, London is a vibrant metropolis brimming with culture and energy, but during Christmas, it becomes an enchanting festive haven.
Wherever you look, it’s adorned with dazzling lights, charming markets, and a palpable sense of holiday spirit.
For Londoners, it’s the time to shop, enjoy, and celebrate with their friends and relatives.
This year, if you want to be a part of this festivity, be in London for Christmas. Our guide will help you plan your Christmas in London without worrying about anything.
Christmas traditions in London
In London, the holiday season brings the city alive with cherished customs that locals embrace wholeheartedly.
Secret Santa is a beloved tradition where friends, families, and even office colleagues exchange gifts anonymously. The excitement of wondering who picked your name adds an element of surprise and joy, making every gathering more festive.
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In London, the holiday season brings the city alive with cherished customs that locals embrace wholeheartedly.
Secret Santa is a beloved tradition where friends, families, and even office colleagues exchange gifts anonymously. The excitement of wondering who picked your name adds an element of surprise and joy, making every gathering more festive.
During Christmas dinners, no table is complete without the traditional Christmas crackers. Locals love pulling them apart with a friend or family member to reveal a tiny gift, a cheesy joke, and a colorful paper crown, which everyone proudly wears for the rest of the meal, sparking laughter and playful conversations.
Fun Fact
Do you know the tradition of Christmas crackers started in the 1840s and was invented by a London-based confectioner named Tom Smith?
Caroling is another cherished part of London’s festive spirit. Residents flock to St. Paul’s Cathedral and other historic venues for carol services featuring well-known choirs that fill the air with classic holiday tunes.
Many smaller churches and venues across the city host carol services with a more intimate atmosphere, often without the large crowds found at the famous spots. Consider attending a local parish for a quieter, more personal experience
To end Christmas Eve on a heartfelt note, many Londoners attend midnight mass, gathering in churches to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and share in a moment of reflection and community.
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Things you can do in London during Christmas
London at Christmas is full of magical experiences and activities that capture the heart and spirit of the season.
From twinkling light displays to bustling holiday markets, there is no shortage of festive things to see and do.
Let’s see what you can do on Christmas to make it special beyond your imagination.
Christmas markets in London
London is home to some of the most magical Christmas markets in the world.
Every year, thousands of people come from all over to experience the festive fun, enjoy delicious food, and shop for unique gifts.
Here are some of the must-visit Christmas markets in London:
Southbank Centre Winter Market
The Southbank Centre Winter Market is a festive riverside wonderland with twinkling lights and cozy stalls offering everything from quirky gifts to delicious seasonal snacks. You can sip on mulled wine while soaking in gorgeous views of the Thames and the London skyline. It’s the perfect spot to enter the holiday spirit while enjoying the vibrant, artsy atmosphere!
Tip: Don’t forget to bring a warm scarf or coat as it can get chilly by the river during the winter months.
Leadenhall Market
Leadenhall Market is a hidden gem, offering a charming and historic setting for a Christmas market. With its beautiful Victorian architecture and festive decorations, it’s like stepping into a Christmas storybook. The market is full of gourmet food stalls, unique gifts, and a cozy atmosphere that makes it a favorite for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy something a little more magical.
Fun Fact:
Leadenhall Market is a historic spot that was featured in the Harry Potter films as Diagon Alley!
Greenwich Market
Greenwich Market is the place to be if you’re looking for a mix of quirky, handmade gifts and delicious festive food. Set in the picturesque area of Greenwich, this market is full of character, with unique stalls selling everything from artsy presents to vintage treasures. It’s the perfect place to stroll around, grab a bite, and enjoy the vibrant, relaxed holiday atmosphere.
If you are really fond of Christmas markets and want to see them all, you can try a private guided tour that takes you to local Christmas markets to experience the city’s holiday spirit.
Want everything in one place?
Visit Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland! This is the ultimate festive playground, with an ice skating rink, carnival rides, and even a magical circus.
It’s a winter wonderland packed with family fun, tasty treats, and a touch of magic, whether you’re skating, shopping, or just enjoying the dazzling lights.
It’s one of London’s most thrilling Christmas locations because everyone’s sure to find what they’re looking for.
Be sure to visit the Winter Wonderland Ice Bar, an immersive experience where everything from the walls to the glasses is made entirely from ice!
Ice Skating
London transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season, and its ice skating rinks are one of the highlights.
From historic landmarks to modern urban settings, every corner of London has a perfect ice skating spot.
- Somerset House: Set against Georgian architecture, this iconic rink is a favorite for both tourists and locals. The large Christmas tree in the center creates a truly festive atmosphere, and you can enjoy live DJ sets while gliding around the ice. Open from 13 November 2024 to 12 January 2025, it’s a fantastic spot for those looking to mix skating with some holiday cheer.
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- Battersea Power Station: For a more modern vibe, Battersea Power Station offers an open-air rink with a twist. Featuring three interconnected rinks around a towering 30-foot Christmas tree, this rink is perfect for skaters of all skill levels. It opens from 8 November 2024 until 7 January 2025.
- Canary Wharf Ice Rink: It is another standout, offering skating amidst London’s towering skyscrapers. This covered rink ensures that the fun doesn’t stop, rain or shine, and is open from October through February. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy a festive skate in the city’s heart.
Other great options:
Our recommendation:
If you are still confused, what should you do at Christmas in London? Let’s make it even easier for you. Just buy a London Pass and relax! You will get access to around 90+ attractions under one pass. You can use it for 1 to 10 days, whatever type of pass you have chosen. Grab this pass and visit your favorite attractions without worrying about buying tickets.Every corner of London is adorned with Christmas vibes. You won’t be disappointed wherever you go!
Festive light displays
London comes alive with festive light displays during the Christmas season, making it one of the most enchanting times to visit.
The dazzling installations provide a magical backdrop for holiday shopping and sightseeing.
Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Carnaby Street light up London with festive magic each year.
Oxford Street enchants with its canopy of shimmering LED lights, drawing crowds with its brilliance. For a more peaceful experience, visit the lights at dawn, when the streets are quieter, and the lights are still beautifully illuminated.
Just a short walk away, Regent Street’s grand, angelic displays add elegance to the bustling shopping district.
For a twist of creativity, Carnaby Street surprises visitors annually with unique, photo-worthy themes.
Meanwhile, Christmas at Kew Gardens offers an illuminated trail of twinkling trees, colorful tunnels, and mesmerizing laser shows over the lake, creating a whimsical escape. Kew Gardens’ Christmas lights are part of an annual tradition that has been growing in popularity—this year, the event includes a “Frozen Garden” exhibit with icy blue lights and frozen-themed displays. Get more details
Last but not least, Covent Garden completes the holiday charm with a giant Christmas tree, glowing lights, and lively street performers.
Other notable spots that you can try:
Somerset House
St. Christopher’s Place
The Shard light display
Or take a Christmas lights bus tour that will take you to the most amazing spots to enjoy the beauty of spectacular light displays in every corner of the city.
Christmas shows and concerts
London’s theater scene shines during the holidays with magical shows and concerts.
The Royal Opera House’s The Nutcracker enchants audiences with Clara’s journey, Tchaikovsky’s score, and dazzling choreography—a must-see for Christmas visitors.
The West End brings beloved stories like A Christmas Carol to life, perfect for families seeking festive cheer and world-class performances.
Carols at St. Paul’s Cathedral or Westminster Abbey offer a soulful experience, with choirs filling historic halls with harmonies.
For more, enjoy Christmas concerts at the Royal Albert Hall, laugh at holiday-themed comedy shows, or delight in pantomimes like Cinderella and Aladdin.
Visit Christmas-themed attractions
Christmas in London means more than just lights and shows; the city has unique attractions that become even more magical during the festive season.
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour transforms into a festive wonderland, with the Great Hall adorned in snow-dusted decorations and a holiday feast—perfect for Potterheads dreaming of Hogwarts in winter. Read more.
Christmas at ZSL London Zoo delights families with illuminated trails, animal-themed displays, and a chance to meet Santa amid a glowing wonderland. The Gorilla Kingdom at the zoo is decorated with Christmas-themed accents, offering a fun way to experience the holiday cheer alongside the animals.
For holiday fun with a touch of history, the Tower of London Ice Rink offers skating under sparkling lights within the fortress walls.
Other notable attractions include:
Hogwarts in the Snow at Warner Bros. Studio
Christmas at Windsor Castle
The Enchanted Eltham Palace
Or tke a Christmas lights bus tour that will take you to the most amazing spots to enjoy the beauty of spectacular light displays in every corner of the city.
Shopaholics favorite:
If you are passionate about shopping, London’s Christmas scene offers dazzling displays and unique gifts at iconic spots like Harrods, Selfridges, and Fortnum & Mason, where you’ll find everything from luxury items to gourmet hampers.
Don’t miss festive pop-up shops, Liberty London’s collections, Camden Market’s stalls, and Covent Garden’s artisan market for one-of-a-kind gifts and local treasures.
Seasonal dining experiences
Visiting London at Christmas is incomplete without indulging in seasonal dining experiences.
Christmas Dinner Cruises on the Thames offer a unique way to enjoy a festive meal while drifting past the city’s illuminated landmarks, combining traditional dishes with stunning views.
High-end restaurants and traditional pubs serve classic holiday meals like roasted turkey, stuffing, mulled wine, and Christmas pudding for an authentic feast.
For a truly luxurious experience, enjoy Festive Afternoon Tea at The Ritz, with holiday-themed treats and live music in an elegant setting.
You can indulge in Claridge’s Christmas tea, dinner at The Savoy Grill, and cozy meals at The Churchill Arms, making every meal a celebration.
Another way to relish the delicious food is by enjoying it with a concert. Try this!
