Planning to celebrate Christmas in London? Discover the most fun things to do in London at Christmas in 2025, plus the best hotels and food experiences.
Christmas in London is like a mince pie you actually want to eat: glittering, warm, and a little bit nutty. Travelers often want to know when Christmas in London is, so they don’t miss the city’s festive lights and events.
Whether you’re celebrating a London Christmas with family, enjoying free seasonal attractions, or seeking a memorable holiday experience, London becomes a festive winter playground.
From twinkling lights to mulled wine‑soaked markets, here’s your guide to exploring the best places to see in London at Christmas without accidentally getting trampled by Santa’s sleigh.
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🎄 Fun Things to Do in London at Christmas
From twinkling markets to wobbly ice rinks and festive feasts, here’s your ultimate guide to the most fun things to do at Christmas in London.
🎁 Free Things to Do in London at Christmas
Which are the best places to visit in London for free? Discover the best free things to do in London with family, friends, or solo.
- Outernet London: The Ice Palace is a stunning new free festive show straight out of a storybook.
- Covent Garden Decorations: Giant baubles and Christmas-themed Lego displays.
- Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree & Carol Singing: Iconic tree and seasonal tunes.
- Regent Street, Oxford Street & Carnaby Street Lights: Glittering streets perfect for evening strolls.
- Ever After Garden, Chelsea: Over 30,000 glowing roses honoring loved ones.
- Winter Lights at Canary Wharf: Dreamscape-themed illuminated art installations with surreal, ethereal, and uniquely human experiences.
- St. Pancras International Station (3 Nov 2025 – 2 Jan 2026): Stop by the ‘Powered by themed St. Pancras Christmas Tree.
- King’s Cross Christmas Markets (22 Nov – 22 Dec 2025): Independent makers showcase homeware, fashion, beauty, crafts, with live music, and street food.
- Harry Potter Christmas Tree at King’s Cross: Festive display by Platform 9¾ with brooms, Quidditch balls, and Hogwarts letters.
- The Bar At Home, Soho (10-12 Dec 2025): 300 free Baileys hot chocolates on each day.
- Olympia London (26-30 Nov 2025): Festive shopping with workshops and seasonal food.
- Wicked For Good Experience at Westfield London (13 Nov 2025 – 4 Jan 2026): Immersive experience. Book free tickets in advance.
- Leadenhall Market: Shop, eat, and drink at this Victorian covered retail centre.
- Duke of York Square: A free festive trail based on the Twelve Days of Christmas.
- Selfridges Christmas Windows: Dazzling displays blend art, fashion, and festive fantasy.
- St Paul’s Cathedral: Iconic dome, rich history, and stunning city views.
- Sloane Square: Festive sparkle in the heart of London.
- Hay’s Galleria: Unique gifts and an annual Christmas market.
- The Savoy: Iconic holiday glow and festive magic by the Thames.
- St Martin’s Lane: Dazzling festive displays brighten the street.
- Fulham Palace: Enchanting illuminations in a historic, festive setting.
- Burlington Arcade: Early 18th-century shopping arcade with small high-end shops.
- Liberty London: Christmas Shopping for designer fashions, fragrances, and floral prints.
- Santa Skate Parade (13 Dec 2025): Join hundreds of skating Santas at 4:30 pm from Hyde Park, gliding through Piccadilly Circus, Regent Street, or Trafalgar Square.
- Free Museum Exhibitions: Seasonal displays at the British Museum, National Gallery, and Victoria & Albert Museum.
- Southbank Christmas Stroll: Riverside walk with lights and street performers.
💡 Tip: Combine a few of these free things to do in London for a full day of festive exploration without spending a penny.
🎇 Top Things to Do in London in December 2025
Looking for fun things to do in London with kids? Some of the most memorable London Christmas events and experiences do require a ticket, but they’re worth every penny.
- Christmas at Kew, Kew Gardens (14 Nov 2025 – 4 Jan 2026): Timed entry for magical light trails and festive displays.
- Hogwarts in the Snow, Warner Bros Studio Tour (15 Nov 2025 – 18 Jan 2026): Fun Harry Potter things to do in London.
- Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park (14 Nov 2025 – 1 Jan 2026): Ice skating, rides, festive stalls, Ice Bar, and Magical Ice Kingdom.
- Elf the Musical (Nov – Dec 2025): Watch Buddy find his father and save Christmas in the city at the Aldwych Theatre.
- The Nutcracker (22 Nov 2025 – 5 Jan 2026): Light up your Christmas with Peter Wright’s enchanting production.
- Wicked the Musical: The story of the two polar-opposite witches from The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.
- Mamma Mia!: Sing along to ABBA’s songs in this beloved musical.
- London Theatre Shows: Enjoy a night out in London’s theatres, including West End shows.
- Grinchmas Afternoon Tea at Brigit’s Bakery: A Whoville-style feast of festive treats and a Grinch visit for young Dr. Seuss fans.
- Disney Magic at Dolly’s Cafe, Selfridges: Disney-themed food and free confetti show.
- The Great Christmas Feast, The Lost Estate (14 Nov 2025 – 4 January 2026): Indulge in a Yuletide Feast while you watch a performance of Dickens’ timeless classic ‘A Christmas Carol’.
- Christmas Sandwich Festival, Somerset House (29 Nov 2025): Festive sandwiches, live music, and winter cheer.
- Bluebell Railway: A nostalgic winter steam train ride with Santa, gifts, and fun at Horsted Keynes fair.
- The POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride at Wensleydale Railway: Brings the 2004 film to life.
- Riverside Hub: The UK’s favourite indoor play centre and role-play village.
- Biscuiteers Boutique & Icing Cafe: Biscuit icing and festive afternoon tea.
- Jingle Bell Ball, The O2 Arena (6-7 Dec 2025): Concert with headliners – tickets required.
- The Santa Steam Express (20 or 22 Dec 2025): Festive steam train journey with Santa, elves, storytelling, sing-alongs, gifts, and magic for the whole family.
- Carols at the Royal Albert Hall (20 Dec 2025): Magical performances featuring a mix of traditional and modern Christmas carols.
- Wundrful World of Christmas (8 Nov – 24 Dec 2025): A magical, mixed-reality walk-through experience to meet Santa and his elves.
- Christmas Comes to Moominvalley (5 Dec 2025 – 4 Jan 2026): Family theatre production; tickets from £12‑£26.
- Christmas Wonderland, Middlesex (North London): Take a festive train ride, sip hot chocolate, and explore the Christmas-packed garden centre.
🎆 Best London Christmas Markets
Stroll through the best London Christmas markets and soak up the festive chaos – twinkling lights, mulled wine, quirky gifts, and enough holiday cheer to make even the Grinch crack a smile.
- Royal Mews Christmas Shop at Buckingham Palace (14 Nov 2025 – 5 Jan 2026): Festive gifts, seasonal treats, and decorations in a royal setting.
- Southbank Centre Winter Market (3 Nov 2025 – 4 Jan 2026): Artisan gifts, street food, and seasonal cheer.
- Leadenhall Festive Weekend Markets: (16 Nov – 7 Dec 2025): Historic arcade with seasonal stalls, artisan gifts, and Christmas charm.
- Greenwich Christmas Market (19 Nov 2025 – 23 Jan 2026): Crafts, gifts, and tasty seasonal treats.
- Leicester Square Christmas Market (5 Nov 2025 – 5 Jan 2026): Family-friendly rides, stalls, and lights.
- King’s Cross Christmas Markets (22 Nov – 22 Dec 2025): Unique homeware, fashion, beauty, and crafts with live music and festive street food.
- Old Spitalfields Market (12 Nov – 24 Dec 2025): Festive stalls, designer finds, and street food in an iconic covered market.
- Borough Market Christmas Stalls (1 Dec – 6 Jan 2026): Festive flavours, seasonal treats, and holiday cheer in the heart of London.
- Kingston Christmas Market (13 Nov – 28 Dec 2025): Mulled wine, hot chocolate, German beer, vintage carousel, and live music.
- Winter by the River (13 Nov 2025 – 5 Jan 2026): Festive cheer, twinkling lights, and riverside magic between London Bridge and Tower Bridge.
- Battersea Power Station Christmas Markets (7 Nov 2025 – 4 Jan 2026): Riverside festive stalls, ice skating, and seasonal entertainment.
- The Mayfair Christmas Market (27-29 Nov 2025): Festive food, artisan gifts, live DJs, Santa, real reindeer, and magical snow flurries.
- Camden Christmas Market (6 Dec – 25 Dec 2025): Festive stalls, street food, and live music with Camden’s unique flair.
- Chelsea Barracks Winter Fair (22–23 Nov 2025): A stylish festive weekend filled with artisan stalls, seasonal food, elegant décor, and holiday gifting inspiration.
- Chelsea Winter Village, Royal Hospital Chelsea (from 26 Nov 2025): Pop-up village with festive food, décor, and shopping.
- Beverley Festival of Christmas (14 Dec 2025): This historic Yorkshire town becomes a magical Christmas shopper’s wonderland for one day.
London Christmas Markets Tours
🎁 Best Christmas Markets Near London
Discover the most festive Christmas markets near London, perfect for magical shopping, twinkling lights, and seasonal treats.
- Bath Christmas Walk (27 Nov – 14 Dec 2025): A charming stroll through festive stalls, lights, and historic streets.
- Salisbury & Winchester Christmas Markets (Salisbury: 12 Nov – 31 Dec 2025); (Winchester: 21 Nov – 22 Dec 2025): Head out from London to both cities on this full-day tour.
- Canterbury Christmas Market (12 Nov – 24 Dec 2025): Spend an unforgettable Christmas Eve sightseeing around Leeds Castle, Canterbury, and Dover on this coach tour from London.
- Chatsworth House Christmas Market (8 Nov – 14 Dec 2025): The Enchanted Garden features whimsical garden fairies, secret fairy doors, and hidden woodland creatures.
- Windsor Great Park Light Trail (14 Nov 2025 – 3 Jan 2026): A glowing woodland walk with dazzling light installations.
- Waddesdon Manor Christmas Fair (22 Nov 2025 – 4 Jan 2026): Magical décor and light trails. Early booking recommended for house and garden tickets.
- The Frankfurt Christmas Market, Birmingham, UK (1 Nov – 24 Dec 2025): Over 180 traditional stalls offering handcrafted gifts, festive foods, and mulled wine.
✨ London Christmas Lights Tours
London’s Christmas light displays are among the top attractions in the city. Take a Christmas Lights Open-Top Bus Tour for the best festive vantage point.
Here are the London Christmas lights 2025 dates you need to help you plan your trip:
- Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree & Lights (9 Nov – 2 Jan 2026): Iconic lights.
- Regent Street & Oxford Street Lights (7 Nov – 6 Jan 2026): Sparkling streets.
- Carnaby Street Christmas Lights (1 Nov – 5 Jan 2026): Quirky, colorful lights.
- Kew Gardens Enchanted Lights (14 Nov 2025 – 4 Jan 2026): Illuminated trails.
- 34 Mayfair (10 Nov 2025 – 4 Jan 2026): Christmas decorations titled ‘Miracle at 34’.
- The Churchill Arms (From 13 Nov, 2025): Decadent display of fairy lights.
- Winter Lights at Canary Wharf (20 – 31 Jan 2026): Surreal ‘Dreamscape’ installation.
- Selfridges (From 6 Nov 2025): 18 enchanting Disney windows.
- Harrods: Magical Christmas windows and glittering lights.
- Hay’s Galleria: Unique gifts and an annual Christmas market.
- Annabel’s: Extravagant façade displays and themed decorations.
- Fortnum & Mason: Iconic window displays and luxury Christmas hampers.
- Royal Arcade: Elegant decorations and boutique shopping under glittering arches.
- New Bond Street: Upscale designer stores with dazzling holiday lights.
- Sloane Square: Festive sparkle in the heart of London.
- Kings Road: Elegant golden lights on a stylish street.
- St Martin’s Lane: Dazzling festive displays brighten the street.
- Seven Dials: Charming display of twinkling lights and boutique stores.
- Covent Garden: Christmas tree, Christmas-themed Lego displays.
- Burlington Arcade: Classic British holiday décor and luxury boutiques.
- Liberty London: Christmas window displays and luxury holiday shopping.
- The Ritz: Lavish decorations and afternoon tea with festive flair.
- The Savoy: Iconic holiday glow and festive magic by the Thames.
- Neal’s Yard: Whimsical, colorful lights tucked away in a cozy courtyard.
- Outernet London: The Ice Palace – A stunning new free festive show.
- Kenwood House: Neverland at Kenwood – a Peter Pan-themed display.
- Chiswick House: The Twelve Days of Christmas-inspired florals and costumes.
- Fulham Palace: Enchanting illuminations in a historic, festive setting.
Don’t forget to include tours of the most beautiful London Christmas decorations in your London Christmas lights walking route.
⛸️ London Christmas Ice Skating Rinks
Glide into the festive spirit with some of the coolest ice-skating rinks in the city. From iconic outdoor rinks to seasonal pop-ups, ice-skating is one of the best things to do in London at Christmas for families, couples, and friends.
- Somerset House Ice Rink (12 Nov 2025 – 12 Jan 2026): Classic courtyard with music and skating lessons.
- Winter Wonderland Ice Rink, Hyde Park (14 Nov 2025 – 1 Jan 2026): A part of the larger park festival, featuring ticketed skating.
- Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink (21 Nov 2025 – 4 Jan 2026): Glide beside a Tudor palace backdrop with a royal atmosphere and a post-skate hot chocolate.
- Glide Ice Rink, Battersea Power Station (till 4 Jan 2026): Riverside skating on a scenic skate trail with cosy Christmas vibes.
- Canary Wharf Ice Rink (25 Oct 2025 – 22 Feb 2026): Skate under skyscraper views with festive lights and lively DJ nights.
- Leicester Square Ice Rink (1 Nov 2025 – 4 Jan 2026): A central West End rink with a charming Shakespeare statue.
- Queens House Greenwich Ice Rink (21 Nov 2025 – 4 Jan 2026): A historic riverside setting lit with pretty festive lights.
❤️ Unique Things to Do in London at Christmas
Looking for cool things to do in London this Christmas? From magical lights to festive storytelling, the city offers experiences you won’t forget.
- The Snowman™ Afternoon Tea Bus Tour: Feel the Christmas spirit on a magical journey through London, enjoy festive tea, and sing along to music and carols.
- Hot Tub Boat Tour in London: Cruise the city’s waterways in a 3.8m wooden boat with a self-operated, wood-fired hot tub heated to 38°C for a unique 75-minute experience.
- London Christmas Carol & Charles Dickens Walking Tour: Follow in Scrooge’s footsteps on a Charles Dickens walking tour.
- Harry Potter Studio Tour – Christmas Edition: Hogwarts’ sets are beautifully decorated for the season, a must for fans and a standout festive activity.
- Christmas Eve With 3-Course Dinner & Midnight Mass: Savor a 3-course meal and enjoy Christmas Eve mass at St. Martin-in-the-Fields church.
- Fairytale Christmas Day with Food & Christmas Concert: Learn Christmas trivia from your guide, including about the city’s real-life Grinch.
- London Thames Christmas Lunch Party: Enjoy elegant surroundings, a 3-course meal, festive entertainment, and spectacular views of London landmarks.
- London Christmas Party Dinner Cruise: Enjoy a 3-course festive dinner with wine along London’s beautifully illuminated landmarks while a DJ spins tunes.
- New Year’s Eve London Fireworks Cruise: Witness the magic of New Year’s Eve from one of the best vantage points in the city.
- 5-Course Christmas Cooking Class: Learn how to prepare four delightful dishes from an exclusive Christmas Special menu in a fun cooking class.
- London Historical Pubs Tour: Pop into centuries-old alehouses, see literary haunts favored by writers such as Charles Dickens.
- Jurassic World: The Exhibition: Meet life-sized dinosaurs in this thrilling immersive experience.
- Frameless Immersive Art Experience: Experience the sensation of being surrounded by more than 42 masterpieces.
- Electric Cinema: Watch a movie in style with plush seating, cosy blankets, and festive film favourites.
- The Kensington Palace Gardens Royal High Tea: Enjoy high tea, snacks, and a tour at Kensington Palace
- Winter-themed Afternoon Teas: Enjoy seasonal treats and festive flavors in iconic venues, a uniquely London holiday experience.
🍽️ Best Food in London for Christmas 2025
From markets to iconic eateries, there are endless things to do in London this Christmas for food lovers. London’s Christmas food scene is a feast for the senses, with festive treats, seasonal drinks, and hearty meals around every corner.
- The Chalet, Somerset House: Fresh raclette, winter comfort food, and festive vibes.
- Sketch London: Iconic interiors with a unique Christmas vibe.
- Sketch Glade: Enchanted forest-themed room with an extraordinary cocktail menu.
- Clos Maggiore: Fairy-lit ceilings and a cosy, romantic winter setting.
- Balthazar: A lively French brasserie with festive charm.
- Nibbles Railway Cafe: The world’s first choo-choo train café.
- The Ivy Chelsea Garden: Floral décor and a warm, festive atmosphere.
- Daphne’s: Elegant Italian dining with candlelit charm.
- Claridge’s: Elegant afternoon tea served with festive flair.
- Fortnum & Mason: Luxury mince pies, teas, and Christmas hampers.
- Dishoom Carnaby: Festive Indian-inspired dishes and cocktails.
- 1864 Rooftop Bar & Kitchen: A private igloo and bold winter flavours.
- Miracle at Henrietta, Covent Garden: Festive pop-up bar with Christmas cocktails.
- Duck & Waffle: Enter a festive world of magic, floating candles, and enchanted décor.
- Polo Bar: Enjoy this legendary 24-hour cafe’s festive, all-day-and-night Christmas dinner.
- Gaucho: Christmas Day menu at outlets in Hampstead, Richmond, Covent Garden, Edinburgh & Tower Bridge.
- Bacchanalia Mayfair: London’s most opulent restaurant, even more magical at Christmas.
- The Connaught Grill: Premium steaks and wine in classic, glamorous style.
- Florattica Rooftop Bar: Rooftop cocktails in a stylish atmosphere
- The Pie Room at Rosewood: Artisan British pies in an exclusive hideaway.
- EVE, Cromwell Road: Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, bar, and café.
- Maggie Jones’s: Kensington classic since the ’60s, serving rustic British favourites.
- Mercato Metropolitano, Mayfair: Gourmet street food served in a converted church.
- Koyn Restaurant: Contemporary Japanese dining in a chic setting inspired by fire and earth.
- Flute, Broadwick Soho: Stylish rooftop bar with panoramic views and crafted cocktails.
- Borough Market: Seasonal pies, roasted chestnuts, and hot drinks.
- Southbank Centre Winter Market: Artisan chocolates, festive street food, and mulled wine.
🏨 Where to Stay at Christmas in London
From cozy hostels to luxury hotels, London offers the perfect base for exploring festive markets, lights, and holiday events. Finding the best hotels for Christmas in London ensures you’re close to all the Christmas fun and seasonal attractions.
Budget / Hostels:
- YHA London St Pancras: Affordable, central, family-friendly.
- Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage: Beautiful Victorian Grade II historic building.
Mid-range Hotels:
- citizenM London Bankside: Stylish, near Southbank Christmas Market.
- Z Hotel Shoreditch: Perfect for exploring festive lights.
Luxury Hotels:
- The Savoy: Iconic, luxuriously decorated for the holidays.
- The Ritz London: Afternoon teas, festive décor, central location.
Countryside Retreats:
Some of the best hotels for Christmas in London are actually just beyond the city limits. So, if you’d rather stay outside the city, these countryside retreats offer comfort and festive charm.
- The Grove, Watford: Luxury countryside festive escape
- Sopwell House, Saint Albans: Spa retreat with Christmas packages
- Down Hall Hotel, Essex: Historic mansion with celebrations
- Lainston House, Winchester: Elegant rural winter hideaway
- Coworth Park, Berkshire: Country-chic luxury holiday stay
- Manor of Groves, Sawbridgeworth: Peaceful Georgian manor break
🚄 Charming Day Trips from London
Looking to escape the city buzz for a day? London’s location makes it perfect for quick getaways, from historic towns to scenic countryside, all just a train ride away.
- Windsor: Explore Windsor Castle, stroll along the River Thames, and soak up the festive decorations in this royal town.
- Bath: Famous for its Georgian architecture and Roman baths, Bath offers charming Christmas markets and cozy cafés.
- Cambridge: Wander the cobbled streets, punting along the River Cam, and enjoy the city’s seasonal charm.
- Oxford: Visit historic colleges, browse quaint bookshops, and enjoy a festive afternoon tea.
- Blenheim Palace: Visit the splendid Blenheim Palace, the fictional “Downton Abbey” village, and the picturesque Cotswolds.
- Brighton: For a coastal twist, explore Brighton Pier, quirky shops, and Christmas pop-ups along the seafront.
- Canterbury: Discover medieval streets, the stunning cathedral, and festive markets in this historic city.
Whether you’re after history, shopping, or a cozy winter stroll, these day trips from London are ideal for adding variety to your festive itinerary.
Christmas in London is impossible not to love. From free activities with kids to festive markets, ice-skating, seasonal feasts, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences, the city sparkles with holiday magic at every turn.
You can save on your London trip costs with the London Attractions Pass. It gives you sightseeing credits for 1–10 consecutive days, with access to over 100 top London attractions, skip-the-line entry, and a 24-hour hop-on hop-off bus tour.
Now, wrap up warm, savor your mulled wine, and immerse yourself in the chaos and charm of London’s unforgettable festive spirit.
Disclaimer: Event details, including dates, times, venues, and ticket prices, are subject to change without notice. Please confirm all information with the event organizers before attending. We are not responsible for any errors, cancellations, or changes made by third parties.
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