Christmas in London is one of the most magical places to visit. The city’s iconic landmarks are adorned with twinkling lights, charming Christmas markets pop up everywhere, and there are many seasonal activities on offer. London also offers a wonderful experience for families during the Christmas season.
There are many wonderful things to do in December in London. Whether you prefer strolling through the markets of Covent Garden at Christmas or ice skating with a beautiful backdrop, the British capital has it all. If sipping hot cocoa by the roaring fire in a centuries-old pub is more your style, you can do that too!
In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the enchanting holiday season in London. These tips and must-see attractions will ensure you make lasting memories with your loved ones, no matter their age and interests.
1. Check out the illuminations at the London Eye
The London Eye is a towering presence along the River Thames. It also provides a fantastic vantage point to soak in the city’s enchanting Christmas illuminations. Families can hop into one of the spacious capsules and ascend slowly above the city for breathtaking views.
The London Eye embraces the holiday spirit by decorating its capsules and surroundings with festive ornaments, adding to the ambiance of Christmas cheer. The capsules are often adorned with seasonal decorations. You might even find Santa Claus or other festive characters on special Christmas-themed flights!
📍How to get there: The London Eye is located diagonally across the River Thames from the Houses of Parliament. The most scenic way to reach it is by catching the Tube to Westminster Station and then walking across the Westminster Bridge. You can also catch the Tube or a train to Waterloo Station, which is behind the London Eye.
💡Traveler tip: London’s Christmas light decorations are world-famous, so make sure you also check out some more dazzling displays! Some of the best (and close enough to walk between) are Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Carnaby Street.
2. Enjoy the ambience of Covent Garden at Christmas
Covent Garden is filled with a diverse range of shops, including toy stores, bookshops, fashion boutiques, and more. Families are sure to enjoy exploring this treasure trove of potential. You might even discover some special gifts and souvenirs.
Covent Garden at Christmas pulls out all the stops when it comes to decorations. The historic market building and the famous Piazza are adorned with sparkling Christmas lights. The magical atmosphere is sure to captivate both children and adults. The giant Christmas tree is a particular highlight, beautifully decorated and lit up with a spectacular switch-on event. There’s also usually an incredible ice sculpture on display, with a different design each year. Lots of fun Christmas performances and events take place here too, including carol singers, live music, and theatrical shows.
📍How to get there: Catch the Tube to the Covent Garden station. It’s also just a short walk to Covent Garden from nearby Leicester Square.
💡Traveler tip: Head to the nearby Mayfair neighborhood to see some of the most enchanting Christmas window displays at Fortnum & Mason’s, Selfridges, and Liberty London! Harrod’s is a bit further away near the Knightsbridge Tube station but is also incredible at Christmas.
3. Discover Greenwich’s Christmastime magic
Greenwich is a historic and picturesque part of London at any time of year. During the Christmas period, it also offers a range of festive activities and attractions that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. Greenwich’s Christmas Market is a must-visit attraction during the holiday season. Located in the heart of the town, this market features charming wooden chalets selling handmade gifts, food and beverages.
The ice skating rink at the Queen’s House in Greenwich is one of the most popular things to do in December in London for families. Set against the stunning backdrop of the historic royal palace, it offers a magical experience. Greenwich is home to several world-class museums as well, including the National Maritime Museum and the Royal Observatory. During the Christmas period, these museums often host special exhibitions and events suitable for families. It’s a fantastic opportunity to combine education with festive fun.
📍How to get there: You can get to Greenwich via the DLR line from the Bank, Monument, or Tower Hill stations. It’s also possible to reach Greenwich via ferry or to catch a train from Borough Station to Greenwich Station.
💡Traveler tip: Purchase the Greenwich Bundle for great savings on exploring the O2 Stadium, the Old Royal Naval College, and an all-day hop-on hop-off river roamer pass!
4 .Experience Winter Wonderland London
Winter Wonderland London is one of the most magical attractions in the city during the festive season! It takes place in Hyde Park, transforming a huge section of this public park into an enchanting mix of Christmas market and funfair. Things to do here include skating on one of the UK’s largest outdoor ice-skating rinks or seeing circus shows, live music and plays. There are also lots of rides, an ice sculpture kingdom and Santa Land to delight little ones.
You can experience a taste of Germany at the Bavarian Village too. This section features traditional wooden chalets, delicious German cuisine, and a lively atmosphere. It’s a fun place to enjoy a hearty meal and a stein of beer for the adults. There’s even a giant observation wheel for incredible views over the city and, of course, lots of Christmas stalls for gift shopping!
📍How to get there: Winter Wonderland London takes place in the part of Hyde Park nearest to Hyde Park Corner station. You can catch the tube here or walk from Buckingham Palace. The route along Constitution Hill to the Wellington Arch and entrance to Hyde Park is very picturesque.
💡Traveler tip: Make sure to set aside enough time to enjoy this attraction, as there’s so much to see and do (and eat!) that you could easily spend the entire day here.
5. Travel back in time at Warwick Castle
While it’s not within the city, a visit to Warwick Castle can be an unforgettable day trip for families spending Christmas in London. This medieval fortress takes on a mesmerizing aura during the holiday season. The castle grounds and interiors are adorned with festive lights and decorations. A towering Christmas tree is the highlight, creating a magical atmosphere that enchants visitors of all ages.
A trip to Santa’s Grotto is a must for the little ones. Here, children can have a magical encounter with Santa Claus himself and receive a small gift. To add to the festive charm, Warwick Castle often hosts medieval banquets during the Christmas season. Families can dine on traditional dishes in the grand hall while being entertained by minstrels and jesters.
Warwick Castle is also not far away from Stratford-upon-Avon, home of William Shakespeare himself. You might like to avoid some of the London Christmas crowds by spending a day out of the city exploring these sights. You can even combine all of the above with return a trip to Oxford and transport from London on this tour!
📍How to get there: You can reach Warwick from London via train or car in about two hours. It’s much easier to book a tour with transport included though!
💡Traveler tip: For some more historic Christmas experiences closer to London you might also like to visit Kensington Palace or Hampton Court Palace. Both of these palaces have enchanting Christmas displays and seasonal events to enjoy.
6. Shop for great gifts at the Christmas Markets
At the end of the year London’s Winter Wonderland Christmas Fair in Hyde Park Corner is regularly transformed into a Winter Wonderland, complete with fairground rides, giant Ferris wheel, circus, Christmas market, food and drink stalls.
One of the best things to do in December in London is check out the many Christmas markets. They all offer a heartwarming and festive experience for families, as well as being a great place to find unique gifts! Among the standout markets, the Southbank Centre Winter Market is a real highlight. Wooden chalets beckon with handcrafted gifts, delectable seasonal treats, and diverse international cuisine. Children will be spellbound by the vintage carousel, and parents can peruse the unique stalls while savoring mulled wine.
On the banks of the Thames, Christmas by the River at London Bridge offers a picturesque backdrop for shopping. This market boasts a variety of stalls featuring unique gifts, gourmet food, and festive treats. Leicester Square, at the heart of the city, also transforms into a festive wonderland during the holiday season. The Christmas market here is known for its charming atmosphere. Santa’s Grotto and family shows in a vintage Spiegeltent will delight children. A selection of stalls offering Christmas gifts and snacks also makes it a convenient stop for families exploring central London.
For a unique Christmas experience, consider “Christmas by Kew” at Kew Gardens. Families can wander through the illuminated gardens and soak up the festive atmosphere. The market within Kew Gardens also offers unique gifts and seasonal treats. Children are sure to eagerly anticipate the chance to meet Santa Claus as well.
📍How to get there: Many of these markets are within strolling distance, or a quick Tube trip. Kew Gardens can be reached by catching the District Line from St James’ Park, Embankment or Blackfriars stations.
💡Traveler tip: If you’re looking for more Christmas markets in London, don’t forget the ones we’ve already mentioned at Greenwich, Hyde Park, and Covent Garden as well!
7. Celebrate Yule at Hogwarts
Visiting the Warner Bros. Studio Tour in London is a highlight for any Harry Potter fan. During the Christmas period, the studio decorates the sets for the Yule Ball, or “Hogwarts in the Snow.” This makes for a magical experience that combines the enchantment of the Harry Potter world with the festive spirit of the holiday season.
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour undergoes a stunning transformation during Christmas. The Great Hall is adorned with sparkling decorations, towering Christmas trees, and tables set for a magical Yule Ball feast. Beyond the Great Hall, the studio tour features other iconic sets that are transformed to reflect the holiday season. Visitors can explore the Gryffindor common room adorned with festive decorations, or stroll through Diagon Alley, where shop windows glisten with holiday charm.
📍How to get there: The Warner Bros. Studio Tour is located just north of Watford, which is about an hour out of London. The easiest way to visit is to book a studio tour with transport included so you don’t need to change from trains to buses and vice versa.
💡Traveler tip: Depending on the year, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour may host special Christmas events or activities. Keep an eye on the website and you might even get to enjoy a Yule feast at Hogwarts!
8. Go ice skating in enchanting locations
London offers a variety of enchanting ice skating rinks for families to enjoy during the winter months. Skating against the backdrop of iconic landmarks adds an extra layer of magic to the holiday season. Not to mention some epic family photograph opportunities! For those who want to skate with a view, the Tower of London Ice Rink is an excellent choice. Skaters can enjoy panoramic views of the historic Tower of London and the River Thames.
One of the most famous ice skating venues in London is Somerset House Ice Rink. Set in the stunning courtyard of Somerset House, this rink is known for its elegant ambiance. It even featured in the opening scenes of the film Love, Actually! The Natural History Museum Ice Rink also offers an unforgettable setting for ice skating, nestled beneath the museum’s magnificent Romanesque architecture and beside its famous Christmas tree.
📍How to get there: The closest tube station to The Tower of London is Tower Hill. For The Natural History Museum head to South Kensington Station and Somerset House is right by Temple station.
💡Traveler tip: Additionally, the Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink offers a royal ice skating experience. The entire palace is decorated for Christmas and well worth a visit during the festive period.
Are you chomping at the bit to experience Christmas in London yet? Check out all the attractions available for your own trip and if you’ll be visiting London with youngsters in tow then you might like to read this guide to things to do in London with teenagers!
