London is one of the most magical places in the world to spend Christmas. Every December, the city lights up and fills with twinkling lights, festive markets, British traditions, holiday performances, and cozy seasonal foods. From Covent Garden’s magical lights and ice-skating rinks to Christmas markets, pubs, and West End shows, London has it all for a charming and classic Christmas.
This ultimate London Christmas travel guide will tell you the best things to do, where to go, what to see, and where to stay in the city during the holidays. It will also share tips to help you plan the perfect London trip to make the most of your visit. Whether you’re planning a romantic winter getaway, family Christmas vacation, solo adventure, or something in between, read on to learn how to plan the ideal holiday trip to London.
London at Christmas is magical. Image: Luna Kavetska
Why Go to London for Christmas?
London at Christmas is a quintessential European holiday experience you won’t find just anywhere. It blends centuries of British Christmas traditions with all the modern attractions, world-class shopping, and entertainment London is famous for.
Here are just a few of the reasons travelers fall in love with London during the holiday season:
Christmas lights: London has some of Europe’s most famous Christmas light displays.
Holiday entertainment: Christmas shows and concerts light up the West End.
Christmas Markets: There are numerous festive markets to explore in London.
British traditions: UK seasonal customs and traditions give your trip an extra special holiday feeling.
Cozy holiday atmosphere: London has some of the most picturesque pubs, warm cafés, historic architecture, and even snow-covered parks to cozy up in.
London has something for every type of traveler during Christmas
Whether you’re a shopping enthusiast, a sightseeing aficionado, a theater fan, foodie, or history buff, you can find a festive and uniquely London holiday experience in the city.
When to Visit London for Christmas
Christmas lights and events typically run from mid-November to early January.
Here are the best times to visit for a London Christmas:
Mid-November
Christmas lights are lit and some early markets open, but it is quieter and less expensive than later in December.
Early to Mid-December
Best time to visit. All the holiday lights, events, shows, and markets are open, and the city is in full festive swing without the Christmas week crowds.
Christmas Week (December 20–26)
The most magical time to visit London at Christmas, but also the busiest and most expensive.
New Year’s Week
Christmas decorations are still up, but many people leave the city, so it’s slightly less crowded after December 26.
Things to Do in London at Christmas
London offers endless Christmas activities. We’ve picked the top attractions and experiences that you can’t miss:
1. Winter Wonderland
Winter Wonderland is London’s official Christmas party. It’s an outdoor festival at Hyde Park that features:
Christmas markets
Carnival rides
Ice skating
Live shows
Street food stalls
Bars
Cozy winter lodges to explore
Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park is huge, so a day or half-day ticket is recommended. Plan to spend several hours here—it’s one of the largest Christmas attractions in Europe and is a favorite for families, couples, and groups.
Tips: Book tickets in advance. To beat the crowds, visit early in the day.
2. London Christmas Lights
London’s Christmas lights are world-famous. It’s a must-do on every visitor’s holiday itinerary.
Best places to see Christmas lights in London
Regent Street
Features elegant angels suspended overhead—called the “Spirit of Christmas.”Oxford Street
A bustling, high-end shopping street with always-gorgeous lights.Carnaby Street
Features whimsical themed displays each year, great for fun photos.Covent Garden
Check out the giant Christmas tree, sparkling decorations, and street performers.Kew Gardens Christmas Lights
A stunning illuminated Christmas trail through a botanical garden.
The simplest and most memorable thing to do in London during December is to take a Christmas lights walk.
3. London Ice Skating
Ice-skating at London’s holiday rinks is one of the most scenic in Europe.
Top London ice rinks to visit
Somerset House Ice Rink
Natural History Museum Ice Rink (seasonal)
Canary Wharf Ice Rink
Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink
Somerset House is considered the most elegant and classic rink, set in a stunning courtyard.
4. London Christmas Markets
London Christmas markets range from German chalets to artisan craft fairs.
Southbank Centre Winter Market
European-style food stalls on the Thames riverside.Leicester Square Christmas Market
The perfect size, cute, and very atmospheric. Great for families.Trafalgar Square Christmas Market
By the famous Christmas tree gifted from Norway.Winter Wonderland Market
Massive, packed with food stalls, crafts, and festive eats.
Markets are a fun place to buy gifts and grab mulled wine and seasonal food.
5. Christmas Shows & West End Theater
London’s West End is one of the best places in the world for holiday entertainment. At Christmas, you can enjoy:
Christmas classic musicals
Holiday concerts
Ballet
Family-friendly pantomimes
The most iconic holiday performance is The Nutcracker ballet by the English National Ballet.
Pantomimes are a long-standing British holiday tradition that families love. They’re a mix of music, slapstick, and fantasy, and full of drama and seasonal fun.
6. Historic London Christmas Attractions
London’s historic attractions take on extra holiday charm.
Top holiday landmarks to see in London
Tower of London
Westminster Abbey
St. Paul’s Cathedral
Hampton Court Palace
Kensington Palace
These attractions often host their own seasonal events and concerts, too.
7. Christmas Afternoon Tea
British afternoon tea at Christmas is even better. Seasonal treats are added to classic menus at most hotels and cafés.
Top afternoon tea spots in London
The Ritz
Claridge’s
The Savoy
Fortnum & Mason
Sketch
Luxury afternoon tea in London is a decadent way to warm up after a day of sightseeing.
8. Covent Garden
Covent Garden is a super festive area of London at Christmas.
The whole district is filled with giant baubles and lights, and the massive Christmas tree at its heart is among the most magical in London.
There are also street performers, boutique shops with holiday shopping, and seasonal treats.
It’s a wonderful area to explore on foot, take photos, and shop.
9. London Department Stores
London’s most famous department stores transform their windows and interiors for the holidays.
Harrods
Selfridges
Liberty London
Fortnum & Mason
Expect some of the most over-the-top extravagant holiday decorations in Europe.
10. Thames River Cruise
A Thames river cruise is a laid-back way to take in London’s lights and skyline. Some cruises feature holiday dinners or drinks, live music, or both.
Fun Things to Do for a Unique Christmas
London has lots of quirky, one-of-a-kind Christmas activities.
Wrap Presents at Selfridges
Attend a Holiday Parade
Go on a Christmas Pub Crawl
Attend a Christmas Quiz
Visit Santa at one of London’s Christmas markets
Book a Guided Christmas Tour
Best London Neighborhoods to Explore at Christmas
London’s neighborhoods come alive with festive lights, markets, and events during Christmas.
1. Westminster
Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, and historic churches with Christmas services.
2. Kensington and Chelsea
The most elegant lights, luxury shopping, and beautifully decorated streets.
3. Covent Garden and Soho
Busy markets, shops, theaters, and seasonal displays.
4. South Bank
Markets, arts venues, river views, and Christmas pop-ups.
5. Greenwich
Historic area with festive lights and Christmas markets.
The Best Hotels for Staying in London at Christmas
Where you stay will determine your experience, so choose wisely.
Best Areas for First-Time Visitors
Covent Garden
Central, walkable, festive, and near theaters and markets.Soho
Lively, excellent for dining and nightlife.Westminster / Victoria
Central, close to landmarks and holiday attractions.
Quieter Areas, but Still Convenient
Kensington
Picturesque streets, luxury hotels, quieter than the city center.Notting Hill
Boutique feel and great holiday decorations.South Bank
Close to markets, great river views, and cultural attractions.King’s Cross / St Pancras
Easy transport links and many hotels.
Christmas Food & Drinks in London
Food is a highlight of London at Christmas. Seasonal twists are added to traditional British dishes, and international markets and vendors add some global flavors.
British Christmas Foods to Try
Mince pies
Mulled wine
Sticky toffee pudding
Roast dinners
Yorkshire pudding
Sausage rolls
Gingerbread
London’s Best Spots for Christmas Food
Christmas Markets
Ideal for hot chocolate, mulled cider, bratwurst, waffles, and crepes.Pubs
Great for warm, hearty comfort food.Cafés
Order seasonal drinks and pastries.Afternoon Tea Venues
Decadent pastries, cakes, and finger sandwiches with holiday flavors.
Tips for Visiting London at Christmas
London is crowded during December, so plan your trip to make things easier.
Book Ahead
Get flights, hotels, and show tickets in advance.Dress Warmly
London is cold, windy, and rainy in December.Travel on the Tube
The Underground is the quickest way to get around London during the busy holidays.Hit Popular Spots Early
Less crowded early in the day, such as Covent Garden, Winter Wonderland, and Oxford Street.Take Breaks
Holiday crowds can be stressful, so schedule downtime at cafés or parks.Walk Where Possible
Holiday attractions are close together and best seen on foot.Check Holiday Opening Hours
Attractions are often closed on December 25 and 26.
3-Day Christmas Itinerary for London
Here is a sample itinerary that includes the most magical London Christmas attractions:
1: London Christmas Traditions
Explore Covent Garden and its Christmas tree.
Walk through Leicester Square Christmas Market.
Visit Regent Street and Carnaby Street lights.
Festive dinner in Soho.
Watch a Christmas show in the West End.
2: Winter Wonderland and Historic London
Morning visit to Hyde Park Winter Wonderland.
Lunch at Southbank Winter Market.
Walk along Thames to Tower Bridge.
Holiday river cruise in the evening.
3: Christmas Culture & Relaxation
Visit Somerset House for ice skating.
Tour Westminster and Trafalgar Square.
Afternoon tea at a luxury hotel.
Night-time walk through Oxford Street and Bond Street Christmas lights.
Final Thoughts: A Special London Christmas
Christmas in London is an enchanting mix of traditions, culture, history, and festive celebration. Whether strolling through twinkling streets, exploring markets, catching a holiday show, or cozying up with a warm drink in a London pub, this city offers magical holiday charm.
Christmas in London is truly special
From the iconic lights of Regent Street to the whimsical fun of Winter Wonderland, the city has a way of capturing the spirit of Christmas that’s hard to find anywhere else. Plan ahead, embrace the festive spirit, and your London Christmas trip will be filled with beauty, warmth, and memories to last a lifetime.
Christmas in London is not just a place, it’s an experience that you will remember for years to come.
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