Experience the magic of Christmas in London as the city comes alive with festive cheer. From the iconic John Lewis Christmas advert to indulging in Tesco's stuffing sandwich meal deals, London offers a plethora of telltale signs that the holiday season has arrived.
As November 1st rolls around, London transforms into a delightful hub of yuletide joy. The streets glisten under the shimmering Christmas lights, hotels and shops embrace full festive decorations, and the sound of carols brings the capital to life. Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with these ten must-do activities in London during Christmas. Looking for an enchanting place to stay during your festive journey? Consider the vonder hotel kensington, where you'll be enveloped in elegance and comfort, making your Christmas experience even more magical. Conveniently located, this hotel is a perfect starting point for all the holiday activities on your list. Start by visiting the iconic Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, which never fails to impress with its array of attractions, festive market stalls, and delightful food. Don't miss the chance to glide across the ice at the Natural History Museum's open-air ice rink. Warm up afterwards with a mug of hot chocolate as you admire the museum's grand Christmas tree.
Top tips
Stay warm: Be prepared for the unpredictable British weather with layers and waterproof gear to keep you cozy.
Avoid the shopping madness: Beat the crowds by planning ahead, visiting popular places during off-peak hours, and getting your shopping done early in the day for a stress-free experience.
1. Go ice skating
Glide through this festive season at one of the capital’s many open-air ice rinks. There’s plenty to choose from but Skate at Somerset House is arguably London’s most iconic. And it’s turning up the heat (or more fittingly, the freezing power) this year with a bigger skate space housed in the estate’s neo-classical courtyard. There will be food, drinks and rink-side DJs to keep the sparkle going long into the night. Lessons taught by accredited instructors can also be booked for newbies or for those wanting to brush up on their skating skills. Also worth checking out is newcomer Glide at Battersea Power Station. Set against a dramatic backdrop of the city’s most historic buildings and centred around a 30-foot Christmas tree, it’s a glimpse of New York’s legendary rink at Rockefeller Center. Built by the team that brought Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland and the Natural History Museum skating spaces, London’s only riverside ice rink naturally comes with sprawling Thames views with plentiful magical activities for all to enjoy.
Go for date night, or grab your closest pals and put on those skates. These are more of the best places to go ice skating in London.
Experience the Dazzling Christmas Lights of London
London is renowned for its breathtaking Christmas lights, creating a magical atmosphere that is unrivaled during this festive season. The city transforms into a dazzling spectacle, with every corner adorned in intricate designs that turn the streets into a enchanting wonderland. Witnessing the first switch-on of these lights is an unforgettable experience, as it marks the beginning of a truly memorable celebration.
To fully immerse yourself in the grandeur of London's Christmas lights, plan an evening stroll through central London. Start your journey at Oxford Street, where 5,000 LED stars twinkle under the night sky, creating a mesmerizing scene. Continue along Regent Street, where shimmering angels add an ethereal touch to the city's festive display. Finally, make your way to Carnaby Street, where vibrant technicolour displays will captivate your senses.
If you prefer to enjoy the lights from a different perspective, why not book an open-top bus tour? This allows you to admire the enchanting displays while enjoying panoramic views of London's iconic landmarks. Alternatively, venture South to Crystal Palace Park for the immersive neon lights installation called Lightopia, where you will be transported into a world of wonder and magic. And make sure not to miss Kew Gardens' annual light show, a breathtaking experience that combines nature and illumination.
London truly comes alive at Christmas, and experiencing the city's mesmerizing lights is a must for every visitor. So, wrap up warm, embrace the festive spirit, and get ready to be captivated by the enchanting glow that transforms the streets of London into a winter wonderland.
3. Wander around the Christmas markets
‘Tis the season for Christmas markets galore, where those in town are spoiled for choice when it comes to the finest street foods, boozy pop-up bars and glittering trinkets. Many of these world-famous markets are returning this winter including central London’s Leicester Square festive fair, the Covent Garden Christmas market with its legendary 60-foot tree and Southbank Centre’s festive delights along the Thames. While exploring the markets, it’ll be hard to ignore the alluring smells of fresh sugary churros, spiced bratwurst and homemade mince pies so we suggest just giving in and eating your way through the food stalls. Keep warm with a hot chocolate, mulled wine or cider while browsing around gift stalls selling hand-crafted festive goodies.
Get inspired by London's festive Christmas trees
When strolling along the enchanting streets of London during the holiday season or stepping inside one of the city's elegant hotels, you're likely to come across magnificent Christmas trees adorned in their most dazzling attire. London is known for its extravagant displays, and some of the finest hotels in the city have truly outdone themselves this year.
For a sparkling treat, visit the London EDITION hotel, where a bejeweled fir tree stands as a testament to festive opulence. Alternatively, stop by Claridge's to marvel at their diamond-shaped installation that adds a touch of sophistication to the season. Additionally, make sure to pass by St Pancras station, where a stunning homage to London's bustling skyline is on display.
Not to be missed are the towering trees at some of London's iconic landmarks. Head to Covent Garden, Trafalgar Square, and Leadenhall Market to witness the grandeur of Christmas trees that soar 40 feet and taller.
Immerse yourself in the magical ambiance of London's most captivating Christmas trees, and let the spirit of the season envelop you in wonder.
5. Check out the wintery windows
Window shopping has never looked more marvellous than at this time of year. The lavish displays put on by some of the capital’s favourite stores are truly pieces of art that rarely disappoints. And London’s trifecta of luxury department stores; Selfridges, Fortnum & Mason and Harvey Nichols, have gone bigger on Christmas bling this year. Selfridges is outfitted in delicious feastings – mince pies, toasty potato roasties and stuffing sandwiches are being served to Oxford Street shoppers. From last-minute gift wrapping to burning the baked goods, Fortnum & Mason playfully celebrates the season’s merriest mishaps while Harvey Nichol’s Knightsbridge storefront is gleaming with disco balls and sequins. Just around the corner,Harrods is in head-to-toe Dior in an all-caramel colourway and along Mayfair,Annabel’s fun-fair facade is as whimsical as ever.
6. Festive Caroling at St Pauls
Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit like never before with heart-warming Christmas carols at the historic St Paul's Cathedral, a masterpiece of Sir Christopher Wren’s architectural genius. This remarkable London symbol invites everyone each year for a series of cost-free carol events, including family-oriented services and an enchanting night of organ-dominated carols presented by Olivier Messiaen, the respected French composer.
Did you know that St Paul's Cathedral has been standing tall for over 300 years and survived both World Wars? Or that it possesses the UK's largest domed ceiling, lending beautifully to its acoustics? Enjoying carols here truly enhances the Christmas feel!.
Location: St Paul’s Cathedral, St Paul's Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD
Official Site: stpauls.co.uk7. Yuletide Celebration at Leadenhall Market
The historic Leadenhall Market, known for its role in the Harry Potter movies, is about to be transformed into a magical Christmas spectacle. The centrepiece will be a grand Christmas tree, adorned with twinkling lights, nestled within the lavishly decorated halls. The illumination ceremony will be carried out by the Lord Mayor of London on the 17th of November. From then and each Wednesday leading up to 21st December, the market will host special Yuletide-themed tours which capture the spirits of Christmases of bygone eras, the current times, and those yet to come.
Location:Leadenhall Market, Gracechurch Street, London
Official Website: leadenhallmarket.co.uk