14 Best Things To Do At Christmas In London, England

things to do at christmas in london
Louise
Louise 
Updated
| 7 min read

London, UK, is a gorgeous city. It boasts a rich cultural heritage, iconic landmarks, fascinating architecture, gorgeous 5-star hotels, luxurious shopping districts, excellent restaurants, and chic cafes everywhere. It is known for being a modern city with an interesting history that dates back to the medieval dimes up to the Roman age. Here, you’ll get to take souvenir pictures with the remarkable Big Ben and explore the stunning Tower of London. If you are planning to visit during the Christmas season, here is what you can expect from this city. Take a look at the list of things to do at Christmas in London, England.

1. Feel the Christmas spirit at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

Various attractions in Hyde Park Winter Wonderland 2017
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Simeon87 used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Staring mid-November until early January, Hydepark turns into a colorful winter wonderland. It is the perfect place to bring your family during yuletide, for an evening of fun, hearty snacks, and a wonderful bonding time, in general. Every year, this park welcomes up to 2.5 million guests, collectively. It is considered one of the grandest Christmas events in the world because of the massive footfall. Here, guests can shop for souvenir items from a plethora of retail shows, enjoy some delightful rides, and even watch entertaining live shows. Also, a lot of restaurants and laid-back bars are scattered everywhere in Hyde Park Winter Wonderland.

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

Address: London, United Kingdom

Website: Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

Takes place: November to January

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2. Watch English National Ballet perform The Nutcracker


If you’re planning to spend the Christmas holidays with your family in London, be sure to watch a wonderful ballet show, produced by the English National Ballet. One of the four premier ballet companies in Great Britain, English National Ballet showcases the most magical shows, featuring classic themes. You can watch it in the Liverpool Empire or at the London Coliseum. Take your kids for a night of breathtaking performance and exquisite storytelling this Christmas, with a performance from the English National Ballet.

English National Ballet

Address: Hopewell Square, London, England, E14 0SY, UK

Website: English National Ballet

Takes place: December to January

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3. Marvel at the stunning Trafalgar Square Christmas tree

Trafalgar Square - Christmas Eve 2011
Source: Photo by Flickr user Peter Trimming used under CC BY 2.0

A bustling public square with magnificent views and nearby business establishments, Trafalgar Square is a favorite hangout spot for people who want to relax for a while, enjoy the views, or try restaurants and retail shops nearby. It is of great relevance to the history of London, as it is named after the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. Every Christmas, the place lights up with Christmas decors, and a stunning Christmas tree stands tall as its centerpiece. The Christmas tree is an annual gift of the government of Oslo, Norway, for the British people. Be sure to check it out while in London.

Trafalgar Square Christmas tree

Address: Trafalgar Square, Charing Cross, London WC2N 5DN, United Kingdom

Takes place: December to January

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4. Check out Santa's Grotto at Museum of London Docklands

Santa
Source: Pixabay

Another fantastic place that you should visit while in London is the Museum of London Docklands. As the Christmas spirit starts to envelop the city, the festive season compels everyone to unleash their well-kept Christmas decors. Same with the Museum of Londo Docklands. Every yuletide, they display their stunning Victorian Santa’s Grotto in the museum. Everyone can visit this breathtaking masterpiece. Not only will you be treated to sights for sore eyes but also to the sound of Christmas carols as you browse through the exhibits in the Museum of London Docklands this Christmas.

Museum of London Docklands

Address: West India Quay, No.1 Warehouse, Hertsmere Rd, London E14 4AL, United Kingdom

Website: Museum of London Docklands

Takes place: December

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London Tour Guide

Robert Woolf

Robert Woolf

I am a London tour guide and my tours include talking about people who have shaped the city plus the many connected places such as Hampton Court Palace, The Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, the commercial centre of the city: the City of London, and London’s world class museums and galleries. I have been guiding for 12 years. I am a licenced London Blue Badge Tour Guide, a City of London Guide, and a Westminster Guide. The reviews I receive from clients speak of their enjoyment from the local knowledge and the humour I bring to my tours. Born within sight of Hampton Court Palace, I am a Londoner and apart from 2 years in the Middle East, I have worked in this capital city all my business and tour guiding careers. I have travelled widely and I appreciate what appeals to visitors coming to London. I can tailor my tours to interest children. I guide couples, families and larger tour groups. I particularly enjoy visits to Westminster Abbey, where I also volunteer guiding students and children through its wonderful interior – on my tours you will hear about monarchs, why scientists and poets are remembered, the architecture and religious history. The Abbey is the story of England. Come on an engaging and fun tour with me. There is so much to show you !

Tours by Robert

5. Experience the festivities at Southbank Centre Winter Market


Make the most of your vacation by swinging by the fabulous Southbank Center Winter Market, which is one of the best Christmas markets in London. It is a gorgeous marketplace with lots of Christmas decor and sparkling lights. Plus, the aroma of freshly-baked goodies will make you love the place even more. Here, you can buy tastefully crafted souvenir pieces, watch family-friendly comedy shows, sample delicious delicacies in the food market, try exciting games, experience the winter pop-up cinema, and a lot more.

Southbank Centre Wintertime Market

Address: The Queen’s Walk, Lambeth, London SE1 8XX, United Kingdom

Website: Southbank Centre Winter Market

Takes place: November to December

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6. Watch some delightful Christmas pantomimes


Vacationing in London with your family? Well, you might want to treat your kids to a fun bonding time, watching delightful Christmas pantomimes. London never runs out of fantastic entertainment venues that deliver wonderful entertaining live performances that the kids and kids at heart will surely enjoy. Some of the most unmissable shows in London during the advent season include A Christmas Carol in Old Vic, Peter Pan Goes Wrong in Alexander Palace, White Christmas in Dominion Theatre, The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe in Bridge Theatre, The Nutcracker by English National Ballet in London Coliseum, and a lot more.

London Palladium Pantomime

Address: London Palladium, Soho

Website: London Palladium Pantomime

Takes place: December

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7. Learn more at Charles Dickens Museum

things to do at christmas in london | learn more at charles dickens museum
Source: instagram

Charles Dickens has left behind some masterpieces such as Our Mutual Friend, Great Expectations, Bleak House, Oliver Twist, and a lot more. If you are an ardent fan, or a literature buff curious about his life, check out the Charles Dickens Museum. This museum was his home for years. It showcases a fascinating Gregorian architectural design with a lovely terrace. Here, you’ll find some of his old belongings, including thousands of furniture, rare edition books, vintage manuscripts, and more.

Charles Dickens museum

Address: 48-49 Doughty St, Holborn, London WC1N 2LX, United Kingdom

Website: Charles Dickens museum

Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed on Mon & Tue)

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8. Sing your favorite Christmas carols at Royal Albert Hall

christmas carol concert
Source: Photo by user mari used under CC BY 2.0

Do you want to experience an extravagant celebration of the Advent season? Why not buy tickets to an entertaining show of Christmas carols at the Royal Albert Hall in South Kensington. The Royal Albert Hall will showcase a sensational performance that features traditional Christmas carols to uplift your holiday spirit. Along with other guests, sing to your hearts’ desire to the melody of your favorite classic carols at Royal Albert Hall.

Carols at the Royal Albert Hall

Address: Kensington Gore, South Kensington, London SW7 2AP, United Kingdom

Website: Carols at the Royal Albert Hall

Takes place: December

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9. Enjoy high tea at St. Paul's Cathedral


A magnificent Anglican Cathedral with stunning architectural design and breathtaking interiors, St. Paul’s Cathedral is a marvelous place of worship in London. It is located in an elevated part of London with picturesque views of the area. Made from limestone, decorated with symbolic paintings, this is a beautiful example of English Baroque architecture. Also, after saying a few prayers of thanks and well wishes at the cathedral, you can enjoy high tea in a small cafe in the basement.

St. Paul's Cathedral

Address: St. Paul’s Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD, United Kingdom

Website: St Paul’s Cathedral

Opening hours: Mon - Tue: 8:30am - 4:30pm; Wed: 10am - 4:30pm; Thu - Sat: 8:30am - 4:30pm (closed on Sun)

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10. Discover the beauty and grandiose of Kensington Palace


Christmas or not, Kensington Palace should always be on your itinerary when visiting London. Home to the royals, showcasing extravagant architectural and interior designs that are fit for a royal, with vast landscaped gardens, this structure is a national treasure. This place used to be home to Princess Diana and Queen Victoria. At present, this lovely home is where the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, and the Royal Prince William live. See the walls, corners, halls, and rooms that have witnessed the life of generations of Royals by touring the Kensington Palace.

Kensington Palace

Address: Kensington Gardens, Kensington, London W8 4PX, United Kingdom

Website: Kensington Palace

Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 10am - 4pm (closed on Mon & Tue)

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11. Slide and glide at Tower of London Ice Rink


Invite your family and friends and make lasting memories this Christmas season by having quality bonding time at the Tower of London Ice Rink. Opening up to magnificent city views, slide, glide, and dance to your heart’s content at this gorgeous ice skating rink. This royal property opens its door to the public. Also, when you get tired and need an energy booster, you can always grab some snacks and drinks from the rink-side pop-up bar.

Tower of London Ice Rink

Address: Tower Hill, St Katharine’s & Wapping, London EC3N 4AB, United Kingdom

Website: Tower of London Ice Rink

Takes place: November to January

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12. Join the Great Christmas Pudding Race

The 26th Great Christmas Pudding Race
Source: Photo by user S Pakhrin used under CC BY 2.0

As people say, the Christmas season is also the season of giving. What better way to spend this magical holiday than being a blessing to other people? Well, there is a way where you can be a present to those in need while having so much fun with your friends. If you think that this is a fabulous idea, why not join the Great Christmas Pudding Race. It is a fun run activity that supports Cancer Research UK. Sign up and help raise money for those in need. Through this simple way, you become a blessing to less fortunate people.

Great Christmas Pudding Race

Address: Covent Garden, London

Website: Great Christmas Pudding Race

Takes place: December

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13. Watch classic Christmas films at The Berkeley’s [CLOSED]


Got so much cash in hand? Fancy expensive stuff and cozy activities? Why not experience the classic Christmas film-viewing at The Berkeley Hotel in Knightsbridge. One of the best things to do during yuletide is to rewatch your favorite Christmas films with friends, and together, get into the Christmas spirit. Amp up the experience and do it in the majestic rooftop lounge area of the Berkeley Hotel. Decorated with furniture of rustic design, lots of sparkling lights, and Christmas decors, this secret garden with picturesque views will be your setting. As you watch your favorite films, you will be served delicious snacks that will make you shed tears of joy. This is an intimate event with few slots. So, you might want to book in advance.

Classic Christmas films at The Berkeley’s

Address: Knightsbridge, London

Website: The Berkeley’s

[CLOSED]

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14. Meet the social butterflies at Great Gatsby Christmas Party [CLOSED]

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

If you like partying and making meaningful connections, unleash your inner social butterfly, dress at your best, and experience the Great Gatsby Christmas Party at St. James’ Court Hotel. Gorge on delicious cuisines in a fine dining setting with opulent decors from every corner at this unmissable annual event. Just like any other Christmas party, this one has a lot of surprises prepared for its guests. Not only the excellent food and the lovely ambiance but also delightful jazz entertainment and a fun-filled elaborate program are arranged for all.

Great Gatsby Christmas Party

Address: 54 Buckingham Gate, Westminster, London SW1E 6AF, United Kingdom

Website: Great Gatsby Christmas Party

[CLOSED]

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Fall in love with London this Christmas

London is a gorgeous city that is popular among tourists from all over the world. When the breeze starts to get a little colder, the city lights begin to spark brighter, and you are soothed by Christmas Carols, London’s Christmas attractions come back to life, giving you an experience that you can only indulge in during the yuletide. So, if you’re looking for suggestions on what to do in London on Christmas day or during the whole season, check out the activities mentioned above.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
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