Are you looking to spend Christmas in London? Great idea! Many different things happen during the season, including Christmas markets, Christmas lights, and seasonal food and drink, so it’s a perfect spot to get festive whether you live here or are visiting the city for the holidays.
London has a lot of activities to enjoy over the Christmas season, so we’ve created a brief guide of things to do. Let’s get straight to it!
Quick Jumplinks
Christmas In London – Popular Things To Do
Visit London Christmas markets
| 🎄 Best Christmas Markets in London | ✦ Hyde Park Winter Wonderland ✦ Christmas by the River ✦ Leicester Square Christmas Market ✦ The King’s Cross Christmas Market |
A trip to one of London’s charming Christmas markets is a must for any true London Christmas celebration. These tiny markets are the ideal spot to look for gifts for friends and family, sample some new tasty foods, sip mulled wine, and get into the Christmas spirit. They are filled with stocking stuffers, holiday decorations, clothes, and street cuisine.
The Hyde Park Winter Wonderland opens with a massive amusement fair, an ice rink, games, a Christmas market, and seasonal meals and drinks. Christmas by the River is a charming riverbank market including pop-up bars, snacks, and crafts. Leicester Square Christmas Market is a bustling market located in the city center. And The King’s Cross Christmas Market spans six weeks with eight different themed markets.
Allyssa, an enthusiastic traveler, advises – “The Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park was a delightful experience, featuring carnival rides, games, and food, making it an ideal Christmas market worth visiting.”
See the London Christmas lights
| ✨ Best Spots For Christmas Lights Viewing | ✦ Christmas at Kew ✦ Oxford Street Christmas Lights ✦ Covent Garden Christmas Lights ✦ South Bank Christmas Lights ✦ London Eye Christmas Lights |
Admiring the stunning lights of the capital is the nicest part of celebrating Christmas in London. Iconic locations such as Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Covent Garden are adorned with millions of twinkling lights, creating a magical ambiance that captures the holiday spirit. Stroll through the beautifully decorated streets, enjoy window displays, and feel the warmth of the season.
Robert, a traveler, advises – “During a December flying visit to London, I had a chilly but enjoyable experience. I took a Friday off to enjoy the wonderful festive lights along Oxford St and Regent St, New Bond St, and the side alleys and arcades. I highly recommend going there.”
See the famous Trafalgar Square Tree
| 📌 Location | Trafalgar Sq, London WC2N 5DS. Find on map |
| 👀 Why Visit? | The Christmas tree at Trafalgar Square is an annual gift from Norway to London. |
Norway has been donating trees to Great Britain annually since 1947. This has since become a tradition. Oslo has sent London a Christmas tree every year since World War II in appreciation of Britain’s assistance during the war.
The tree is a prominent feature in Trafalgar Square during Christmas season. The lighting ceremony, typically held in early December, marks the official start of the festive season. The Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree, adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, brings a magical and picturesque scene to London, attracting locals and tourists alike.
Go ice skating
| ⛸️ Best ice rinks in London | ✦ Winter Wonderland Ice Rink ✦ Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink ✦ Kingdom of Winter Ice Rink ✦ Somerset House Ice Rink ✦ Skylight London Ice Rink |
In London, winter ice skating is always extremely popular. SKATE at Somerset House is one of the top ice skating places. Shops and restaurants surround the large ice.
Pretty ice rinks pop up at places like Canary Wharf and Hampton Court Palace from October right through until January — including ones that open on Christmas Day. Don’t forget to treat yourself to a hot chocolate after you skate at the top ice rinks in London!
Christmas In London – The Weather
London experiences cool temperatures in the Christmas season. The average high temperature in December is 9°C/49°F, while the average low temperature is 5°C/41°F. Rainfall is moderate, and occasional showers are common, making it advisable to bring rubber boots and an umbrella if you’re keen on staying dry.
December in London is likely to bring a couple of days of snowfall. When celebrating Christmas in London, it’s crucial to wear warm mittens and snow boots to stay warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there Christmas markets in London?
Absolutely! London boasts several fantastic Christmas markets, like Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, Leicester Square Christmas Market, and Southbank Centre Winter Market. These markets offer festive food, drinks, gifts, and a charming atmosphere.
Where can I see the best Christmas lights in London?
London’s streets come alive with dazzling Christmas lights displays. Popular areas include Oxford Street, Regent Street, Carnaby Street, and Kew Gardens.
What are some fun activities to do while celebrating Christmas in London?
There’s a plethora of options! Ice skating at Somerset House or Hampton Court Palace, attending a pantomime (a festive play), watching the traditional carol services at churches like Westminster Abbey or St. Paul’s Cathedral, or enjoying a festive afternoon tea at a posh hotel.
Do any special events happen during Christmas in London?
Yes! From the famous Winter Wonderland with its rides and attractions to the Cinderella pantomime at the London Palladium, there are many special events throughout the season. Check listings closer to the date for details.
What traditional Christmas food can I try in London?
Savour a classic Christmas roast turkey with all the trimmings (pigs in blankets, stuffing, roast potatoes, gravy, brussels sprouts), or enjoy a delicious mince pie (a fruit and pastry tart). For a lighter option, try a mulled wine (spiced red wine) at a Christmas market.
Are there any special drinks available in honor of Christmas in London?
Besides mulled wine, you’ll find hot chocolate with whipped cream, festive cocktails with Christmassy flavours, and speciality Christmas beers at pubs.
Is it expensive to celebrate Christmas in London?
Yes, London can be relatively expensive during Christmas. The holiday season sees an influx of tourists, and prices for accommodations, dining, and attractions may be higher.
How many days in London is enough?
The ideal London trip duration is 4 to 5 days, allowing ample time to explore major attractions, museums, and neighborhoods, while also allowing leisure and discovery.
What should I wear in London in December?
In December, London recommends wearing layered clothing, comfortable walking shoes, an umbrella, and dressy attire for cold weather, holiday events, or dining at upscale establishments.
