London during Christmas? It’s pure festive chaos in the best way possible! The city goes from gloomy gray to glittering gold overnight with lights everywhere, carols in the air, and enough Christmas markets to make you forget what cold even feels like. Explore the city with the best Christmas and New Year Packages for a magical holiday experience.
From Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland to the magical lights at Kew Gardens and Covent Garden’s giant Christmas tree, every corner of London turns into a photo-worthy moment. Cafés serve extra creamy hot chocolate, skating rinks pop up across the city, and the festive buzz is impossible to resist.
Ready to unwrap the magic? Keep reading to discover the best things to do, see, and eat during Christmas in London, from twinkling Christmas markets London to iconic landmarks decked out in holiday sparkle!
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Things to Do in London at Christmas
1. Marvel at London’s Christmas Lights
London during Christmas is pure magic! The streets sparkle, festive scents fill the air, and everywhere you look, lights twinkle like something out of a holiday movie. Whether you’re out for London Christmas shopping, a cozy stroll, or just soaking in the festive vibe, here’s where you can’t miss the Christmas lights in 2025:
- Oxford Street – One of London’s most iconic high-streets, turning into a glittering corridor of lights each holiday season. This year, expect around 300,000 LED bulbs and 5,000 stars. Switch-on is Monday, 3 November 2025, and the best time to visit is after dusk, when the lights truly shine.
- Regent Street & St James’s – London’s first street to ever have Christmas lights back in the 1950s! The 2025 display, called “Spirit of Christmas”, features beautiful winged angel motifs stretching across Regent Street, Jermyn Street, and St James’s Market. Switch-on is Thursday, 6 November 2025 around 5:30 pm. A walk from Oxford Circus to Piccadilly here is pure festive joy.
- Carnaby Street (Soho) – This one’s playful and creative, with a new theme every year. For 2025, it’s “All is Bright”, with vibrant, dynamic lighting overhead. Switch-on is early November, and the area’s shops and restaurants make it a fun spot for an evening out.
- Covent Garden – A picture-perfect festive hotspot! In 2025, you’ll see 300,000 lights, a 55-foot Christmas tree, and the iconic gold bells returning to the market building. Switch-on is Wednesday, 12 November 2025. Evening visits are ideal. Grab a hot drink and wander the side streets for a cozy experience.
- Kew Gardens — Light Trail Experience – More than just street lights, this is a full immersive trail through illuminated trees, lakes, and art installations. Running 14 November 2025 – 4 January 2026, it’s ticketed, so book ahead for a relaxed, magical evening away from the busiest streets.
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2. Explore Christmas Markets London
Christmas Markets London are full of charm, festive smells, and twinkling lights. From cozy wooden chalets to delicious seasonal treats, they’re perfect for a stroll, a cup of hot mulled wine, or some London Christmas shopping.
You’ll find everything from handmade gifts and ornaments to local crafts and winter snacks, making it one of the best ways to soak up the festive spirit.
- Hyde Park Winter Wonderland London – Giant rides, a huge ice rink, market stalls packed with goodies, and food everywhere you turn. Perfect for families, friends, or anyone ready to dive headfirst into festive chaos. Open 14 Nov 2025 – 1 Jan 2026, so plenty of time to experience the madness.
- Southbank Centre Winter Market – Fancy strolling along the Thames with a mulled wine in hand? This market’s got Alpine-style chalets, artisan gifts, and cozy street food. Scenic, relaxed, and perfect for an evening wander without the park crowds. Open 3 Nov 2025 – 4 Jan 2026.
Leicester Square Christmas Market – Tiny but mighty in charm! Right in the West End, it’s perfect for a quick browse, grabbing dinner, or popping into a theatre show after. Open 1 Nov 2025 – 4 Jan 2026, this one packs a punch without overwhelming you.
3. Go Ice Skating at Iconic Spots
Gliding across ice under fairy lights is one of London’s most magical festive experiences. Iconic rinks set against historic landmarks or riverside backdrops make skating in London extra special.
- Somerset House – Skate in the historic courtyard with festive music and a beautiful Christmas atmosphere. Open 12 November 2025 – 11 January 2026.
- Battersea Power Station (Glide) – Riverside skating with three interconnecting loops around a 30-foot Christmas tree. Open 7 November 2025 – 4 January 2026, offering a unique and atmospheric experience.
- Natural History Museum Ice Rink – Glide beneath the iconic museum facade, surrounded by fairy lights and festive décor. Open 21 November 2025 – 5 January 2026, a picture-perfect spot for photos.
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4. Enjoy Christmas Shows and Concerts
One of the best things to do in London at Christmas is catching festive shows and concerts. London’s theatres and concert halls fill with seasonal magic, from candlelit carol services at St Martin-in-the-Fields to West End musicals like The Snowman with Live Orchestra at Cadogan Hall.
- Dates: Early December – late December 2025.
- Tickets: Book online or at the box office to secure the best seats.
Tips: Arrive early, grab a cozy scarf, and soak in the holiday atmosphere. Evening performances are extra magical, while matinees are perfect for families.
5. Visit Trafalgar Square’s Christmas Tree
No Christmas in London is complete without a stop at Trafalgar Square’s Christmas tree, an annual gift from Oslo and a true festive icon.
- Switch-on: Thursday, 4 December 2025, around 5–6 pm, with live carols and music. The tree stays lit through early January 2026.
- Location: Trafalgar Square, easily reached via Charing Cross, Leicester Square, or Embankment stations.
6. Indulge in Festive Food & Drink
One of the best ways to soak up the holiday spirit in London is through festive food and drink.
- Wick Wonderland at Barge East (Hackney Wick) – Mulled wine, hot food, and festive cocktails. Dates: 6 December 2025.
- The Hawk’s Nest Christmas Market (Shepherd’s Bush) – Mince pies, baked goods, and a carol event. Dates: 14 December 2025.
- Festive Afternoon Tea – Try The Chesterfield Mayfair Hotel, Royal Lancaster London, or The Langham for a seasonal twist.
- Pub Crawls – Join festive tours like the Xmas Gin Journey in Soho starting 26 November 2025.
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7. Take a Christmas River Cruise or Lights Tour
Seeing London during Christmas from the water or on a festive tour is unforgettable.
- Thames Dinner Cruise – Enjoy dinner, live entertainment, and views of London’s lit-up landmarks.
- Christmas Lights Tour (Open-Top Bus) – Covers Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square, and Hyde Park Winter Wonderland London.
- Magical Christmas West End Walk – 7 December 2025, exploring Bond Street, Regent Street, Carnaby, and Covent Garden.
- Drag Bus Christmas Lights Tour – 3 December 2025, a fun, unique twist.
- Brigit’s Christmas Lights Afternoon Tea Bus Tour – Afternoon tea meets festive sightseeing.
London Reggae Christmas Boat Party – 13 December 2025, cruising the Thames with live music.
8. Wander Through Christmas Light Trails
Exploring light trails is a magical way to experience xmas in London.
- Christmas at Kew Gardens – Enchanting trail through illuminated gardens. Dates: 14 November 2025.
- Neverland at Kenwood – Peter Pan-themed magical lights. Dates: 21 November 2025.
- West End Free Evening Walk – Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Covent Garden aglow. Dates: 16 December 2025.
Other Highlights: Leadenhall Market, Ever After Garden (Duke of York Square), The Outernet Ice Palace, Greenwich Market Lantern Parade (19 November 2025), Christmas Lights Watch Party at The Volunteer (12 November 2025).
9. Experience Hogwarts in the Snow
Step into a magical world this Christmas in London with Hogwarts in the Snow at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. The famous Harry Potter sets turn into a winter wonderland, covered in sparkling snow and festive lights.
You can walk through the Great Hall filled with Christmas trees, explore the Gryffindor Common Room decorated for the holidays, and see the snow-covered Hogwarts Castle model.
There are even displays showing how the film crew created the snow and frosty effects. It’s a dream come true for Harry Potter fans and one of the most enchanting things to do during xmas in London.
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10. Enjoy ELF The Musical
If you love feel-good shows, ELF The Musical is the perfect pick during Christmas in London. The story follows Buddy the Elf as he leaves the North Pole and spreads cheer in the human world. The show is full of catchy songs, colourful sets, and laugh-out-loud moments that both kids and adults will enjoy.
You can watch it at the Dominion Theatre throughout the festive season. It’s a heartwarming, fun way to get into the holiday spirit and makes a great evening out if you’re exploring London during Christmas.
11. Explore Chelsea Winter Village
Add some sparkle to your xmas in London with a visit to Chelsea Winter Village at the Royal Hospital Chelsea. The grounds turn into a glowing festive wonderland, with a beautiful light trail through Ranelagh Gardens and a cozy Christmas market filled with handmade gifts.
You can enjoy hot chocolate, mulled wine, and toasted marshmallows at the Après Ski Bar, or listen to live carol singers as you stroll around. There are family rides, fun workshops, and even a curling area for some friendly competition. It’s a wonderful place to relax, eat, and soak in the holiday atmosphere.
Best London Christmas Events
1. Step Into Dickens’ A Christmas Carol
Mark Gatiss’s version of A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story returns to the Alexandra Palace Theatre this Christmas. The play tells the famous story of Ebenezer Scrooge, a man who learns the value of kindness after being visited by four ghosts on Christmas Eve.
With stunning effects, lighting, and sound, the show brings Dickens’s classic tale to life in a spooky and magical way. Viewers can expect a mix of emotions, from fear to joy, as Scrooge discovers the true meaning of Christmas. It’s one of the most exciting London Christmas events this season.
- Address: Alexandra Palace Way, Wood Green, London, N22 7AY
- Times: Monday to Saturday 2:30pm and 7:30pm; Sunday 1:00pm
- Duration: 2 hours 10 minutes (including an interval)
- Age: 12+
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2. Meet Santa at the Queen’s House Grotto
Visit the Queen’s House in Greenwich for a magical Santa’s Grotto inspired by The Nutcracker. Families can explore the decorated royal house, meet fun characters like the Tin Soldier, Clara, and the Nutcracker, and enjoy live performances, music, and storytelling. The experience ends with a special visit to Santa himself, where children receive a small gift to take home.
The Queen’s House becomes a winter wonderland filled with colourful decorations, festive cheer, and great photo spots. It’s the perfect Christmas outing for families looking for something joyful and memorable.
- Address: London, SE10 9NF
- Times: Weekends and selected weekdays, 10:00am – 6:30pm
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Age: 2+
3. Ring In 2026 on a New Year’s Eve Thames Cruise
Welcome 2026 in style with a New Year’s Eve Dinner and Cruise on the River Thames. Begin the evening with a tasty three-course meal at Doggett’s Coat and Badge, a cosy riverside pub. Then, step aboard a cruise boat and dance the night away while gliding past London’s famous landmarks.
As midnight arrives, enjoy front-row views of the city’s stunning fireworks display. The combination of dining, music, and beautiful river views makes it an unforgettable way to celebrate the new year in London with friends or loved ones.
- Times: Arrive at 9:15pm for boarding, departure at 9:30pm, return at 1:45am
- Duration: Approximately four hours
- Age: All ages welcome
- Departure Point: London, SW1W 9SR
4. Feel the Magic of The Snowman
The Snowman returns to the Peacock Theatre with its magical stage version of Raymond Briggs’s beloved story. The show follows a young boy whose snowman comes to life and takes him on an exciting adventure to the North Pole. Along the way, they meet Father Christmas, dancing snowmen, and the mischievous Jack Frost.
The performance includes the famous flying scene and the classic song “Walking in the Air.” It’s a heartwarming show filled with music, dance, and festive fun, a Christmas tradition that families in London enjoy year after year.
- Address: Portugal Street, London, WC2A 2HT
- Times: 22 November 2025 – 4 January 2026; times vary throughout the festive season
- Duration: 1 hour 50 minutes (including a 20-minute interval)
- Age: All ages
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Christmas in London is all about lights, laughter, and shared moments. Streets glow with decorations, markets buzz with music and food, and every neighbourhood feels alive with festive energy. From browsing gifts at the Christmas markets London to enjoying rides and hot chocolate at Winter Wonderland London, the city offers something for everyone. It’s a season made for slow walks, good food, and simple joys that bring people together. As the year ends, London reminds you what the holidays are really about, warmth, connection, and a little sparkle in everyday life.
