Christmas in London
Christmas in London is a magical experience, with the city transforming into a winter wonderland filled with lights, festive markets, and holiday cheer. Here are some of the highlights and things to expect if you visit London for the magical holiday:
Christmas Lights & Decorations
London is famous for its spectacular Christmas lights, especially on Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Covent Garden. Each year, these streets are adorned with dazzling displays, attracting thousands of visitors. Covent Garden also features a massive Christmas tree and giant mistletoe chandeliers. You can’t miss the Ritz decorated with large Christmas bows and stunning decorations. You can spend the entire trip wondering around the city to see all the special displays cultivated in every neighborhood.
Winter Wonderland
Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland is one of the biggest Christmas attractions in the city. It features a Christmas market, ice skating rink, circus shows, a giant Ferris wheel, and Bavarian-style food stalls. It’s a must-visit for both locals and tourists. Truly an amazing way to spend an evening. You can book tickets at the entrance through QR codes. I will mention that the website was slightly tricky to encounter and you can’t go backwards on the site. You should be able to go into your account during your time to add activities.
Christmas Markets
London has several charming Christmas markets, such as:
• Southbank Centre Winter Market – Along the Thames with wooden chalets selling gifts and festive food.
• Leicester Square Christmas Market – A cozy market in the heart of the West End.
• Greenwich Christmas Market – Great for handcrafted gifts and unique finds.
• Borough Market— This amazing market dresses up for Christmas and selling amazing holiday themed food, gifts and more.
Visit all the Christmas markets to buy unique gifts and souvenirs. There is always incredible desserts to snack on or buy for later. Sip on some Glühwein to warm up.
Ice Skating
During Christmas, several iconic locations open ice rinks, including:
• Somerset House – One of the most beautiful ice skating spots with a grand neoclassical backdrop.
• Natural History Museum – A picturesque setting near the museum’s grand building (though this rink closed in 2021, alternatives like Canary Wharf and Hampton Court Palace remain popular).
• Tower of London – Skate with a historic castle as your backdrop.
Festive Shows & Concerts
London’s West End puts on special Christmas-themed performances, including classics like The Nutcracker at the Royal Opera House. Carol concerts take place at St. Paul’s Cathedral and Westminster Abbey, creating a magical atmosphere.
Christmas Shopping
London’s famous department stores go all out for Christmas. Harrods, Selfridges, and Liberty have stunning window displays, while Hamleys is a dream destination for kids looking for toys.
Christmas Day & Boxing Day
On Christmas Day, London is unusually quiet as public transport shuts down, and most businesses close. However, some hotels and restaurants offer special Christmas lunch menus. On Boxing Day (December 26th), the city comes alive again with major sales in shops and department stores.
London at Christmas is a truly unforgettable experience, blending tradition, festivity, and the magic of the season. Would you like recommendations on specific events or places to visit?
