Christmas in London is something special. The city fills with enormous Christmas trees, glowing shop windows, traditional markets, outdoor ice rinks, festive shows, and some of the most recognizable Christmas lights in the world.
New York City sets a very high bar for Christmas destinations, but London belongs on the same shortlist. Regent Street’s illuminated angels, the decorations around Covent Garden, and the markets beside the Thames make even an ordinary walk through the city feel festive.
London’s Christmas season generally begins in early to mid-November and continues into the first days of January. That gives you plenty of time to experience the celebrations without visiting during Christmas week itself, when transportation and opening hours become more complicated.
Whether you are visiting London with kids, planning a couples’ trip, or simply want to experience the city at its most beautiful, this guide covers the best things to do in London at Christmas—plus what to book early, when the decorations appear, and how to organize your time.
Christmas in London at a Glance
Best Christmas Lights
Regent Street and Bond Street
Best Christmas Market
Southbank Centre Winter Market
Best Free Experience
Covent Garden and the central London lights
Best for Families
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
Most Magical Experience
Christmas at Kew
Best Traditional Experience
Carols beneath the Trafalgar Square tree
Best Christmas Shopping
Fortnum & Mason and Covent Garden
Best Time to Visit
Late November through mid-December
Book early: Christmas at Kew, Winter Wonderland attractions, ice-skating sessions, popular afternoon teas, and Christmas shows can sell out.
Christmas in Covent Garden
‘Tis the season to be jolly”, and what better place to experience Christmas cheer in London than at Covent Garden?
Beautifully decorated in festive decor, the Covent Garden piazza is the perfect place to watch the world go by. Whether you’re looking for family entertainment or a festive treat, Covent Garden has it all.
With over 100 stalls selling Christmas gifts and decorations, there really is something for everyone! From handmade truffles to Christmas puddings, lavender bags to fairy lights, you’ll find everything you could want at Covent Garden.
If you are after some Christmas shopping inspiration, be sure to check out the Apple Market and the Jubilee Market for artisan gifts and homewares.
Make sure you visit the Christmas Tree in the centre of the square. The tree stands at 60ft tall and is covered with thousands of lights, ornaments and bows, making it a stunning icon this season.
Covent Garden has many restaurants where you can enjoy delicious festive dishes. Alternatively, enjoy the buskers or carol singers while enjoying a hot chocolate at one of the cafes in the Apple market, they are sure to get you in the Christmas spirit.
Covent Garden hosts a number of food traders such as the traditional roasting chestnut sellers and hot chestnut carts. Christmas wouldn’t be complete without the sweet smell of roasting chestnuts, so why not grab a bag and enjoy!
The Royal Opera House is also located on the square, where you can attend traditional seasonal opera or ballet throughout December.
If you’re searching for the best things to do in London at Christmas, then you have to add Southbank Christmas Market to your list. Located right next to the London Eye, here you will find delicious festive food and drinks, with one of the most iconic London sites as your backdrop.
For anyone visiting London in winter, popping by Southbank Christmas Market is a must. With its strong Christmas vibe, it’s a great way to celebrate the Christmas season. You can easily spend a few hours walking around the market, sipping on mulled wine and nibbling on pretzels while checking out the stalls selling souvenirs and Christmas gifts.
The market usually runs from the start of November to the start of January. The easiest way to get there is to take the tube or train to Waterloo Station. From there it’s a short 5-10 minute walk.
Southbank Christmas Market is also home to the Rekorderlig Cider Lodge. This huge section of the market comes with a big central seating area. That way you can purchase food from different stalls, but still sit together with your friends and share this lovely London Christmas experience.
With its wide shopping, food and drinks offering, as well as its iconic London location, it’s easy to see why Southbank Christmas Market is one of the best places to visit in London at Christmas.
Experience Christmas at Kew Gardens
Christmas at Kew is one of London’s most magical holiday experiences. After dark, Kew Gardens is transformed by an illuminated trail filled with glowing trees, enormous light installations, music and seasonal displays.
The trail changes each year, so even repeat visitors will find something new. There are also places to stop for hot chocolate, snacks and other Christmas treats along the route. It is a wonderful choice for families, couples or anyone who wants an evening that feels completely removed from the busy streets of central London.
Christmas at Kew uses timed tickets and popular evenings can sell out weeks in advance. For 2026, it runs on selected nights from November 13 through January 3. Allow approximately two hours to enjoy the trail without rushing.
Go Ice Skating in London
Ice skating is another classic way to celebrate Christmas in London. Seasonal skating rinks appear around the city each winter, often surrounded by historic buildings, Christmas lights and places selling hot drinks.
The exact selection changes from year to year, but Somerset House, Hampton Court Palace and Battersea Power Station have all hosted popular holiday rinks. Some locations also offer smaller skating aids for children who are still learning.
Book a timed skating session before your trip, especially if you want to skate during the evening or on a weekend. Even if you decide not to skate, the rinks are fun places to stop, watch the skaters and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
See a British Christmas Pantomime
For something you probably won’t experience at home, get tickets to a British Christmas pantomime. Despite the name, a pantomime is not a silent performance. It is a loud, funny and wonderfully silly British Christmas tradition filled with music, dancing, colorful costumes, familiar fairy-tale characters and plenty of audience participation.
I have been to a pantomime, and it was so much fun. The audience is encouraged to cheer for the hero, boo the villain and shout warnings to the characters onstage. It is completely different from the type of holiday theater we normally see in the United States, which makes it a particularly British addition to a Christmas trip.
Pantomimes are performed throughout London during the holiday season, from large theaters to smaller neighborhood venues. They are especially fun for families, although much of the humor is designed to entertain the adults too. Check the age recommendations before booking and reserve tickets early for performances close to Christmas.
See Christmas Lights and Displays all around London
One of the magical things you can do at Christmas in London is to see all the beautiful Christmas lights. If you’re lucky enough to be in London towards the end of November, you will also be able to see the official switch-on event too, which is often accompanied by live music, food stalls and performers. The dates are different every year, and they don’t all switch on at the same date. The Christmas lights are on every night between the switch-on date and into the beginning of January. You could spend several evenings wandering about the city enjoying the different displays.
Every shop front will be adorned by lavish Christmas displays, iconic shops such as Harrods, Fortnum & Mason and Hamleys always put on impressive Christmas light displays, often lighting up the entire building.
It’s not only the buildings that compete for the best illuminations. Stunning displays crop up in Oxford Street, Regent Street, Bond Street and Covent Garden. However, one of the best displays is along Carnaby Street.
Another one of the best places to see the Christmas lights in the city is Oxford Street. There are thousands of lights in this street. Furthermore, many of the shops on Oxford Street have special Christmas displays.
Besides that, many other places in the city have beautiful Christmas displays. For example, the private club Annabel’s features a large Christmas tree display on its facade. Also, there are some cute cafes in London with Christmas decorations. For example, Peggy Porschen features winter and Christmas displays that are lovely to see!
Visit Father Christmas in London
One of our family’s favorite traditions for Christmas in London is visiting one of the special Christmas Grottos, where kids can meet Father Christmas. When we lived in London, my three kids were so excited for this special experience, because unlike in America where the tradition is more of simply sitting with Santa Claus for a minute to take a photo, Christmas Grottos are often an experience.
Many of the Grottos have whole areas dedicated to Christmas. Sometimes kids get a story read to them by Father Christmas and the one we visited near Notting Hill, each child was given a book by the magical guy himself! Christmas Grottos are very popular and take some planning, so definitely plan ahead and book your appointment, get your kids ready in their best jolly outfits, and plan for a special day. Often there are tickets that need to be purchased in advance.
Some of the best ones in London (and very popular) are meeting Father Christmas at Hamleys Toy Shop, Santa Land at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, Santa’s Christmas Festival in Leicester Square, at Fortnum and Mason, and at Harrods. Check this years current locations and reserve your spots early.
Visit Fortnum & Mason
The Christmas window display at Fortnum & Mason’s department store is a London Christmas must-see. This iconic department store has been delighting shoppers (and passers by) with its decorative window displays for over 300 years – so it really is worth stopping by to see them.
Each year there is a new design, which gets revealed at the end of October or early November. The designs vary in theme, but they are typically traditional in style and craftsmanship – and often elaborate.
Of course, if you make it all the way over to the store on Piccadilly, you might as well go inside. On the ground floor of Fortnum’s is its renowned Food Hall, where you can pick up Christmas treats like indulgent hampers, biscuits in beautiful tins and handmade chocolates. A word of warning: it gets very busy in the Food Hall during the Christmas season, so you might want to come early or be prepared for crowds.
If you want a break from the throng, consider sitting down to a bite to eat. Fortnum’s is famous for its afternoon tea, which is served in the magnificent Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon. There’s also a restaurant at the back of the department store, 45 Jermyn Street. And if you want something more low-key, there’s a wine bar in the lower level of the food hall. Whichever you prefer, do book ahead, as all of these destinations are popular!
Get a Cupcake from Peggy Porschen
Visiting Peggy Porschen during the Christmas season is a must! This specialty cake shop is a favorite in London. The pastel pink facade is cute in itself and during each season there is a beautiful display. During Christmas, you will feel the place is full of Christmas spirit from the exterior of the shop to the many tasty treats you can choose from.
They have some of the best cakes making it well worth a stop to fill your sweet tooth craving. The cupcakes are particularly good and so nicely presented with metallic edible balls, gingerbread men, snowflakes, and other cute decorations. Some favourites include the red velvet cake, sea salt caramel, or chocolate heaven cupcake.
Not only that, the cafe offers a selection of coffee, layer cakes, and a traditional British experience of Afternoon tea! Be sure to stop by Peggy Porschen this season to witness one the prettiest and most instagrammable cafes in the world. There’s a reason Vanity fair named it a cupcake dream! The cake shop is open Monday through Sunday until 6pm across both locations so be sure to add it to your list!
Go to Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park
If you’re looking for the go-to place in London at Christmas, then look no further than Winter Wonderland. Located in Hyde Park, this huge market will immediately put you in the festive spirit, with its endless attractions, rides, and of course Christmas themed stalls.
This year, Winter Wonderland is running from 19th of November until the 3rd of January, so you have plenty of time to go. However, make sure to pre-book your tickets!
It is the perfect place to visit for families, groups of friends, or even dates. Some things to do include ice skating, visiting the ice bar, having some street food, watching live performances and much more.
Don’t be deceived, however, because the rides are not all for small kids – some of them are incredibly thrilling for adults also! My favourite ride is ‘Wild Maus’, a very fast rollercoaster which will give you the ride of your life.
The best part about Winter Wonderland is that it is open from 10 am until 10 pm. So you can go during the day, and spend as long as you like there. Drink some Bavarian beer, have a hot dog, drink a hot chocolate to warm up and have the time of your life!
Visit London’s Christmas trees
London’s Christmas trees are an iconic part of the city’s winter festivities. From towering firs to knee-high pines, there are plenty of trees to admire and photograph around the capital.
Trafalgar Square is home to the country’s most famous Christmas tree. Since 1947, Norway has gifted Britain with a massive Norwegian Fir each year as a token of thanks for support during WWII. The city holds a lighting ceremony on the first Thursday in December, and caroling groups can often be found performing beneath the 20+ meter tree.
Around the corner from Trafalgar Square stands a very Instagrammable Christmas tree by Sofitel St James hotel. With the right positioning, it’s possible to capture both the tree and a classic red phone box in a single shot.
Just a short walk away lies another gorgeously decorated yet hidden Christmas tree at Berry Bros. & Rudd. Their courtyard tree pops beautifully against the old brick facade.
Covent Garden Market has two well-known Christmas tree displays. The first towers above the marketplace courtyard and sits in a lovely wooden barrel wrapped in a red bow. Just a further bit up the street, a cluster of a dozen or so smaller trees–sponsored and decorated by local businesses–makes for an excellent photo op.
To see a truly jaw-dropping Christmas tree in a stunning Victorian gallery, head to Leadenhall Market. This postcard-worthy display is a favorite among Londonders.
And for travelers willing to get off the beaten path in London, Hampstead Village is an absolute treat this time of year. In addition to the big Christmas tree on the high street, there are numerous little illuminated trees scattered outside the village’s cozy cafes and shops.
Carols at Trafalgar Square
If you’re looking for a way to celebrate Christmas in London that just oozes with traditional festiveness, then listening to carolers beneath the tree at Trafalgar Square should be on yourLondon bucket list!
Each year 40-50 groups of carolers each sing for an hour at a time under the huge Christmas tree. Not only do their songs fill the air with festive cheer, but they also raise money for a number of charitable organisations. There is no stage or PA system to allow for an intimate experience, adding to the timeless Christmas atmosphere.
The carols at Trafalgar Square typically take place from early December until Christmas Eve,.
Take a London Christmas Lights Bus Tour
London’s Christmas lights cover several different neighborhoods, and a dedicated Christmas lights bus tour is one of the easiest ways to see them without walking for hours in the cold.
These seasonal tours are different from regular hop-on-hop-off sightseeing buses. You stay on the bus for the entire route while it travels past some of London’s most famous holiday displays. Depending on the tour, you may see the illuminated angels above Regent Street, the lights along Oxford Street, the decorations on Bond Street and the festive shop windows around Piccadilly.
Some tours use open-top buses, so dress warmly even if the weather seems mild when you leave your hotel. Evening tours provide the best view of the lights, but they are also the most popular. Reserve your tickets in advance and check the exact route, departure point and tour length before booking because each company offers something slightly different.
A Christmas lights bus tour is especially useful for families with young children, travelers with limited mobility or anyone who wants to see a large portion of London’s decorations in one evening.
Planning a Christmas Trip to London
London begins preparing for Christmas surprisingly early. The major lights, markets and holiday attractions generally start opening in early to mid-November, although every event follows its own schedule. Most continue through Christmas and into the first few days of January.
For the best combination of festive atmosphere and slightly more manageable crowds, I recommend visiting from late November through the middle of December. The week immediately before Christmas is wonderfully festive, but hotels, restaurants and attractions can be more expensive and crowded.
Reserve Christmas at Kew, pantomimes, ice-skating sessions and popular Winter Wonderland attractions as soon as you know your travel dates. Christmas afternoon teas and special holiday meals can also fill quickly.
It helps to organize your days by neighborhood. Covent Garden, Regent Street, Bond Street, Oxford Street and Carnaby Street can be combined into one day of shopping and Christmas lights. Southbank Market works well with the London Eye and attractions along the Thames. Christmas at Kew requires a separate journey outside central London, so give it its own evening.
Pack warm layers and comfortable, water-resistant shoes. London’s winter weather can be damp, and many of the best Christmas activities involve spending several hours outside.
What Is London Like on Christmas Day?
Christmas Day is the quietest day of the year in London. The streets can feel almost empty, which is remarkable in such a busy city, but December 25 requires much more planning than an ordinary sightseeing day.
London’s regular public transportation does not operate on Christmas Day. That includes the Underground, buses, trams and London Overground. A limited number of taxis may be available, but prices are higher and booking ahead is important. If you will be in London on Christmas Day, staying within walking distance of the places you want to visit makes the day considerably easier.
Most major attractions, museums and shops are closed. However, you can still walk past London’s landmarks, admire the Christmas lights, explore one of the parks or join a special Christmas Day tour that has been reserved in advance.
Some hotels, pubs and restaurants serve Christmas dinner, but do not expect to find a table by walking in. Christmas Day meals often require reservations and advance payment. Confirm your plans well before your trip and purchase any snacks or breakfast items you may need by Christmas Eve.
London can still be a lovely place to spend Christmas Day, particularly if you want a peaceful walk through the city. You simply need to approach it as a quiet holiday rather than a full sightseeing day.
Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas in London
When do Christmas markets start in London?
Most London Christmas markets begin opening in early or mid-November and continue until shortly before Christmas or into the first week of January. Dates vary by market, so check the official schedule for the year you plan to visit.
When do Christmas decorations go up in London?
Many of London’s major stores and neighborhoods begin installing their decorations in late October and early November. Most of the large displays are ready by the middle of November.
When are the Christmas lights switched on in London?
There is no single switch-on date for all of London. Regent Street, Oxford Street, Carnaby Street, Covent Garden and other shopping areas announce their own schedules. Most central London displays are illuminated by the middle of November and remain on through the Christmas season.
What can you do in London on Christmas Day?
You can walk around central London, see the Christmas lights, visit a park, enjoy a prebooked Christmas meal or take a special Christmas Day tour. Most attractions and stores are closed, and regular public transportation does not operate.
Is London worth visiting at Christmas?
Yes. London is one of the best Christmas destinations in Europe, particularly if you enjoy elaborate lights, festive markets, theater, shopping and seasonal events. It is also busy and expensive during December, so book accommodations and ticketed activities early.
How many days do you need in London at Christmas?
Three days gives you enough time to see the central London decorations, visit a market and enjoy one major holiday attraction. Four or five days is better if you also want to experience Christmas at Kew, Winter Wonderland, a pantomime and London’s regular landmarks.
Does it snow in London at Christmas?
Snow is possible, but a white Christmas in London is unusual. Cold rain and damp weather are more likely, so bring layers, a waterproof coat and shoes that can handle wet sidewalks.
I hope you will love your visit to London at Christmas! If you like this post save it for later here.
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Fun!!! 🙂