When it comes to festive things to do in London, I’ve loved discovering them all over the years.
If there are two cities in the world that really know how to do Christmas, it’s London and New York.
When my kids were little, December often meant hopping on a train or driving down to the capital just for a day of Christmas magic.
We did it all – exploring the markets, visiting Santa grottos and enjoying some ice skating.
There was always something to keep my kids entertained and lost in the Christmas magic.
Even now, with my kids in their teens, we still make time for festive fun in London. The city really comes alive at this time of year – and it’s the perfect excuse to wrap up warm and head out together as a family.
If you’re planning a festive London adventure this year, you’re in luck. There’s so much to choose from – ice rinks, iconic Christmas markets, magical light displays and seasonal shows.
You can also discover plenty more festive family adventures in the UK to inspire your trip.
You can head down to London for a festive day trip or even make a weekend of it.
Here’s my guide to the best festive things to do in London this Christmas.
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1. Southbank Centre Winter Market
I always enjoy strolling along the Southbank at Christmas. The market is right by the Thames, so even if it’s chilly, the views feel magical.
You’ll find festive food, handmade gifts, and little surprises tucked around every corner. It’s lovely just to pause at a stall for roasted chestnuts or a hot chocolate while watching the lights twinkle on the river.
It’s lively, cheerful, and perfect for a relaxed festive wander.
2. Covent Garden Christmas Lights & Market
Covent Garden in December is pure magic. The lights overhead are stunning, the street performers add sparkle, and the Christmas market has a real buzz.
I enjoy ducking into the small boutiques to see their festive displays and hunting for unique gifts.
Even just wandering the piazza with a warm drink in hand feels like stepping into a Christmas postcard.
3. Leicester Square Christmas Market
Leicester Square’s market is fun and bustling.
The vintage carousel is beautiful and the smell of street food filling the air – roasted almonds, hot chocolate and mince pies.
It’s a lively spot where you can soak up festive energy, take some great photos, and maybe even grab a festive cocktail.
Entry is free, so it’s an easy stop while exploring the West End.
4. Christmas at the Royal Albert Hall
There’s something magical about stepping into the Royal Albert Hall at Christmas.
From ‘The Nutcracker’ to festive carol concerts, the music fills the hall with holiday cheer.
I love the sense of occasion here – it feels elegant and classic, a Christmas experience that’s timeless.
Tickets vary depending on the show, but it’s always worth planning ahead.
5. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
This is one of my favourite festive spots in London. Winter Wonderland really does feel like a giant Christmas playground! It runs from mid-November until early January, and there’s enough to fill a full day.
There’s a huge ice rink, fairground rides that make you feel like a kid again, and plenty of stalls selling mulled wine, bratwurst, and festive treats.
I love wandering through the Christmas markets, taking in the lights, and stopping for a warming snack along the way.
6. Kew Gardens Christmas Trail
Kew Gardens transforms into a glowing wonderland in winter.
Walking through illuminated trees and reflecting pools feels almost magical.
Make sure you stop at each sparkling installation and take a moment to just enjoy the beauty.
This is one of my favourite Christmas light displays in London – peaceful, yet enchanting.
7. Oxford Street and Regent Street Christmas Lights
Oxford Street is a must-see for festive lights. The “Sky Full of Stars” display is so dramatic and beautiful, I always stop to look up.
Even if you’re not shopping, the street is full of holiday energy, perfect for a stroll and maybe a festive selfie or two.
It’s London at its most sparkling.
8. Hamleys Santa’s Grotto
Hamleys on Regent Street is a proper Christmas experience. Santa’s grotto is joyful, playful, and full of magic.
The little details are what makes this special. Elves buzzing around, decorations sparkling and the sense that everyone walking in is caught up in the holiday fun.
Booking ahead is a good idea, as it gets busy.
9. West End Christmas Shows
From pantomimes to seasonal musicals, the West End is full of festive theatre. I love the energy of the crowds, the music, and the feeling of stepping into a story.
Afterwards, it’s great to stop for a warm drink nearby and soak up the holiday atmosphere.
Tickets vary, so check ahead to find your perfect show.
10. Somerset House Ice Rink
Is there anything that says Christmas more than an ice rink? Skating at Somerset House is iconic.
I love gliding on the ice with the grand courtyard all lit up above me.
It’s elegant but playful, and there’s something so satisfying about grabbing a hot chocolate afterward while watching others skate.
It’s festive fun at its best.
11. King’s Cross Christmas Market
King’s Cross has a cosy Christmas market that I enjoy exploring. The mix of gifts, seasonal food and cheerful decorations makes it a treat.
It’s a little calmer than some of the bigger markets, so perfect if you want festive vibes without the huge crowds.
12. Greenwich Christmas Market
Greenwich really comes alive at Christmas. There are so many unique gifts and quirky crafts to discover.
The market has a relaxed, festive feel – it’s a great spot to stop for something warming to eat and enjoy the historic surroundings.
13. Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree
Seeing the giant Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square is a classic London moment. The lights, the cathedral nearby and the sense of tradition are just so magical.
It’s also one of the best photo spots in the city at this time of year.
14. Natural History Museum Ice Rink
Skating here is magical. The museum’s grand architecture creates a stunning backdrop and the lights add a festive sparkle.
I love watching families laugh and spin on the ice while taking in the incredible surroundings.
15. Tower of London Christmas Events
The Tower hosts special seasonal tours and exhibitions. You can really feel the history, which feels extra special with festive touches.
It’s a chance to enjoy one of London’s most famous landmarks while soaking up the holiday spirit.
16. London Eye Christmas Experience
Seeing London from the Eye during Christmas is unforgettable. I enjoy spotting all the twinkling lights from above, and the festive pods make it feel even more special.
It’s perfect for a unique perspective on the city’s winter magic.
17. St Paul’s Cathedral Christmas Services
Attending a carol service at St Paul’s is something I always enjoy. The music inside is breathtaking, and the cathedral feels warm and festive.
Even just a quick visit is worth it for the architecture and atmosphere.
18. Victoria & Albert Museum Christmas
The V&A offers workshops and seasonal exhibits that feel creative and festive.
Wandering through the galleries and soaking up the mix of art, design and festive touches is a real treat.
It’s inspirational and cosy, especially on a rainy day.
19. London Department Store Christmas Windows
London’s department stores go all out for Christmas, and the window displays are a spectacle in themselves.
Harrods, Selfridges, Fortnum & Mason and Liberty all have themed festive windows that draw crowds from across the city.
Walking past, you can really feel the magic – each window tells a little story.
It’s the perfect way to soak up festive cheer, take photos, and maybe spot a few quirky gifts inside the stores too.
Even if you’re not shopping, it’s a treat just to stroll along and admire the creativity.
20. Science Museum Christmas Workshops
The Science Museum runs fun festive workshops in December. They combine learning with holiday fun – interactive, playful, and a bit magical.
It’s the perfect hands-on experience for anyone curious about science and seasonal creativity.
21. Tate Modern Christmas Events
Tate Modern hosts seasonal art displays and workshops.
The calm, creative energy and the way the modern art contrasts with festive touches make it truly enjoyable.
It’s a relaxed, inspiring way to spend a winter afternoon.
For more inspiration, check out the best Christmas markets in the UK or if you fancy going abroad over the festive season, check out the best Christmas markets in Europe.
