If you’ve chosen to spend the festive season in the UK capital, get ready for a Christmas in London like no other. When winter settles over the city, London turns into a real-life fairy tale: streets are covered in millions of twinkling lights, the smell of roasted chestnuts fills the air and the Christmas spirit comes to life on every corner. From the impressive tree in Trafalgar Square to the glittering windows of Harrods, London offers endless traditional celebrations and unique seasonal experiences.
And if the famous British weather decides not to cooperate, there’s no need to worry. There are always plenty of things to do in London when it rains, so your festive mood doesn’t have to depend on the forecast. Get ready to discover the most charming Christmas markets, the busiest ice rinks and the most spectacular light displays in the city.
This guide is designed to be your festive treasure map. We’ll not only show you what to do in London at Christmas we’ll also give you ideas on how to experience everything in the most enjoyable way. A key tip is to plan your days by area (West End, South Bank, etc.) and think carefully about how you’ll move between them.
That’s where smart transport makes all the difference. Instead of squeezing into an underground train and missing everything happening above ground, a comfortable and panoramic way to connect all these magical spots is with the London hop-on hop-off bus. Imagine travelling between Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park and the markets along the Thames while you stay warm on the top deck, admiring the Christmas lights. It’s the perfect way to make the journey between stops just as special as the destinations themselves.
So, coat on and camera ready – let’s dive into the magic.
Table of Contents
The ultimate guide for your holiday in the English capital
Here, we’ve put together the guide to Christmassy things to do in London to give your holidays that festive feel. From Christmas markets to exciting events, it’s all here.
Christmas Markets in London
Here are some of the best and most unmissable Christmas markets in London.
Southbank Centre Winter Market
At Christmas, one of our favourite places in London is the South Bank. Right on the river, it’s the perfect spot to combine with other experiences. The Thames River Cruise + Hop-On Hop-Off Bus combo gives you magical views of the city lights from the water. Nearby you’ll also find great family attractions such as the London Eye + Madame Tussauds + SEA LIFE package ideal for a full festive day out.
Key dates and opening times:
- Open: 3 November 2025 – 4 January 2026 (closed on 25 and 31 December)
- General opening hours: 11:00–22:00
Winter Wonderland Christmas Market, Hyde Park
Winter Wonderland is much more than a market; it’s a full festive extravaganza that combines Christmas spirit with the excitement of a large theme park. It’s one of the best things to do in London with kids at Christmas and fun for adults too.
The experience goes far beyond shopping: enjoy the magical outdoor ice rink, be amazed by Zippos Christmas Circus, visit Santa’s Grotto and try a wide range of funfair rides, from classic carousels to thrilling roller coasters.
At the heart of the event you’ll find a huge Christmas market. Wander through its wooden chalets, perfect for picking up unique handmade gifts and tasting seasonal treats – from German bratwurst to comforting mulled wine.
Key dates and opening times:
- Open: 14 November 2025 – 1 January 2026
- Hours: 10:00–22:00
Christmas in Leicester Square
There’s no location more central than Leicester Square at Christmas. If you’re out shopping or enjoying a West End show, this charming market is a must.
Here you’ll find a great selection of stalls offering traditional Christmas gifts, unique crafts and, of course, plenty of festive food and drink. Set in the vibrant heart of the West End, this market is the perfect starting point for a full day of entertainment. You’ll always find lots of things to do nearby in Piccadilly Circus, Covent Garden or Trafalgar Square to complete your visit.
Key dates and opening times (Leicester Square):
- Open: 6 November 2025 – 5 January 2026
- Hours: 10:00–22:00
Winter by the River at London Bridge City
If you’re looking for the perfect mix of Christmas gifts and winter treats, Winter by the River at London Bridge City is a must.
With a fantastic location next to iconic Tower Bridge, this wonderful market stretches along the south bank of the Thames, offering unbeatable views of the London skyline. Stroll among the many charming stalls selling traditional gifts, crafts and a full immersion in winter food and delicious festive drinks.
Key dates and opening times:
- Open: 14 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
- Hours: 11:00–22:00
Greenwich Christmas Market
Although Greenwich sits outside the very centre, it’s absolutely worth the trip and ideal for a full day of historic exploration. The famous Greenwich Market transforms into a truly Christmassy space.
The focus here is on artisan products and the special festive atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage area. You can round off your visit with a turn on the spectacular Queen’s House Ice Rink. And don’t forget to take a photo at the home of the Prime Meridian.
Key dates and opening times:
- Open: 21 November 2025 – 4 January 2026 (closed on Christmas Day and the first six Mondays of the new year)
- Hours: 10:00–17:30
Old Spitalfields Christmas Market, London
Located in the heart of vibrant, modern East London, Old Spitalfields Market turns into an atmospheric Christmas hub.
This is the perfect place if you’re hunting for gifts with character: you’ll find traditional Christmas items alongside unique handmade pieces, vintage treasures and independent designer goods.
It’s also one of our favourite places to eat in London, thanks to its exceptional line-up of street food from around the world – ideal for refuelling with a hot winter drink. In Old Spitalfields you’re almost guaranteed to find something a little different.
Key dates and opening times:
- Open: 22 December 2025 – 2 January 2026 (closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and 1 January)
- Hours: Times vary, check the Old Spitalfields website before you visit.
Borough Market: festive foodie heaven
Open all year round, Borough Market becomes the gastronomic epicentre of Christmas during the festive season. Here, the focus is less on gifts and more on the flavours and aromas that define British – and global – festive cooking.
It’s the ideal place to buy gourmet ingredients, artisan cheeses, meats, festive wines and, of course, enjoy outstanding street food from all over the world. The market is decorated with lights and garlands, creating a magical atmosphere that’s perfect for enjoying a hot pie or a glass of mulled wine.
- Approximate Christmas opening hours: The market usually operates with extended hours in December, although it tends to close earlier on Christmas Eve and remains closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Always check the official website before visiting (typical hours are Mon–Fri 10:00–17:00, Sat 09:00–17:00, Sun 10:00–16:00).
Trafalgar Square Christmas Market & Tree: symbolism and carols
Trafalgar Square is the symbolic heart of Christmas in London thanks to the impressive Norwegian spruce that stands there each year as a gift from Norway in gratitude for Britain’s support during the Second World War. Beneath this iconic tree, decorated with simple white lights, you’ll find a small but charming Christmas market.
The market, set on the terrace in front of the National Gallery, is perfect for picking up gifts and enjoying sweets and mulled wine. The experience is completed by the Christmas carolling programme, where different groups gather under the tree to sing – a truly unforgettable festive atmosphere.
Key dates:
- Market: Expected to be open from 9 November 2025 to 2 January 2026
(check exact times; typically 10:00–22:00). - Tree lighting: Traditionally held on the first Thursday in December (around 4 December 2025).
Camden Market at Christmas: alternative and festive
For a more unconventional Christmas experience, Camden Market is the perfect choice. Open all year, in December it dresses up for the season, mixing festive spirit with its punk and vintage vibe.
Camden Market – especially the Hawley Wharf area – becomes the centre of the action, offering last-minute Christmas shopping with an alternative twist, unique crafts and one of the most diverse street food scenes in London.
- Approximate Christmas opening hours: Camden Market is open every day of the year except Christmas Day (25 December). General opening hours are roughly 10:00–18:00, while food and drink venues in North Yard often stay open later into the evening.
Leadenhall Market: Christmas, Victorian architecture and a touch of Harry Potter
Leadenhall Market doesn’t need temporary stalls to shine. This covered Victorian market becomes one of the most atmospheric and photogenic festive settings in London.
Its charm lies in its lavish decorations, culminating in a popular Christmas lights switch-on ceremony in the heart of the City of London.
Fun fact: fans of the Harry Potter films will recognise its arcades – they were used as the location for Diagon Alley and the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron.
Key info:
- Switch-on ceremony: Usually celebrated on the second Thursday of November
(around 13 November 2025). - General opening hours: The common areas of the market are open 24/7, but shops, bars and restaurants typically open 10:00–18:00 Monday to Friday, with many businesses closed at weekends.
Christmas Events in London
Looking for something special to do in London this Christmas? Here are our top three Christmas events in the city.
Skate Leicester Square
Did you know that Londoners used to skate on the Thames in winter when it froze over? It’s been a long time since that happened but that doesn’t mean that you can’t skate in the city today.
Glide into the heart of the city at Skate Leicester Square, London’s ultimate winter ice skating experience. Surrounded by sparkling lights and festive cheer, the iconic square transforms into a magical ice rink where you can twirl beneath the stars. Whether you’re a first-time skater or a seasoned pro, it’s the perfect place to celebrate the season with friends, family, or a special someone — right in the middle of London’s Christmas magic.
- Open: from 1st November 2025 to 4th January 2026.
- Hours: 10:00 – 22:00
Christmas at Kew
They might be a tube ride from central London,
, but Christmas at Kew Gardens is absolutely worth the effort. This magical evening event takes you along a trail of lights through the stunning botanical gardens. The full walk takes around 75 minutes.
Remember to book ahead, it’s extremely popular and tickets sell out quickly.
- Open: 14 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
- Hours: 16:20–22:00 (last entry time varies depending on the gate)
Hogwarts in the Snow
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter is one of the most popular attractions in the entire country. It’s outside London itself, but if you love Harry Potter and the wizarding world, there’s no better day trip.
Each year, for Hogwarts in the Snow, the sets get a full festive makeover. The Gryffindor Common Room and boys’ dormitory are decorated for Christmas, and the model of Hogwarts Castle and Diagon Alley are covered in “snow”.
- Event dates: 15 November 2025 – 18 January 2026
- Tours: Depart daily from London Victoria at 07:30 for a 09:00 entry.
- Advance booking is essential – tickets sell out quickly.
Ice-skating at Somerset House
Another classic London Christmas tradition is ice-skating at Somerset House. Just a short walk from Trafalgar Square, this magnificent building hosts one of London’s most loved outdoor ice rinks in its historic courtyard. This year the event has a Swiss-inspired theme, so you’ll feel as if you’re in the Alps just steps from the Thames.
- Open: 12 November 2025 – 11 January 2026
- Hours: 10:00–19:00
Christmas Lights in London
Is there anything more Christmassy than streets covered in lights that shine like stars? The annual switching-on of Christmas lights across the city is a beloved London tradition.
Christmas Lights Tour
The best lights in the city are in the West End – and there’s no better way to see them than on our London Christmas Lights Bus Tour. As night falls, our open-top buses cruise through the illuminated streets, including Oxford Street and Regent Street.
- Open: 14 November 2025 – 3 January 2026
- Check the City Sightseeing London Christmas Lights Tour page for dates and exact departure times.
From the top deck, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the lights without worrying about crowds or traffic – and with our multilingual audio guide, you’ll hear stories and curiosities about London at Christmas as you go.
Carnaby Street Lights
Just off Regent Street you’ll find Carnaby Street, home of the Swinging Sixties. It’s still one of the liveliest areas in central London, and its Christmas lights are always a highlight.
With more than 60,000 LED lights, the display changes theme each year to create new shapes and scenes that will leave you speechless.
- Open: From 6 November 2025 to around 6 January 2026
- Hours: The street is open 24/7, so you can admire the lights at any time.
Covent Garden Lights
The Christmas lights in Covent Garden are especially loved by Londoners. This year, the theme is “Theatre of Christmas” – a truly spectacular indoor display.
Another great reason to visit Covent Garden is the hourly artificial snowfall, which children (and grown-ups) adore.
- Dates: From 12 November 2025 to around 6 January 2026
- Lights: On all day and night. Check the Covent Garden London website for information on special activities such as the daily snowfall (usually every hour from 12:00 to 21:00 in December).
Old Bond Street lights: luxury and Crown Jewels sparkle
If one street captures luxury and elegance at Christmas, it’s Old Bond Street. Famous for its designer boutiques and prestigious jewellers, the street is decorated with a dazzling light display that in recent years has taken inspiration from the Crown Jewels. The effect is regal and opulent.
Beyond the street lights, the shopfronts (including brands like Cartier and Chanel) compete for the most spectacular window displays, turning a simple stroll into a festive art gallery.
Key dates and lighting times:
- Switch-on: Expected on Wednesday 12 November 2025
(check closer to the date for confirmation). - Hours: Lights are on from dusk (around 16:30) until late, generally until 5 or 6 January 2026.
Harrods and Knightsbridge: Christmas window magic
No guide to Christmas in London would be complete without mentioning Harrods. Although it doesn’t host a traditional market, this iconic Knightsbridge department store is a festive attraction in its own right.
Its façade is covered with thousands of lights, creating a glowing spectacle best appreciated from a distance – or from the top deck of a sightseeing bus. Its famous Christmas windows are unveiled with much fanfare in early November, each year with a different theme.
Inside, “Christmas World” opens as early as summer, offering decorations, Harrods’ signature Christmas bears and luxury festive items from August onwards.
Key dates and lighting times:
- Façade lights: Typically from early November to early January.
- Christmas World: Open on the lower ground floor from August (check store opening times).
Christmas Shopping
Perhaps the most popular Christmas activity in London is shopping. There’s nothing quite like Oxford Street on a Saturday afternoon in December, it’s an experience in itself. If you’ve never done it, we recommend trying it once… but be prepared to dodge determined shoppers in a hurry.
Even if you don’t plan to buy much, simply strolling to admire the window displays and lights is one of the best free things to do in London at Christmas.
Christmas Food and Drink
Christmas is a time for indulgence, and in London at Christmas, British culinary traditions come to life. Although the city offers food from all over the world, you shouldn’t leave without trying some essential festive flavours.
The star of the show is the traditional roast turkey Christmas dinner, served with cranberry sauce and roast potatoes. You’ll find it on the menus of many historic pubs and restaurants throughout December. For dessert, there are two absolute musts:
- Mince pies: Despite the name, there’s no meat involved. These are delicious small pies filled with a sweet mixture of dried fruits, spices and often a splash of liqueur, a tradition that dates back to the Middle Ages. They’re an essential part of any British Christmas.
- Christmas pudding: A rich, dense pudding made with fruit, nuts and brandy, traditionally served flaming. It’s the grand finale of the Christmas meal.
Where to try them
Look for traditional pubs with fireplaces and a cosy atmosphere (for example The Churchill Arms in Kensington, famous for its Christmas decorations) to experience the classic roast turkey dinner. Mince pies are sold at almost every Christmas market and bakery, but markets like Southbank or Borough Market are perfect places to enjoy them with a glass of mulled wine, the festive hot drink par excellence.
For a more elegant food experience, book a festive afternoon tea. Some hotels offer special packages that turn it into an unforgettable day out. For example, the Tea at The Rubens + Cruise + Hop-On Hop-Off Bus tour combines culinary luxury with the best panoramic views of the city.
Map of the main Christmas attractions in London
Essential tips for travellers
The British capital is magical in winter, but the popularity of its Christmas events means good planning is essential. Here are some key recommendations to help you enjoy your visit without any hiccups:
- Avoid the biggest crowds (timing): Try to visit markets such as Winter Wonderland or Borough Market on weekday mornings (before 12:00) if you want to avoid the largest crowds, especially on December weekends.
- Prioritise the sightseeing bus for the lights: Seeing the Christmas lights on foot can be exhausting and very time-consuming. The most efficient – and warmest – way to admire the glow of Old Bond Street, Regent Street and Harrods is on a City Sightseeing open-top night bus tour. It lets you enjoy the visual spectacle without having to battle through the pavements.
- Secure your tickets in advance: Events and attractions such as Winter Wonderland, ice-skating rinks (like Somerset House) or special evening events at the Tower of London often require advance ticket reservations, particularly at weekends.
- Stay flexible with your itinerary: The best way to link the markets along the South Bank (Southbank, Borough Market) with the West End (Leicester Square) is to use a hop-on hop-off bus service. Get a 24- or 48-hour City Sightseeing pass for the freedom to hop on and off and make the most of your time exploring the city’s different festive hotspots.
Getting to central London
Planning how to get from the airport into the city centre will save you time and help you start enjoying Christmas in London straight away.
Arriving from the main airports
London has several international airports. The ones most commonly used and best connected to central London are:
- Heathrow (LHR): The fastest option is the Heathrow Express train, which takes around 15–20 minutes to reach Paddington Station. From there, you can easily continue your journey by Underground, taxi or hop-on hop-off bus.
- Gatwick (LGW): The Gatwick Express runs to Victoria Station in about 30 minutes. Victoria is a great starting point for exploring central London at Christmas, especially the West End and the main sightseeing bus routes.
- Stansted (STN): The Stansted Express connects the airport with Liverpool Street Station in around 47 minutes. From here, you’re close to the City and East London and just a bus or Tube ride away from many Christmas markets and lights.
Have a very merry Christmas!
Those are our favourite festive tips. Whatever you choose to do during your Christmas in London, we hope you have an amazing time and maybe we’ll see you on board one of our buses. And if you’re turning Christmas into a longer adventure, don’t forget there are options such as the Edinburgh + London hop-on hop-off combo, perfect for a complete British Christmas experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to see the Christmas lights in London?
The best time to see the Christmas lights in London is from mid-November to early January. Most of the big displays, such as those on Regent Street, Carnaby Street and Old Bond Street, are switched on between the first and second week of November.
For a more magical and relaxed experience, we recommend visiting after dark (from around 4:30pm) on weekdays, or joining our Christmas Lights Tour for an unbeatable view from the open-top deck.
Is London very expensive at Christmas?
Yes, accommodation and transport tend to be more expensive in London during the Christmas season, especially in the two weeks leading up to 25 December. However, many of the most iconic festive experiences are completely free – from admiring the lights to wandering around the Christmas markets.
You can keep your budget under control by prioritising free activities and booking your tours in advance, such as a flexible City Sightseeing hop-on hop-off pass, to secure better rates and save on getting around.
What can I do in London on Christmas Day (25 December)?
The main things to do on Christmas Day (25 December) include enjoying the rare chance to walk along normally busy streets in peace, attending a church service, or taking a stroll in one of the Royal Parks, such as Hyde Park. We strongly recommend planning your transport in advance and making sure your accommodation includes meals, as places to eat are very limited that day.
Is Winter Wonderland worth visiting?
Yes, absolutely. Especially if you are travelling with children or enjoy large-scale attractions. Winter Wonderland is London’s biggest Christmas experience and offers much more than a simple market: it has the largest outdoor ice rink in the UK, circuses, funfair rides and themed bars.
Our tip: book timed tickets in advance, as free entry has been removed during certain peak periods and popular slots sell out quickly.
Do I need to book the ice-skating rinks in advance?
Definitely yes. It is highly recommended to book skating sessions in advance for all the main rinks in London such as Somerset House, Queen’s House in Greenwich and Winter Wonderland.
Time slots fill up quickly, particularly at peak times and weekends. Booking ahead guarantees your place on the ice and lets you choose the time that best fits your Christmas in London itinerary.