Christmas Days Out in London

Christmas is a special time of year and the perfect opportunity to travel and experience new places. For those looking to make the most out of the festive season, London is one of the most iconic cities in the world and offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or are a regular visitor, here’s our guide to some of the best Christmas days out in London.

Introduction to London

London is one of the oldest and most cosmopolitan cities in the world, with a unique blend of history and modernity. Located in the south east of England, it has long been a major centre of commerce and culture, with an estimated population of 8.9 million people. From its iconic landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace to its world-renowned theatres, galleries, and museums, London is an exciting place to explore.

Throughout its long history, London has been an important centre of art and culture, with many of its iconic buildings and attractions being built during the Victorian era. It is also renowned for its vibrant nightlife, with a wide range of bars, pubs, clubs, and restaurants for visitors to explore.

Popular Christmas Activities in London

London is a great place to visit during the festive season, with plenty of activities and attractions to keep visitors entertained. Here are some of the most popular Christmas activities in London:

Ice Skating

One of the most popular activities during the festive season is ice skating. London is home to many beautiful outdoor ice rinks, including those at Alexandra Palace, Canary Wharf, Hyde Park, Natural History Museum, and Queen’s House. There are also several indoor ice rinks, including those at the Tower Of London, Lee Valley Ice Centre, and Wembley Arena.

Christmas Markets

London is home to a number of festive markets, offering visitors the chance to shop for unique gifts and handmade crafts. Some of the most popular markets are located at Covent Garden, Leicester Square, Southbank Centre, Winter Wonderland Hyde Park, and Winterville Clapham Common. These markets are great places to find unique gifts and stocking fillers.

Theatre Shows

London is renowned for its theatres and there’s no better time to experience this than during the festive season. From musicals such as The Lion King and Wicked to family favourites such as Aladdin and The Wind in the Willows, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The West End also hosts a number of Christmas shows, such as A Christmas Carol and The Nutcracker.

Christmas Lights

One of the most iconic sights during the festive season is London’s stunning Christmas lights. From Oxford Street and Regent Street to Carnaby Street and Covent Garden, there are plenty of opportunities to experience the magic of Christmas lights in London.

Example Tour 1: Christmas Lights Tour

If you’re looking to experience the magic of Christmas lights in London, then a Christmas lights tour is a great way to do it. This 2-hour guided tour takes visitors around some of London’s most iconic streets, including Oxford Street, Regent Street, Carnaby Street, and Covent Garden – all lit up with spectacular Christmas lights. During the tour you will also see iconic landmarks such as Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace. This tour is great for those looking to get into the festive spirit and explore London’s most iconic sights in a unique way. Book a Christmas Lights Tour here.

Example Tour 2: Harry Potter Walking Tour

If you’re a fan of Harry Potter then this is the perfect tour for you. This 2-hour guided walking tour takes visitors around some of the locations used in the Harry Potter films, including Westminster Tube Station (used as Hogwarts Express station), Leadenhall Market (Diagon Alley), St Paul’s Cathedral (Hogwarts Great Hall), and many more. Along the way you will learn about some of the filming locations used in the movies and even get to take part in some magical activities. This tour is great for those looking to explore London through one of its most iconic franchises. Book a Harry Potter Walking Tour here.

Example Tour 3: Thames River Cruise

The Thames River Cruise is a great way to experience London from a different perspective. This 2-hour cruise takes visitors on a journey along the Thames River, passing by iconic landmarks such as Houses of Parliament, Shakespeare’s Globe, Tower Of London, Tower Bridge, and more. You will also get to take in stunning views of the city from a unique vantage point – perfect for those looking to get some great photos! This cruise also includes audio commentary from an experienced guide who will share interesting facts about London’s history along the way. Book a Thames River Cruise here.

Conclusion

London is one of the most exciting cities in the world and there’s no better time to explore it than during the festive season. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities such as ice skating or theatre shows or something more unique such as Christmas lights tours or river cruises, there are plenty of options for visitors to choose from. So why not make this Christmas extra special by exploring all that London has to offer?