Christmas in London is an amazing experience. A truly magical time of year, the city is even more beautiful during the festive season. From twinkling lights and markets to ice-skating and Christmas carols, there is something to do for everyone. From the iconic landmarks to the charming neighbourhoods, London has a special offering at this time of year.

For those visiting London over the Christmas season, there are plenty of events and activities to explore. Here is a guide to some of the best things to do in London at Christmas.

Introduction to London

London is a vibrant city full of history, culture and entertainment. It is one of the most visited cities in the world and is renowned for its stunning architecture, diverse neighbourhoods and lively atmosphere. Located in the south east of England, London has been a major settlement for over two thousand years, with evidence of Roman occupation dating back to the 1st century AD.

Today, the city is home to around 8.9 million people from a variety of backgrounds and cultures, making it one of the most diverse cities in the world. With over 300 languages spoken in the city, London is also one of the most linguistically diverse cities in the world.

London has many iconic landmarks and attractions, including Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Tower Bridge and St Paul’s Cathedral. It is also home to some of Europe’s best museums and galleries, such as the British Museum and the National Gallery.

London is a popular destination for visitors from all over the world, who come to experience its unique culture and vibrant atmosphere. During the Christmas season, the city comes alive with festive cheer and there is plenty to do and see.

Christmas Lights

One of the most popular Christmas activities in London is to view the spectacular Christmas lights that adorn the streets and buildings. Every year, some of London’s most iconic landmarks are lit up in festive displays, creating a magical atmosphere.

The Oxford Street Christmas lights are always a highlight, with thousands of twinkling lights lining the street each year. Trafalgar Square also hosts an impressive light display, while further afield you can find displays at Covent Garden and Regent Street.

If you want to get off the beaten track, take a stroll around one of London’s charming neighbourhoods. The lights in Marylebone, Notting Hill and Chelsea are always worth a visit, while Greenwich makes for a picturesque night-time stroll.

Christmas Markets

London’s many Christmas markets are always a highlight of the festive season. From traditional German-style markets to modern craft fairs, there is something for everyone. The most popular markets include Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, Southbank Centre Winter Festival and Winterville on Clapham Common.

Each market has its own unique atmosphere and selection of stalls. You can find everything from handmade gifts to festive treats, as well as a range of hot food and drinks. There are often live music performances and entertainment too, making it a great way to experience the festive spirit.

Ice Skating

Ice skating is another popular activity during the Christmas season in London. There are several outdoor rinks across the city that are open throughout the festive period. The most popular rinks include Somerset House, Natural History Museum and Alexandra Palace.

The rinks offer a great opportunity to get out in the cold air and experience a traditional winter pastime. You can hire skates at each rink or bring your own if you have them. Skating sessions usually last between 45 minutes and an hour, with different time slots available throughout the day.

Christmas Carols

Christmas carols are an integral part of the festive season in London. Across the city you can find many carol services taking place in churches, parks and other venues throughout December. Most of these services are free to attend and offer a great opportunity to experience traditional Christmas music.

The most popular carol services take place at St Paul’s Cathedral and Westminster Abbey. These events are usually ticketed but offer an unforgettable experience with some of London’s most beautiful settings as a backdrop. Other churches worth visiting include St Martin-in-the-Fields and All Souls Church in Notting Hill.

Theatre Shows

London’s theatres are renowned for their high-quality productions and during the Christmas season there are plenty of shows for you to choose from. From classic pantomimes to modern musicals, there is something for everyone.

The most popular shows include Peter Pan at Kensington Gardens, The Lion King at The Lyceum Theatre, Oliver! At The Theatre Royal Drury Lane and Cinderella at The London Palladium. If you’re looking for something a bit different, try out a classic like A Christmas Carol at The Old Vic or The Nutcracker at The Royal Opera House.

Christmas Shopping

Christmas shopping is always a highlight of any trip to London and during the festive season there are plenty of opportunities to pick up some unique gifts and souvenirs. Oxford Street is always a great place to start with its hundreds of shops ranging from high street stores to designer boutiques.

Covent Garden is also worth a visit with its independent shops selling everything from handmade gifts to vintage clothes. For something a bit more unusual try out one of London’s many antique markets such as Spitalfields or Portobello Road or take a stroll around one of the city’s charming neighbourhoods such as Marylebone or Notting Hill for independent boutiques and vintage stores.

Tower of London Ice Rink Tour

The Tower Of London Ice Rink Tour is one of the most popular activities during the festive season in London. You will be guided around the iconic Tower Of London by your guide who will tell you about the history and stories behind this ancient landmark as you skate around it on ice skates! You will also get to see some of London’s most famous sights including Tower Bridge and more as you skate around this historical site with your guide.

This tour offers a unique way to experience one of London’s oldest landmarks while getting some exercise on ice skates! During your tour you will also get to learn about how this historic building has been used throughout its long history including when it was used as a prison during Elizabethan times and what it was like during World War II when it was used as a fortified stronghold! This tour will last around 90 minutes in total and will be an experience that you won’t forget!

London Eye River Cruise

The London Eye River Cruise is another great way to experience all that London has to offer during the Christmas period. This tour takes you on a journey along the River Thames from Westminster Pier all the way up to Tower Bridge where you will be able to see some wonderful views from your boat! During your cruise you will be able to admire some of London’s most iconic sights including Big Ben, St Paul’s Cathedral, The Houses Of Parliament, Tower Of London and many more!

This tour offers a great way to explore London from a different perspective on board a comfortable boat with your knowledgeable guide pointing out interesting facts about each sight as you go along! During your tour you will also get to see some beautiful Christmas lights that adorn various landmarks around London adding an extra sparkle to your evening! This tour will last around 90 minutes in total so make sure you book yourself onto this memorable experience!

Conclusion

London is an amazing destination at any time of year but during the Christmas season it truly comes alive with festive cheer! There are so many amazing activities on offer whether it’s viewing the beautiful Christmas lights displays around town or skating on one of the many outdoor rinks! With its many markets, carol services and theatre shows there really is something for everyone!

If you’re looking for something truly unique why not book onto one of our two recommended tours: The Tower Of London Ice Rink Tour or The London Eye River Cruise? Both offer a great way to experience London from a different perspective with knowledgeable guides pointing out all the sights along the way! So why not book onto one of these amazing tours today?