London Things To Do This Christmas

London is a city full of life and excitement, and it is even more so during the holiday season. Christmas in London is a magical time, with festive decorations and events taking place throughout the city. Whether you’re looking for holiday attractions, festive activities, or traditional Christmas markets, London has something for everyone. Here we’ll take a look at some of the best things to do in London this Christmas.

Christmas Attractions

One of the biggest draws to London during the holiday season is the amazing attractions that the city has to offer. From ice skating rinks, to light displays, to carol concerts, London is full of festive activities for the whole family. Some of the top attractions include the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, Southbank Centre’s Festival of Christmas, Trafalgar Square’s Christmas Lights, and the Christmas at Kew Gardens.

Christmas Markets

No visit to London during the holiday season would be complete without a trip to a Christmas market. In London, there are many great options to choose from. Some of the top markets include the Southbank Centre Winter Market, Christmas in Leicester Square, Winterville in Clapham Common, and the Christmas by the River in London Bridge. Most of these markets are filled with festive decorations, delicious food, and unique gifts to purchase.

Christmas Shows and Events

If you’re looking for something more unique than the typical holiday attractions, there are plenty of Christmas shows and events in London. From plays and concerts, to comedy shows and dance events, there is sure to be something for everyone. Some of the top Christmas shows and events include the The Snowman, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, The Enormous Turnip, and the Nutcracker and the Mouse King.

Traditional Christmas Activities

If you’re looking for something a bit more traditional, there are plenty of Christmas activities to do in London. From carol services, to Christmas tree lightings, to holiday teas, there is sure to be something for everyone. Some of the top traditional Christmas activities in London include Christmas Carol Service at St. Paul’s Cathedral, Christmas Tree Lighting at Trafalgar Square, Christmas Tea at the Waldorf Hilton, and the Christmas Carols at St. Martin’s in the Fields.

Additional Tips for Tourists Visiting London for the First Time

If you’re planning a trip to London this Christmas, there are a few things that you should keep in mind. First, you should make sure to bring plenty of warm winter clothing, as London can get quite cold during the winter months. Second, you should research the public transportation system, as London has an extensive bus, train, and underground system that will take you all over the city. Third, you should also research the local currency, as London uses the British pound, rather than the euro. Finally, you should make sure to try some of the local cuisine, such as fish and chips, bangers and mash, and of course a traditional Christmas pudding.

Conclusion

London is a city that comes alive during the holiday season, with festive decorations, Christmas markets, and lots of holiday activities. From ice skating rinks, to light displays, to carol concerts, London is full of festive activities. You can also find traditional Christmas markets, shows, and events, as well as lots of traditional Christmas activities. When visiting London for the first time, make sure to bring plenty of warm winter clothing, research the local currency and public transportation, and try some of the local cuisine. No matter how you celebrate, London is the perfect place to spend the holidays.

Insider’s Guide to London in Christmas Time

If you are planning to visit London during Christmas time, you are definitely in for a treat. The city is filled with magic, wonder, and an abundance of activities that will leave you in awe. This guide will provide you with an overview of what to expect from your visit to London during the holidays, including attractions, dining, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Attractions

One of the must-visit attractions during Christmas time in London is the Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. This event has become a London institution that people wait for each year. It’s a perfect place for families, couples, and friends looking for a fun time. You can ice skate, ride a big wheel, visit different attractions, enjoy the festive food, and much more. Another must-visit attraction is the Christmas lights display on Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Carnaby Street, so make sure to put those on your to-do list.

Dining

London offers a variety of dining options during Christmas, whether you are looking for fine dining or casual dining experiences. One striking place to dine in is the Churchill Arms, which transforms into an enchanted garden with an abundance of Christmas lights and inventive menu items. For a unique dining experience during Christmas, the Ice Bar in Soho would be a perfect option. Everything in the bar is made of ice, including the glasses you drink from, creating a magical winter wonderland experience.

Cultural experiences

London is a city rife with culture all year round, and Christmas is no exception. A visit to the British Museum, The National Gallery, or The National Portrait Gallery is a perfect start if you are craving a cultural experience. During the holidays, these museums host special events, performances, and exhibitions, making it even more special. Additionally, the English National Ballet’s critically acclaimed performances of the Nutcracker at the London Coliseum is a must-see show for ballet enthusiasts.

Local history

The city is steeped in history, and Christmas offers the perfect opportunity to explore it. The Victorian-era themed Dickensian Christmas festival takes place at Rochester, Kent, which is only 45 minutes by train from London. The festival aims to bring aspects of Dickensian Christmas to life with its candle-lit parades, live entertainment, and street performances. You can also visit the Charles Dickens Museum, which is dedicated to his life and work, and where he wrote several of his classic novels.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions

If you have more time to discover London during the holidays, head for the Christmas market at the Southbank Centre. Here, you will explore different street foods, crafts, art installations, and much more. You can also get the chance to skate on one of the largest open-air ice rinks in the city. Another must-see sight is the Walthamstow Village Christmas lights display. It is a local festive tradition where houses in the suburban village of Walthamstow put up their best Christmas light displays, creating a unique and very British atmosphere.

In conclusion, a Christmas visit to London is an excellent opportunity to experience the magic, wonder, and joy of the holiday season. From the Winter Wonderland to Victorian-era-themed festivals, you will have an unforgettable Christmas experience. Remember to explore the above-listed attractions, culinary experiences, and cultural offerings, and seek out off-the-beaten-path events – you will never be short of something to do during the festive season in London.