Places to Visit in London in December

December is an exciting time to visit London. The streets are lined with twinkling lights, the Christmas markets are bustling with festive cheer, and Londoners are ready to celebrate the holiday season. Whether you’re looking for an afternoon of sightseeing, an evening of holiday cheer, or a weekend of activities, there’s something for everyone in the UK’s capital.

About London

London is a bustling metropolis full of culture and history. The city has a population of over 8.9 million people and is one of the most visited cities in the world. London is known for its iconic landmarks, such as Big Ben, the Tower of London, and Buckingham Palace. It has a rich history that dates back to Roman times, and has been home to some of the world’s most famous writers, artists, and musicians. London is also known for its vibrant nightlife and its many theatres, cinemas, and restaurants.

What to See in London in December

London in December is an exciting time to visit. The city is full of festive cheer and there are plenty of attractions to explore. Here are some of the best places to visit in London during December:

Covent Garden

Covent Garden is one of London’s most popular tourist destinations. During December, the area is transformed into a festive market full of Christmas decorations and holiday treats. The market is home to some of London’s best street performers, including acrobats, musicians, and magicians. You can also find a variety of shops selling unique gifts and souvenirs.

Winter Wonderland

Winter Wonderland is an annual event that takes place in Hyde Park during the winter months. The park is transformed into a festive wonderland with attractions such as an ice rink, a ferris wheel, and a Bavarian village. You can also find an array of food stalls selling traditional German treats such as bratwurst and gluhwein.

Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum is one of London’s most iconic attractions. During December, the museum hosts a range of festive activities, including carol singing and a special exhibition dedicated to Charles Darwin. The museum also hosts a variety of events such as talks and performances throughout the month.

West End Shows

The West End is London’s theatre district and home to some of the world’s most famous shows. During December, there are several seasonal productions on offer, including The Nutcracker and White Christmas. You can also find a range of Christmas-themed plays and musicals to enjoy during your stay in London.

Christmas Markets

London is home to a number of festive Christmas markets during December. The most popular ones include the Southbank Centre Christmas Market, the Winterville Christmas Market, and the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland market. These markets offer a variety of seasonal treats such as mulled wine and roasted chestnuts, as well as traditional gifts and decorations.

Ice Skating

Ice skating is one of the most popular activities during the winter months in London. There are several outdoor ice rinks around the city, including Somerset House, Hyde Park, and Canary Wharf. You can also find indoor rinks at the Natural History Museum and Tower Hamlets skating rink.

Popular Tours in London in December

In addition to exploring the sights and attractions of London on your own, there are plenty of guided tours available to experience the city during December. Here are two popular tours that you can book for your stay in London:

Jack the Ripper Tour

The Jack the Ripper tour takes you on a journey through the streets of Whitechapel to explore the mysterious unsolved murders that took place there in the late 19th century. You’ll visit some of the crime scenes as well as hear tales from local historians about this dark chapter in London’s history. The tour usually lasts around two hours and can be booked here.

Harry Potter Tour

For fans of Harry Potter, this tour is a must-do while visiting London during December. You’ll visit some of the film locations used in the series, such as Kings Cross Station and Leadenhall Market. You’ll also get to explore some of the filming locations used for Diagon Alley as well as learn about how special effects were used to bring Hogwarts alive onscreen. The tour usually lasts around three hours and can be booked here.

Conclusion

London in December is an exciting time to visit with plenty of festive activities on offer. From visiting Christmas markets to exploring iconic attractions such as Covent Garden and the Natural History Museum, there’s something for everyone during December in London. Whether you’re looking for an afternoon of sightseeing or an evening of holiday cheer, there’s something for everyone in the UK’s capital.