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London at Christmas is nothing short of enchanting. Each year, the city transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland, drawing visitors from around the globe to experience its festive magic. From dazzling Christmas lights, and stunning ice rinks to world-class theatre, London is brimming with holiday cheer. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your Christmas in London this year including:
- Where to stay in London at Christmas
- The Best West End Shows at Christmas 2024
- Where to eat and drink in London at Christmas
- Where to go Christmas shopping
- The Best Christmas Ice Rinks in London
- Where to see the best Christmas lights in London
- Places to visit in London at Christmas
Everything You Should Know About Celebrating Christmas in London
Why Is It Worth Going to London at Christmas?
London at Christmas is unlike anywhere else in the UK. Its bustling streets are lined with twinkling lights, bursting with Christmas markets, and the city hosts tons of fun festive activities including ice skating, pantomimes and more! London is also super accessible from elsewhere in the UK. Whether you're:
- Flying from Inverness
- Driving from Bath
- Getting the train from York or Manchester
London is a hub of transport links so everyone can enjoy the festive cheer no matter where they're based in the UK.
How Long Should You Spend on a London Christmas Trip?
To truly soak up the festive atmosphere and explore all that London has to offer, we suggest staying for around 3 - 5 days. This gives you enough time to visit the major attractions, enjoy a variety of Christmas events, and finish up your Christmas shopping.
What Kind of Travellers Would Like a Trip to London at Christmas?
London’s Christmas offerings cater to a wide range of travellers:
- Couples looking for a romantic getaway will find plenty of romantic things to do
- Families can enjoy festive attractions and events designed for all ages
- Solo travellers will never get bored and find it easy to meet like-minded travellers
- Groups of friends will appreciate the vibrant cultural scene and nightlife
What's the Best Area to Stay in London at Christmas?
Central London is the best area to stay in London at Christmas due to its proximity to major attractions and festive events. Areas such as:
Offer excellent accommodation slap bang in the middle of the action with easy access to Christmas markets and West End shows. For a slightly quieter stay but still within easy access to London's top Christmas spots, consider South Kensington or Notting Hill.
How Much Should I Budget for My London Christmas Trip?
London is one of the world's most expensive cities, so it’s wise to plan your budget carefully, you can expect to spend around:
- £150-£250 per night for a mid-range hotel
- £20-£50 per day for meals
- £15-£30 per day for transport
For a comfortable experience, a budget of £500-£800 for a 3-day trip to London at Christmas should cover most expenses.
The Best West End Shows at Christmas 2024
If you want to experience London's nightlife and entertainment scene without hitting the club, head to London’s West End. The West End is fun all year long but at Christmas, the West End takes things to a whole new level with pantomimes and other classic shows providing much delight to theatregoers. Highlights this year include:
- The Nutcracker at the London Coliseum
- A Christmas Carol at the Old Vic
- Frozen The Musical at Theatre Royal Drury Lane
- Les Misérables at the Sondheim Theatre
- Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at the New Wimbledon Theatre
Just be sure to book tickets in advance, as popular shows sell out quickly, especially at Christmas!
Best London Restaurants at Christmas
When in London at Christmas, don't miss the chance to indulge in the array of food types on offer from Christmas classics like mulled wine, roasted chestnuts and mince pies but also more unique offerings like Caribbean, halaal and Ethiopian. No matter what you're feeling, here's our recommendations for the best London restaurants at Christmas:
Rules | 35 Maiden Lane, Covent Garden, London WC2E 7LB
What to Try: Traditional British Christmas fare, including roast turkey and Christmas pudding.
Sketch | 9 Conduit Street, Mayfair, London W1S 2XG
What to Try: The whimsical Christmas-themed afternoon tea, featuring festive pastries and seasonal treats.
Duck & Waffle | 110 Bishopsgate, London EC2N 4AY
What to Try: Enjoy the Christmas-inspired Duck & Waffle signature dish with a view, or try the festive menu with dishes like roast turkey with all the trimmings.
Bluebird | 350 King’s Road, Chelsea, London SW3 5UU
What to Try: The Christmas brunch and dinner menus, which include seasonal dishes like roast beef and Christmas pudding.
The Ritz Restaurant | The Ritz London, 150 Piccadilly, London W1J 9BR
What to Try: The Ritz’s classic Christmas afternoon tea or a festive dinner with dishes like roast turkey and Christmas log.
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal | Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, 66 Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7LA
What to Try: The historic Christmas menu featuring traditional dishes reimagined with a modern twist.
Coppa Club Igloos | 3 Three Quays Walk, Lower Thames Street, London EC3R 6AH
What to Try: Enjoy a cosy dining experience in an igloo with festive options like mulled wine and seasonal platters.
Where to Go Christmas Shopping in London
Christmas shopping in London is an experience in itself but be warned - there will be crowds unlike ANYTHING you've seen before! Here's our round down of the best places for Christmas shopping in London.
Liberty
Opening Times: Typically 10 AM - 8 PM.
Nearest Metro: Oxford Circus (Bakerloo, Central, and Victoria Lines)
Experience Christmas at Liberty London, where the store's beautiful Tudor-style building is transformed into a festive wonderland. You'll find unique gifts, luxury fashion, and an array of home goods.
Hamleys
Opening Times: Typically 10 AM - 9 PM.
Nearest Metro: Oxford Circus (Bakerloo, Central, and Victoria Lines)
Hamleys is the oldest and largest toy store in the world. During Christmas, the seven floors are filled with toys, games, and festive magic, making it a must-visit for families.
Harrods
Opening Times: Typically 10 AM - 9 PM.
Nearest Metro: Knightsbridge (Piccadilly Line)
Harrods is synonymous with luxury shopping. Their Christmas World is a festive extravaganza, offering everything from high-end gifts to gourmet treats. The store's elaborate Christmas decorations are a sight to behold.
Marby & Elm
Opening Times: Typically 10 AM - 6 PM.
Nearest Metro: Chancery Lane (Central Line)
For beautifully designed stationery and holiday cards, Marby & Elm is the place to go. Their hand-printed items make for perfect personalized gifts.
Selfridges
Opening Times: Typically 9:30 AM - 9 PM.
Nearest Metro: Bond Street (Central and Jubilee Lines)
Selfridges' Christmas shop is legendary. With an array of decorations, Christmas gifts, and luxury items, it’s a one-stop shop for all your holiday needs. Their window displays are a major attraction during the festive season.
The Handmade Christmas Co
Opening Times: Typically 10 AM - 6 PM.
Nearest Metro: Shoreditch High Street (London Overground)
The Handmade Christmas Co. offers personalized, handcrafted decorations and gifts. Their products bring a unique, artisanal touch to the festive season.
The Best Christmas Ice Rinks in London
London offers some spectacular Christmas rinks in front of iconic monuments including:
- The Natural History Museum Ice Rink
- Somerset House
- Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland
- Glide Ice Rink at Battersea Power Station
As with every Christmas activity in London, book ahead to avoid disappointment and wrap up warm to avoid the cold. Afterwards, heat yourself up again with some delicious mulled wine or hot chocolate.
Where to See the Best Christmas Lights in London
London’s Christmas lights are legendary so to see the best of the best head to Oxford or Regent Street for an extravagant display of festive illuminations. For more intimate and artistic light displays, Covent Garden and Carnaby Street. Don’t miss the lights around King’s Cross and Coal Drops Yard, which create a modern, vibrant atmosphere.
6 Places to Visit in London at Christmas
1. King’s Cross and Coal Drops Yard
Opening Times: Open daily; shops and restaurants typically 10 AM - 8 PM.
Nearest Metro: King’s Cross St. Pancras (Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan, Northern, Piccadilly, and Victoria Lines)
King’s Cross and Coal Drops Yard offer a modern and lively Christmas experience. The area has impressive light displays, festive decorations, and plenty of places to eat and shop. It’s a great spot for a contemporary holiday vibe.
2. Tower of London
Opening Times: Usually 9 AM - 4:30 PM (check for specific events and skating hours)
Nearest Metro: Tower Hill (Circle and District Lines)
The Tower of London adds a historical twist to Christmas. This London landmark is decorated with festive lights, and special events are held within its ancient walls. You can even skate on the moat, surrounded by history, for a unique holiday experience.
3. London Bridge
Opening Times: Open daily; nearby markets and stalls typically 10 AM - 8 PM.
Nearest Metro: London Bridge (Jubilee and Northern Lines)
London Bridge and the surrounding areas come alive with Christmas spirit. The bridge is lit up, and nearby you’ll find Christmas markets and pop-up stalls. Enjoy festive treats, crafts, and a lovely view of the River Thames adorned with twinkling lights.
4. London Zoo
Opening Times: 10 AM - 4 PM daily (check for special events)
Nearest Metro: Camden Town (Northern Line)
London Zoo offers a wild twist on Christmas festivities. The zoo is transformed with sparkling lights and festive displays, creating a magical atmosphere for visitors of all ages. Special events and activities make it a fun family day out during Christmas in London.
5. Harry Potter World
Opening Times: 10 AM - 8 PM (varies by date; booking required)
Nearest Metro: No direct metro; take a train from London Euston to Watford Junction, then a shuttle bus to the studio.
Harry Potter World is a must-visit for fans at Christmas. The Warner Bros. Studio Tour London is decked out with festive decorations from the Harry Potter films. Wander through the iconic sets, experience the magic of a wizarding Christmas, and enjoy a warm Butterbeer to get into the holiday spirit.
6. The London Eye
Opening Times: Typically 11 AM - 6 PM (check for extended hours during holidays)
Nearest Metro: Waterloo (Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, and Waterloo & City Lines)
Another great place to visit in London at Christmas is the one-of-a-kind London Eye which offers breathtaking views of the city, especially during Christmas. The illuminated London skyline, with its festive lights, is a sight to behold. Taking a ride on the London Eye at Christmas provides a unique perspective on the city’s Christmas decorations and festivities.
Will You Go To London For Christmas 2024?
Have we convinced you to book a trip to London at Christmas? With its abundance of Christmas activities, you're guaranteed a fun festive holiday with plenty of things to keep you entertained! Whether you go for a day, a weekend or a week, you'll never run out of things to do.
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