It’s official: London is ready to get its festive on! This year, the city has been sprinkled with extra-special holiday magic, making it the ultimate destination for pure festive joy. We’re talking sparkling Christmas lights that stretch for miles, ice skating rinks, hot chocolate stands, festive theatre productions, and enough seasonal cheer to make even a grumpy Grinch’s heart grow three sizes. Warm your hands by a crackling pub fire, or get utterly lost in the enchantment of Christmas markets.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, a memorable family adventure, or just a chance to get into the holiday spirit, our complete guide to Christmas in London in 2025 has you covered. Get ready to eat, drink, and be very, very merry.
A Christmas Carol play
This Christmas, A Christmas Carol returns for a limited run at London’s iconic Old Vic Theatre. Dickens’ classic tale springs to life with enchanting performances, joyful festive music, and a stunning set design. This heartwarming production is a timeless story of redemption and holiday cheer, and it’s a must-see for the whole family! A yearly favorite.
Ice skating Winter Wonderland Hyde Park
Kickstart your holiday adventure at Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland, a true London staple during the festive season. The park transforms into a magical Christmas village, complete with a cozy Bavarian village of chalets serving hot treats, mulled wine, and delightful gifts. You can browse the vibrant Christmas markets filled with handmade crafts or even take a spin on the UK’s largest outdoor ice skating rink! For all you thrill-seekers, the exhilarating rides and a giant observation wheel offer breathtaking views of the London skyline, making Winter Wonderland an essential holiday stop.
What are the best festive things to do for Christmas in London? The Christmas Lights bus tour!
For the most dazzling introduction to London’s festive glow, hop aboard a Christmas Lights Bus Tour. This open-top bus adventure winds its way through Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Piccadilly Circus, passing iconic landmarks and brilliant twinkling displays. A friendly guide shares fascinating stories about the history and traditions of each stop, making this tour an enlightening and sparkling way to enjoy the city’s magnificent Christmas lights. It’s also a great way to see the Trafalgar Square Christmas tree, which is a gift from Norway to the people of Britain each year.
Ice skating at Somerset House
Get ready to lace up your skates and hit the ice at Somerset House, where London’s grandest courtyard is now a sparkling festive playground! Twinkling lights and festive tunes will have you feeling like a star, whether you’re gracefully gliding or doing your best impression of a human Zamboni on the ice skating rink. It’s an unforgettable, picture-perfect and fun activity that the whole family will love, all while enjoying Christmas In London and the very best of London’s attractions.
Xmas shopping at London Christmas Markets
Think you’re too cool for holiday cheer? London’s huge Christmas markets will make you a believer, bursting with enough cheer to make even Scrooge crack a smile. They’re a whirlwind of twinkling lights, tasty treats, and pure holiday spirit, buzzing hubs of delicious food, unique gifts, and endless good times.
- Christmas by the River: This Christmas market in London is for the ultimate photo-op. Grab a warm mulled wine and stroll along the South Bank with great views of Tower Bridge.
- Greenwich Market: For a cozy escape, this market feels like a tiny village tucked right in the city. It’s the perfect spot to hunt for artisan gifts without the central London chaos.
- Borough Market: This market is a foodie’s dream. It’s elbow-to-elbow with people, but it’s worth it for the delicious street food and endless samples.
- Battersea Power Station: For the best of both worlds, head to this iconic London location for last-minute Christmas shopping. You can browse a festive market filled with artisan crafts or explore the revitalized 150 high-street shops, all set against a stunning industrial backdrop.
Holiday-themed window decor at London’s department stores
London’s most famous department stores throw down a festive gauntlet each year, each one battling to create the city’s most stunning and eye-catching Christmas window displays. Get ready for a free street-side art show, where intricate designs, whimsical Decorations, and bold digital art are all brought to life with a clever holiday twist. You simply can’t do Christmas In London without seeing these:
- Liberty London: Classic festive scenes that feel straight out of a storybook. An attraction in its own right!
- Selfridges: Thewindow displays at Selfridges are both a spectacle and a work of art with intricate, artistic designs.
- Hamleys: Playful, whimsical displays filled with toys that will bring out your inner child.
- Fortnum & Mason and Harrods: Elegant and sophisticated decorations that transport you to a magical winter wonderland.
Christmas carols in London pubs
Grab a pint and join the locals for a rowdy night of carol-oke in a cozy London pub. With a roaring fire and plenty of mulled cider, it’s the perfect way to embrace the festive spirit—even if you can’t hold a tune. It’s just about the most festive thing you can do during your time here and a personal favorite. Trust me, it’s a Christmas in London you’re not soon to forget!
Christmas at Kew Gardens
From mid-November to January, Christmas at Kew will offer an illuminated trail winds its way through the gardens, bringing trees and plants to life with vibrant colors and artistic displays. This year, the iconic Great Pagoda will be lit up for the first time, and you can even walk across the Palm House Pond. A magical place!
Christmas-themed afternoon tea
For a well-deserved holiday treat, indulge in a Christmas afternoon tea. Delight in finger sandwiches, scones, and seasonal pastries in beautiful, holiday-themed settings. Each location brings its own festive flair, making this one of the best things to do to indulge in a cherished British tradition. Here are a few of London’s best festive options:
- The Ritz – Elegant and traditional afternoon tea with carol singers. Dress the part!
- Biscuiteers – Christmas-themed treats in a cozy bakery, laid-back atmosphere.
- Grosvenor House – A classic afternoon tea with a festive twist in a grandiose setting.
- Ting at Shangri-La, The Shard – Skyline afternoon tea with panoramic views of London.
- B Bakery Bus Tour – A mobile tea experience through London’s festive streets.
- The Dilly – Peter Rabbit-themed tea with festive touches, perfect for families.
Xmas concerts and shows at the Royal Albert Hall in December
A dazzling world of festive wonder awaits at the Royal Albert Hall! This iconic venue becomes a spectacular hub of all festive things and Christmas magic, hosting a merry lineup of performances.
Imagine belting out classic tunes at the famous Carols at the Royal Albert Hall, feeling the grand orchestra’s music soar through the magnificent space. For a unique twist, you can experience a beloved film like Home Alone like never before, watching it on a huge screen while a live orchestra brings the score to life. And of course, the holiday season wouldn’t be complete without the timeless beauty of The Nutcracker ballet.
Christmas Carol Concert at St Paul’s Cathedral
There’s no better way to enjoy Christmas In London than with a carol concert at St. Paul’s Cathedral. The majestic setting and powerful hymns offer a deeply moving experience. The beautiful, candle-lit cathedral provides a peaceful escape, allowing you to embrace the season’s deeper spirit with the sound of carols echoing all around you.
Cover photo credit: visitlondon.com
