Festive things to do during Christmas in London

12/10/2024

Experience the magic of Christmas in London 2024 with festive highlights including enchanting Christmas events, dazzling lights, and ice skating rinks. Discover top things to do in London this holiday season, from Winter Wonderland to seasonal shows and riverside igloos. Make your London visit unforgettable with must-see festive events and shopping experiences.

As you explore Christmas activities in London, soak up the festive cheer with a warming Christmas cocktail in Notting Hill or make your way to iconic attractions like the botanical gardens at Kew. London is the perfect city to celebrate the holidays, with cozy experiences reminiscent of Love Actually and It’s a Wonderful Life. Whether you're ice skating or enjoying seasonal shows, the city's charm is irresistible during the holidays.

Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park

For a stunning Christmas experience in London, Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park stands out as one of the UK’s largest and best Christmas events. It’s a favourite for locals and visitors, offering festive fun around the city with its rides, markets, and ice rink, making it the perfect way to celebrate the season.

It transforms the park into a festive paradise with Christmas lights from Thursday 21st November 2024 to January 2025. The event features thrilling fairground rides, a giant Ferris wheel, an ice skating rink, and cozy market stalls selling festive treats and gifts. Visitors can enjoy live entertainment, including circus shows, audience participation in performances, and musical acts. Indulge in seasonal food and Christmas drinks at themed areas like The Bavarian Village, which offers mulled wine and traditional German street food. Pre-booking tickets is recommended, especially during peak times.

Attractions at Winter Wonderland

With attractions like the Giant Wheel, Ice Kingdom, and themed areas like The Bavarian Village, it's perfect for families, couples, or friends looking to soak in the holiday atmosphere. Pre-booking is advised to secure your spot, especially during peak times, as this festive extravaganza is incredibly popular and can get quite busy during weekends.

Practical Information About Winter Wonderland

Dates: November 21, 2024 – January 5, 2025
Location: Hyde Park, London
Entry: Free on selected off-peak times, otherwise tickets range from £5 to £7.50 depending on peak hours.
Key Attractions: Ice rink, fairground rides, Giant Wheel, live shows, Santa Land, and Bavarian Village.
Booking: Pre-booking for certain activities like rides and shows is recommended.

For more details, you can visit the official page here.

11 Christmas Markets in London

London at Christmas transforms into a magical destination with its vibrant Christmas markets and festive winter pop-ups. Throughout the festive season, you'll find Christmas activities across the city, from Soho to Covent Garden, offering the best Christmas shopping in London. These markets, filled with artisanal crafts and seasonal treats, are some of the best events the city has to offer. If you're looking for the best of Christmas in London, these festive markets are experiences you won’t want to miss!

Here are 11 unmissable and christmas-themed markets in London:

1. Southbank Centre Winter Market

Wooden chalets along the Thames offer global cuisine and festive gifts. Enjoy mulled wine and seasonal treats while exploring this winter wonderland.

From/To: 1 Nov – 26 Dec
Address: Southbank Centre, London

2. Covent Garden Christmas Markets

Three daily markets filled with handmade crafts and unique gifts, alongside beautifully decorated Christmas trees and festive photo opportunities.

From/To: From 12 Nov
Address: Covent Garden, London

3. Leicester Square Christmas Market

A traditional market with festive treats, crafts, and the Belgian Spiegeltent for live performances like a Christmas Carol.

From/To: From 6 Nov
Address: Leicester Square, London

4. Trafalgar Square Christmas Market

Wooden chalets with handmade crafts and delicious treats, accompanied by carol singers and a giant Christmas tree.

From/To: November TBC
Address: Trafalgar Square, London

5. Winter by the River

Wooden huts selling handmade gifts with a view of Tower Bridge and the Thames, perfect for soaking up the holiday atmosphere with festive snacks.

From/To: 14 Nov – 5 Jan
Address: London Bridge City

6. Spitalfields Christmas Markets

A mix of food stalls and artisan products, alongside Spitalfields' boutique shops, making it a Christmas shopping hotspot.

From/To: From 13 Nov
Address: Spitalfields Market, London

7. Greenwich Christmas Market

Browse stocking fillers, crafts, and unique fashion items in a festive, historic maritime setting.

From/To: From 20 Nov
Address: Greenwich Market, London

8. Kingston Christmas Market

Cozy cabins offering handmade crafts and arts, with street food and seasonal entertainment in a picturesque riverside town.

From/To: 14 Nov – 5 Jan
Address: Ancient Market Place, Kingston upon Thames

9. Winter Wonderland Christmas Market

The largest Christmas market in London with over 100 stalls, an ice rink, and live shows.

From/To: 21 Nov – 5 Jan
Address: Hyde Park, London

10. King’s Cross Christmas Markets

A variety of goods, from fashion to homeware, alongside live music and hearty seasonal food.

From/To: November-December TBC
Address: King’s Cross, London

11. Borough Market at Christmas

Famous for its gourmet food offerings, this market is decked out in festive decorations, with buskers adding to the jolly atmosphere.

From/To: November-December TBC
Address: Borough Market, London

Best Hotels during Christmas in London 2024

If you’re looking for the best ways to celebrate Christmas in London 2024, Central London offers beautifully decorated hotels from November 2024 to January 2025. These hotels capture the Christmas spirit with stunning lights and festive decor, making them perfect for a cozy Christmas stay. Whether you're visiting for the festive period or planning a Christmas day in London, these hotels ensure you're right in the heart of the festive fun.

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