Things To Do In London This Festive
Season
One of the best reasons to come to London during Christmas
is to enjoy all of the festive activities that the city has to offer. There are
markets, concerts, and other events happening throughout December, so there's
something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, the Christmas decorations in London are
simply beautiful and definitely worth seeing!
If you want to visit London during Christmas, you should
book your tickets as soon as possible because they will sell out fast. London
is a beautiful city to visit during the holiday season, and there are tons of
things to do. Here are some must-see attractions you should add to your
itinerary:
London Christmas lights
London's various Christmas light displays are switched on
from early November, and they're free to visit. Wander round Regent Street,
Oxford Street, Covent Garden, Carnaby and other areas in the dark to see London
at its twinkly, festive best.
The most popular and best known Christmas lights are the
Regent Street displays. Every year, different themes and colours light up the
streets from Oxford Circus to Piccadilly Circus. Along with the amazing
backdrop of London’s architecture, it’s a truly stunning sight.
Covent Garden also always puts on an amazing display of
Christmas lights, with snowflakes and stars adorning its streets. Trafalgar
Square is always lit up too, as well as Carnaby Street where you can admire
their unique decorations – think neon reindeers, baubles and giant snowmen.
Winter Wonderland
Winter Wonderland - Book Here
One of the most popular places to go during the Christmas
season is Winter Wonderland. It's a place with lots of activities for children,
like rides and a Christmas market. From Ice Rink to Magical Ice Kingdom and the
Giant Wheel, Winter Wonderland offers something for everyone. It's also lit up
with a whole host of festive lights and decorations – it's a winter wonderland!
You'll need to book tickets in advance to visit Winter
Wonderland, so make sure you plan ahead to avoid disappointment. Entry is free
during off-peak periods and costs £5 or £7.50 for peak hours. If you spend £25
on any of our attractions, rides or games online and in advance, your entry
ticket will become free when booked in the same transaction!
Ever After Garden
Donate A Rose here
The Ever After Garden, a glowing rose garden in Grosvenor
Square, returns for its third year this winter. It provides a place for
Londoners to remember absent loved ones in the run-up to Christmas. Visitors
can dedicate a rose for a minimum donation of £10 to The Royal Marsden Cancer
Charity. The garden is free to visit, but donations are encouraged.
Christmas at Kew Gardens
Christmas at Kew - Book
now
Kew Gardens’ annual festive event returns with a new theme.
This year the the Kew Gardens come alive with sparkling tunnels of light,
dancing reflections, and trees drenched in jewel-like color. Journey through
the mesmerizing flickering flames in the fire garden, spot larger-than-life
illuminations, and say hello to Father Christmas along the way. Follow an
illuminated trail through their iconic landscape and enjoy glittering
sculptures, mesmerising music and more. There will be limited capacity with timed
entry to Christmas at Kew so make sure to plan now to secure the date and time
of your choice. The Gardens close at 10pm with last entry at 8:20pm (7:20pm on
December 24th).
Christmas in Leicester Square
This vibrant square turns into a festive wonderland every
December! From the Victorian Christmas market to Santa's Grotto, there is
something for everyone. Why not take a festive stroll around the square and
enjoy the stunning Christmas lights and decorations.
Piccadilly Circus is also always a sight to behold, as it’s
lit up every year with its iconic neon signs that are brightened up with some
seasonal decorations (including snowflakes). It’s one of London’s iconic
landmarks, so it’s a must-see when visiting the capital at Christmas time.
Southbank also always looks stunning during the festive
season. Head down to see its traditional German Christmas Market and enjoy all
of the sights, smells and sounds of this magical time of year. There will be
plenty of twinkly lights, festive decorations and plenty of activities for the
whole family to enjoy.
Visit Christmas markets of London
Christmas markets are a festive tradition that Londoners
look forward to every year. There are plenty of Christmas markets dotted around
the capital, each with its own unique atmosphere and selection of stalls. From
Camden’s grungy market to Southbank’s more traditional one, there is something
for everyone. Not to mention all of the delicious food and drinks that you can
sample while browsing the stalls.
So, if you’re looking to get into the festive spirit, why
not take a wander around one of London’s Christmas markets this winter? With
plenty of unique gifts, delicious treats and warming mulled wine - what more
could you want from the perfect winter day out?
Enjoy a festive afternoon tea
There’s nothing quite like enjoying a cup of tea and some
delicious festive treats. There are plenty of places in London where you can
enjoy a festive afternoon tea. Here are some of our favourites:
1. Fortnum & Mason - This prestigious store offers a
fantastic afternoon tea spread, with all sorts of delicious goodies on offer.
They even have a special Christmas tea, with festive treats like candy canes
and gingerbread men.
2. Sketch - This quirky art deco hotel has one of the most
unique afternoon tea offerings in London. They have everything from savoury
sandwiches to sweet treats like candy floss and doughnuts.
3. Harrods - If you want to go all out for your afternoon
tea, head to Harrods for their sumptuous spread. They have everything from
finger sandwiches to indulgent desserts, all served in their opulent
surroundings.
Go ice skating
Enjoy one of London’s many wintery attractions by going ice
skating at one of the city’s many ice rinks. You can choose to skate on the
outdoor rinks at Hyde Park or Hampton Court Palace, or visit one of the city’s
indoor ice skating centres. The most popular ice staking attractions are Winter
Wonderland Ice Rink, Somerset House Ice Rink, Queen's House, Ice Rink Canary
Wharf, Skylight London Ice Rink, Battersea Power Station Glide Ice Rink and
Westfield ice rink at the Winter Village. It’s a great way to get into the
Christmas spirit and have some winter fun!
These are just a few of the fun, festive activities that
London has to offer during the winter months. If you’re looking for more ideas,
why not check out our website for other great Christmas events and attractions
in London? Have a wonderful winter!
Visit Father Christmas
If you're looking for a festive family activity, why not
take the kids to see Father Christmas in his grotto? London has plenty of
options when it comes to meeting Santa, from big shopping centres to
traditional locations like Hampton Court Palace. The most popular Father
Christmas grottos in London are at Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, the Tower of
London, and Harrods. They all offer a memorable experience for kids of all
ages.
For something a bit different, try one of the unique Father
Christmas experiences offered around London. Santa's Grotto at Kew Gardens is
great for an outdoor adventure – take part in fun activities and explore the
gardens before meeting Father Christmas himself. The Tower Bridge Grotto is
sure to be a hit with its special interactive activities, while Santa's Secret
Grotto at Shrek Adventure London promises a 'magical adventure'.
Don't forget to book your Santa experience in advance – they
get booked up very quickly. So make sure you plan ahead and get ready for a
magical festive experience with Father Christmas.
Ride on the London Eye
Why not take a trip in the iconic London Eye and get great
views of the city at night? The popular attraction is open until 8pm on
Christmas Eve and offers a romantic way to spend an evening. The London Eye
will be decorated with festive lights, creating a magical atmosphere for you to
enjoy.
Why not add some extra sparkle by taking the Night Flight
experience? The special ride will include festive music, mulled wine and mince
pies – the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit! The experience also
includes a private capsule and a souvenir glass to take home.
Whichever ride you choose, the London Eye will make for an
unforgettable evening with your loved ones this Christmas. Enjoy the stunning
views of London and soak up the festive atmosphere – it's guaranteed to be
magical.
Shop till you drop
No trip to London at Christmas is complete without a spot of
shopping. Oxford Street and Regent Street are the perfect places to start –
they’re both full of shops selling all your festive favourites. From
decorations and presents to clothes and accessories, you’ll find everything you
need for a successful Christmas shopping spree.
Where to stay in London for Christmas?
Zedwell Piccadilly Circus
If you plan to stay in London for Christmas, why not check
out Zedwell Piccadilly Circus
hotel at the heart of the city? It's a great place to stay if you want to be
close to all the attractions. The hotel offers completely silent rooms to
sleep, making them perfect to enjoy the festival peacefully.
Victory house London
For a luxurious stay, the Victory House Leicester Suqre is
just what you need. This contemporary five-star hotel offers spacious and
comfortable rooms, some with views of Leicester Square. And they have several
festive packages to choose from so that your stay is truly unforgettable.
No matter where you stay in London, you’re sure to have a
great time during Christmas. Whether it's festive shopping, visiting Santa in
his grotto, or taking in the views from the London Eye – there’s something for
everyone this winter!
Happy holidays!
