Spending the entire month of December in London last year was one of the greatest travel experiences of my life. As the holiday season approaches, London transforms into a winter wonderland. Its streets and landmarks are adorned with twinkling lights and festive cheer. Whether you’re a local looking for new traditions or a visitor eager to make the most of your Christmas travels in London, I’ve got you covered. From enchanting light displays to traditional markets and everything in between! Get ready to unwrap the joy of Christmas in London like never before.
Unless you’re spending weeks on end in the city, there is no way to do it all. But hopefully, this guide gives you an idea of what’s out there (and when) and what you’re most drawn to. So come with me, and let’s embark on this Festive London Christmas journey.
One of my favourite and FREE ways to explore the city is by going on a walking tour of All the London Christmas Lights. We have a dedicated guide to Central London and Mayfair & Soho if you’re looking for a self-guided tour. Walking through London’s historic and charming streets, awash with twinkling lights is a magical Christmas experience like no other.
London’s Christmas markets are a festive and enchanting experience for locals and visitors alike to celebrate the holiday season. The smell of mulled wine, roasted almonds, and gingerbread lingers in the cold winter air as you saunter around the alpine chalets. There are various markets you can explore all over the city. Each with its unique atmosphere, making it the right choice for your Christmas trip. We have a dedicated post where you can discover all the details to find your perfect match! Or see them all and judge the best for yourself!
Columbia Road is a vibrant and eclectic street in the East End that hosts the famous Columbia Road Flower Market. In the winter, the Columbia Road Flower Market is the perfect place to come to find fresh decor for the holiday season. Filling all the stands are boughs of holly, natural wreaths, mini-Christmas trees, poinsettias, holly, mistletoe, and various winter blooms.
Every Wednesday throughout December, the street’s independent shops stay open late. And St Peter’s choir comes out to lead the gathered crowds in carolling. They often drag an entire piano down the street, and trumpet players come out too to participate in the festive fun! The energy is unmatched, and this is my favourite place to come for Christmas spirit! The carols start at 7 pm, so arrive early to get a good spot near the piano. And be sure to stop at one of the shops where you can grab a mulled wine or hot chocolate to keep you warm as you sing.
The skating rink in front of Somerset House is a beloved and iconic winter attraction in London. Nestled in the courtyard of Somerset House, a neoclassical building on the Strand, this skating rink transforms the historic space into a winter wonderland.
If you don’t have your own skates, fear not. Somerset House provides skate rental services, ensuring everyone can join the fun. After a chilly spin on the ice, visitors can relax inside the Skate Lounge and enjoy a glass of Provence Rosé. Tickets for skating at Somerset House are typically available for purchase in advance. It’s a good idea to book early during the holiday season when it’s a popular attraction.
Open: 15 Nov 2023 – 14 Jan 2024
Tickets: Adults £10 – £25 | Children £8 – £13
Somerset House is sponsored by Switzerland Tourism this year and is home to Chalet Suisse. Inside, you can get a taste the Alps and warm up with some traditional cheese fondue.
Booking yourself an indulgent Christmas Afternoon Tea in London is undoubtedly one of the most delightful and quintessentially British ways to celebrate the festive season. This cherished tradition combines the elegance of afternoon tea with the magic of Christmas. Many of London’s renowned tearooms and hotels go all out during the holiday season, crafting menus with various seasonal touches. The interiors of these tearooms are all decked out for the holidays. Festive decorations, twinkling lights, and beautifully adorned Christmas trees create a sublime atmosphere.
You can expect to indulge in delectable finger sandwiches with classic fillings like smoked salmon and cucumber but seasonal varieties like cranberry and brie. Next up are the freshly baked scones, served with clotted cream and Christmas-spiced jam. The star of the show is always the festive desserts. Gingerbread cookies, mince pies, and Christmas-themed pastries in delightful festive designs make the place look like a work of art. Each bite is a symphony of holiday spices, making your taste buds sing.
Budget: The English Rose Café and Tea Shop
Mid-Range: The Wolseley
High-End: The St. Ermin’s Tea Lounge | The Rubens
Once-in-a-Lifetime: The Ritz
Charles Dickens is often dubbed “the man who invented Christmas.” And although this isn’t entirely true, he did help in the creation of many iconic Victorian Christmas traditions we still use today. Located at 48 Doughty Street in Bloomsbury, the Charles Dickens Museum preserves the original home where Dickens lived from 1837 to 1839. In this house, Dickens wrote some of his most iconic works, including “Oliver Twist” and “Nicholas Nickleby.”
The interiors have been meticulously restored to resemble how they would have looked during Dickens’ time. Complete with period furnishings, decorations, and personal items belonging to the author. But at Christmas, a visit to the museum is even more special. As you step through the museum’s doors, you’ll be greeted by a scene right out of a Dickens novel. The house is beautifully decorated with Victorian-era Christmas ornaments, greenery, and wreaths.
Every nook and cranny exudes the warmth and charm of a 19th-century Christmas, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Throughout the visit, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about various Victorian Christmas traditions. Discover how Christmas was celebrated in Dickens’ time, from the decorations to the food and drink. Don’t miss ending the visit with a stop inside their charming café where visitors can enjoy a cup of mulled wine and a fresh mince pie!
Located just outside central London, Kew Gardens is a vast botanic garden that comes alive as the sun sets. While people might think of Kew Gardens as more of a spring and summer destination, winter brings an entirely different feel to the grounds. The gardens have been transformed into a winter wonderland with unbelievable Christmas lights and decorations.
The magical winter lights trail leads visitors around projections, tunnels of light, dancing waterside reflections, and trees drenched in jewel-like decorations. The entire experience ends at the famous Palm House, where you can enjoy a cup of mulled wine and mince pie while watching the musical Christmas experience.
Although outside the inner city, you can get to Kew Gardens in under 35 minutes on the tube. The Christmas celebrations start in mid-November and last until the first week of January. Tickets cost £21.50 off-peak hours and £26.50 during peak hours. Tickets sell out fast especially on weekends, so buying them well in advance is advised.
Harrods, the world-famous luxury department store in London, is renowned for its opulence and grandeur, and Christmastime is Harrods Superbowl. During the festive season, this food hall transforms into a dazzling and decadent wonderland of gourmet delights. Making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to savour the magic of Christmas in London.
Upon entering the Harrods Christmas Food Hall, you’ll be immediately transported into a world of sensory delight. The hall is lavishly decorated with elaborate Christmas displays, twinkling lights, and beautifully adorned garlands. It’s a visual feast that immerses visitors in the season’s magic.
The selection of festive treats and gourmet delights is nothing short of spectacular. From traditional Christmas puddings and mince pies to luxurious chocolates and handcrafted pastries. All these culinary treasures tempt your taste buds. Although you associate Harrods with ultra high-end luxury, I was pleasantly surprised to find many gourmet gift items weren’t prohibitively priced. Some of my favourite finds were the Christmas Spiced Honey (14£), Harrods Hot Chocolate Tin (13£), and Christmas Spiced Ground Coffee (15£). I also went in a few times to grab some of their Christmas pastries. The mince pie croissant and Christmas spiced scones were out of this world. Both were more expensive than my local bakery, but were some of the most invented and flavourful treats.
A cherished Christmas tradition is carolling. And one of my favourite spots in the city to sing along and be wowed by some talented singers is at St. Martin-in-the-Fields. St. Martin-in-the-Fields church brings the magic of the holiday season to life through the power of music. Located in the heart of Trafalgar Square, this historic church provides a stunning and acoustically rich setting for these festive performances.
The church’s intimate size and charming architecture create a perfect backdrop for the Christmas concerts. With its soaring ceilings, elegant columns, and warm lighting, the church exudes a sense of tranquillity and wonder that complements the holiday atmosphere.
The Christmas concerts at St. Martin-in-the-Fields occur throughout December with candlelight concerts, carols for kids, Advent carols, Handel’s Messiah, Baroque Christmas carols and a Gospel Christmas. Almost all the concerts have a chance for you to sing along, but you’re always accompanied by the church’s renowned choir, the St. Martin’s Voices. Their angelic voices, combined with the church’s acoustics, create a truly transcendent auditory experience.
A British Christmas tradition is giving and receiving gourmet food hampers. Wicker baskets filled with delicious treats date back to 1066, and Dickens even mentions in The Pickwick Papers “a hamper of spacious dimensions containing cold fowls, tongues, and bottles of wine.” In the 18th century, with the expansion of the railroads, wicker baskets were used to ship Christmas presents to family and friends across England.
The trend caught on, and now, in almost every upscale department store in London, you can find Christmas Hampers filled with gourmet treats. But instead of these pre-made versions, I think it’s so much more fun to make one for yourself! And there is no better place to come at Christmas for seasonal produce and gourmet provisions than Borough Market.
Located in the Southwark, Borough Market is a renowned food market which has stood here since the 13th century. During the Christmas season, Borough Market transforms into a festive wonderland, offering an array of special Christmas provisions that capture the spirit of the holidays. The market stalls and surroundings are adorned with twinkling lights, wreaths, and decorations, creating a magical and festive ambiance. The air is filled with the aroma of seasonal spices and freshly baked goods.
To fill your basket, you want to look for traditional holiday treats like mince pies, Christmas puddings, and, of course, artisanal cheeses. Many of the region’s best cheese producers come to the market with seasonal variations that use ingredients like cranberries, figs, or spices.
A holiday cheeseboard requires additions like crackers, pickles, honey and chutneys, all of which can be found throughout the market. Sweets and pastries like gingerbread are another wonderful addition to the basket.
You also want to grab a good bottle of mulled wines, spiced ciders, specialty teas, coffees, and hot chocolates to help you warm up on cold days with delightful holiday beverages.
Host Cafe located inside St. Mary Aldermary Church, is one of the most unique coffee shops in all of London. Set inside the amazing Gothic interior is a tiny coffee shop which welcomes visitors throughout the year. Here, you can enjoy a fancy latte while admiring the beautiful historic architecture. At Christmas, they feature seasonal delights and decorate the church with charming twinkle lights, Christmas trees and miles of garland. Best of all, the kindest and cheeriest baristas wear Christmas hats to get into the season’s spirit. There really is no better place to warm up on a chilly day in London!
Backyard Cinema is known for its immersive cinematic experiences. During the holidays, Backyard Cinema hosts a delightful festive extravaganza of classic Christmas flicks! Everything from classics like Miracle on 34th Street, Home Alone and It’s a Wonderful Life to British favourites like Love Actually, The Holiday and, The Muppet Christmas Carol.
But Backyard Cinemas does more than just screen these films; they offer visitors an immersive experience. Last year, to enter the cinema, you stepped into an Arctic Express train carriage to “travel” to the North Pole. After entering the train car, yo watch an immersive show, followed by a walk through a mirror maze and enchanted forest. Entering the cinema, you’re met with winter transformations as a plethora of snow-topped spruce trees surrounds the cinema screen with a fresh dusting of snow on the floor. If you want to grab a mulled wine before the show, you can head to the Big Top Bar. Here, fires roar under the twinkle lights and decorative garlands. It’s hard to leave, but the show must go on!
Every year, more than 40 carol groups across London gather in the iconic Trafalgar Square under the great Nordic Christmas tree to sing and raise more for local charities. Performances take place throughout December, starting at 2 pm on the weekends and 4 pm on the weekdays, ending at 6 pm and 8 pm respectively. Trafalgar Square is one of the most emblematic images of London, and getting to experience it at Christmas surrounded by the festive Cheer of carollers is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Pubs have been an integral part of British culture for centuries. Many pubs in London have a rich history, some dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries. But a pub isn’t only a place to get a drink. It is a local hangout, restaurant and community centre for many residents. It’s a place where people from all backgrounds come together to relax, connect, and enjoy a cherished aspect of British culture. As such, pubs in London decorate their interiors as if they were someone’s home. Christmas trees find themselves crammed into every corner, lovingly decorated, adding to that homely charm.
The best time to go to the pub is on a Sunday to enjoy a traditional Sunday roast. A traditional British roast meal typically consists of roasted meat, usually beef in London, along with Yorkshire pudding, gravy, roast potatoes and seasonal vegetables. It’s so filling, hearty, and the best way to warm up on a chilly winter afternoon. Be sure to pair your roast with a cup of mulled wine to create the optimal Christmas meal!
One of my favourite Christmas Lights displays is actually located inside one of my favourite restaurants. Daphne’s is located in the heart of Chelsea and is a local favourite for Italian cuisine with a Mediterranean twist. The decor changes slightly every year, but you can always expect Christmas lights and baubles hanging from the ceiling, like dining in a forest of Christmas decorations!
The quintessential Christmas play has got to be Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.” For years, the Old Vic, a historic theatre in London, has had a tradition of staging this beloved holiday story. Often, the theatre will secure a famed British actor to take on the infamous role of Scrooge. The sets are so lovingly created and make you feel as though you’ve stepped into Victorian London. Musicians take the stage, and fresh mince pies are enjoyed by the audience, adding to the immersive and enchanting atmosphere. With so much good theatre going on in London, it’s often hard to decide what to see, but this is a no-brainer at Christmas!
Tickets: PwC £10 previews (max. four per person), £12, £20, £30/£35, £40/£45, £55/£57.50, £65/£67.50
Dates: 12 Nov 2022–07 Jan 2023
Fortnum & Mason is a prestigious London department store whose iconic teal packaging symbolizes British luxury and refinement. Fortnum & Mason was founded in 1707 by William Fortnum and Hugh Mason. The company began as a purveyor of fine foods, teas, and other luxury goods, which caught the attention of the British aristocracy. With such endorsement, they skyrocketed to fame. Today, they remain true to their roots, selling premium tea blends, gourmet foods, and home decor.
Their location inside the historic Georgian house on Piccadilly is a destination for London shoppers. At Christmas, a visit here is such an elevated and enchanting experience. From floor to ceiling, the interior of Fortnum’s is one of the most glamorous Christmas interiors you’ll find anywhere in the city. Their world-class food hall sells various seasonal foods popular with food enthusiasts. I loved coming here to get extra special stocking stuffers like shortbread cookies in delightful Christmas tins, seasonal blend teas and even the King’s own blend of coffee.
Only an hour from London is one of the UK’s most prestigious Castles, Windsor Castle. Windsor Castle, located in Berkshire County, is England’s oldest and largest occupied castle. Windsor Castle is a favoured weekend retreat for the British royal family, including newly crowned King Charles III. The castle’s architecture is a stunning blend of medieval, Gothic, and Georgian styles, making it a year-round sight. But Windsor Castle is all decked out with marvellous Christmas decorations during the Christmas season. Fresh greenery, holly, and berries are placed throughout the castle’s exterior, making you feel like you’ve entered a Christmas fairytale.
The State Apartments are completely transformed at this time of year with tasteful decorations and twinkling lights. In various rooms throughout the building are other Christmas trees, each with magnificent themed decorations. The most impressive of the trees is the 20-foot-high Nordmann Fir tree in St George’s Hall. The tree is grown in Windsor’s Great Park and dressed with 3,000 lights, hundreds of iridescent jewel-shaped ornaments, and purple velvet and satin ribbons. Its always an impressive sight. Be sure to check the event schedule online to see if you can schedule your visit during one of the Christmas choir concerts. During these performances local school choirs perform under the Christmas tree.
If you’re a Harry Potter fan, a trip to London isn’t complete without going to the Warner Bros. Studio in Leavesden. A tour of the studios where they shot all eight films gives fans a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the wizarding world. And at Christmas, various sets are dressed for the festive season. Christmas was always an important touchstone in the books, and thanks to this, so many iconic Christmas set pieces make a special appearance in December.
The Great Hall is the centrepiece of the Christmas experience. The decor features the iconic Yule Ball set with its enchanting ice sculptures, snow-covered tables, and festive decorations on the tables. At the end of your tour, you will also be invited to see the intricate and massive Hogwarts Castle model. The model was used for the films, and at Christmas it is covered in rich blanket of snow. Be sure to grab something to eat and drink in the Backlot Café during your tour. I recommend a warm Butterbeer to complete your Hogwarts experience. Book tickets in advance, as this popular event tends to sell out quickly.
This year, St. Martins-in-the-Fields has an extra special offering for kids with their festive gingerbread decorating workshops! Step into their North Pole-themed Gingerbread kitchen, filled with yuletide decorations, where two jolly baker elves help to make Santa’s favourite festive treat: gingerbread! The parents can enjoy a glass of mulled wine or hot chocolate in the Crypt Cafe while the little ones play Gordon Ramsay in the kitchen. There is even a Christmassy sing-song finale at the end of your baking session, leaving you feeling filled with holiday cheer. And, of course, all your baked goods. For the parents,
Open Saturdays and Sundays from 25 November until 23 December at 10 am, 11 am, 12 pm, 2 pm, 3 pm, 4 pm and 5 pm | Tickets £20 (Each ticket is valid for one child and up to two accompanying adults | Every child requires a separate ticket.)
The Royal Albert Hall, located in the heart of South Kensington, is one of the world’s most iconic and prestigious concert venues. This historic and architecturally stunning venue, designed by the renowned British architects Captain Francis Fowke and Major-General Henry Y. D. Scott, is a masterpiece of Victorian architecture. Every year, the venue hosts a series of Christmas-themed programming that is bound to get you into the Christmas spirit. Best of all, there is something for everyone, from classic Christmas films accompanied by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra to Gospel Choirs and evenings hosted by British entertainment royalty like Dame Judy Dench.
The magnificent palace of Hampton Court was built by Cardinal Thomas Wolsey in the 16th century. But it wasn’t long after that King Henry VIII seized the palace for himself. Hampton Court became one of his favourite residences. It went on to be known for its opulence and blend of Tudor and Baroque architectural styles. Today, the palace is open to visitors, where they can explore the reconstructed rooms, lavishly decorated to reflect what life was like for the aristocracy in the 16th century.
This year, Hampton Court is hosting a festive Christmas fair on two weekends in December. The Festive Fayre is held within the palace’s stunning grounds, where food lovers can dive into gourmet treats, holiday favourites, locally crafted beverages, and seasonal delicacies. All set against the picturesque and historic backdrop of Hampton Court. Tickets to the Festive Fayre should be purchased in advance as the market is only open on December 1st – 3rd and 8th – 10th.
If you can’t make it out to the Festive Market, consider going out to the palace to enjoy an evening ice skating. Hampton Court Palace sets up an outdoor ice skating rink within its grounds where visitors can put on a pair of skates and glide around outside the illuminated historic palace.
The once placid Hyde Park is transformed into a spellbinding and whimsical wonderland at Christmas. Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park is a dazzling festival of lights and decorations, a bustling Christmas Market and action-packed amusement rides. You can come here with the whole family and find something for everyone.
The park is filled with food stalls offering a diverse range of cuisine. You can indulge in traditional British fare like roasted chestnuts, mince pies, and international dishes from around the world. Don’t forget to sample the mulled wine and hot chocolate to keep warm. The iconic skating rink invites visitors to enjoy some delightful Christmas music as they skate with their loved ones. Winter Wonderland hosts live entertainment and shows, including circus performances, ice shows, and concerts. These performances add to the festive spirit and entertain the whole family.
The Tower of London, a historic fortress nestled along the banks of the River Thames, is an enduring symbol of Britain’s medieval grandeur. With a lineage that spans nearly a millennium, this iconic structure has served various roles over the centuries. It was a royal palace, a prison housing infamous inmates like Anne Boleyn, and a treasury guarding the Crown Jewels.
Visitors can experience a magical transformation at Christmas with enchanting festive displays throughout the renowned fortress. As you explore the iconic castle, try to find all the 12 Days of Christmas brought to life in a distinctive Tower of London manner. The five gold coins represent the Tower’s original home to the Royal Mint. Find the twelve Yeoman Wardens and the nine rowdy ravens. And, of course, the Seven Wifes of Henry VIII. Beautiful Christmas trees pop up around the perimeter, and traditional decor brings a festive touch to the ancient fortress.
For many Londoners, going with the whole family for an enchanting night out at The Nutcracker, is a popular Christmas tradition. Tchaikovsky’s beloved Christmas classic follows little Clara, who is gifted an enchanted Nutcracker. Clara and the Nutcracker enter a mystical realm to battle the Mouse King. The show, set against an incredible live orchestra, is a fantastic experience and a great way to support the British artistic community.
Every August, British supermarket Marks & Spencer (M&S) announces its new Christmas range of products. Influencers are invited to their Christmas 2023 preview; admission to this is considered as big as tickets to the coronation! M&S Christmas range offers travellers some great budget-friendly gift options that feel high-end! Everything from adorable Christmas jumpers (sweaters), Percy Pig Christmas sweets, chocolate popcorn wreaths and bring-home figgy pudding. One of my favourite items was the musical shortbread biscuit tin. inside are some traditional British shortbreads and the tin lights up to reflect the starry night sky.
For travellers looking for a cheap and cheerful meal at lunch, you cannot go wrong with the M&S Meal deals. These combos include a drink, sandwich and snack for under £5. At Christmas, you can find seasonal sandwiches like brie and cranberry, pigs in a blanket, festive Christmas club and more! The perfect way to add a seasonal touch to an inexpensive lunch!
London truly shines as a winter wonderland during the Christmas season. There is an array of enchanting experiences that will warm the hearts of visitors and locals alike. From the sparkling lights along Oxford Street to the traditional charm of Christmas markets like Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, this city is a magical destination for all ages.
Whether you’re sipping mulled wine at a cozy pub, ice skating in front of iconic landmarks, or taking in the beauty of festive window displays, London’s Christmas spirit is nothing short of extraordinary.
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