Are you already starting to get that warm, festive feeling? Ready to dive into planning some holiday fun for the holiday season? We‘ve got you covered! Here are our top 10 ways to bring on the holiday cheer in Central London this Christmas season.
1. Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park
A true Christmas extravaganza, Winter Wonderland has rides, Christmas markets, an ice rink, and live shows. It’s one of London’s biggest holiday attractions and has something for everyone, from festive food to cosy mulled wine stalls.
Kicking off on 21 November 2024, and running to 5 January 2025, Winter Wonderland promises festive fun with over 100 rides and attractions for all ages.
2. Christmas Lights in Oxford Street, Regent Street & Covent Garden
London’s famous shopping streets and Covent Garden go all out with their lights and decorations. They create a magical evening atmosphere, perfect for holiday photos or an evening stroll. Each location often has its own lighting theme, making it extra exciting to explore.
Typically, these lights begin to illuminate in early to mid-November, with Regent Street’s lights traditionally debuting mid-month. They usually stay lit until early January, brightening the streets each evening.
3. Ice Skating at Somerset House
The grand Somerset House hosts one of London’s most picturesque outdoor ice rinks, complete with a festive backdrop of twinkling lights. There are rink-side hot chocolate stalls, and DJ nights bring extra holiday energy to the ice!
This year, the ice rink opens 13 November 2024, and runs until 12 January 2025.
4. Holiday Shopping at Christmas Markets
Central London offers several holiday markets where you can find unique gifts, seasonal treats, and handmade crafts. Some popular ones include the Southbank Centre Winter Market, Leicester Square Christmas Market, and Selfridges’ rooftop for boutique shopping.
Popular markets like the Southbank Centre Winter Market and Leicester Square typically start in mid-to-late November, running until Christmas or New Year.
5. Festive Afternoon Tea at Claridge’s or The Ritz
Enjoy a luxurious holiday afternoon tea in a beautifully decorated setting. Both Claridge’s and The Ritz create a magical experience with themed treats, holiday décor, and festive teas.
These luxury hotels launch their themed teas around late November, offering unique holiday treats throughout the New Year, often until early January.
6. Seeing Christmas Classics at a London Theatre
The holiday season is perfect for catching a festive show, with productions like The Nutcracker at the Royal Opera House or A Christmas Carol at The Old Vic. These classics are designed to immerse audiences in the holiday spirit, and are a holiday tradition to many.
The Nutcracker often begins its run in early December, and A Christmas Carol typically runs from late November through December.
7. Explore Christmas at Kew Gardens
Kew Gardens’ Christmas light trail is an enchanting experience, featuring interactive light displays and projections in a stunning botanical garden setting. It’s ideal for families and nature lovers alike, providing a festive, outdoor experience away from the city center bustle.
Opening around mid-November, the Kew Gardens light trail often runs through early January, offering a magical experience for visitors.
8. Santa’s Grotto at Hamley’s or Harrods
If you’re with children, a visit to see Santa at Hamley’s or Harrods is a must. Each grotto is meticulously decorated, creating a fun experience for children to meet Santa and enjoy holiday-themed games and activities.
Santa’s grottos open in early November, running until Christmas Eve, with specific dates available on each store’s website.
9. Attend a Magical Candlelight Concert
Candlelight Christmas concerts and Ballets by Candlelight bring a magical touch to London’s festive season. Set in venues like St. Mary’s Church, these intimate performances of holiday classics or ballet favourites are lit entirely by candlelight, creating an enchanting, cosy ambiance.
These events generally start in late November and run through December, with some extending into early January, providing many opportunities to enjoy this unique holiday experience. For specific dates and tickets, platforms like Fever often have a full schedule available.
10. Carol Singing in Trafalgar Square
Experience a traditional touch with carol singing by the iconic Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square. Choirs gather every evening, creating a community atmosphere that celebrates the true spirit of Christmas, and offers the chance to sing along to classic carols.
Carol singing at the Trafalgar Square tree generally begins in early December and continues nightly until a few days before Christmas.
Each of these activities offers a distinct way to soak up London’s festive magic! These seasonal attractions let you enjoy London’s Christmas charm, from festive foods to twinkling lights and holiday performances.
