There’s nowhere quite like London at Christmastime. Come the holidays, the capital transforms into a festive hub, giving both residents and visitors alike plenty of fun ways to get into the seasonal spirit.
The West End and London’s wider theatreland is full of shows that make perfect holiday viewing, from spectacular musicals and family-friendly entertainment to that most traditional of festive viewing: the pantomime, which is guaranteed to make you feel Christmassy. Oh yes it is!
You can also take full advantage of London’s many attractions, which are particularly enticing during this winter wonderland time, as well as festive additions like the huge lighting displays and unmissable Christmas markets – ideal for stocking up on presents, as well as treating yourself.
Follow our London holiday guide for all the jolly fun, and book tickets to a Christmas event in London today.
Holiday things to do in London at Christmas
If you’re looking for things to do in London during Christmas, you’re in luck: there are tons of great attractions on offer. Take advantage of having that extra time to explore, whether you’re visiting for Christmas or you’re a resident – it’s amazing how many of us live near all of these great activities and haven’t yet visited them.
London Eye
London is beautiful year round, but there’s something particularly awe-inspiring about it on a bright, frosty day, or during a dark winter’s night when that famous skyline is all lit up. So, why not take a trip on the London Eye during the holidays?
It’s the world’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel, and has panoramic views in all directions. You’ll get a completely new view of landmarks like Buckingham Palace, St Paul’s Cathedral and Big Ben, all while enjoying your ride in one of the high-tech glass capsules. You can make it even more special by adding the Champagne experience.
Book London Eye tickets on LondonTheatre.co.uk
Hampton Court Palace
A visit to Henry VIII's extraordinary Hampton Court Palace would make for a very special Christmas outing. Travel back in time via Henry VIII's Apartments, the Tudor kitchen, and 60 acres of magnificent gardens – ideal for a wintry stroll as you imagine meeting all those famous royal figures.
There's also Christmas fun to be had: an ice skating rink, live music, and Hampton Court Palace's Festive Fayre. More than 100 artisan producers are selling their wares in the Great Fountain Garden – perfect if you're looking for an unusual Christmas gift, or want to indulge in tasty treats like Glorious Mess Meringues, Great Drams Whisky, or a Supreme Hog Roast.
Book Hampton Court Palace tickets on LondonTheatre.co.uk
St Paul's Cathedral
If you haven't explored London's awe-inspiring architectural masterpiece, now is the time. Sir Christopher Wren's cathedral is more than 300 years old, and its dome is one of the most recognisable parts of the London skyline. The views from the top of the dome are pretty incredible too, especially when the city is lit up for Christmas.
Of course, the cathedral has numerous wonderful services throughout the Advent and Christmas season, including carol services – and hearing music in this remarkable building is a one-of-a-kind experience. This year's highlights include Britten's Ceremony of Carols, a morning carol service especially for families, and Handel's Messiah.
Book St Paul's Cathedral tickets on LondonTheatre.co.uk
Skate Leicester Square
Lace up your skates and experience the magic of Christmas in the heart of London's West End with the city's magical ice skating rink. Nestled in the capital's iconic Leicester Square, close to numerous theatres, this festive wonderland is fun for the whole family.
Enjoy gliding around the circular outdoor rink in the crisp air, or warm up at the seasonal bar with some tipple or hot drinks. Whether you're seeking some after-work fun, planning a magical date night, or simply escaping the Christmas shopping frenzy, Skate Leicester Square is the perfect way to enjoy the holiday season.
Madame Tussauds
Rub shoulders with the rich and famous this Christmas. Madame Tussauds is a must if your holidays need some celebrity glam – you can chill with musical superstars like Ariana Grande, Stormzy, Dua Lipa, Taylor Swift, and David Bowie.
Walk the red carpet with Harry Styles, Zendaya, Leonardo DiCaprio, Eddie Redmayne, and Meghan and Harry. Or head into the palace, where you can wave from the balcony and have tea with the King and Queen. There are also dedicated Marvel and Star Wars zones, plus the Spirit of London ride.
Book Madame Tussauds tickets on LondonTheatre.co.uk
Tower of London
The Tower is already a draw thanks to its amazing history and twinkly delights like the Crown Jewels, but it becomes an even more enticing place during the festive season. Christmas at the Tower serves up a whole storybook adventure, with huge glittering Christmas trees and installations bringing the Tower's many enduring tales to life.
Discover how the kings and queens of yore celebrated their yuletide, through the fascinating immersive displays, meet the beasts from the royal menagerie, and create your own timeless festive moment by posing for a photograph on a grand throne amid the festive splendour.
Book Tower of London tickets on LondonTheatre.co.uk
Christmas markets and lights in London
London has plenty of special festive activities for this holiday season, like Christmas markets and lighting displays. It’s a great way to get in the mood, to celebrate with family or friends, to find the most delicious Christmas goodies, and to get cracking with your holiday shopping.
Christmas markets
Your first stop has to be Hyde Park Winter Wonderland. This juggernaut boasts festive rides, games, shows and a Magical Ice Kingdom, plus a Bavarian village, street food, and a traditional Christmas market filled with wooden chalets. There you’ll find tantalising gifts and homemade decorations. You’ll need to purchase entry slot tickets on the website.
Southbank Centre Winter Market is also a firm favourite – plus you can combine it with a trip to the National Theatre or the Old Vic. It’s a hub of cuisines from around the world, as well as artisanal goodies, especially good for stocking fillers.
You can also find fantastic markets right in the centre of London, perfect if you’re heading to a West End show. Try the Leicester Square Christmas Market and the Covent Garden Christmas Market, both joyful events. There you can sip mulled wine and nibble on mince pies as you browse the handmade crafts.
Plus, an exciting new entry for 2025 is the first-ever Christmas pop-up at Buckingham Palace! Head to the Royal Mews to find shopping fit for a king, including top-quality gifts, tree decorations, and delicious festive food. Buckingham Palace gift wrap, anyone? That should prove a talking point on Christmas Day.
Christmas lights
There are tons of great Christmas lighting displays in London. The most famous is the lights at Oxford Street – well worth a visit as you do your shopping and admirable the seasonal window displays.
The South Bank has eye-popping colourful lights too, so you can check those out as you hit the market and take in a show, while Carnaby Street has funky themes each year – plus it’s handy for Soho and West End theatres.
It’s also well worth a festive trip out of London to Warwick Castle for their majestic Christmas at the Castle celebrations. Enjoy twinkling trees and incredible projections as part of the Light Trail, and unforgettable light displays actually on the historic castle walls.
Shows in London at Christmas
This is a wonderful time of year to catch a big show. It’s a great way to celebrate with the whole family, whether you choose a production specifically aimed at young audiences, or just one that has something for everyone.
Plenty of London shows – especially pantomimes – span the holidays exactly, beginning in late November or early December and running through to the following January. Create a special Christmas memory this year with a theatre trip that makes the whole family smile.
