The Best Things to Do in London for Christmas 2024: Festive Fun You Won’t Want to Miss
Christmas in London is magical, full stop. In fact, I would go as far as saying that London is the best city in the world to visit at Christmas. The London Christmas lights are unmatched and there’s just so much to do that’ll get you in the Christmas spirit. So, here are some of my favourite things to do this festive season; and some hidden gems you might not have thought of:
1. See the Christmas Lights on an Open-Top Bus Tour
If you haven’t seen London’s Christmas lights yet, you’re in for a treat! Now, imagine taking it all in while cruising through the city of London on an open-top bus. Yep, it’s as magical as it sounds. Snuggle under a blanket (bring one!) and watch Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Covent Garden light up!
🎁 Book your London Christmas Lights Bus Tour here
Trust me, it’s the best way to take in the city without battling through the crowds - and sort of romantic too! Side note: try to book a slot outside of rush hour, otherwise you may get a little stuck.
And of course, you can also join a free walking tour of the London Christmas lights, or just research the best London Christmas lights for yourself and head on out - just make sure you don’t miss them. Top Tip: The Regent Street Christmas Angels may be the most famous, but they absolutely should be on everyone’s list!
2. Ice Skating at London’s Best Ice Rinks
You cannot beat a festive ice skate to get in the Christmas mood. Somerset House might be the obvious choice, but if you fancy something a bit different, here are a few of my faves:
Hampton Court Palace: Skate around with the palace as your backdrop - it’s a little further out but it’s stunning
Beaverbrook Ice Rink: A hidden gem!
Glide at Battersea Power Station: It’s got this cool, industrial feel to it, but still packed with Christmas spirit
Canary Wharf Ice Rink: It’s maybe not the most beautiful ice rink in London, but I love how conveniently it’s located
Somerset House Ice Rink: A classic!
Go early or late to avoid the crowds, and remember that London’s iconic ice rink at the Natural History Museum is closed!
3. Have a Festive Afternoon Tea
Afternoon tea at the Four Seasons in London
You can’t come to London and not do afternoon tea, right? And Christmas is arguably the best time to have afternoon tea in London. Here are a few of my favourite festive afternoon teas in London:
Pan Pacific London: Super chic and festive. It’s the perfect excuse to dress up a bit
The Four Seasons: Pure indulgence with a Christmas twist - think gold-dusted pastries and more champagne, please!
The Strand Palace: Check out their Snow Palace Afternoon Tea, which is like stepping into a winter wonderland (and their desserts are too pretty to eat… almost).
To me, it’s the perfect way to escape the cold and feel all festive.
4. Get Lost at the Christmas Market in Greenwich
Winter Wonderland is great and all, but if you’re looking for something a little less touristy, head to Greenwich Christmas Market. It’s smaller, more local, and super charming. There’s live music, arts and crafts, and tons of delicious street food (the mulled cider is SO good).
Plus, the historic backdrop of Greenwich makes it feel a little more magical. It’s perfect for a slower, more relaxed Christmas vibe, and if you’re looking for something to do in London with kids: Greenwich has a lantern parade and Christmas lights switch-on event on the 20th of November 2024 - find out more here.
And as a German, I just can’t send you to Winter Wonderland, haha. Christmas markets in Germany just are very different.
5. Visit Covent Garden
You may think ‘now this isn’t exactly a hidden gem is it?’ - Nope, it’s not, but Covent Garden at Christmas is a must visit every year. The decorations, the pop - ups, the photo opportunities and the shopping opportunities make it one of the most beautiful places to visit in London at Christmas for me. If you want to take some beautiful photos without the crowds I highly recommend an early wake up btw.!
6. Have a cocktail at London’s ‘Most Christmassy Bar’ - Miracle at Henrietta
‘Grandma got run over by a T-Rex’ cocktail at Miracle
You may think visiting Miracle at Henrietta is super cheesy, but I’m so sorry to say, it’s definitely the number 1 must do when visiting London for Christmas, and maybe the best thing to do in London for Christmas … ever! It’s a hidden bar within walking distance from Covent Garden and my personal favourite cocktail is the one with the T-Rex. Book well ahead or try to walk in at around 3:00pm.
7. Watch ‘Love Actually’ in Concert
For something to do indoors, don’t miss Love Actually In Concert at Eventim Apollo! This British Christmas classic will be screened with a full orchestra playing the iconic soundtrack live. It’s the perfect way to relive this British classic with a musical twist. I highly recommend this for a cosy date night or an evening with friends!