11 Christmassy Things to do in London

by Mandy Lutman

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Christmas is just around the corner and we’re about to spice it up with our choices of favourite Christmassy things to do in London. Some of them are free, others aren’t, but they all guarantee one thing - tons of fun and Christmas spirit throughout December.

1. Southbank Market

The area next to London Eye becomes a popular Christmas destination throughout December. From markets to festivals, Southbank is the place to be if you’re looking for something to do during Christmas in London. Not only does it offer plenty of events, and a lot of food, you can also experience beautiful sights of the River Thames and some of London’s biggest landmarks.

Christmas at Southbank begins on November 9th and ends on January 6th.

2. London Christmas Lights Tour

London Christmas lights are already up and ready to put you in the cheery spirit. You can find them at pretty much every big area, so why not take a full tour? Although paid Christmas lights tours exist, you can also hop on a bus number 139 and see the majority of the West End lights with a standard bus ticket.

3. Ice Skating

Channel your inner Elsa and test your ice skating skills at one of London’s many ice rinks. Tower of London, London Eye, Natural History Museum, and Canary Wharf all have ice skating rinks available - and trust us, it’s a lot of fun.

4. Doggy Style Christmas Market

No, it’s not what you think. London is actually hosting plenty of Christmas markets for dogs - and, of course, their owners. Doggy Style Christmas Market and the Santa Paws Christmas Fair will be located in various areas across London - not only can you pet the dogs (if you ask the owners nicely), you can also donate money to charity!

5. Covent Garden Christmas Tree

Covent Garden is an absolutely magical place during Christmas, but the best part is definitely the large Christmas tree. The area’s cobbled piazza is perfect for people-watching and enjoying the performance of many street artists. The big tree switches on in mid-November, but stays switched on for the duration of the Christmas season.

6. Backyard Cinema

Don’t worry, you won’t be watching movies outside in the freezing cold. This company offers various cinema events throughout London - it’s a perfect choice for families, first dates, romantic adventures, you name it!

7. Winter Wonderland

Winter Wonderland first launched in 2007 and has since then became an annual tradition, visited by millions. Along with plenty of stalls, visitors can enjoy thrilling rides (including a roller coaster), observation towers, and ferris wheels that will give you a spectacular view of London. The entrance is free, however, you will need to purchase tickets for each individual attraction (or you can do so online).

Where: Hyde Park
When: 10am - 10pm until 6th January 2019

8. Hamleys Experience

You just have to visit Hamleys when you’re out and about in London during Christmas. This large shopping centre has some of the best displays you have ever seen. The store also hosts plenty of Christmas-related events, including meeting Father Christmas, meeting the Elf on the Shelf, see actual snow, and more. If this doesn’t put you in Christmas spirit, we’re not sure what will.

9. Window Shopping

But it’s not just Hamleys - window displays around winter time are some of the most magical displays ever. Shops often use twinkle lights and battle it out for your attention - and it works. Just have a stroll down Oxford Street and see what’s out there!

10. Kew Gardens

Ever been to Kew Gardens? It’s a flower power experience for anyone that needs a good dose of nature and a getaway from the big smoke. But during Christmas time, Kew Gardens transforms into a magical sight that’s totally worth the ticket - trust us.

When: Until 5th January 2019

11. Festive Theatre Shows

And last but not least, why not go to the theatre? Shows like Peter Pan, Snow White, and many more are showing all around London and they’re waiting for you and your buddies to drop by and enjoy the stories.

That’s our list - what’s yours? Let us know in the comments!

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