London in January: Winter Magic & New Year’s Day Parades

London in January: Popular things to do

Tower of London

History buffs and mystery lovers meet your new best friend: the Tower of London! Built in 1066, it’s home to the iconic Crown Jewels, the historic Green Tower, the Chapel Royal of St. Peter ad Vincula, and permanent exhibitions like the Line of Kings.From Anne Boleyn's execution to the mysterious case of disappearing princes', this palace wins the game of intrigue and how!

Special events: A Royal Celebration, running until January 5, 2025

Insider tip: Make the Crown Jewels your first stop, as they can get crowded later in the day.

Recommended experience:

Tower of London tickets with Access to the Crown Jewels

Kew Gardens

With over 50,000 plants, gorgeous glasshouses, and historic spots like Kew Palace, Kew Gardens is a peaceful retreat and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Whether you're into nature, history, or conservation, this place is perfect for everyone eager to learn about conservation and plant diversity.

Special events: Health and Harmony, on January 25 and January 29, 2025

Insider tip: Take a relaxing walk along the Treetop Walkway for a stunning bird's-eye view of the gardens.

Recommended experience:

Kew Gardens Tickets

Westminster Abbey

Think 1,000 years of royal coronations, over 3,300 legends buried here (including kings and queens), and jaw-dropping Gothic architecture—Westminster Abbey's got it all. Between the stained glass, vaulted ceilings, and epic flying buttresses, it's where history, royalty, and wow factor collide.

Special events: New Year's Day Bell Ringing (January 1, 2025), The Epiphany of Our Lord Sung Eucharist (January 6, 2025), Organ Recital (January 26, 2025)

Insider tip: Remember to check out Britain's oldest door! Tucked near the Chapter House, this 11th-century gem has been holding strong for nearly 1,000 years!

Recommended experience:

Westminster Abbey, Big Ben & Buckingham Palace Guided Tour

Kensington Palace

Where else can you wander through Queen Victoria's old crib and hang where royals have lounged for 300 years? Kensington Palace serves up posh staterooms, royal gossip, and gardens that scream fairytale. Take a peek at "Victoria Revealed" exhibition to explore Queen Victoria’s early years and see her childhood rooms and keepsakes!

Special events: Victoria's Childhood Christmas, running until January 5, 2025

Insider tip: Make your visit royally memorable by joining a guided tour to learn about the fascinating history and lives of Kensington Palace's famous residents.

Recommended experiences:

Royal Afternoon Tea at Kensington Palace with Walking Tour of the Gardens

Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace isn't just history—it's a vibe! Picture Henry VIII hosting a Tudor rave, a maze that loves to mess with your sense of direction, and 60 acres of gardens straight out of a fairytale. Who's ready to time travel?

Special events: Christmas festivities, running until January 5, 2024

Insider tip: Spot the world's biggest grapevine, planted way back in 1768 and still popping out grapes today!

Recommended experiences:

Hampton Court Palace and Gardens Tickets

London Bridge

Forget the song—London Bridge isn't falling down anymore! It's gone from medieval shops and chapel charm to a modern steel-and-concrete makeover in 1973. Cross it for unbeatable views of London's skyline and a slice of history that's as strong as the bridge itself.

Special events: In the Footsteps of Mudlarks (January 8, 2025), London Bridge Trio Concert (January 19, 2025), Winter by the River event (until January 4, 2025)

Insider tip: Watch out for hidden gems—artistic murals and graffiti that bring London's history to life, often tucked away in cozy alleyways near the bridge.

Recommended experiences:

Westminster & The London Bridge Small-Group Walking Tour with Tickets to The Shard

Tower Bridge and Engine Room Entry Tickets

£16

4.6 | 1559 Reviews

Thames River Lunch Cruise with 2-Course Meal, Coffee & Tea

Tower of London Tickets with Access to the Crown Jewels

£35.80

4.4 | 16698 Reviews

London Eye Admission Tickets

£29

4.5 | 13598 Reviews

Big Bus: London Hop-on-Hop-off Bus Tour with Optional Thames River Cruise & Evening Tour

£29

4.2 | 1790 Reviews

The View from The Shard Tickets

£28.50

4.5 | 1347 Reviews

January highlights: Must-do experiences for families, couples, and more

1/5

Families with kids

No need to stress if you missed Hyde Park Winter Wonderland in December—it's still going strong in early January! With an ice rink, a giant Ferris wheel, 100+ rides, and all the festive perks, it's a must-visit for families. Plus, don't forget to visit the Warner Bros. Studio Tour until January 5 for a magical, wintery Potterhead experience—perfect for kids who love wizarding wonders!

Couples

Looking for the perfect winter date? Start by skating at Somerset House's stunning rink, all lit up and romantic in the evenings. Then, enjoy a peaceful stroll through Kew Gardens' winter wonderland—just the two of you. Finally, warm up with a hot chocolate crawl at London's finest spots, like Dark Sugars and Melt—what could be sweeter?

Art and culture lovers

Art fanatics, January's got your back! Head to the London Art Fair from January 22-26 at the Business Design Centre in Islington to discover notable contemporary artists such as David Hockney and Dean Home. Also, attend Monet's Unfulfilled Ambition at the Courtauld until the 19th and Zanele Muholi's powerful retrospective at Tate Modern until the 26th. It's a month full of creativity and inspiration!

Solo travelers or friend groups

If you're traveling solo or with friends, there's no shortage of fun! Kick off the year at the lively New Year's Day Parade on January 1, 2025. For a cinematic twist, enjoy the London Short Film Festival (Jan 19-28) and catch a nice indie movie. And on January 25, join in the Burns Night festivities, where Scottish food, music, and poetry make for a perfect evening out!

Shopping enthusiasts

Hit up the post-Christmas sales at Selfridges, Harrods, and Liberty for some serious discounts on everything from fashion to home goods. After scoring those deals, wander through Covent Garden Market for unique boutiques, artisan shops, and vibrant street performances. Don't forget Chinatown—perfect for quirky gifts, authentic Asian treats, and a sneak peek at Chinese New Year celebrations.

London in January: Your perfect 3-day itinerary

london in January - Changing of the Guard ceremony

Morning:

Buckingham Palace: Kick off your London adventure with a trip to Buckingham Palace and witness the Changing of the Guards at 10:45am—happening every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday!
Westminster Abbey: Afterward, head to Westminster Abbey to admire this historical site where kings, queens, and notable figures are laid to rest.

Afternoon:

Covent Garden Market: Stroll through Covent Garden for unique boutiques, street performers, and artisanal shops. Get some delicious lunch in one of the charming cafes.
London Eye: Take a ride on the iconic London Eye for breathtaking views of the city. It's perfect for spotting landmarks like Big Ben and St. Paul's Cathedral.

Evening:

Dinner at The Ledbury: Enjoy a yummy dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant like The Ledbury, where modern European dishes are served with a twist.
Canary Wharf Winter Lights (Jan 17-27): End your evening by heading to Canary Wharf to explore the stunning light installations at this outdoor festival.

Morning:

Frameless: Start your day with a digital art experience at Frameless, where you can admire stunning works by famous artists like Van Gogh and Monet.
Tate Modern: Next, visit Tate Modern, a former power station that showcases contemporary art. Bask in the beauty of surreal installations and thought-provoking exhibits.

Afternoon:

St. Paul's Cathedral: After lunch, visit St. Paul's Cathedral, a masterpiece of architecture and the site of many royal events. Climb up to the dome for incredible views under the warm winter sunshine.
Borough Market: Wander around Borough Market for a food lover's paradise, with everything from fresh produce to gourmet street food.

Evening:

Dinner at Sketch: Wrap up your day with a fulfilling dinner at Sketch, where the artistic vibes and inventive dishes will have you grinning from ear to ear—and your stomach completely satisfied.
London Short Film Festival (Jan 19-28): If you're a film enthusiast, visit one of the independent cinemas participating in the London Short Film Festival for some fresh, creative short films

london in january - regent street shopping

Morning:

The British Museum: Start your final day with a visit to The British Museum, home to a vast collection of art, antiques, and historical artifacts from around the world.
Regent Street and Liberty: Take a stroll down Regent Street for some shopping, then pop into the iconic Liberty department store for unique luxury items.

Afternoon:

Kew Gardens: Spend your afternoon at the stunning Kew Gardens. In Winter, the glasshouses look magical, and you can enjoy a quiet walk among the trees.
Natural History Museum: If you have time, swing by the Natural History Museum to see fascinating exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to gemstones.

Evening:

Dinner at Duck & Waffle: On your last night, treat yourself to a gourmet dinner at Duck & Waffle, located on the 40th floor of a skyscraper. The views of London at night are unbeatable!
Burns Night Celebrations (January 25): If dinner at a high-end place is not your vibe, join in the fun at a Burns Night celebration for a night of Scottish food, music, and poetry readings to wrap up your London adventure.

Pro tips for exploring London during January

Savor the morning serenity: Head to top spots like the British Museum or Tower of London as soon as they open. The early hours bring a peaceful vibe and fewer crowds, giving you a more relaxed and intimate experience.
Hop on the Thames Clippers: Ditch the usual public transport and cruise along the Thames with the Thames Clippers. It's a scenic, cozy way to get around, offering stunning views of landmarks while keeping you warm away from the winter chill.
Discover secret gardens: Play detective and find hidden gems like Postman's Park or Epping Forest! These quiet spots in January are perfect for a peaceful wander, where you can escape the hustle and bustle and have a heart-to-heart with a tree.
Get lost in local bookshops: Slip into indie bookstores like Daunt Books or the magical Word on the Water, a floating bookshop on a barge! With cozy corners, surprise events, and a million books begging for your attention, these spots are your Winter escape with a side of literary magic!
Take advantage of post-holiday discounts: January's got deals hotter than a freshly baked croissant! Treat yourself to some retail therapy with clearance sales galore, and if you're feeling extra cheeky, snag discounted tickets to places like the London Eye or Madame Tussauds.
Visit indoor markets: If the weather is being moody, duck into indoor markets like Borough or Camden Market! You can munch on mouthwatering bites, scoop up quirky crafts, and avoid the chilly breeze while pretending you're a savvy shopper who has it all together.
Skate while you still can: Quick—before the ice rinks bid farewell for the year! Rush over to Somerset House or the Natural History Museum before these glittering rinks pack up for the season.

London in January: Frequently Asked Questions

Is London still festive in January?

Yes, London stays festive through January with the New Year’s Day Parade, vibrant cultural festivals, and winter sales—making the post-holiday month just as exciting as the season itself!

How crowded is London in January?

London in January is refreshingly uncrowded! It's the perfect time to explore the city without the usual tourist crowds, offering a more relaxed and peaceful vibe compared to the busy holiday season.

Is it too cold to enjoy outdoor activities in London in January?

Not at all! While it's cold, with temperatures around 2-9°C (35-48°F), January is still great for outdoor adventures. Just bundle up in cozy layers and enjoy the crisp winter air—it's a refreshing way to see the city!

Will snow affect my ability to get around in London in January?

Snow in London usually doesn't cause significant travel disruptions. While heavy snowfall is rare and typically melts within a day or two, public transport usually stays up and running—expect the occasional delay if there's a bit of a flurry!

How can I stay warm while exploring London in January?

Layer up with cozy clothes and grab a chic, warm scarf! It will keep you snug and doubles as a stylish accessory to battle that winter chill in true London fashion.

What should I pack for a trip to London in January?

Pack waterproof shoes and a trusty umbrella—winter rains are pretty regular. But don't worry, with stylish rain gear, you'll stay dry and look effortlessly chic while exploring the city!

How do I navigate London's public transport in January?

Grab an Oyster card or use contactless payment to ensure smooth sailing on the buses and tubes.

What quirky events take place in London during January?

Keep an eye out for one-of-a-kind events like the Twelfth Night Celebrations near Shakespeare's Globe! Experience centuries-old traditions, lively performances, and a whole lot of quirky fun.

Can I still enjoy outdoor activities in January?

Absolutely! Ice skating rinks are still open, and Hyde Park transforms into a winter wonderland perfect for scenic strolls—especially if the snow makes an appearance!

Are there any unique food festivals in January?

While food festivals are scarce, pop-up markets serving hearty winter comfort food and steaming hot drinks are still available, with Borough Market being a prime spot for satisfying your cravings!

What's an unusual way to see London's landmarks in January?

Try a themed walking tour, like one that dives into ghost stories or showcases street art.

What's an unexpected place to find holiday decorations still up?

Head to Covent Garden or the Southbank Centre. Their festive lights and decorations twinkle well into mid-January, giving you that magical holiday vibe a little longer.