London in December: Christmas Markets, Light Displays & Ice Skating

London in December: Popular things to do

London Eye

It's hard to imagine South Bank without the London Eye, the world's largest cantilevered Ferris wheel. It has drastically altered London's skyline and is seen from many vantage points.

Special events: Christmas Light Show, New Year’s Eve fireworks

Recommended experiences:

London Eye Champagne Experience
Christmas at London Eye

Insider tip: Visit in the evenings to see the lights. Dress warmly as it can get chilly 135 m in the air.

Tower Bridge

This Victorian architectural marvel is the most recognizable bridge in London. The neo-Gothic towers, despite being only 120 years old, appear to have been part of the city's view for eons.

Special events: Christmas markets, Afternoon Tea, New Year’s Eve fireworks

Recommended experiences:

Tower Bridge Tickets

Insider tip: Book tickets in advance if available as it’s one of London’s most popular holiday attractions.

Hampton Court Palace

This was King Henry VIII's residence. It's well worth the 12-mile journey south of London to see England's most divisive king's massive Tudor-Baroque castle and the 16th-century astronomical timepiece.

Special events: Tudor Christmas cookery, ice rink, Festive Fayre

Recommended experiences:

Hampton Court Palace and Gardens Tickets

Insider tip: Visit on a Wednesday or Thursday to avoid crowds and allocate a whole day for the palace.

St Paul's Cathedral

St Paul's Cathedral is a testament to architectural grandeur and spirituality. This Anglican cathedral has been a focal point of London's landscape for over 3 centuries and is known for one of the world's largest domes.

Special events: Christmas carol services, lighting of the Christmas tree, blessing of the crib event, Christmas mass services

Recommended experiences:

St Paul’s Cathedral Tickets

Insider tip: Book a guided tour and ask for the free Geometric Staircase tour.

Kew Gardens

There is no other place in London where you can see a multistory Chinese pagoda and a Japanese entry point while surrounded by one of the world's most beautiful plant gardens.

Special events: Christmas at Kew, Expressions in Blue exhibition, Wakehurst’s Winter Garden

Recommended experiences:

Kew Gardens Tickets

Insider tip: Wear appropriate clothing and footwear as the paths can be wet. Bring your own food for a picnic.

london in december - harry potter studio

Warner Bros. Studio Tours

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London offers fans an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the making of the Harry Potter films. See sets, costumes, and props, at this immersive experience in Leavesden.

Special events: Hogwarts in the Snow, Festive Reception, Christmas dinner, Yule Ball

Recommended experiences:

Christmas at Hogwarts: Warner Bros. Studio Tour from London

Insider tip: Pick up a free Activity Passport for a Golden Snitch hunt, and quizzes.

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

Families with kids

Must-experience: Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is a top destination for families with children, because of the ice rink, giant Ferris wheel, over 100 rides, and other perks. The Paddington Bear Experience is also a fun experience for kids.

Better in December: Go all out at the London Theatre with shows like Matilda the Musical, Mary Poppins, and Elf - The Musical. Plus, there are tons of ice rinks including Somerset House, the Natural History Museum, and Battersea Park. Shop at Selfridges on Oxford Street, LEGO Store Leicester Square, and Hamleys on Regent Street.

Couples

Must-experience: Sip on champagne with spectacular views of the city on the London Eye for a cozy, romantic evening. Get your skates on and glide around an ice rink holding hands in the crisp air at one of the many ice rinks that pop up in December.

Better in December: Enjoy a full-course romantic dinner on a Thames cruise, or at one of the cozy, intimate spots like Clos Maggiore. If you’re booking a reservation in Covent Garden, make sure to secure your spot way in advance.

Art and culture lovers

Must-experience: Catch a West End festive-themed performance like The Nutcracker at the Roya Opera House. Or, explore the British Museum, Tate Modern, or the National Gallery for a slice of national and international art and history.

Better in December: The month is great for holiday-themed performances, Christmas carol services, and museum visits during the colder weather. However, some galleries may have reduced hours over Christmas.

Solo travelers or friend groups

Must-experience: Seek some thrills with Up at The O2 Experience and catch glimpses of the city above the iconic arena. You can also plan a day trip to nearby attractions like Windsor Castle or Stonehenge.

Better in December: Explore London’s pubs decked out for the holidays. The winter markets are also a great place to eat, drink, shop, and enjoy festive vibes whether you’re traveling solo or with friends. You can even consider going on a walking tour of Borough Market or exploring London’s diverse culinary scene.

Shopping enthusiasts

Must-experience: Oxford Street, Regent Street, Covent Garden, Harrods, Selfridges, and the Christmas markets are absolute must-visits. From flagship stores and boutique shopping to smaller gift stalls, these places have it all.

Better in December: London’s shopping scene is unmatched in December, with festive window displays at iconic department stores, Christmas markets, and holiday sales throughout the month. The downside is higher crowds.

Holiday enthusiasts

Must-experience: Attend a Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey or St. Martin-in-the-fields for an unforgettable experience. On Christmas day, try to attend a service or eucharist at St Paul’s Cathedral or Westminster Abbey.

Better in December: Don’t miss Carnaby Street, Bond Street, and the illuminated tree at Trafalgar Square. Plan your stay at a themed hotel like Claridge’s, which goes all out with its Christmas decorations. You can also participate in festive workshops.

London in December: Your perfect 3-day itinerary

Morning:

Buckingham Palace: Start your trip with a visit to the world-famous Buckingham Palace and see how royals live. Try not to miss the Changing of the Guards ceremony at 10:45am.
Frameless: Head to Marble Arch and explore four digital experiences featuring works by the greats - Van Gogh, Monet, and more!

Afternoon:

Kensington Palace: Explore the extravagant Kensington Palace with a guided tour and explore its history and antiques. If you have time, go for a boat ride on the lake.

Evening:

Dinner: Enjoy a festive dinner at Claridge’s, known for its festive decorations and modern British cuisine.
Hyde Park Winter Winterland: After dinner, head over to Hyde Park for its Christmas market, over 100 rides and attractions, live shows, ice skating, and more.

Morning:

Tower of London: Visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site, formerly a palace, prison, and fortress, and the current home to the British Crown Jewels. Pro-tip: Book an early-access tour to see the Beefeaters opening ceremony.

Afternoon:

Leadenhall Market: Head to Leadenhall Market and be transported to the streets of Diagon Alley and look out for the Leaky Cauldron from the Harry Potter movies.
Sky Garden: From Leadenhall, head to the Walkie-Talkie building. Head to the very top to explore its secret rooftop garden and see the city from 38 stories high.

Evening:

St Paul’s Cathedral: St Paul's Cathedral's dome, one of the world's largest, commands attention and reverence.
Christmas Lights Tour: Next up, board a London Christmas Lights Tour by cab or bus, and see the festive decorations on all major streets including Oxford Street and Regent Street.

Morning:

Royal Observatory Greenwich: Start your day early with a trip to the Royal Observatory Greenwich and see the Prime Meridian.
Cutty Sark: Take a guided tour of the Cutty Sark, and admire its imposing masts.

Afternoon:

Thames River cruise: Board your sightseeing cruise from the Greenwich pier and look out for the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and the London Eye on your cruise.
Westminster Abbey: Go on a guided tour of Westminster Abbey and see its rose windows, the Poet’s Corner, and the tombs of several royals and important figures.

Evening:

West End show: Catch a performance of a West End show. Classic December options like The Nutcracker or A Christmas Carol are highly recommended.
London Eye: Round up your visit with the London Eye. See the city glimmering with lights and decorations and try to spot famous landmarks.

Pro tips for exploring London during the holidays

Reserve tickets for holiday attractions early: December is the peak season for iconic events like Hyde Park Winter Wonderland and the Nutcracker. Book tickets well in advance to avoid sold-out events and shows and skip long lines.
Take advantage of lower crowds during the day: Popular spots like the London Eye and museums can get crowded in the evenings, especially during the holidays. Plan to visit these attractions earlier in the day to avoid the afternoon rush.
Dress in layers and be prepared for winter weather: Because the winter has arrived, the weather in London in December may be quite chilly. Dress in layers of warm clothing before going outside. Even if the chances of snow are slim, bring extra warm clothing in case it snows in London in December. Bring extra cardigans and jackets if you plan to go out late in December. A lightweight pair of thermals can be a lifesaver on especially cold days. In December, rain is expected in London, so bring umbrellas and weatherproof clothing.
Plan for shorter daylight hours: With daylight lasting only about 8 hours in December, plan outdoor activities like walking tours, sightseeing, and photography during daylight. Evening activities such as fireworks displays, carol services, or indoor museum visits can fill the rest of your day.
Make reservations for popular restaurants early: Many restaurants in London offer special holiday menus or get crowded with locals and tourists. Book reservations at least 1-2 weeks ahead to secure a spot, especially for festive dinners or brunches.
Consider guided tours for special holiday displays: Take advantage of guided tours for events like the Christmas lights bus tours or a guided Thames River sightseeing cruise. These tours often provide insider information and streamline logistics, saving you time and hassle.
Check for last-minute changes due to weather: December weather can affect outdoor events, such as Up at The O2. Always check for updates or cancellations due to snow or severe weather before heading out.
Shop early: The London shopping sales begin on Boxing Day, December 26th, and continue through January. Plan early and go for some bargain shopping once Christmas is over. Visit your local markets in December and purchase some of the fresh vegetables on display.
Use public transport whenever possible: London’s tube, train, and bus service is well-connected to all parts of London and beyond. Purchase an Oyster card when you arrive in London, which can be used to commute as well as enter some of the city's most popular attractions.
Plan a day trip: You can also plan a day trip from London in December to nearby towns and attractions like Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, the Roman Baths, Warwick Castle, Oxford, Cotswolds, Stratford-upon-Avon, and more.

London in December: Frequently asked questions

Is it sunny in London in December?

No, London in December is not very sunny. You can expect about 4 hours of sunshine on average.

Is London expensive to visit?

Yes, London is a bit expensive to visit. The average daily cost for a person in London is £145. The weekly budget for a couple in London is about £2050. But if you book your London attractions tickets online, in advance, you will have the chance to save a lot with great deals and discounts.

How safe is London?

London is quite safe in general. But even so, do not venture alone into dark alleys with valuable personal belongings and a considerable amount of cash on you.

How crowded is London in December?

December is one of the busiest months, especially around Christmas and New Year. Popular spots like Covent Garden, Oxford Street, and Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland will be crowded, so plan for a bit of extra time.

Are any attractions closed in London in December?

While most major attractions remain open in December, some museums may close for holidays or have limited hours, particularly around Christmas and New Year’s. Always check specific venue hours before your visit. Some outdoor activities, like Thames River cruises, may be subject to weather conditions.

What are the best things to do with kids in London in December?

Kids will enjoy visiting the HMS Belfast, and Alton Towers, going for a fun-filled day out to Thorpe Park and going for a special visit to the Warner Bros. Studios.

What are some romantic things for couples to do in London in December?

London in December is perfect for couples looking for cozy and romantic experiences! Stroll hand-in-hand through enchanting Christmas markets like Southbank Winter Market, or enjoy the sparkling lights of Covent Garden and Regent Street. For an unforgettable date, try ice skating at Somerset House or the Natural History Museum, both offering dreamy atmospheres with holiday lights and music. You could also book a festive Thames River cruise, ideal for city views and cozy moments. Don’t miss winter rooftop bars like those at Skylight or The Shard, where you can sip hot mulled wine and enjoy breathtaking city views!

What are some cozy indoor activities in London during December?

Warm up by visiting museums like the British Museum or V&A, explore the markets, or grab hot cocoa at a café in Covent Garden. Many theaters offer holiday shows, and pubs have a wonderfully cozy atmosphere this time of year.

Are London’s Christmas markets open all December?

Most Christmas markets in London start in mid-November and run until just before New Year. Some popular markets include Southbank Centre Winter Market, Leicester Square, and Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland.

What are the must-see holiday lights in London?

Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Covent Garden are famous for their dazzling Christmas light displays. Each neighborhood has its own unique theme and a magical vibe that’s perfect for photos.

Are there any free events or activities in December in London?

Yes! Enjoy the Christmas lights, holiday window displays, carol concerts in Trafalgar Square, and open-air markets. You can also watch the Christmas lights switch-on events, which are free.

Is it a good time to visit London for shopping in December?

Yes, December is a great time for shopping, with holiday sales and festive pop-up markets. Popular shopping areas like Covent Garden and Oxford Street offer unique gifts and holiday-themed items. Just be prepared for the crowds, especially in the lead-up to Christmas.

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

While December can be cold, it’s definitely still possible to enjoy outdoor activities. In fact, you can go ice skating or a winter stroll through Hyde Park. Just be sure to bundle up and plan for indoor breaks to warm up.

Are there any special holiday food experiences in London in December?

Yes! December is a great time to sample classic winter comfort foods. Look out for seasonal treats like Christmas pudding, cream tea, mince pies, and mulled wine from vendors around the city. You can also visit restaurants for special holiday menus or festive dining experiences.

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

While it rarely snows in London in December, you can expect rain on some days. Most public transportation systems typically operate in most weather conditions. Still, allow extra travel time and check for alerts during harsh weather.