10 Best and Unique Things to Do in London on Christmas
London at Christmas is a magical time, transforming the city into a winter wonderland. From dazzling Christmas lights to festive markets, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are 10 of the best and unique things to do in London on Christmas:
1. Visit Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park
Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park is the best and most unique thing to do in London on Christmas for several reasons:
- It is a one-stop shop for all things Christmas. From ice skating and rides to festive food and drinks, there is something for everyone at Winter Wonderland.
- It is a magical and immersive experience. Winter Wonderland is like stepping into a real-life Christmas fairy tale with its twinkling lights, festive decorations, and lively atmosphere.
- It is a great place to create lasting memories with friends and family. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a foodie, you’re sure to have a memorable time at Winter Wonderland.
2. Go Ice Skating at one of London’s many Ice Rinks
Ice skating is the best and most unique thing to do in London on Christmas for many reasons:
- It’s a classic Christmas activity that people of all ages and abilities can enjoy.
- It’s a great way to get some exercise and fresh air, especially if you’ve been indoors during the winter.
- It’s a fun and festive way to socialize with friends and family.
- Many of London’s ice rinks are set in iconic and atmospheric locations, such as Somerset House, the Natural History Museum, and Canary Wharf.
- Some ice rinks offer additional festive attractions like live music, ice shows, and Christmas markets.
3. Explore London’s Christmas markets
Exploring London’s Christmas markets is the best and most unique thing to do in London on Christmas for several reasons:
- They offer a unique and festive experience. Christmas markets are a traditional European tradition, and the markets in London are some of the best in the world. They’re filled with stalls selling unique gifts and souvenirs, delicious food and drink, and festive decorations.
- London’s markets are a treasure trove of unique gifts and souvenirs, where you can find something special for everyone on your list. You’ll find everything from handmade crafts to traditional Christmas ornaments.
- They’re a great way to sample delicious food and drink. Christmas markets are a great place to sample delicious food and drink from all over the world. You’ll find everything from traditional British Christmas fare to international specialities.
- London’s streets are alive with the holiday festive spirit, twinkling lights, festive decorations, and merrymakers everywhere. Christmas markets are a great place to soak up the festive atmosphere and get into the Christmas spirit. They’re filled with twinkling lights, Christmas music, and cheerful people.
Here are some of the unique things you can experience at London’s Christmas markets:
- Try mulled wine, a traditional Christmas drink with red wine, spices, and sugar.
- Eat roasted chestnuts, a popular Christmas snack in Europe.
- Browse stalls selling handmade crafts like Christmas ornaments, jewellery, and clothing.
- Listen to live music, such as Christmas carols and traditional folk music.
4. See a Christmas Show or Pantomime
Seeing a Christmas show or pantomime is the best and most unique thing to do in London on Christmas for several reasons:
- It’s a traditional British Christmas activity. Pantomimes, in particular, have been a part of British Christmas celebrations for centuries. They are typically family-friendly shows with colourful characters, catchy songs, and much audience participation.
- There is a wide variety of Christmas shows and pantomimes to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a traditional pantomime, a musical, or a play, a Christmas show in London is perfect for you.
- London’s theatres are renowned for their world-class productions, from classic plays to cutting-edge musicals. Many West End theatres put on spectacular Christmas shows and pantomimes each year.
- Seeing a Christmas show or pantomime is a great way to get into the festive spirit. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of singing along to Christmas carols and laughing at the antics of the pantomime dame to put you in a good mood.
5. Take a Christmas Lights Tour
A Christmas lights tour in London is a great way to see the best of the city’s festive decorations. Christmas lights tours are typically led by knowledgeable guides who can tell you about the history and significance of the lights, as well as point out some of the hidden gems.
Here are some of the reasons why taking a Christmas lights tour is one of the best and most unique things to do in London on Christmas:
- See the best Christmas lights displays. London has some of the world’s most spectacular Christmas lights displays, and a lights tour will take you to see the best of them. You’ll see the lights on Oxford Street, Regent Street, Carnaby Street, Trafalgar Square, and many other iconic London landmarks.
- Learn about the history and significance of the lights. Christmas lights have a long and rich history; a lights tour guide can tell you all about it. You’ll learn about the different types of lights used, the symbolism of the lights, and the traditions associated with Christmas lights.
- See hidden gems. In addition to the major Christmas lights displays London has many hidden gems. A lights tour guide can take you to see some of these lesser-known displays, which can be as beautiful and impressive as the major ones.
6. Visit the Gingerbread City at St Paul’s Cathedral
The Gingerbread City at St Paul’s Cathedral is a unique and delightful Christmas attraction. It is a must-see for anyone visiting London during the festive season.
The Gingerbread City comprises over 100,000 pieces of gingerbread, which takes over 1,000 hours to build. The city features a variety of iconic London landmarks, including the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge, and Buckingham Palace.
The Gingerbread City is a feast for the eyes and a delicious treat. Visitors can purchase gingerbread pieces to take home, and there is also a cafe serving gingerbread-themed food and drinks.
7. Have a Christmas Afternoon Tea
Christmas afternoon tea is a unique and special thing to do in London on Christmas for several reasons:
- It’s a quintessentially British tradition. Afternoon tea is a British institution, and there’s nothing quite like enjoying a festive afternoon tea with loved ones during the Christmas season.
- The food and drinks are delicious. Christmas afternoon tea typically includes a variety of festive treats, such as mince pies, gingerbread men, Christmas pudding, and scones with clotted cream and jam. You can also enjoy a selection of teas and coffees or a glass of champagne or sparkling wine.
- The atmosphere is magical. Many of London’s top hotels and restaurants offer Christmas afternoon tea, and they go all out to create a festive and enchanting atmosphere. From twinkling lights and Christmas trees to live music and carol singing, you’re sure to feel the Christmas spirit.
- It’s a great way to relax and unwind. Christmas can be a time of great joy. Still, it can also be a time of great pressure. Hence, Christmas afternoon tea is perfect for relaxing and unwinding with loved ones. You can enjoy the delicious food and drinks, soak up the festive atmosphere, and catch up with each other without having to worry about anything else.
In addition to these reasons, Christmas afternoon tea is also a unique thing to do in London because of the city’s rich history and culture. London is home to some of the world’s most iconic hotels and restaurants, many offering Christmas afternoon tea. When you have Christmas afternoon tea in London, you’re enjoying a delicious meal and experiencing a piece of British culture.
8. Attend a Christmas Carol Concert
Attending a Christmas carol concert is the best and most unique thing to do in London on Christmas for several reasons:
- It’s a festive and atmospheric experience. Nothing is quite like Christmas carols in a beautiful church or cathedral. It’s a truly magical experience that gets you in the festive spirit.
- It’s a great way to learn about the history and traditions of Christmas. Christmas carols have been sung for centuries, and they tell the story of the birth of Jesus Christ. Attending a carol concert is a great way to learn about these traditions and pass them on to future generations.
- It’s a family-friendly activity. Christmas carol concerts are suitable for people of all ages, making them a great activity for families and friends to enjoy together.
- It’s a unique experience. Christmas carol concerts are something you can find in only some cities. London is home to some of the world’s most beautiful churches and cathedrals, and attending a carol concert in one of these venues is a truly unique experience.
9. Visit the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter during Christmas at Hogwarts
Visiting the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter during Christmas at Hogwarts is a unique and special experience for fans of all ages. The studio tour is already a magical place, but it’s transformed into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season.
Here are just a few of the reasons why visiting the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter during Christmas at Hogwarts is the best and unique thing to do in London on Christmas:
- See the Great Hall decorated for Christmas. The Great Hall is one of the most iconic sets from the Harry Potter films, and it’s even more magical when decorated for Christmas. The hall has Christmas trees, feasts, and other festive decorations.
- Meet Santa Claus. Harry Potter, fans of all ages can meet Santa Claus at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London during Christmas at Hogwarts. Santa Claus is located in the Great Hall and is happy to take photos with visitors.
- Experience the snow-covered Forbidden Forest. The Forbidden Forest in the Harry Potter films is shrouded in darkness and mystery. Still, it’s transformed into a winter wonderland during Christmas at Hogwarts. The trees are covered in snow, and even snowmen are hidden throughout the forest.
- See the Hogwarts castle model covered in snow. The Hogwarts castle model is one of the most popular attractions at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, and it’s even more impressive when it’s covered in snow during Christmas at Hogwarts.
- Enjoy festive food and drinks. During Christmas at Hogwarts, various festive food and drinks are available throughout the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London. Visitors can enjoy everything from Butterbeer to mince pies.
10. Take a Walk Through one of London’s Royal Parks
Taking a walk through one of London’s Royal Parks is the best and most unique thing to do in London on Christmas for many reasons:
- It’s a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a peaceful Christmas walk. The Royal Parks are large and spacious, so there’s plenty of room to spread out and relax. You can also find various walking trails depending on your interests and fitness level.
- The Royal Parks are beautifully decorated for Christmas. There are twinkling lights, festive decorations, and even Christmas trees in some of the parks. It’s a truly magical sight to see.
- The Royal Parks are home to a variety of wildlife. Even in the winter, you can still see birds, squirrels, and other animals in the parks. Walking through Royal Park is a great way to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.
- It’s a free activity. The Royal Parks are open to the public for free, so you can enjoy a Christmas walk without spending any money.
- London’s hop-on hop-off bus tour is a delightful way to see the city’s most iconic landmarks, from Buckingham Palace to the Tower of London. Many Royal Parks are near popular tourist attractions like Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, and the Tower of London. You can easily combine a walk through Royal Park with a visit to one of these nearby attractions.
With so much to see and do, you’re sure to have a magical time.
FAQ
What are the best Christmas markets to visit in London?
London boasts several enchanting Christmas markets. Notable ones include Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, Southbank Centre Winter Market, and Christmas by the River at London Bridge. These markets offer a variety of festive goods, food, and entertainment.
Where can I see the most impressive Christmas lights in London?
The city’s most dazzling displays are found on Oxford Street, Regent Street, Covent Garden, and Carnaby Street. Each offers a unique and festive illumination experience.
Are there any ice-skating rinks open during Christmas in London?
Yes, popular ice-skating venues include Somerset House, the Natural History Museum, and the Tower of London. These rinks provide a magical skating experience set against iconic backdrops.
What Christmas shows or pantomimes are available in London?
London’s West End theatres host a variety of festive performances, including traditional pantomimes and Christmas-themed shows. It’s advisable to check current listings for specific performances and book tickets in advance.
Can I attend a Christmas carol service in London?
Many churches, including St. Paul’s Cathedral and St. Martin-in-the-Fields, hold carol services during the festive season. These events are popular, so checking schedules and arriving early is recommended.
What are the top attractions open on Christmas Day in London?
While many attractions close on Christmas Day, some, like certain walking tours and churches, remain open. Public transport is limited, so plan accordingly.
Where can I find festive afternoon tea in London?
Many hotels and restaurants offer special Christmas-themed afternoon teas. Venues such as The Ritz, Claridge’s, and The Savoy are renowned for their festive tea experiences.
Are there any special Christmas events at London’s museums?
Museums like the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Museum of London often host festive events, workshops, and exhibitions during the Christmas season. Check their official websites for current programmes.
What are the best places to go Christmas shopping in London?
Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Covent Garden are prime shopping destinations, featuring a mix of high-street and luxury retailers, all adorned with festive decorations.
Can I visit Santa’s Grotto in London?
Yes, venues like Hamleys, Selfridges, and Winter Wonderland host Santa’s Grottos, where children can meet Father Christmas. Booking in advance is often required.
Are there any Christmas-themed tours in London?
Yes, there are various Christmas lights tours, festive walking tours, and holiday-themed bus tours available throughout the city. These tours showcase London’s festive highlights.
Where can I experience traditional English Christmas cuisine in London?
Many pubs and restaurants offer special Christmas menus featuring traditional dishes like roast turkey, mince pies, and Christmas pudding. Booking a festive meal in advance is recommended.
What family-friendly Christmas activities are available in London?
Family-friendly options include visiting Winter Wonderland, attending children’s theatre performances, and exploring festive trails at places like Kew Gardens. These activities cater to all ages.
Are there any Christmas parades in London?
While London doesn’t have a major Christmas parade, events like the New Year’s Day Parade feature festive elements and are popular among visitors.
Where can I find unique Christmas gifts in London?
Camden Market, Spitalfields Market, and various Christmas markets offer a range of unique and handcrafted gifts, perfect for the festive season.
Can I take a Christmas lights bus tour in London?
Yes, several operators offer open-top bus tours showcasing London’s Christmas lights, providing a comfortable way to see the city’s illuminations.
What are the best places to stay in London during Christmas?
Areas like Covent Garden, Soho, and Southbank are centrally located and close to many festive attractions, making them ideal places to stay during the holiday season.
Are there any Christmas-themed bars or pop-ups in London?
Yes, venues like Miracle at Henrietta and The Churchill Arms transform into festive wonderlands, offering themed drinks and décor. These spots are popular for their holiday spirit.
Can I attend a midnight mass on Christmas Eve in London?
Many churches, including Westminster Abbey and St. Paul’s Cathedral, hold midnight mass services on Christmas Eve. These services are open to the public, but arriving early is advisable due to high attendance.
What transportation options are available in London during Christmas?
Public transport services may be limited or unavailable on Christmas Day, with no underground, bus, or train services running. Reduced schedules may apply on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day, so you must check Transport for London’s (TfL) website for updates and plan your journey accordingly.
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