UK Lifestyle

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:

Table of Contents

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:

  1. Try mulled wine, a traditional Christmas drink with red wine, spices, and sugar.
  2. Eat roasted chestnuts, a popular Christmas snack in Europe.
  3. Browse stalls selling handmade crafts like Christmas ornaments, jewellery, and clothing.
  4. 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

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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.

FAQs on 10 Best and Unique Things to Do in London on Christmas

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What is the most unique experience at Winter Wonderland?

The most unique experience at Winter Wonderland is the Magical Ice Kingdom. This walk-through exhibit is made entirely of ice and snow, and it features a variety of sculptures and installations. It’s a truly magical experience, perfect for visitors of all ages.

What is the best way to avoid the crowds at Winter Wonderland?

The best way to avoid the crowds at Winter Wonderland is to visit during the week or early in the morning. The park is also less crowded on weekdays and evenings, so try to avoid visiting on weekends or during the middle of the day.

What is the most unique ice rink in London?

The Skylight Tobacco Dock ice rink is the most unique in London. This rooftop ice rink offers stunning views of the city skyline, and it’s a great place to go ice skating with friends and family.

What is the best way to learn how to ice skate?

The best way to learn how to ice skate is to take a lesson. Many of London’s ice rinks offer lessons for all ages and skill levels. If you’re a beginner, take a group lesson. This is a great way to learn the basics of ice skating in a fun and supportive environment.

What is the best Christmas market in London for foodies?

The best Christmas market in London for foodies is the Borough Market Christmas Market. This market features a variety of stalls selling delicious food and drinks from all over the world. You can find everything from traditional British Christmas pudding to German bratwurst at this market.

What is the best Christmas market in London for families?

The Southbank Centre Christmas Market is London’s best family Christmas market. This market features a variety of stalls selling unique gifts and souvenirs and a variety of food and drink stalls. There are also several activities for children at this market, such as a carousel and a Ferris wheel.

What is the most popular Christmas show in London?

The most popular Christmas show in London is A Christmas Carol. This classic Christmas story is performed at the Dominion Theatre every year, and it’s a great way to get into the festive spirit.

What is the best pantomime in London for children?

The best pantomime in London for children is Aladdin. This classic pantomime is performed at the London Palladium every year, and it’s much fun for all ages.

What is the best way to see the Christmas lights in London?

The best way to see the Christmas lights in London is to take a tour. Various tours are available, so you can choose one that fits your budget and interests. Some tours take you by bus, while others take you by boat or on foot.

What is the most unique Christmas lights tour in London?

The Private Christmas Lights Tour of London is the most unique Christmas lights tour in London. This tour takes you by car to see some of the best Christmas lights displayed in London, including the lights on Regent Street, Oxford Street, and Piccadilly Circus. You’ll also see the lights on some of London’s most iconic landmarks, such as Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and the London Eye.

What is the most unique thing about the Gingerbread City at St Paul’s Cathedral?

The most unique thing about the Gingerbread City at St. Paul’s Cathedral is that it is entirely made of gingerbread. The city features over 100 gingerbread houses and buildings and takes over 10,000 gingerbread bricks to build. It is a truly unique and festive sight to see.

What is the best way to enjoy the Gingerbread City at St Paul’s Cathedral?

The best way to enjoy the Gingerbread City at St. Paul’s Cathedral is to take your time and wander around, taking in all of the amazing sights. You can also participate in one of the many activities offered at the Gingerbread City, such as decorating your gingerbread cookie or taking a gingerbread decorating class.

What is the most unique thing about a Christmas afternoon tea in London?

The most unique thing about Christmas afternoon tea in London is that it is a traditional British meal in a festive atmosphere. The afternoon tea typically includes a variety of finger sandwiches, scones, cakes, and tea or coffee. Many hotels and restaurants in London offer special Christmas afternoon tea menus during the holiday season.

What is the best way to choose a Christmas afternoon tea in London?

When choosing a Christmas afternoon tea in London, it is important to consider the following factors:

  • Budget: Christmas afternoon tea can range in price from around £30 to £100 per person.
  • Location: There are many different places in London where you can enjoy Christmas afternoon tea. Consider the needs of your guests when choosing a location or venue.
  • Atmosphere: Some hotels and restaurants offer a more traditional Christmas afternoon tea experience, while others offer a more modern experience. Choose an atmosphere that you and your guests will enjoy.

What is the most unique thing about a Christmas carol concert in London?

The most unique thing about a Christmas carol concert in London is that it is a great way to experience the festive atmosphere of Christmas. Many concerts are held in historic venues such as Westminster Abbey and St. Paul’s Cathedral, which adds to the magical experience.

What is the best way to choose a Christmas carol concert in London?

When choosing a Christmas carol concert in London, it is important to consider the following factors:

  • Date and time: Christmas carol concerts are typically held in the evenings in the lead-up to Christmas Day. Choose a date and time that works for you and your guests.
  • Venue: There are many different venues in London where you can attend a Christmas carol concert. Ensure the location or venue is convenient for everyone involved.
  • Type of concert: Many types of Christmas carol concerts are available, from traditional to more modern. Choose a concert that you and your guests will enjoy.

What is the most unique thing about the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter during Christmas at Hogwarts?

The most unique thing about the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter during Christmas at Hogwarts is that you can experience the magic of Christmas at Hogwarts. The studio tour is decorated for the holidays, and various festive activities are available, such as a Christmas tree lighting ceremony and a chance to meet Santa Claus.

What is the best way to plan a visit to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter during Christmas at Hogwarts?

When planning a visit to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter during Christmas at Hogwarts, it is important to book your tickets in advance, especially if you are visiting during the peak holiday season. It would be best to arrive early to give yourself plenty of time to see everything and participate in the activities.

What is the most unique thing about walking through one of London’s Royal Parks during Christmas?

The most unique thing about walking through one of London’s Royal Parks during Christmas is that you can experience the beauty of the parks in a festive setting. Many parks are decorated for the holidays, and there are often special events and activities.

What is the best way to enjoy a walk through one of London’s Royal Parks during Christmas?

The best way to enjoy a walk through one of London’s Royal Parks during Christmas is to dress warmly and take your time. Wander around the park, taking in the festive sights and sounds. You can also stop to enjoy a cup of hot chocolate or a festive snack from one of the many vendors in the park.

J. Shaw

Joseph Shaw is a renowned expert with two decades of experience in historic travel, and tourism in the United Kingdom. His multifaceted expertise and commitment to excellence have made him a highly respected professional in U.K. tourism.

J. Shaw has 90 posts and counting. See all posts by J. Shaw

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