As the festive season approaches, London, England transforms into a winter wonderland, filled with twinkling lights, bustling Christmas markets, and enchanting ice rinks. If you’re planning a trip to London in 2024, you’re in for a treat. As someone who’s spent many Christmases exploring the city’s festive offerings, I’m excited to share my ultimate guide to help you make the most of your holiday visit.
Those Gorgeous Christmas Lights and Decorations
Right then, first things first, the lights! There’s nothing qite like that moment when London starts twinkling, this is when you know the festive season has truly arrived in London. It’s a sight that never fails to take my breath away, no matter how many times I’ve seen it.
Oxford Street and Regent Street: These iconic streets are always among the first to kick off the festive season with their spectacular light displays. In 2024, the Oxford Street lights are set to be switched on in early November, featuring sustainable LED bulbs that create a magical canopy of light above the bustling shoppers below. Regent Street, meanwhile, will once again showcase its iconic ‘Spirit of Christmas’ display, with angelic figures soaring above the street.
Carnaby Street: This quirky street never disappoints with its innovative Christmas installations. Known for its bold and creative approach, the 2024 display is sure to be a talking point. Last year’s sustainable ocean-themed lights were a huge hit, so I’m eagerly anticipating what they’ll come up with this time.
Covent Garden: Covent Garden’s Christmas decorations are always a feast for the eyes. The famous market building is typically adorned with giant mistletoe chandeliers and a massive Christmas tree. The 2024 display is expected to be unveiled in mid-November, transforming the area into a festive paradise. It’s proper Instagram gold
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Christmas Markets (AKA Where to Get Your Mulled Wine Fix)
Nothing gets me in the festive spirit quite like wandering through a Christmas market, mulled wine or festive beer in hand, browsing unique gifts and soaking up the atmosphere.
- Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park: This massive event features hundreds of market stalls, thrilling rides, ice skating, and live shows. It’s a one-stop shop for all things festive, and I always make sure to visit at least once each season. Winter Wonderland returns to Hyde Park from 21st November 2024 to 5th January 2025.
- Southbank Centre Winter Market: Set against the backdrop of the Thames, this market offers a delightful mix of global cuisines and artisan gifts. In 2024, it’s scheduled to run from 1st November to 26th December. I love grabbing a hot chocolate and strolling along the river, taking in the twinkling lights and festive cheer.
- Leicester Square Christmas Market: Right in the heart of the West End, this market is small but full of charm. Running from 6th November 2024 to 5th January 2025, it features traditional wooden stalls selling handmade crafts and gifts. There’s also usually a pop-up theatre tent hosting Christmas shows, adding an extra layer of entertainment to your visit.
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Festive Attractions and Activities (Proper Christmassy Things to Do)
London offers a wealth of seasonal attractions beyond markets and lights. If you’re a Harry Potter fan you’re in for a treat! Here are some must-visit spots for your Christmas itinerary.
- Ice Skating at Somerset House: Ice skating at Somerset House is a quintessential London Christmas experience. The stunning neoclassical courtyard provides a magical backdrop for gliding (or in my case, wobbling) across the ice. While exact dates for 2024 haven’t been confirmed yet, it typically runs from mid-November to mid-January.
- Hogwarts in the Snow at Warner Bros. Studio Tour: For Harry Potter fans, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour’s ‘Hogwarts in the Snow‘ is an absolute must. The tour gets a festive makeover, with the iconic Hogwarts model dusted with snow and the Great Hall decked out for a Christmas feast. It’s a magical experience that never fails to put me in the festive mood.
- Kew Gardens Christmas Lights Trail: Kew Gardens’ after-dark Christmas trail is a spectacular display of lights and sounds. As you wander through the botanical gardens, you’ll encounter stunning light installations, a fire garden, and even a light tunnel. It’s a truly enchanting experience that I look forward to every year.
Recommended website: Hogworts in the snow
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Christmas Shows and Performances
Fancy a proper British Christmas tradition? Get yourself to a panto! No Christmas in London would be complete without taking in a festive show or two.
- Pantomimes: Pantomimes are a beloved British Christmas tradition, and London offers some of the best. In 2024, you can catch ‘Robin Hood’ at the London Palladium from 7th December to 12th January, or ‘Dick Whittington’ at Hackney Empire from 23rd November to 5th January. These shows are always a riot of fun, perfect for families or anyone looking for a good laugh.
- The Nutcracker at the Royal Opera House: For a more classical Christmas experience, the Royal Opera House’s production of ‘The Nutcracker’ is hard to beat. While dates for 2024 haven’t been confirmed yet, it typically runs throughout December and into early January. The stunning choreography and Tchaikovsky’s iconic score never fail to get me into the Christmas spirit.
Show times: London Theatre, what’s on?
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Recommended Tours in London
Festive Food and Drink Experiences
Christmas is a time for indulgence, and London offers plenty of opportunities to treat your taste buds.
- Christmas Afternoon Tea: Many of London’s top hotels and restaurants offer special Christmas-themed afternoon teas. One unique option is the B Bakery’s Festive Afternoon Tea Bus Tour, where you can enjoy festive treats while taking in London’s Christmas lights from a vintage Routemaster bus.
- Christmas at Borough Market: Borough Market is a food lover’s paradise year-round, but it really comes alive at Christmas. In addition to its regular traders, you’ll find special festive food and drink stalls. I always make sure to pick up some mince pies and mulled wine here during the holiday season.
And definitely hit up Covent Garden. The regular traders really push the boat out at Christmas, plus you get all these special festive stalls. The mulled wine there is particularly good (just saying).
What to know How to Plan or Save for a Trip? Here are our best:
Christmas Day in London
While many attractions are closed on Christmas Day, there’s still plenty to see and do in the city.
- Christmas Day Walk: One of my favourite Christmas Day traditions (if I’m in London at Christmas) is taking a walk through the eerily quiet streets of central London. It’s a rare opportunity to see famous landmarks like Trafalgar Square and Buckingham Palace without the usual crowds. It can actually be dead!
- Christmas Day Swim at Hyde Park: For the brave (or slightly mad), the Serpentine Swimming Club hosts its annual Christmas Day race in Hyde Park. Even if you don’t fancy a dip yourself, it’s a fun spectacle to watch.
New Year’s Eve Celebrations
London’s New Year’s Eve celebrations are world-famous, centred around the spectacular fireworks display over the Thames.
- New Year’s Eve Fireworks: While tickets for the official viewing areas sell out quickly, there are plenty of other spots around the city to watch the fireworks. Personal favourites include Primrose Hill and Greenwich Park, which offer panoramic views of the city skyline.
Fancy Something a Little Different:
Quick Tips
- Most Christmas stuff kicks off mid to late November
- Loads of markets are free (except Winter Wonderland at peak times)
- Christmas Day is dead quiet – plan ahead for food and transport
- Book anything special (like shows or fancy dinners) well in advance
- Pack layers! London winters can be proper chilly
***
Christmas in London is a truly magical time, filled with twinkling lights, festive markets, and an abundance of seasonal cheer. Whether you’re ice skating at Somerset House, browing the stalls at Winter Wonderland, or simply soaking up the atmosphere in Covent Garden, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. As someone who’s experienced many London Christmases, I can assure you that the city’s festive offerings never fail to capture the spirit of the season. I LOVE LONDON AT CHRISTMAS!!
(Note: Ensure to check the official websites for any changes in ticket prices or visiting hours before planning your trip.) Also add us to your socials!)
Share Your London Christmas Story!
Have you experienced Christmas in London? What were your favourite festive activities or events? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below! I’d love to hear about your London Christmas adventures!
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- Discover the World’s Most Colourful Cities
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Your Questions, Answered
When do Christmas events typically start in London?
Most Christmas events in London start in mid to late November. The major Christmas lights are usually switched on in early to mid-November, while markets and other attractions tend to open from mid-November onwards
Are London's Christmas markets free to enter?
Many of London’s Christmas markets, including those at Southbank Centre and Leicester Square, are free to enter. However, some larger events like Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park may charge an entry fee during peak times.
What's open in London on Christmas Day?
While many attractions and businesses are closed on Christmas Day, you can still enjoy walks in the parks, see the Christmas lights, and visit some pubs and restaurants that remain open. Some hotels also offer special Christmas Day lunches.
How can I see the New Year's Eve fireworks in London?
The official viewing areas for the New Year’s Eve fireworks require tickets, which usually go on sale in October. However, you can also see the fireworks from various vantage points around the city, such as Primrose Hill or Greenwich Park.
Is public transport available during the Christmas period in London?
Public transport in London operates on a reduced service over the Christmas period. There’s no service on Christmas Day, and a limited service on Boxing Day. It’s best to check the Transport for London website for up-to-date information.
Recommended Tours All-Year Round in London
Travel Planning Resources
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