Christmas is around the corner and so it is time to get cheerful. As you can imagine, there is so much to do during the festive period in London and like with anything here, it can get overwhelming with the sheer quantity of things to do and see. That’s no different at Christmas time. Christmas festivities in London can really help stay warm-spirited during the short, cold and dark days as well as getting all your gifts and presents stocked for loved ones. In this blog, I cover some iconic must-dos at Christmas in London as well as some Christmas markets, where you can support local businesses. Here is our guide to Christmas in London.
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
London’s largest Christmas attraction is Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. Every year, a huge area of Hyde Park turns into a joyous Christmas world with its very own Bavarian inspired Christmas village and other attractions. You will find rides, rollercoasters, circus shows and ice skating. If you just want to sing some Christmas songs and have a laugh, head to the hall where there is food stalls & bars with DJs and live music.
Ice Skating
A fan-favourite for getting into the Christmas spirit is an ice skating session in one of the many ice rinks around the city. Notable favourites are Hyde Park (as mentioned above), Battersea Power Station & Somerset House. Book in advance as they can get very busy in the during the festive period.
Christmas Markets
Each year, London Christmas markets open up throughout November & December where you can buy handcrafted, artisanal gifts that you may not find anywhere else. It’s great if you’re short of time, looking for some fun and pressies and need some inspo. Why not combine it with some mulled wine & minced pies and a bit of Mariah Carey. Southbank Centre Winter Market turns the Southbank of the Thames into a winter wonderland full of stalls and Christmas lights. Leadenhall Market is a historic Victorian shopping arcade and its halls turns into a festive paradise with trees and lights and boutiques for all. Perfect for your Christmas pressies. If you want a gift that is handmade and certainly one-of-a-kind, check out the DIY Christmas Art Market in South East London. Over 150 stalls of arts and crafts. If you are up for something weird and wonderful this Christmas and are a bit fed up of the Christmas cheer, head to the Satanic Flea Market for anti Christmas fair. There are some spectacular Christmas markets outside of London including Winchester Christmas Markets. Why not join us on our Christmas trip on 2nd December?
Christmas Lights
London has some spectacular winter light trails that are open. Some of the capital’s most iconic parks get taken over with LEDs, lasers, probes, interactive displays and more. A stand out winter light’s trail is at Kew Gardens with tickets from £22.50. It’s definitely one of the best ones in the city. Shortly followed by Christmas at Kenwood House. Bang in the middle of Hampstead Heath, Kenwood House is the perfect setting for a twinkling light Christmas trail. Wander through dazzling displays of light installations and don’t miss the laser garden.
