Christmas in London is really magical. The capital of the UK attracts tens of people from everywhere just to see the glittering lights, the Christmas markets, Winter Wonderland and, of course to do some shopping or even just admire The Harrods. I was in London 3 days to experience this and more. Take a look at my 10 favourite things to do in London around Christmas.
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1. Christmas in London Lights
During the Christmas season, many of the high streets in London are decorated with festive displays. The most famous are Oxford Street, Convent Garden and Regent Street (the classic angels). Many feature the same theme each year but one that changes every year is Carnaby Street with their fun, snazzy and colourful displays.
This year, the area’s bringing back some of its all-time faves with its zany theme ‘Carnaby Celebrates’, which will mark 25 years of delighting harried shoppers.
2. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
Another popular attraction of this season is the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland. Forget the cold, some adrenaline will keep you warm. If you’re up for some adventure, roller coasters and ice skating ? then this is THE place. But even if you aren’t, it’s worth visiting the markets and have some mullet wine or have a beer at their tippy tent.
Advice: Book your tickets online to avoid queues.
3. Sunset View at Sky Garden
Any time of the year is good to seize the opportunity of seeing London from its highest public garden – The Sky Garden. You can book your free visit on their website (limited visits) although if you have a restaurant reservation, you do not need a separate access ticket.
TIP: It’s worth going around 3-4 pm (winter times) to watch the sunset. Many people queue just for this so imagine how popular it has become.
4. SouthBank Centre Winter Festival
Walking down SouthBank is a good choice for those that want to see London’s top attractions: the London eye, Tate museum, Shakespeare Theatre, you name it… and because it’s Christmas, there’s also festive markets, shows, concerts and food stalls. So you can get to know London with a Christmas feel.
Check everything about Southbank Centre Winter Festival here.
5. Shop or Visit Harrods Department Store
Founded in 1849, The Harrods is one of the largest and most famous luxury department stores in the world.
Harrods’ Christmas windows are always a legend. For the 2022 festive season the iconic department store transformed into a gigantic, super chic gingerbread house courtesy of Dior. Named ‘The Fabulous World of Dior’ , the exhibition is Harrods’ largest-ever brand takeover, encompassing all 44 windows, the façade, light display, two pop-ups, an exhibition and a cafe.
6. Ice Skate at Somerset House
Named the London’s most beautiful ice rink (Time Out), Somerset House is truly an experience as you skate around the grand neoclassical courtyard on its huge 900-square-metre outdoor rink, with a 40ft Christmas tree plonked in the middle! You can try the ice rink at Winter Wonderland but the magic won’t be the same. This year they also have tickets with DJ’s and concerts included so make sure you book your spots fast!
7. Carols at the Royal Albert Hall
It’s show time! The Royal Albert Hall is the best place to go for a concert, so here is a great chance to visit it while getting into the festive spirit. Sing your favourite Christmas songs together! Find out more about some of the best carol concerts to attend in London, this year.
Located near South Kensington Station, it’s easy to get to the Royal Albert Hall from the tube. It’s important to book tickets in advance to make sure you are able to get in.
8. Christmas at Kew
Enter a botanical world filled with seasonal cheer…
Christmas at Kew is a magical light trail across Kew Botanical Gardens making the perfect festive winter evening event. It’s a nice plan for the whole family but only if you have time or are staying nearby as it’s a bit further away from the main city centre.
Find out how to book your tickets here.
9. Lunch at Dishoom
From Bombay With Love
Dishoom pays homage to the Irani cafés and the food of all Bombay. This is one of my favourite places to have a Christmas lunch or dinner with friends as it offers Indian comfort food with a warm and festive atmosphere. There are 6 restaurants total in London, all placed in key locations. The one I chose was Dishoom Carnaby as it’s well located in Soho where you can see the Christmas lights.
10. Convent Garden
There’s nowhere in London Christmassier than Covent Garden Piazza in December. Central to the Covent Garden Christmas lights is London’s biggest hand-picked Christmas tree, which this year tops out at a whopping 60 feet tall! ?
Find out everything about Convent Garden Christmas here.
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