The best attractions and events in London this Christmas
Published
22 March, 2024
Edited
26 March, 2024
Planning a visit to London while the city’s festivities are in full swing? There’s more than just mulled wine and mince pies to make the most of here - although they do happen to make the perfect accompaniment to many of London’s festive attractions.
Whether your idea of fun is strolling through a bustling market or sipping champagne above the sparkling city lights in a private London Eye pod, there's so much to experience during November and December. To help you discover the best things to do in London at Christmas, we’ve put together a guide to all our favourite attractions and events taking place across the city this year.
Immerse yourself in London’s Winter Wonderland
Immerse yourself in London’s Winter Wonderland
Hyde Park transforms into the go-to destination for all things festive with the city’s annual Winter Wonderland event. Picture yourself gliding gracefully across the ice rink or tackling the winter chill with a mug of mulled wine amidst the twinkling lights of its authentic Bavarian Village. Elsewhere, you’ll find award-winning circus shows and a dizzying array of street market stalls brimming with handmade crafts and scrumptious street food.
Enjoy a private tour of the city’s most illuminated streets
Enjoy a private tour of the city’s most illuminated streets
Embark on a journey through London's illuminated streets with a chauffeur-driven Christmas light tour of the city, starting from your front door. From Oxford Street to Trafalgar Square, you can marvel at the opulent displays adorning iconic landmarks and neighbourhoods while enjoying the warmth and comfort of a private luxury vehicle.
Discover the rich history of the Tower of London
Discover the rich history of the Tower of London
Uncover the city’s past at the Tower of London, where history intertwines with festive splendour. Opt for a private evening tour and you’ll be escorted up to the vault by one of the tower’s Yeoman Warders, where you can get an exclusive glimpse of the Crown Jewels without the usual crowds - as well as access to usually out-of-bounds areas in this imposing royal fortress.
Take a stroll through a traditional Christmas market
Take a stroll through a traditional Christmas market
Artisanal delights and culinary treasures await at London’s famed Christmas markets. With twinkling lights, the sound of carols, and the scent of sizzling food in the air, there’s no better way to get yourself into the festive spirit than a visit to one of the city’s bustling markets. Indulge your palate across an array of seasonal delicacies at the likes of the annual Covent Garden and Southbank Markets.
Find some solace in St Paul’s Cathedral at Christmas
Find some solace in St Paul’s Cathedral at Christmas
Amidst the festive fervour, you can always seek solace within the serenity of St Paul's Cathedral. The cathedral’s impressive exterior is easily one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks, but you’ll be blown away by the magnificence of its gold-gilded interior - especially when it becomes illuminated by the warm glow of its huge Christmas trees. Throughout December, the cathedral is host to a series of spectacular carol performances from world-famous acts and special guests.
See the sparkling sights from above on the London Eye
See the sparkling sights from above on the London Eye
Soar above all the festivities with an evening on the London Eye at Christmas. As dusk descends, witness the skyline aglow with a myriad of sparkling lights, from the dazzling lights of the South Bank to the glow of Christmas lights reflecting on the Thames. To make the evening extra special, you can even opt for a private pod and indulge in a glass of champagne while soaking up those glittering panoramic views.
Stare at the splendour of Trafalgar Square’s Christmas tree
Stare at the splendour of Trafalgar Square’s Christmas tree
Make your way to Trafalgar Square, where the annual tree lighting event marks the beginning of the festive season in grandeur. A long-standing tradition since 1947, the enormous Christmas tree is brought across the sea from Scandinavia every year - a gift from Norway as a token of gratitude for Britain’s support during World War II. Soaring over 25 metres high, you really can't miss it.
Book your festive London getaway
Book your festive London getaway
Embrace the allure of the capital's enchanting attractions and craft unforgettable memories amidst the buzzing atmosphere of London's festive charm this holiday season. We’re here to pair you with the perfect home; whether that’s a contemporary apartment in Covent Garden or a spacious townhouse in Notting Hill. Once you’ve found your match, we’ll help plan the ideal getaway - arranging everything from private tours to restaurant bookings in the city’s hottest dining spots.
Dreamy festive hideaways
Ashley Gardens
Nestled within a historic mansion block in the elegant neighbourhood of Belgravia, three-bedroom Ashley Gardens certainly knows how to stand out from the crowd.
Hyde Park Gate II
In between the Royal Albert Hall and Kensington Gardens, Hyde Park Gate II feels especially grand. Entering next to the cosy second sitting room, you’ll then come to the open-plan living area beneath it – decorated in red and gold, with many antiques.
Kinnerton Street
For its central London location, Kinnerton Street feels more like a refined country bolthole than a city pad. Step away from the urban shriek and down a narrow lane, then it’s through the front door to a home of caramel and cream, to wood panels, soft light and cuddly textiles.