10 Festive Things to Do in London in December
London in December is pure magic. The city sparkles with lights, Christmas music fills the air, and the smell of roasted chestnuts drifts through the streets. Whether you’re planning your first winter visit or returning for another dose of holiday cheer, there’s no shortage of festive things to do in London in December. From dazzling light displays to cozy afternoon teas, here are 10 unmissable experiences to make your trip unforgettable.
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1. Experience the Magic of Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
No Christmas trip to London is complete without visiting Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, the city’s biggest festive celebration. This sprawling event combines everything you could wish for — a Christmas market, carnival rides, ice sculptures, a circus, live music, and endless food and drink stalls. Wander through twinkling lights with a cup of mulled wine, take a spin on the giant observation wheel, or skate hand in hand at the UK’s largest outdoor ice rink. It’s pure Christmas joy in the heart of London.
2. Go Ice Skating at Iconic London Landmarks
December transforms London into an open-air skating paradise. Glide beneath the stunning neoclassical architecture of Somerset House, one of the city’s most beloved seasonal rinks, or skate beside the Natural History Museum’s glowing façade. Other pop-up ice rinks appear at places like Canary Wharf and Battersea Power Station, offering breathtaking views as you twirl through the frost. Don’t forget to warm up with hot chocolate afterward!
3. See London’s Spectacular Christmas Lights
London’s Christmas lights are a must-see during December. Oxford Street, Regent Street, Bond Street, and Carnaby Street burst into glittering life, each with its own themed decorations. Covent Garden’s giant tree and sparkling baubles add to the festive wonder, while the beautifully lit arcades of Piccadilly and Mayfair make evening strolls even more enchanting. For an extra treat, hop on a Christmas lights bus tour for panoramic views of the city aglow.
4. Explore London’s Christmas Markets
If you’re looking for gifts or simply love the scent of cinnamon and pine, London’s Christmas markets will steal your heart. The Southbank Centre Winter Market offers riverside stalls selling handmade crafts, gourmet treats, and festive drinks. Meanwhile, Winter by the River at London Bridge combines magical views of Tower Bridge with cozy wooden chalets and live entertainment. Covent Garden and Spitalfields also host markets perfect for last-minute presents.
Read also: Top 10 Free Things To Do in London
5. Attend a Christmas Concert or Carol Service
For a moment of pure festive serenity, attend a concert or carol service at one of London’s historic venues. Begin your evening in the hallowed halls of the Abbey, where the soaring voices of the cathedral choir fill the air with heartwarming carols beneath vaulted stone and candlelight. Then, continue with a driven tour that sweeps through some of London’s most prestigious shopping streets.
6. Indulge in a Festive Afternoon Tea
Few experiences feel more British than afternoon tea — and in December, it becomes extra special. London’s top hotels and tea rooms roll out festive menus featuring gingerbread scones, cranberry tarts, and spiced pastries. Try the The Milestone’s London Afternoon Tea for a touch of luxury, or the cozy Fortnum & Mason Tea Salon for traditional charm. It’s the perfect way to warm up after a chilly winter stroll.
7. Enjoy a West End Christmas Show
London’s West End shines brighter than ever in December. Beloved musicals like The Lion King, The Phantom of the Opera, and Hamilton fill the theatres, while traditional pantomimes bring laughter to families across the city. Expect outrageous humor, catchy songs, and audience participation — it’s a British Christmas tradition you won’t want to miss. Book early, as tickets sell out quickly during the holidays.
8. Visit Covent Garden at Christmas
Few places capture the festive spirit quite like Covent Garden. Its cobblestone piazza is decorated with giant baubles, twinkling mistletoe, and one of London’s tallest Christmas trees. Street performers and musicians fill the air with cheer, while luxury boutiques and cafés tempt shoppers with seasonal treats. Don’t forget to stop for a photo under the famous mistletoe chandeliers — it’s one of London’s most Instagrammable Christmas spots.
9. Sip Cocktails in a Festive Igloo or Themed Bar
London’s bar scene goes all-out for Christmas. Rooftop terraces turn into winter wonderlands, complete with private igloos, faux fur blankets, and skyline views. Try Coppa Club near Tower Bridge for riverside igloos or Skylight Tobacco Dock for ice skating and cocktails under the stars. Many pop-up bars, like Miracle at Henrietta or The Churchill Arms, are decked out floor to ceiling in tinsel and lights — perfect for a cozy night out.
10. Dine at a Festive Pop-Up or Immersive Dinner Show
London’s creativity shines through in its immersive dining experiences. Throughout December, you’ll find Christmas-themed pop-ups combining dinner, theatre, and music. From Dickens-inspired banquets to cabaret-style feasts, these unique events transform dining into a full-blown festive spectacle. They’re perfect for couples or groups wanting to celebrate the season in style.
Experience the Magic of London in December
From twinkling lights to cozy teas and joyful music, London in December is a city transformed by festive spirit. Whether you’re skating at Somerset House, singing carols in Westminster Abbey, or sipping champagne in an igloo by the Thames, every corner of the city offers something magical. So wrap up in your warmest coat, grab a mince pie, and let London’s holiday charm sweep you off your feet this Christmas.
