Things to experience when visiting London during Christmas
Christmas markets – such as Covent Garden and Oxford Street – as well as some of its lesser-known gems like Camden Market. And don’t forget about the Dickens Carol Fair at Trafalgar Square – one of London’s oldest annual events. In the meantime, make sure to warm up with a festive drink or two at one of the city’s many pubs and bars!

If you’re looking for a festive and culturally enriching experience this holiday season, look no further than London! The Christmas season is a magical time to visit the city, with plenty of events and attractions to enjoy. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best things to see and do in London during Christmas.

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London’s Christmas Market has something for everyone. The market is open from November 25th to January 7th and features over 150 stalls selling everything from traditional German Christmas fare to local artisan gifts. With temperatures dropping in the evenings, there is no better way to spend a cold winter evening than checking out London’s festive market!

Winter Wonderland

When visiting London during the winter, don’t miss out on the Winter Wonderland. This festive attraction is a must-see for anyone visiting London during Christmas. The Winter Wonderland features a variety of festive attractions, including a ice rink, a snowman village, and a gingerbread house. There’s also a variety of food and drink options available, making it the perfect place to spend a cold day.

 

Boxing Day

When it comes to festive traditions, few can rival Boxing Day in the UK. Families get-togethers are commonplace, while many places put on special discounts and offers in an effort to lure shoppers. While you’re in town, make sure to check out some of London’s most iconic Christmas markets – such as Covent Garden and Oxford Street – as well as some of its lesser-known gems like Camden Market. And don’t forget about the Dickens Carol Fair at Trafalgar Square – one of London’s oldest annual events. In the meantime, make sure to warm up with a festive drink or two at one of the city’s many pubs and bars!

The Thames

If you’re looking to add a little Christmas cheer to your London experience, there are plenty of things to do and see. Here are five ideas:

  1. Catch a performance of A Christmas Carol at the London Palladium.
  2. Take a festive walk along the Thames River.
  3. Attend a Christmas market in one of London’s many neighborhoods.
  4. Watch a festive light show at London’s famous Trafalgar Square.
  5. Get into the spirit of things by dressing up for a Christmas party!

Piccadilly Circus

When in London, don’t forget to visit Piccadilly Circus. This famous intersection is home to many shops and restaurants, as well as a giant Christmas tree.

Big Ben

Christmas markets

Big Ben is one of London’s most iconic landmarks, standing at 153 feet (46 meters) tall and weighing 33 tonnes. The bell was cast in 1857 and is made from bronze and copper. It can be heard all over London during the Christmas season, chiming every 15 minutes. The clock faces are also decorated with images of Christmas trees and presents.

Marketplaces in London are always a must-see during Christmas time. The Covent Garden market is probably the most well-known, but there are dozens of other markets around the city that offer everything from souvenirs to delicious food. Try Greenwich Market or Stoke Newington market if you’re looking for something a little more eclectic than the traditional red and green candy canes!

Ice skating

If you’re visiting London during Christmas, be sure to check out the festive atmosphere at Big Ben. And if you’re looking for a fun way to spend a cold winter evening, be sure to try ice skating at the London Eye.

Festive lights

Big Ben is one of London’s most recognizable landmarks and a must-see during your visit to the city. The bell itself is 29 meters (95 feet) high and weighs 1250 kilograms (2700 pounds). The tower houses a 11-meter (36-foot) clock mechanism weighing 5,000 kilograms (11,000 pounds). Unfortunately, you can’t actually climb up to the top of Big Ben – it’s strictly off limits for tourists. Instead, visitors can enjoy viewing the bell from different angles around the grounds or from below on Parliament Square. In December, the square is brightly lit with enormous figures of Christmas trees lining nearly every inch of space. Big Ben turns its lights on each night at 7:30pm in time for the arrival of Santa Claus.

Christmas carols

If you’re planning on visiting London during Christmas, it’s important to know some of the key attractions and experiences that are sure to make your holidays special. From shopping at iconic locations like Oxford Street and Regent Street to enjoying a festive feast in one of the city’s many fantastic restaurants, here are five things you should do while in London this winter season.

  1. Experience Piccadilly Circus during Christmas: One classic activity to do when visiting London is taking in all the festive cheer at the famous Piccadilly Circus. Not only will you find decked out shops and displays, but also seasonal performances by beloved characters such as Santa Clause and his reindeer. Whether or not you opt for a jolly old pantomime or a more lighthearted show, there’s no doubt that a visit to this iconic spot during Christmas will be a memorable experience.
  2. Hear Christmas carols in St. Paul’s Cathedral: One of the most famous places in London to celebrate Christmas is undoubtedly St. Paul’s Cathedral. Every year, on Christmas Eve, the cathedral hosts a special service called Carols at Christmas, during which choirs from all over London perform traditional carols. If you’re lucky enough to be in the city on Christmas Day, don’t miss the chance to attend the cathedral’s annual midnight service.
  3. Feast on traditional English food: If you’re looking for something special to eat while in London during Christmas, don’t forget about the city’s many traditional Christmas dishes. From roast goose to plum pudding, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And if you’re feeling particularly festive, why not try a traditional Christmas pudding?
  4. Shop till you drop: One of the best things about visiting London during Christmas is the opportunity to indulge in all of the city’s festive shopping. From designer clothes to unique ornaments, there’s something for everyone to buy during this special time of year. And if you’re feeling especially festive, why not try stocking up on some of London’s most famous Christmas gifts, like Christmas crackers or gingerbread houses?
  5. Take a walk through Regent’s Park: If you’re looking for a peaceful and relaxing way to spend your Christmas day, Regent’s Park is the perfect place to go. Not only is the park home to some of London’s most beautiful gardens, but it’s also a great place to take a walk and enjoy the Christmas season without the hustle and bustle of the city.

Buckingham Palace

If you’re looking to enjoy some Christmas fun without leaving the city, Buckingham Palace is an easy option. The palace is open from 10am-6pm from December 1st through 25th and admission is free for everyone under 16 years old. From there, it’s up to your own adventure! Visitors can explore the ornate halls and gardens, take a walk in the emperor penguin enclosure or see one of London’s famous Christmas fairs in various locations around the city (check out our guide to the best places to visit during Christmas here).

The palace grounds are also home to a range of festive festivities, including carriage rides through the grounds, nativity scenes and a tree lighting ceremony. So if you’re planning on spending some Christmases in London this year, be sure to check out Buckingham Palace – it’ll be something unforgettable!

There’s no doubt that London is a magical place to be during Christmas time. From the city’s iconic Christmas markets to its festive winter wonderlands, there’s plenty of holiday cheer to go around. And what could be more quintessentially British than celebrating Boxing Day? Whether you’re taking in the sights and sounds of the city or enjoying a traditional afternoon tea, London is sure to get you into the holiday spirit.