Top 10 Christmas Things to do in London
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Christmas Things to do in London
The festive season is just around the corner, and London is getting ready to celebrate Christmas in grand style. With so much happening across the city, it can be hard to decide what to do first. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the top 10 Christmas things to do in London that will make your holiday season truly magical! From winter wonderlands to cosy igloos, ice skating rinks and enchanting light displays – there’s something for everyone. So grab your scarf, hat and gloves and let’s dive into our exciting list of what you absolutely must add to your itinerary this Christmas!
1. Festive at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is an annual event that takes place in the heart of London during Christmas. The festive spirit comes alive with a variety of attractions, including ice skating rinks, fairground rides, live music performances and incredible food stalls. The park transforms into a magical winter wonderland that’s perfect for families and friends to enjoy together. You can take in the sights on one of the giant Ferris wheels or get your adrenaline pumping on some of the thrilling rollercoaster rides.
There are plenty of opportunities to indulge in tasty treats too – from traditional bratwursts and mulled wine to luxurious hot chocolate and sweet treats like waffles and churros. Be sure to check out the Magical Ice Kingdom where you’ll see stunning ice sculptures carved by talented artists who transform ordinary blocks of ice into mesmerizing works of art. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is an unforgettable experience that’s not to be missed if you’re visiting London this holiday season!
2. Wander around Kew Gardens
Kew Gardens has always been one of the most popular tourist attractions in London, and during Christmas time, it becomes even more enchanting. The gardens are decorated with sparkling lights and festive decorations that add to the magical atmosphere. Visitors can wander around Kew’s beautiful botanical gardens, which offer a stunning display of seasonal plants and flowers. You can see sprigs of holly and mistletoe as you explore the various sections of the garden.
One thing not to be missed is the Palm House, where tropical trees create a green oasis amidst winter weather. Inside this Victorian glasshouse, visitors will find exotic palms towering above their heads while discovering rare species from all over the world. For those who love nature walks, there is no better place than Kew Gardens during Christmas time. The crisp air combined with tranquillity makes for an unforgettable experience guaranteed to leave any nature lover refreshed and invigorated. If you’re looking for something different this festive season in London, then head on down to Kew Gardens! It’s perfect for families or couples alike – just wrap up warm before heading out into this winter wonderland!
3. Eat at 34 Mayfair
If you’re looking for a luxurious dining experience this Christmas season, then look no further than 34 Mayfair. This exclusive restaurant is located in the heart of Mayfair and offers an exquisite menu that will tantalize your taste buds. The décor at 34 Mayfair is classic and elegant with plush leather seating and wood panelling lining the walls. The atmosphere is intimate, making it perfect for a romantic dinner or celebratory meal with family and friends.
Their Christmas menu features traditional British dishes with a modern twist, such as roasted Norfolk Bronze turkey with all the trimmings, followed by decadent desserts like chocolate fondant pudding or figgy pudding tart. But what makes 34 Mayfair stand out from other high-end restaurants in London is their exceptional service. From the moment you walk through the doors to when you leave, every member of staff goes above and beyond to ensure that your dining experience is unforgettable. So if you want to indulge in some fine cuisine this festive season while being treated like royalty, make sure to book a table at 34 Mayfair – it’s definitely worth it!
4. Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square is one of London’s most iconic tourist destinations, especially during the Christmas season. The square highlights an enormous Christmas tree each year that is donated by Norway as a thank you for Britain’s help in World War II. This grand tree stands tall and beautiful, covered in thousands of sparkling lights. Apart from the tree, Trafalgar Square provides plenty more to look at with its impressive architecture and statues honouring important historical figures like Admiral Nelson. There are plenty of benches to sit on while taking in the atmosphere or enjoying some street performances.
During Christmas time, Trafalgar Square also serves as a venue for carol singing sessions where people can gather around the base of the Norwegian Christmas Tree and sing along with choirs leading traditional holiday songs. If you want to witness something spectacular this festive season then Trafalgar Square should be your go-to destination. It promises a unique experience filled with great sights along with a sense of history and culture right at the heart of London city!
5. Fill Your Eyes With Christmas Lights
As soon as the sun goes down, London transforms into a winter wonderland with magical lights and decorations spreading throughout the city. During Christmas time, there are plenty of places to marvel at festive illuminations and fill your eyes with Christmas lights. One of the most famous spots in London to see stunning light displays is Oxford Street. Every year, this shopping haven gets covered in millions of twinkling bulbs that stretch for miles. It’s guaranteed to make you feel festive as you shop or stroll along the street.
For a more immersive experience, head over to Kew Gardens where you can enjoy an enchanting walk-through illuminated gardens filled with glowing flowers and trees. You’ll also find vintage fairground rides and mouth-watering food stalls perfect for warming up after your walk. If you want something truly unique, take a trip on one of London’s many Christmas-themed bus tours. These buses are decked out in dazzling lights inside and out, taking you on a tour around some of the most spectacular light displays in town. Ultimately, there is no better way to get into the Christmas spirit than by admiring all the sparkling lights shining bright across London’s streets during this festive season!
6. Explore The Hogwarts In The Snow
If you’re a Harry Potter fan, then exploring Hogwarts in the Snow is an absolute must-do this Christmas. Located at Warner Bros Studio Tour London, this magical experience brings to life the iconic sets used in all of the Harry Potter films. Step inside the Great Hall and marvel at its enchanting decorations, including towering Christmas trees and snow-covered tables. You’ll also get to see other classic sets like Dumbledore’s office and Gryffindor common room all decked out for the holiday season.
But that’s not all – visitors can actually touch real snow on their journey through Hogsmeade Village! Take a stroll down Diagon Alley as well; it has been transformed into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights lining each storefront. Don’t forget to admire the intricate details of the costumes too; they are truly stunning up close. And if you’re feeling peckish after your adventure, grab some Butterbeer or hot chocolate from one of several vendors scattered throughout Hogwarts in the Snow.
7. Best Christmas Party in Blues Kitchen
Blues Kitchen is one of the most popular live music venues in London, and it’s also an excellent place to celebrate Christmas. The venue has a reputation for throwing some of the best festive parties in town, attracting crowds from all over the city. The atmosphere at Blues Kitchen is electric during Christmas, with live bands playing a mix of blues and soul music that will keep you dancing all night long. The bar serves up delicious cocktails and craft beers that are perfect for getting you into the festive spirit.
The venue is decorated beautifully with twinkling lights and tinsel, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes it feel like you’re celebrating Christmas with your closest friends. Whether you’re looking for a wild party or something more laid back, Blues Kitchen caters to all tastes. If you want to experience one of the best Christmas parties in London this year, head down to Blues Kitchen. With its fantastic live music acts, great drinks selection and lively atmosphere, it’s sure to be a night to remember!
8. Glide around an atmospheric ice rink
One of the most iconic Christmas activities in London has to be ice skating. There’s something magical about gliding around an atmospheric ice rink with stunning views and festive music playing in the background. Fortunately, there are plenty of places to skate in this vibrant city. One such place is Somerset House Ice Rink, which offers a picturesque backdrop for your skating experience. The rink is set against the neoclassical splendor of Somerset House – one of London’s most beautiful buildings.
Another popular spot for ice skating during Christmas time is at the Natural History Museum Ice Rink. This enchanting location offers fantastic views of Alfred Waterhouse’s building as you glide across its glistening surface. If you’re looking for a more unusual ice-skating experience, check out Skylight Rooftop Skating – situated atop Tobacco Dock car park! Here you can take a spin on their beautifully illuminated rooftop rink while enjoying tasty winter cocktails and delicious street food. Whether you’re an experienced skater or just starting out, it’s impossible not to enjoy this quintessential winter activity in London – so grab some friends or family members and head over to one of these incredible venues today!
9. Warm up in a cosy winter igloo
Winter igloos are the perfect place to cozy up and escape the cold weather while still enjoying all things festive. These warm, intimate structures can be found across London during the holiday season, offering a unique and unforgettable experience. The winter igloos are often decorated with twinkling lights and seasonal decor, creating a magical atmosphere that is sure to put you in the Christmas spirit. Inside, you’ll typically find plush seating arrangements along with blankets to keep you snug and comfortable.
Many of these igloos also offer delicious food and drinks menus featuring warming delights like hot chocolate or mulled wine – making them an ideal spot for a romantic date night or fun catch-up with friends. Whether you’re looking for an evening out or just searching for ways to make your holidays more special this year, spending time in one of London’s winter igloos is definitely worth considering. So why not grab some friends or loved ones, wrap up warm and head out into town? You won’t regret it!
10. Settle down for a festive film
Some great festive films to settle down for include: Elf (2003), Home Alone (1990), How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966), Love Actually (2003), The Santa Clause (1994), Miracle on 34th Street (1994), The Polar Express (2004). Happy watching!
So there you have it, our top 10 Christmas things to do in London. From festive wonderlands and picturesque gardens to ice skating rinks and cosy winter igloos, we hope we’ve given you plenty of inspiration for your holiday season. And what better way to end a day full of Christmas cheer than by settling down with some popcorn and enjoying a festive film? London boasts some beautiful cinemas that are the perfect place to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing and shopping. From classic flicks like It’s A Wonderful Life at The Prince Charles Cinema to modern Christmas hits like Elf at Rooftop Film Club, there’s something for everyone.