Top 10 Things to do in London in December

Things to do in London in December

December is perhaps the most magical time to visit London. The city transforms into a winter wonderland, with twinkling lights, festive markets and a palpable sense of excitement in the air. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming deciding how to spend your time. But fear not – we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 things to do in London in December that are sure to get you into the holiday spirit! From ice skating on historic rinks to exploring Christmas markets and attending carol concerts, there’s something for everyone on this festive itinerary. So wrap up warm, grab a hot chocolate and let’s explore all that London has to offer during this magical season!

1. Christmas in London

Christmas in London is a truly special time of year. The city comes alive with festive cheer, and there’s no shortage of things to see and do. From the stunning lights on Oxford Street to the giant Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square, London oozes holiday magic. One must-do activity during Christmas in London is attending a traditional carol service at one of the city’s historic churches or cathedrals. St Paul’s Cathedral and Westminster Abbey are particularly popular choices for their beautiful architecture and world-famous choirs.

Another highlight of the season is visiting some of London’s iconic department stores, such as Harrods, Selfridges or Fortnum & Mason. These stores go all out with their extravagant window displays and luxurious decorations that will leave you feeling like you’ve stepped into a real-life winter wonderland. And let’s not forget about indulging in seasonal treats! From mince pies to mulled wine, there are plenty of delicious treats to try during Christmas in London. Whether it be at Borough Market or Covent Garden Market- these places offer tasty Christmas food offerings that will make your taste buds dance! Experiencing Christmas in London should definitely be on everyone’s bucket list!

2. Winter Wonderland

Winter Wonderland is a magical experience that takes place in London’s Hyde Park during the month of December. It is one of the top things to do in London during this time of year. The park transforms into a winter wonderland with festive lights, ice sculptures and Christmas markets. There are plenty of activities for all ages at Winter Wonderland, including fairground rides, ice skating, and live shows. One popular attraction is the giant observation wheel which gives you stunning views across London’s skyline.

Foodies will love exploring the various food stalls offering traditional German delicacies such as bratwursts and mulled wine. There are also plenty of sweet treats on offer like churros and hot chocolate. For those seeking something more adrenaline-fueled, there are rollercoasters and themed bars where you can enjoy festive cocktails while soaking up the atmosphere. Winter Wonderland is a must-visit for anyone looking to get into the festive spirit while visiting London in December.

3. Christmas market

One of the best things to do in London during December is visiting the Christmas markets. There are several markets throughout the city, each with its unique atmosphere and offerings. The Southbank Centre’s Winter Market is a popular destination that offers visitors access to dozens of vendors selling festive gifts and treats. The market also features an outdoor bar with stunning views of the River Thames, perfect for enjoying a warm drink on a chilly night. Covent Garden’s market boasts handmade crafts and artisanal foods from local vendors, while Leicester Square’s Traditional Christmas Market has everything from mulled wine to handcrafted ornaments.

Other notable markets include Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland, which features rides, attractions, and stalls selling food and gifts. Meanwhile, Greenwich Market transforms into a winter wonderland offering live music performances alongside festive shopping options. Visiting these bustling markets is sure to get you in the holiday spirit while giving you plenty of opportunities for gift shopping or simply indulging in seasonal treats.

4. Take A Tour At Warner Bros Studio

If you’re a Harry Potter fan, then taking a tour at the Warner Bros Studio is definitely one of the top things to do in London during December. Located just outside of London, this studio offers visitors an incredible behind-the-scenes look into the making of all eight Harry Potter movies. As soon as you arrive, you’ll be greeted by famous movie props and sets like Platform 9¾ and The Great Hall. You can also explore Diagon Alley and see how they created special effects for creatures like Dobby and Buckbeak.

One of the highlights of this tour is getting to see Hogwarts castle up close. The amount of detail that went into building it is truly mesmerizing! You’ll even get to experience some magical moments yourself, such as riding on a broomstick in front of a green screen or tasting Butterbeer at the Backlot Cafe. And don’t forget about Christmas! During December, Hogwarts in Snow will take place where visitors can marvel at snow-covered sets including The Great Hall decorated for Christmas dinner with flaming Xmas puddings! Taking a tour at Warner Bros Studio is an unforgettable experience that will leave any Harry Potter fan feeling enchanted.

5. Christmas at Kews

Looking for a unique and unforgettable way to experience the holiday season in London? Look no further than Christmas at Kews, an annual event held at the Royal Botanic Gardens. As soon as you enter the gardens, you’ll be transported into a winter wonderland complete with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and even an outdoor ice rink. Take a stroll through the illuminated trail and admire stunning light displays that are sure to dazzle visitors of all ages.

But it’s not just about admiring the sights – there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained throughout your visit. Kids will love meeting Santa Claus himself in his grotto while adults can indulge in delicious mulled wine or hot chocolate from one of the many food stalls. And don’t forget to check out some of Kew Gardens’ iconic attractions like The Hive or The Treetop Walkway which offer breath taking views over London. It’s truly a magical experience that shouldn’t be missed by anyone visiting London during December!

6. Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace is an iconic attraction for history and architecture enthusiasts. The palace was once home to King Henry VIII, and its stunning Tudor architecture can still be admired today. Visitors can take a tour of the palace’s State Apartments, which showcase the opulence of royal living during King Henry’s reign. The Tudor kitchens are also a popular attraction, offering a glimpse into how meals were prepared in medieval times.

One of the most impressive features of Hampton Court Palace is its vast gardens. Visitors can explore the Great Vine, one of the world’s largest grapevines, or stroll through the immaculately kept Privy Garden. The famous maze at Hampton Court Palace is also worth checking out. With over half a mile of winding paths and high hedges, it’s sure to be a fun challenge for visitors young and old.

Additionally, there are often special events held at Hampton Court Palace during December such as Christmas markets that offer unique shopping experiences with festive trinkets or locally made gifts. Visiting Hampton Court Palace offers an unforgettable glimpse into England’s regal past while providing numerous attractions to keep any visitor entertained throughout their visit!

7. London theatre shows

London theatre shows are a must-see during December. The city has an abundance of plays, musicals and pantomimes to choose from. Head over to the West End for the best selection of shows. One popular show is “The Lion King”. This classic Disney tale comes to life with incredible costumes and performances that will leave you in awe. If you’re looking for something more festive, check out “A Christmas Carol” at The Old Vic Theatre. This timeless holiday story gets a modern twist in this production that’s perfect for all ages.

For those who enjoy musicals, don’t miss “Mary Poppins” at the Prince Edward Theatre. With catchy tunes and stunning choreography, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. If you want some laughs, go see “The Play That Goes Wrong”. This hilarious comedy about a disastrous play gone wrong is sure to have you rolling in your seat! No matter what type of theatre experience you’re looking for, London has it all during December. Be sure to book your tickets early as they tend to sell out fast!

8. Christmas carol concert

One of the most enchanting things to do in London during December is attending a Christmas carol concert. The city boasts several beautiful venues, including Westminster Abbey and St. Paul’s Cathedral, which host traditional carol services that are free for visitors to attend. The atmosphere at these concerts is truly magical, as voices soar through the grand halls of these historic buildings while candlelight flickers around you. It’s an experience that will leave you feeling uplifted and filled with festive spirit.

If you’re looking for something more contemporary, there are also plenty of pop-up concerts throughout the city featuring modern interpretations of classic carols or original compositions inspired by the holiday season. Whether you prefer classical or contemporary music, attending a Christmas carol concert in London is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed. So wrap up warm and head out into the crisp winter air to enjoy one of these wonderful events!

9. Ice rinks

London in December is a winter wonderland, and one of the best ways to embrace the festive spirit is by gliding across an ice rink. Whether you’re an experienced skater or a beginner, there are plenty of options to choose from. One of the most popular spots is Somerset House Ice Rink. This stunning courtyard transforms into a magical skating arena every winter, complete with twinkling lights and seasonal music. Another iconic location for skating enthusiasts is the Natural History Museum Ice Rink at South Kensington.

For those looking for something more unique, head to Skylight’s Rooftop Ice Rink located atop Tobacco Dock in East London. Here, visitors can skate under the stars while enjoying panoramic views of London’s skyline. But if traditional outdoor rinks aren’t your thing, why not try Queens Skate Dine Bowl? Located in West London’s Bayswater neighborhood, this indoor venue boasts two ice rinks alongside retro bowling lanes and delicious street food stalls. No matter which option you choose – whether it be classic or contemporary – skating on one of London’s many ice rinks will undoubtedly leave you feeling merry and bright this holiday season!

10. Southbank Centres

The Southbank Centre is a London cultural institution, located on the south bank of the River Thames. It is home to several venues and attractions, including the Royal Festival Hall, Queen Elizabeth Hall and Hayward Gallery. The centre offers an array of art exhibitions, music concerts, theatre performances and other events, as well as cafes and restaurants. It also has an extensive library, with over 200,000 items ranging from books to CDs and DVDs. The centre also hosts a number of festivals throughout the year, such as Meltdown in June and Alchemy in May.

In summary, London is a magical place to be in December. From Winter Wonderland and Christmas markets to theatre shows and carol concerts, there’s plenty of festive activities for everyone to enjoy. The Warner Bros Studio tour offers something different and unique for film fans while Kew Gardens and Hampton Court Palace provide historical beauty combined with the spirit of Christmas.