What’s on in London in January 2027?
- Seasonal highlights include the New Year’s Day Parade (1 January), Burns Night (25 January) and London Short Film Festival (22 to 31 January).
- Secure your seats for the top West End shows in January including Disney's The Lion King, Wicked and Matilda.
- Explore must-visit London attractions such as the London Eye, Westminster Abbey, Kew Gardens, and Kensington Palace.
- Find the best things to do in London this January while you’re on the go with the Visit London app.
Sponsored by Stranger Things: The First Shadow
Stranger Things: The First Shadow
See the thrilling prequel to the Netflix hit, brought to life on stage by an award-winning creative team who take theatrical storytelling to a whole new dimension.
While the festivities might be officially over, there are still plenty of exciting seasonal things to do in London in January. From blockbuster exhibitions to era-defining West End productions, the capital is buzzing with cultural delights.
January is a fantastic time to discover London’s top attractions with fewer crowds and more affordable prices. Standouts like St Paul’s Cathedral, Tower of London and the London Eye can even be enjoyed from the comfort of a sparkling night-time bus tour.
Be sure to check out our family-friendly activities and weekend roundup for even more inspiration. Planning ahead? Explore month-by-month guides to see what’s happening in London in 2027 and bookmark our special events calendar to make the most of your visit.
We update this page regularly, so check back soon for new blockbuster exhibitions, unmissable theatre shows and official lineups.
The best things to do in London in January 2027
1. Kick off 2027 at London’s New Year’s Day Parade
Dancers, acrobats and musicians are set to party through London’s streets on 1 January for the spectacular New Year’s Day Parade. Now in its 38th year, the parade starts outside the historic Ritz Hotel near Piccadilly Circus around midday, before cutting through Trafalgar Square and Whitehall, and concluding at Westminster. The route stretches two miles through the city and lasts around three hours, and its free for everyone to enjoy. You might see vintage wheels from London & Surrey Mini Owners Club, the Kimbanguist Brass Band and London School of Samba skirt past you.
Discover more New Year’s Day activities and get full parade details.
2. Discover rising stars of cinema at London Short Film Festival
The 24th edition of London Short Film Festival launches the capital’s 2027 cultural calendar. Showing more than 200 new shorts across 60 carefully curated programmes, the festival is set to take over various key venues in the capital including BFI Southbank, SET Peckham and Rio Cinema. While the official lineup is yet to be announced, last year's festival saw new works by renowned filmmakers Andrea Luka Zimmerman and John Smith, as well as a powerful collection of archival shorts exploring the trans-feminine experience in the 1970s. Expect a thrilling mix of talks, workshops and walking tours to coincide with the festival (22 to 31 January).
Check back soon for the official 2027 lineup.
3. Climb aboard a magical Christmas lights open-top bus tour
Soak in London’s top sights on this 90-minute guided bus tour through the capital’s festive streets. Departing from central locations including the London Eye and Green Park, the tour takes you past dazzling light displays such as Regent Street’s sparkling angels, Trafalgar Square’s Christmas tree and Tower Bridge – all while an expert guide shares fascinating facts about London’s history. Book your seats for the Christmas lights tour and choose between lower- or upper-deck seating – we recommend the top deck (weather permitting) for the best views. Until 3 January
Secure tickets for the Total London Experience and soak in London’s most spectacular sights on a panoramic day tour of the capital. Travel in comfort aboard a luxury coach as you discover the city’s top landmarks – from Sir Christopher Wren’s architectural masterpiece St Paul’s Cathedral to the Unesco-protected Tower of London. Witness the world-renowned Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace, marvel at the Crown Jewels and enjoy a scenic river cruise along the Thames. 4. Check out the best city with the Total London Experience
5. Carve out time to tour St Paul's Cathedral
St Paul’s Cathedral is one of the most famous landmarks on London's skyline, admired from various vantage points in the city and beyond. The majestic dome – designed by Sir Christopher Wren in 1710 – stands a staggering 364ft high. Book your tickets for St Paul’s Cathedral and see monuments to historic British figures like explorer Robert Scott and the painter JMW Turner, as well as renowned artworks such as William Holman Hunt’s The Light of the World (1854). In the crypt, you’ll find tombs and memorials for Admiral Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington. Be sure to visit the Stone and Golden Galleries to enjoy sweeping views across London.
6. Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea while touring the city
Step aboard a historic double-decker bus and savour a traditional afternoon tea while cruising past the city’s biggest landmarks including King Charles III’s official residence – Buckingham Palace – as well as Big Ben and the Tower of London. Book your tickets for the afternoon tea bus and be welcomed on board with a glass of prosecco before indulging in a selection of finger sandwiches such as cucumber and cream cheese, egg and cress and smoked salmon with lemon. Finish it off with freshly baked scones and delicious pastries and cakes, and a side serving of showstopping skyline views. The tour departs near Victoria Station on Buckingham Palace Road and lasts around 90 minutes – the best seats are at the front of the upper deck.
7. Meet the stars at world-famous Madame Tussauds
Come face-to-face with more than 150 famous figures across three immersive floors at this legendary wax museum in Marylebone. Walk the red carpet with A-listers, sing alongside superstars like Elton John, Michael Jackson and Taylor Swift, or meet Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla in The Royal Palace experience. Little ones will love meeting their favourite heroes in the Marvel Hall of Heroes, while teens can uncover London’s history on the Spirit of London ride. Seeking something a little more frightening? Don’t miss the spine-chilling Chamber of Horrors exhibition, where some of the capital’s darkest crimes are revealed.
8. Witness Canary Wharf's Winter Lights Festival
Canary Wharf’s spectacular Winter Lights festival returns this month for its landmark 11th edition (dates TBC). In 2027, visitors can expect 16 installations from a brilliant mix of artists and studios across the world. The official programme is yet to be revealed, but last year's festival featured a solar-system-inspired piece 'Sol' by Latvia-based artist Janis Petersons and an eye-popping, wave-like feature 'Amplititudes' by Bristol's Limbic Cinema. The event is free to attend and lights up each evening from 5pm to 10pm. Along the route, you’ll also find pop-up food stalls serving everything from Mexican street food and spice-packed Indian bites to creative plant-based dishes.
Check back soon for the 2027 lineup.
9. Take a tour of the Tower of London
Uncover nearly 1,000 years of history at the Tower of London, one of the world’s most famous fortresses. Explore its past as royal palace, prison and even a zoo, and marvel at the Crown Jewels, made up of more than 23,000 precious stones. Book your tickets for the Tower of London and visit the White Tower to see historic armour, discover spine-chilling tales in the Bloody Tower, and learn about the Tower’s role in royal ceremonies and coin-making. Meet the Yeoman Warders, spot the legendary ravens and experience centuries of fascinating history at this Unseco-protected site.
10. Adventure to Paris on a magical day trip
Board the Eurostar at London’s St Pancras for an unforgettable day in Paris. On this full-day escorted tour, you’ll glide past landmarks like the Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe on a panoramic bus ride, climb 674 steps (or take the lift) to the Eiffel Tower’s second floor for breathtaking city views, and explore Notre Dame Cathedral with a guided tour of its stunning Gothic architecture. Marvel at da Vinci’s Mona Lisa at the Louvre (except Tuesdays, when you enjoy a scenic Seine river cruise instead), all with skip-the-line access and expert commentary.
With reserved Eurostar seats and a knowledgeable guide, this whirlwind Paris adventure packs the very best of the French capital into one unforgettable day – don’t miss out, book your tickets today!
11. Embrace winter in London's parks and green spaces
Nothing says kickstarting the New Year like burning off those mince pies with a stroll (or run) through one of London’s gorgeous parks and green spaces. Greenwich Park and Hampstead Heath deliver with their showstopping skyline views, while Richmond Park offers a peaceful alternative with its herds of deer and open grassland. In central London, St James’s Park – the oldest of the capital’s Royal Parks – is a great spot to refuel between sightseeing at nearby attractions like Westminster Abbey, the Churchill War Rooms and Buckingham Palace. Kew Gardens is another excellent option with its impressive glasshouses, treetop walkway and themed gardens.
12. Celebrate Burns Night in London
Honour the spirit of Scotland on 25 January as London raises a glass to the nation’s beloved poet Robert Burns. In 2027, the festivities mark 268 years of celebrating the Bard with whisky, poetry and plenty of Scottish flair. Expect a feast of events across the capital, from the Gladwin Brothers’ legendary Burns Night at Sussex Soho – complete with whisky cocktails, hearty Highland fare and a live bagpiper – to The Wolseley’s stylish supper showcasing classic dishes and cocktails inspired by Burns himself. For a contemporary twist, Carousel in Fitzrovia serves inventive Scottish cuisine from its-ever changing lineup of guest chefs. Discover more ways to toast the Bard in our guide to the best Burns Night celebrations across London.
13. Plan a memorable family day out in London this January
Treat the kids this month to an action-packed day out in the capital. Head to SEA Life London Aquarium and discover the magnificent marine world with more than 500 species across 14 themed zones. Visit the nearby Paddington Bear Experience – also located on the South Bank – where fans of the films can explore interactive sets and meet characters inspired by the stories. If your little one is obsessed with all things transport, the London Transport Museum is your go-to with its vintage buses and taxis, and boundary-breaking designs such as the first-ever Tube map.
Uncover more unmissable things to do with kids including family-friendly theatre.
14. Shop for new art at the London Art Fair
Head to the Business Design Centre in Islington for the London Art Fair and uncover showstopping artworks from a brilliant lineup of galleries from around the world (20 to 24 January). The programme features works by Tracey Emin, Francis Bacon and Barbara Hepworth, while an exciting new collaboration with the National Trust presents an exhibition of surrealist and post-war works. Various talks will also take place throughout the fair, discussing topics on art investment and how to build an art collection. Visitors can also explore the guest-curated presentation that champions emerging artists and fosters conversation around a unifying theme.
Check back soon for the official 2027 lineup.
Less than an hour from London, the historic town of Windsor is home to one of the oldest castles in the world – recognised as the favourite weekend residence of the King and former home to 40 monarchs. Book this scenic afternoon tour from London and enjoy return transportation by luxury coach, step inside the lavish State Apartments and admire artworks from famous artists like Rembrandt and Leonardo da Vinci. Take time to explore St George’s Chapel, the final resting place of the late Queen Elizabeth II and Henry VIII. 15. Book an afternoon tour to the historic town of Windsor
16. Pick up a London Pass to save on top attractions
Unlock the best of the capital with The London Pass – a digital sightseeing pass that gives you access to more than 100 attractions, tours and experiences across the city. Whether you’re here for a short stay or an extended visit, you can choose from flexible passes lasting one, two, three, four, five, six, seven or 10 consecutive days. Simply download the pass to your smartphone and enjoy hassle-free access to landmarks such as Westminster Abbey, Kew Gardens, Hampton Court Palace and Windsor Castle.
17. Reserve a table at one of London's greenest restaurants this Veganuary
Giving a plant-based diet a go this month? There are plenty of vegan venues in London that deliver the goods. Holy Carrot in Notting Hill is known for its seasonal plates and low-waste ethos, with standout dips like smoked cashew cream and grilled bakery focaccia often gracing the menu alongside smoked tofu and artichoke schnitzel. Elsewhere, Mildred’s has five locations in London including Covent Garden and Kings Cross. Make it your choice for shiitake tempeh noodles, Korean fried chicken burgers and an exceptionally good white chocolate tiramisu. Don’t miss our guide to London’s vegan restaurants for more inspiration.
18. Watch Andrew Llyod Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera
What better show to kick off your first West End experience of 2027 than one of London’s longest-running musicals? Based on Gaston Leroux’s gothic novel, follow the story of a mysterious masked figure haunting the Paris Opera House and his obsessive love for young soprano Christine Daaé. As he guides her to stardom, his possessiveness turns dangerous. Book your tickets for Phantom of the Opera and be wowed by a rotating stage, grand staircase and a descending chandelier.
Explore more of the top musicals in London’s West End.
You may also like:
- Experience the record-breaking phenomenon Hamilton at Victoria Palace Theatre, a feel-good musical celebrating resilience and determination.
- See London’s top sights on a scenic afternoon tea cruise along the Thames, as you savour sandwiches, scones and views of the London Eye, The Shard and Big Ben.
- Step into London’s royal history at Kensington Palace – the birthplace of Queen Victoria – and wander through the lavish King’s State Apartments and the sparkling Jewel Room.
- Follow the heartwarming adventures of Simba in The Lion King musical, renowned for its showstopping set design and breathtaking score.
More to know about London in January
What is the weather like in London in January?
London in January is generally cold and wet, though it is often slightly milder than many other cities in the UK. Average temperatures range from around 2C (36F) to around 7C (45F), so be sure to wrap up warm. Don’t forget to pack an umbrella or raincoat, as rain is likely!
For average seasonal temperatures and rainfall, see this London weather page.
Is it worth visiting London in January?
Christmas may be over, but there are still plenty of fun things to do in London throughout January. It’s one of the quietest times to visit the capital, so it can be perfect if you prefer to avoid the hustle and bustle of the festive period. It is often cheaper, too, making it a good choice for a holiday on a budget.
January is a great time to take a relaxed wander around many of London’s free museums and to get cosy in one of London’s many traditional pubs.
