London never runs low on festive fun, with year-round venues transforming into cosy winter hideaways decked out with twinkling lights, kitsch Christmas decor and themed seasonal tipples.
Whether you're sipping cocktails in a heated igloo, marvelling at a festive exhibition, or getting delightfully competitive over a game of curling, these winter and Christmas pop-ups in London promise a generous dose of Christmas cheer to elevate your seasonal plans.
The best winter and Christmas pop-ups in London
The Chalet at Somerset House
Back for another season, The Chalet – a cosy Alpine-themed pop-up – returns to Skate at Somerset House, bringing with it a menu packed with seasonal classics and warming drinks. Step inside and you’ll find retro ski memorabilia, glowing fairy lights, faux fur throws and warm wood accents that instantly transport you to a mountain lodge.
This year’s highlight is freshly cut raclette served DIY-style at your table, complete with personal raclette machines. Curated by Jimmy Garcia and inspired by his own Alpine adventures, the menu pairs beautifully with a tipple or two.
Top reason to visit: It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a spin on the ice, with raclette that’s pure molten bliss. The cosy, mountain lodge vibe takes you straight to the Alps – no passport required.
Location: West Wing, Somerset House (WC2R 1LA)
Dates: 13 November to 31 December
Nearest Tube: Temple (District and Circle lines)
HUMBUG: Santa’s Christmas Dive Bar Experience
Step into Santa’s favourite dive bar – HUMBUG – for a wildly immersive festive experience, as the raucous takeover returns to The Vaults in Waterloo. Get swept into a Christmassy tale packed with live music, cabaret, immersive storytelling and plenty more mischief – all hosted by the larger-than-life Old Saint Nick himself.
Expect three hours of outrageous Christmas characters, unexpected encounters and a soundtrack of live tunes – plus festive cocktails and street food to keep the holiday spirit buzzing.
Top reason to visit: Get ready to dive into a full-blown Christmas extravaganza! It’s the only spot in the capital where you’ll find a Mariah Carey shrine, a beer-can bowling alley and a finale party complete with falling fake snow.
Location: The Vaults, Waterloo (Launcelot Street, SE1 7AD)
Dates: 18 November to 31 December
Nearest Tube: Waterloo (Northern, Jubilee, Bakerloo and Waterloo & City lines)
The Angels are Coming! at Southwark Cathedral
For a truly awe-inspiring festive experience, don’t miss The Angels are Coming! at Southwark Cathedral, a breathtaking light and sound Christmas pop up spectacle from the award-winning artistic collaboration, Luxmuralis.
Running for just three nights, this magical celebration blends stunning light displays, mesmerising projections and beautiful music. Every corner of the cathedral comes alive, guiding you through a powerful journey that culminates in the story of the very first Christmas.
Top reason to visit: Watch Southwark Cathedral transform before your eyes, as its stunning architecture is bathed in festive light – revealing hidden details and seasonal touches that make the entire cathedral feel like a Christmas card.
Location: Southwark Cathedral (SE1 9DA)
Dates: 24 November to 26 November
Nearest Tube: London Bridge (Northern and Jubilee lines)
Winter by the River
Follow the frosted paths along the banks of the river Thames and you’ll stumble upon Winter by the River – a magical festive escape that’s brimming with charm. Wander through boutique market stalls overflowing with artisanal crafts, thoughtful gifts and tempting seasonal treats.
This year, Winter by the River unveils a brand-new look for The Glasshouse – a spectacular two-storey venue with panoramic views across the Thames. Unwind beneath a heated rooftop canopy or step onto the open balcony to soak in the riverside scenery, all while enjoying seasonal drinks, craft beers, pizza and hot waffles.
Top reason to visit: It’s one of the most scenic spots in the city to soak up the festive vibes and pick up winter favourites – from Yorkshire Pudding Wraps to The Mac Shack. Don’t miss the live music, adding an extra buzz from Wednesday to Saturday.
Location: London Bridge City (SE1 2DB)
Dates: 13 November to 4 January 2026
Nearest Tube: London Bridge (Northern and Jubilee lines)
Snow Globe Climb at Up at The O2
Get ready for a whimsical winter adventure in the clouds with the Snow Globe Climb at Up at The O2. Set against the London skyline, this sky-high experience features the UK’s highest snow globe – complete with fairytale flurries and a magical festive set-up.
With an extended 20 minutes on the roof, there’s plenty of time to snap those snowy shots. And if you’re feeling extra festive, toast the season with bubbly, mulled wine or a cosy cup of hot chocolate.
Top reason to visit: This sparkling snow globe moment is the ultimate festive photo op, and a bucket-list-worthy way to experience London from above this winter.
Location: The O2, Greenwich (Peninsula Square, SE10 0DX)
Dates: 21 November to 4 January 2026
Nearest Tube: North Greenwich (Jubilee line)
The Gingerbread City
Explore a city made entirely of gingerbread, frosting and sweets at The Gingerbread City – a deliciously imaginative exhibition created by the Museum of Architecture and brought to life by architects and designers. This much-loved festive favourite at Coal Drops Yard transforms sweet treats into skylines and colourful neighbourhoods.
This year’s theme, The Playful City, celebrates how fun, curiosity and clever design can make our urban spaces happier and more connected. Think rewilded rooftops and interactive buildings – all brought to life through the mouthwatering medium of gingerbread.
Top reason to visit: Aside from being the sweetest festive event in London? You can roll up your sleeves in the workshop and build your very own gingerbread house to take home.
Location: Unit 5, Coal Drops Yard (N1C 4DQ)
Dates: 29 November to 4 January 2026
Nearest Tube: King’s Cross St Pancras (Northern, Piccadilly, Victoria, Circle, Metropolitan, Hammersmith & City lines)
Miracle at Henrietta
If you’re hunting for one of London’s most outrageously festive bars, look no further than Miracle at Henrietta in Covent Garden. Step inside and you’re instantly wrapped in a celebration of kitsch, where tinsel drapes from the ceilings, baubles dangle from branches and the decor is unapologetically extra.
Sip your way through wonderfully wacky cocktails like the Christmapolitan, Snowball Old Fashioned and the show-stopping Christmasaurus – yes, it comes in a dinosaur-shaped mug wearing a tiny Santa hat. This year, the party’s even bigger, with a new space just a few doors down serving up the most chaotic dose of merry mayhem yet. But be warned: bookings go fast, so grab your spot early or hop on the waitlist for reopened slots.
Top reason to visit: There’s more festive cheer here than you can shake a candy cane at – and if you fall in love with your cocktail glass (and you will), you can buy one to take home and keep the Christmas spirit flowing all season long.
Location: Covent Garden (14 Henrietta Street, WC2E 8QH)
Dates: 10 November to 28 December
Nearest Tube: Covent Garden (Piccadilly line)
The Curling Club
Ready to slide into some festive fun? If you’ve ever fancied trying your hand at curling, now’s your chance at The Curling Club. Complete with wintry cocktails, Alpine-inspired street food and lively entertainment, the après-ski makeover will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a snow-dusted mountain lodge.
After a hugely successful debut, The Curling Club is back at Vinegar Yard, serving up curling lanes for beginners and pros alike, plus alpine vibes, local street food and tunes to keep the energy high. And for the first time ever, it’s also popping up at Chelsea Winter Village, bringing the ultimate après-ski atmosphere to your post-illumination stroll.
Top reason to visit: It’s the kind of winter activity that’s equal parts fun and competitive – perfect for a festive night out with friends and a chance to tick something new off your seasonal bucket list.
Location: Vinegar Yard (72-82 St Thomas Street, SE1 3QX) and Chelsea Winter Village, Royal Hospital Chelsea (Royal Hospital Road, SW3 4SR)
Dates: Vinegar Yard: 5 November to 28 February 2026, Chelsea Winter Village: 26 November to 28 December
Nearest Tube: Vinegar Yard: London Bridge (Northern and Jubilee lines), Chelsea Winter Village: Sloane Square (District and Circle lines)
Après Bar at London Bridge Rooftop
If you’ve ever dreamed of being whisked away to the Alps without leaving London, London Bridge Rooftop has you covered. This winter, it transforms into a vintage ski-meets-Alpine lodge wonderland – complete with cable cars, retro ski memorabilia and a food and cocktail menu inspired by the slopes.
Channelling the charm of Europe’s coolest après-ski bars, expect a beautifully decorated festive pergola, live DJs spinning alpine beats and free-flowing mulled wine teapots. You can even cosy up in your very own private cable car booth, surrounded by wooden skis and nostalgic photographs. It’s the perfect spot to soak up city views while wrapped in winter vibes.
Top reason to visit: It’s the ultimate alpine rooftop hangout, serving up seasonal bites like pigs in blankets and loaded waffle fries. With special events every weekend, including the ever-popular Après Brunch, this is one winter pop-up you’ll want to keep on your radar.
Location: Colechurch House Rooftop (Bridge Walk, SE1 2SX)
Dates: 29 October to January 2026
Nearest Tube: London Bridge (Northern and Jubilee lines)
1864 Rooftop Bar & Kitchen igloos
When it comes to festive dining in London, few experiences rival the charm of a private igloo with twinkling city views – and 1864 Rooftop Bar & Kitchen has unveiled its biggest one yet. Seating 20 or hosting up to 40 standing, it’s ideal for larger celebrations. Or if you prefer something more intimate, snag one of the smaller heated igloos tucked into the magical winter escape on the top floor of John Lewis.
Feast under the stars with sweeping views of the city and a specially crafted Festive Feasting Menu, featuring 1864’s signature dishes alongside seasonal showstoppers like lamb skewers, slow-cooked Jacob’s ladder and indulgent sticky toffee pudding. Pair it all with a curated lineup of winter cocktails and mocktails.
Top reason to visit: The views are unbeatable – and let’s be honest, winter in London isn’t complete until you’ve cosied up in one of these dreamy domes. Just don’t wait too long: they book up fast.
Location: 6th floor of John Lewis, Oxford Street (W1C 1DX)
Dates: 5 November to January 2026
Nearest Tube: Oxford Circus (Central, Victoria and Bakerloo lines)
Winter Funland at Olympia
For a festive day out for the whole family, Winter Funland at Olympia is the ultimate indoor Christmas extravaganza – and it's making its sparkling debut this season.
With just one ticket, families can unlock unlimited access to more than 20 fairground rides, from classic dodgems to whirling carousels, plus a giant indoor ice rink, a dazzling international circus show and a Christmas-themed bar serving up seasonal sips. Head to the food court for festive treats that’ll keep everyone fuelled for more fun.
Top reason to visit: It’s the perfect way to dive into the festive spirit – without having to worry about the weather! Keep your eyes peeled for mischievous elves and magical characters roaming the venue, ready to pose for photos and sprinkle a little extra joy.
Location: Olympia (Hammersmith Road, W14 8UX)
Dates: 12 December to 4 January 2026
Nearest Tube: Kensington Olympia (District line)
For more inspiration this festive season, check out the best things to do in London during winter and the most magical things to do in London this Christmas. Plan ahead for New Year’s Eve in the capital and don’t miss out on the New Year’s Eve celebrations.