What's on in December in London?
- Celebrate Christmas in London with pop-up ice rinks, buzzing festive markets and seasonal activities.
- See London's famous festive displays on a special Christmas lights bus tour at night.
- Don't miss top London December events including Hogwarts in the Snow, sparkling Christmas at Kew, and Winter Wonderland.
- Watch Christmas pantos and unmissable London shows in December.
- Plan ahead to welcome the arrival of 2025 during London New Year's Eve celebrations.
- Discover what's happening in London this weekend for some last minute inspiration.
December is the most magical month to visit London, with lots of festive things to do as Londoners celebrate Christmas and New Year.
Book ahead to enjoy Christmas pantomimes and shows, or join a Christmas tour of London and beyond.
London's shopping streets sparkle with Christmas lights in December, and shops are full of gift hunters finishing off their Christmas shopping.
A focal point of the holiday season in London is Trafalgar Square, which resounds with carol singing around the capital’s biggest Christmas tree, and lights up with a giant menorah for Chanukah.
Shop for handmade gifts and festive food at a charming Christmas market; go ice skating on one of the stunning outdoor ice rinks that pop up across the capital; enjoy carols and concerts accompanied by mulled wine and mince pies.
Looking for things to do between Christmas and New Year? Check out the top things to do in London during Twixmas.
Unmissable events in London in December
- Don't miss the spectacular Christmas at Kew: Follow a glittering trail of lights, music and colours around the famous botanic gardens after dark. 13 Nov-5 Jan
- Celebrate the festive season at Winter Wonderland: Experience Hyde Park transformed into an extravagant winter spectacle filled with fairground rides, ice skating, charming Christmas markets and fun family shows. 21 Nov-5 Jan
- Whisk the family away on a magical adventure at the Kingdom of Winter at ExCel London: An indoor festive experience that has everything from a winter-themed circus to ice skating and an alpine-style Christmas market. TBC
- Discover the magic of Christmas at the Hogwarts in the Snow - Warner Bros. Studio Tour London: See winter arrive at the wizarding world. 16 Nov-19 Jan
- Visit the London Zoo for their Christmas takeover (included in standard entry): Last year, visitors could follow the Christmas Sleigh Trail, send a letter to Santa or meet the big man himself. TBC
- Join The Postal Museum's immersive Christmas celebrations (included in standard entry): In 2023, visitors discovered the first ever Christmas card and rode the festive Mail Rail. 1 Nov-2 Jan
- Celebrate Christmas at Shrek's Adventure! London (included in standard entry): Swap the North Pole for the Swamp at this fun family immersive experience. TBC
- Venture to the beautiful Hampstead Heath for Christmas at Kenwood: The dazzling light trail, full of colour and sparkle, is not to be missed. Weekends and Monday 23 in Dec
- Head to Hyde Park's Serpentine for the Peter Pan Cup: A Christmas Day tradition since 1864, watch as swimmers race in the freezing lake. 25 Dec
- Make the most of London's outdoor ice rinks: Go ice skating on one of the stunning ice rinks that pop up across the capital.
Check back closer to the time for more amazing events in December.
Magical ways to spend Christmas in London
Christmas Day and Boxing Day (25 and 26 December) are both bank holidays (public holidays) in London, with reduced opening times and transport service. But there are still plenty of things to do during this festive period:
- Book a Christmas tour: Explore the city during the festive season or enjoy a day trip to historic sites such as Stonehenge, Canterbury or Bath. Nov-Jan
- Be dazzled by the Christmas Lights London by Night bus tour: See iconic London landmarks sparkle on a special guided tour. Nov-Jan
- Attend a magical Christmas carol concert: Hear classic songs by the world-renowned choirs or have fun at a Christmas Carol Singalong at the Royal Festival Hall.
- Treat yourself to a luxury experience: Raise a glass of champagne as you enjoy a luxury spa day or a unique experience in London.
- Tick off London's top attractions: Take a hop-on hop-off bus tour around the city, or visit sites such as Westminster Abbey and Windsor Castle.
- Celebrate at a top London restaurant: Book in advance to get a seat at your favourite restaurant for a festive feast.
- Shop for great deals during the winter sales: Find top discounts on fashion, electronics and more.
- Find exciting things to do on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in London: Book tours, go ice skating and find fun events.
December shows in London
- See London's top Christmas shows and pantomimes: From classic Dickensian tales to hilarious festive comedies and slapstick pantos.
- Take the whole family to a memorable London musical: Sing along to award-winning shows in London's West End.
- Discover the best London shows for kids: Exciting plays and child-friendly musicals await including Peppa Pig's Fun Day Out and Stick Man.
- Be dazzled by Circa's Duck Pond at the Royal Festival Hall: Watch a blend of ballet and world-class circus at this epic show that is perfect for people of all ages.
- Join Buddy on his adventure across New York at ELF The Musical: The beloved film takes to the West End for a second run this Christmas.
- See the dazzling festive favourite The Nutcracker by the English National Ballet: Follow Clara's magical adventure this Christmas Eve.
- Enjoy an enchanting performance at St Mary Le Strand Church: See everything from candlelight concerts, to festive orchestra renditions of popular Christmas songs.
- See Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas live on stage: Watch as the film comes to life in concert.
- Catch a performance of the touching Christmas hit Stick Man: Join the adventure as Stick Man looks to get back to his family tree.
- Have heaps of fun at the Potted Panto!: See the West End's longest-running panto for yourself.
- Bring the Christmas cheer back to Sherwood in Robin Hood and the Christmas Heist: Join the gang of Merry men in this festive hit!
Check back nearer the time for theatre shows happening in the capital in December 2024.
Activities and immersive experiences in London in December
Discover some of London's top winter activities, or escape the cold with some unique indoor experiences.
- See the city sparkle at Christmas with a London Eye Champagne Experience: Admire the views as you sip on a glass of chilled Pommery Brut Royal Champagne.
- Or reach new heights with London's glass elevator at Lift 109: See the city from above, and join in with seasonal events in this unique space.
- Live like an outlaw in the Wild West at the Moonshine Saloon Immersive Theatre and Cocktail Experience: Play some dice, see the Moonshine Distillery and avoid the fearsome sheriff.
- Take on a London treasure hunt at The Secret City: This urban adventure will have you discovering endless hidden gems and the city's best secrets.
- Sample fantastic tipples at a Beer Masterclass and Meal at a Brewhouse and Kitchen*: Perfect your brewing and tasting skills as you learn about all types of beer.
- Check out the city's best exhibitions: From the immersive works of renowned artists at Frameless to many more.
- Enjoy Christmas Eve in London with dinner and midnight mass: Put some sparkle back into your Christmas Eve and get in the mood for the big day.
- See the city shine with a London by night lights tour: Take in London's extensive Christmas displays from the comfort of your seat.
- Take a festive trip to the London Transport Museum: Watch as the museum comes to life for the Christmas period.
- Head to the Tower of London for a historical day out: Visit one of London's most historical locations and learn its many tales.
- Enjoy a half-day panoramic tour of London on Christmas Eve: See the capital's most iconic locations in their Christmas decor!
Top London tours and day trips this winter
From brisk walking tours that uncover hidden corners of the city to festive adventures out of London, join one of London's best tours and day trips this winter.
- Have fun with all the family on a Paddington Bear Walking Tour: Learn all about London's lovable marmalade-eating bear.
- Head to Greenwich for a Film and TV Location Tour of the Old Royal Naval College: From Pirates of the Caribbean to Thor: The Dark World.
- Check out London's top sporting venues: Get a guided tour of the home of Rugby at Twickenham Stadium, or take on The Dare Skywalk at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
- Enjoy delicious bites on a Borough Market Food Tour: The perfect way to explore the city on colder days, enjoying iconic, warming British dishes and beverages.
- Wander Scotland's most charming city on a day trip to Edinburgh from London: Visit quaint bookshops, sample the finest whisky and explore the city's majestic Edinburgh Castle.
- Enjoy Leeds Castle, Canterbury, Dover and Greenwich on Christmas eve: Visit all these festive locations on a one-day excursion!
- Have a memorable Christmas in Canterbury and Greenwich with a traditional Christmas lunch: Take the stress out of cooking and treat yourself to a trip on the big day.
- Book of one of London's many Christmas tours: From open-top buses to walking excursions, see what the city has in store this December.
Check back nearer the time for more walking tours in London, and explore more unusual tours of the city.
Fun London winter festivals
- Shop till you drop during Festive Fayre at Hampton Court Palace: Indulge in warming treats and enjoy entertainment with a seasonal twist. 6-8 and 13-15 Dec
- Step into the Southbank Centre Winter Festival: Enjoy some festive family fun on the bank of the Thames, with jolly musical and twinkling markets. 1 Nov-5 Jan
- Check out Greenwich Market: Browse wooden stalls for stocking fillers and tick off your Christmas list. TBC
- Venture to Kingston Christmas Market: Find unique Christmas gifts in the picturesque town's Ancient Market Place. 14 Nov-5 Jan
- Head to King's Cross Canopy Market: Artisan festive treats and handmade craft await at this charming market. Every Fri-Sun in Dec
Discover more of London's charming Christmas markets
Concerts in London in December
- Marvel at the incredible ABBA Voyage live in concert: Watch as visual effects transport the crowd back to the golden era of pop music.
- Enjoy a performance of Christmas Classics: Enjoy a not-so Silent Night! 14-15 Dec
- Enjoy the best pianists in London at the Rachmaninov 2nd Piano Concerto at Christmas: Enjoy festive hits in a candle-lit setting. 30 Dec
- Get your festive fix with the Picadilly Christmas Concert: Enjoy beautiful music in a quaint setting. 14 Dec
Check back closer to the time for more must-see concerts in London in December.
Celebrate New Year's Eve in London
- Enjoy a New Year's Eve Dinner and Thames Cruise with Fireworks: Celebrate in style with a three-course meal, live entertainment and an unrivalled view of the dazzling fireworks display.
- Raise a glass to the New Year with a Christmas afternoon tea: Sample sweet and savoury treats with a glass of bubbles.
- Catch a show on London's West End: See top musicals and more.
- Head to a New Year's Eve Masquerade Ball at The Londoner: Bid farewell to 2024 in grace.
- See London from a different perspective on the New Year's Eve onboard the IFS Cloud Cable Car with dinner: See the celebrations from up above!
What to do in London in December for free?
With the holidays in full swing, London plays host to a extensive range of free events in December. Take a stroll through one of the city's many Christmas markets, or take a brisk walk through one of London's extensive green spaces such as Hyde Park, Victoria Park and many more. For those looking for something safe from the winter weather, why not venture into one of London's many free museums and galleries?
What is the weather like in London in December?
Like a lot of Europe during the winter, London's weather is typically very damp and cold. Average temperatures range from around 3C (37.4F) to around 9C (48.2F). However, it can be warmer or colder and temperatures are prone to fluctuate. Snow doesn't happen very frequently, so it's best to pack waterproofs and layered clothing to keep you dry and warm.
Is it worth visiting London in December?
Yes! December might just be one of the best times to visit London. The whole city transforms to celebrate the upcoming holidays, and there are countless events and attractions to make your trip a special one.
For more things to do in December in London, take a look at this events calendar and guide to what's on in London, find the best London theatre shows or look at these best things to do this winter in the capital.
