48 things to do in London in December 2025

1. Don't miss the spectacular Christmas at Kew: Follow a glittering trail of lights, music and colours around the famous botanic gardens after dark. Nov-Jan TBC
2. 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. Nov-Jan TBC
3. Discover the magic of Christmas at the Hogwarts in the Snow - Warner Bros. Studio Tour London: See winter arrive at the wizarding world. Nov-Jan TBC
4. 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
5. 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
6. Celebrate Christmas at the London Transport Museum!: Hop aboard for a festive takeover and special family activities. Nov-Jan TBC
7. 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
8. 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. 

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:

1. 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
2. Be dazzled by the Christmas Lights London by Night bus tour: See iconic London landmarks sparkle on a special guided tour. Nov-Jan TBC
3. 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.
4. Treat yourself to a luxury experience: Raise a glass of champagne as you enjoy a luxury spa day or a unique experience in London.
5. 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. 
6. Celebrate at a top London restaurant: Book in advance to get a seat at your favourite restaurant for a festive feast.
7. Shop for great deals during the winter sales: Find top discounts on fashion, electronics and more.
8. Find exciting things to do on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in London: Book tours, go ice skating and find fun events.

1. See London's top Christmas shows and pantomimes: From classic Dickensian tales to hilarious festive comedies and slapstick pantos.
2. Take the whole family to a memorable London musical: Sing along to award-winning shows in London's West End.
3. Discover the best London shows for kids: Exciting plays and child-friendly musicals await.
4. See the dazzling festive favourite The Nutcracker by the English National Ballet: Follow Clara's magical adventure this Christmas Eve. TBC
5. Enjoy an enchanting performance at St Mary Le Strand Church: See everything from candlelight concerts, to festive orchestra renditions of popular Christmas songs.
6. Catch a performance of the touching Christmas hit Stick Man: Join the adventure as Stick Man looks to get back to his family tree. TBC
7. Join Peppa and the family in Peppa Pig's Fun Day Out: Join in on the fun as the gang head to the zoo and the beach! TBC

Check back nearer the time for theatre shows happening in the capital in December 2025.

Discover some of London's top winter activities, or escape the cold with some unique indoor experiences.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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. 
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. Head to the Tower of London for a historical day out: Visit one of London's most historical locations and learn its many tales.

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.

1. 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. 
2. Have fun with all the family on a Paddington Bear Walking Tour: Learn all about London's lovable marmalade-eating bear. 
3. 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. 
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.

Check back nearer the time for more walking tours in London, and explore more unusual tours of the city.

1. Explore the city's many free galleries and museums: From the likes of the Natural History Museum all the way to the National Portrait Gallery, London's abundant amount of museums means you'll never get bored!
2. Stroll through one of the city's many Christmas markets: Treat yourself to festive tipples, delicious food and handmade gifts across the city.
3. Take a leisurely walk through your pick of parks and green spaces: Explore some of London's beautiful outdoor spaces on foot and enjoy the fresh air.

For more free things to do, be sure to check out our list of the 25 best free attractions in London.

1. Shop till you drop during Festive Fayre at Hampton Court Palace: Indulge in warming treats and enjoy entertainment with a seasonal twist. TBC
2. Step into the Southbank Centre Winter Festival: Enjoy some festive family fun on the bank of the Thames, with jolly musical and twinkling markets. Nov-Jan TBC 
3. Venture to Kingston Christmas Market: Find unique Christmas gifts in the picturesque town's Ancient Market Place. Nov-Jan TBC
4. 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

1. From talented Piccadilly Christmas Singers to Christmas Carols by Candlelight: Discover an array of exciting Christmas concerts in December.

Check back closer to the time for must-see concerts in London in December.

1. 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. 
2. Raise a glass to the New Year with a Christmas afternoon tea: Sample sweet and savoury treats with a glass of bubbles.
3. Catch a show on London's West End: See top musicals and more.
4. 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! TBC

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.