38 festive things to do on Christmas Eve in London 2026

1. Enjoy a thrilling day out at Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park: Explore the festive market, soar above London's skyline on adrenaline-pumping rides and take the kids to meet Father Christmas in Santaland. Dates TBC
2. Stroll the enchanting light trail at Christmas at Kew Gardens: Marvel at eye-popping projections and illuminated installations across the gardens, with highlights including the Palm House, Great Pagoda and Temperate House. Dates TBC
3. Don't miss Christmas at London Zoo: Get into the festive spirit with storytelling sessions, seasonal workshops and immersive trails – all while spotting penguins, giraffes and lions. Dates TBC
4. Experience festive magic at the Chelsea Winter Village: Walk down a whimsical light trail, pick seasonal treats and gifts from the charming Christmas market and take home your creations from creative workshops this Christmas season. Dates TBC

Bookmark our pick of things to do in December in London for more seasonal ideas.

1. Watch the English National Ballet's timeless production of The Nutcracker: Step back in time to Edwardian London, where more than 100 mesmerising dancers perform against showstopping set design and Tchaikovsky's famous score. Dates TBC

2. Experience Mark Gatiss's spine-chilling reimagining of Dickens' A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story: See the miserable Scrooge visited by the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future. Dates TBC  

3. Don't miss The Snowman at Peacock Theatre: Journey through the starry sky as young James and his frosty friend travel to the North Pole and meet festive characters along the way. Dates TBC

Check back soon for more Christmas shows and pantomimes.

1. Discover London's top landmarks on a Christmas lights bus tour: Hop aboard an open-top bus and take in the city's biggest sights while learning fascinating stories from your onboard guide. Dates TBC
2. Enjoy a half-day panoramic tour of London by bus and boat: Take in spectacular views of London's most famous monuments including St Paul's Cathedral, Tower of London and the Shard. 
3. Book a Leeds Castle, Canterbury Christmas Market and Greenwich on Christmas Eve tour: Travel in comfort on a luxury coach as you explore top UK attractions, with expert commentary bringing each destination to life.
4. Little ones will love The Snowman afternoon tea bus tour: Set off on a festive journey through London, featuring a delightful afternoon tea with hot chocolate, cakes and music from the beloved show The Snowman.

Explore more of the best sightseeing tours and day trips from London.

1. Tick off world-renowned London attractions: Visit iconic landmarks this Christmas Eve, but be sure to check opening times and book tickets in advance to avoid missing out.
2. Seek out the city's most dazzling festive displays: Wander through London's streets and uncover Christmas light trails while soaking up the seasonal atmosphere.
3. Enjoy a scenic escape in the capital's Royal Parks: Stroll among deer in Richmond Park or make tracks to Regent's Park for a beautiful, frosty walk in the heart of the city.
4. Check out London's coolest Christmas trees: Marvel at Covent Garden's towering spruce tree or admire the glittering tree in Trafalgar Square.
5. Celebrate Christmas Eve with a London Eye Champagne experience: Toast to the festive season on the London Eye and enjoy sweeping views across the capital.
6. Head to Hogwarts in the Snow at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter: Step into the wizarding world and see the Harry Potter film studios transformed for Christmas, complete with authentic props and costumes. Dates TBC

Uncover more things to do on Christmas Eve.

1. Attend a Christmas carol service at an iconic landmark: Experience the festive spirit at St Paul's Cathedral or Westminster Abbey during Advent.
2. Sing along to carols at the Royal Albert Hall: Join in the seasonal cheer at one of London's most atmospheric venues. Dates TBC
3. Discover a mix of carol concerts and singalongs at the Barbican: Celebrate the season with an eclectic programme of festive music and performances throughout December. 

Check back soon for more Christmas carols and concerts in 2026.

1. Shop designer gifts at Bicester Village: Snap up luxury bargains from top brands at this outlet shopping destination just outside London.
2. Admire festive displays at legendary department stores: Marvel at seasonal window scenes and discover perfect stocking fillers at Harrods, Selfridges and Liberty.
3. Browse London's top Christmas hotspots: Explore world-famous shopping streets such as Oxford Street, Regent Street, Carnaby and Bond Street.
4. Find handmade gifts at London Christmas markets: Browse artisan crafts, gourmet treats and festive finds at markets across the city, from the South Bank to Greenwich.
5. Get into the festive spirit at Battersea Power Station: Pick up special gifts and get involved in seasonal activities such as ice skating beneath the chimneys of this transformed London landmark. 

Uncover more of the best shopping destinations in London.

1. Skate against a historic backdrop at Hampton Court Palace: Glide around the open-air rink and enjoy views of the Tudor palace. Dates TBC
2. Show off your skills at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland Ice Rink: Book ahead to secure your spot on the UK's largest outdoor ice rink, and be sure to warm up afterwards with a seasonal treat. Dates TBC
3. Take to the ice beneath towering skyscrapers at Ice Rink Canary Wharf: Swerve the crowds at this rink in the heart of London's financial district and get competitive with a game of curling on the ice. Dates TBC
4. Whizz around Glide at Battersea Power Station: Skate between three interconnected rinks and enjoy riverside views. Dates TBC
5. Hit the ice at Westfield London: Round off your shopping trip with a twirl on the rink at Shepherd's Bush. Dates TBC
6. Celebrate 25 years of Somerset House: Enjoy a spin on the ice in the striking neoclassical courtyard, complete with a glittering Christmas tree. Dates TBC

Explore more ice rinks in London.

1. Kickstart Christmas with a festive feast at one of London's top restaurants: Dine at a Michelin-starred venue or savour a seasonal menu curated by a celebrity chef.
2. Raise a glass to the holidays at a stylish champagne bar: Sip bubbly in luxurious settings and soak up the festive atmosphere.
3. Soak in the season at a rooftop bar with a view: Enjoy cocktails and skyline vistas from heated terraces and cosy winter pop-ups across London. 

Discover the best of London's food and drink scene with our guide covering themed experiences, cruises and tours.

1. Treat your partner to dinner at one of London's most romantic restaurants: Share a delicious meal in a candlelit setting, perfect for a memorable Christmas Eve date.
2. Take in breathtaking views with a private London Eye capsule: Soar above the city in your own exclusive capsule and toast the evening with champagne. 
3. Spend a dazzling night out with live jazz and dining at 58th Street London: Feast on a six-course meal while you enjoy wild Harlem jazz and spectacular performances.
4. Opt for something quirky at a creative cocktail bar: Discover underground speakeasies and rooftop spots serving inventive drinks this Christmas.

Plan a romantic weekend in London with our handy itinerary. 

Public transport services in London often run a reduced schedule on Christmas Eve, so it's a good idea to check your route before you travel and keep in mind that there is no public transport on Christmas Day.

On the Tube, services typically begin to wind down in the afternoon and evening. Most bus routes operate during the day, but night services are usually not available. 

Travel on the London Overground, DLR, Thames Clippers, National Rail, Gatwick Express, trams and coaches may also be affected during Christmas in London.

Find more information about transport over the festive season, visit the Transport for London website for the latest updates.