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45 things to do in London in January 2026

Pick up some bargains, enjoy winter activities and make the most of London's free attractions in January.
Visit London Editors
Written by Visit London Editors Edited by Chantal Welch 26 March 2025
Four women wrapped in coats and scarves are walking with shopping bags on Carnaby Street in London.
Shopping in Carnaby. ©Antoine Buchet/Visit London.

January is one of the best months to visit on a budget. The January sales are on, so you can shop at some of London's top shopping destinations for less. Plus, many hotels offer reductions at this time of year.

London's attractions are quieter than usual this month, so it's a great time to enjoy a stroll around a museum and avoid queues at popular London attractions. And, don't forget, many of the capital's attractions are free!

Make sure to wrap up warm when out exploring London in winter. Then, take refuge from the cold in one of London's cosy pubs, or enjoy a hot drink with a view on a heated rooftop terrace transformed for winter. 

Events in London in January 2025

A young marching band plays in the street during London's New Year's Day Parade.

  1. Watch the spectacular New Year's Day Parade: Cheer on the marching brass bands, colourful performers and elaborate floats. 1 Jan
  2. Explore the exciting Hogwarts in the Snow at Warner Bros. Studio Tour - The Making of Harry Potter: See the Harry Potter film studios, which bring to life the magic of the films through authentic sets, interactive special effects displays while revealing the filmmaking trickery behind magical pranks and wizarding mishaps. TBC
  3. Enjoy fairground fun at Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park: Ride the carousel or brave the loops of the rollercoasters. Nov-Jan TBC
  4. Watch the latest works in film at the London Short Film Festival: Be moved by short stories captured on screen. TBC
  5. Toast to Burns Night in London: Mark the birthday of Scottish poet Robert Burns with haggis and tatties, bagpipes and plenty of whisky. 25 Jan
  6. Go ice skating: Skate at one of London's temporary outdoor ice rinks, many of which are still open at the start of the month.
  7. Get stuck in to some delicious vegan food this Veganuary: Indulge with delicious vegan Chinese food at luxury restaurants like Hutong at The Shard, or venture to a top London market to seek out the best vegan street food.

Check back nearer the time for more events in January.

Theatre shows in London in January

A girl in a school uniform sits on a chair in the centre of the stage, while other students run towards her from backstage.

  1. Catch one last Christmas show or pantomime: Book your seats before theatres wrap up for the festive season.
  2. See one of the city's best musicals: From Disney classics like The Lion King musical London to exhilarating family favourites such as Matilda.
  3. Experience the thrilling Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: Watch as Potter and the gang embark on a new adventure on the stage.
  4. Don't miss the highly anticipated Disney's Hercules at Theatre Royal Drury Lane: Discover the smash hit musical based on the popular film.
  5. Sing your heart out at Mamma Mia! at the Novello Theatre: Discover why this ABBA-fueled hit has spent over 20 years on London's West End.
  6. Travel to the land of Oz in Wicked at the Apollo Victoria: See how magic shapes the destiny of two unlikely friends. 
  7. Behold Just for One Day at Shaftesbury Theatre: Discover the Live Aid story 40 years on, with showstopping songs by Elton John, Bowie, Queen, Madonna, and much more.

Check back nearer the time for more shows in January in London.

Activities to do in London in January

A group walking along a river bank on a Royal walking tour 
  1. Tick off the capital's top attractions: Cross incredible sights such as the London Eye and Big Ben off your London bucket list.
  2. Do a spot of royal sightseeing: From Westminster Abbey to Windsor Castle, explore the city's royal hot spots.
  3. Discover top sights for history buffs: Hear gruesome tales at the Tower of London, or explore the impressive Hampton Court Palace.
  4. Have a guide show you around the city on a walking tour: Seek out London's hidden gems, or follow in the footsteps of famous detective Sherlock Holmes.
  5. Visit some of the city's best sporting venues: From discovering the home of rugby at Allianz Stadium and World Rugby Museum in Twickenham to a behind-the-scenes tour of Chelsea Football Club.
  6. Take a leisurely afternoon tea bus with panoramic tour of London: See the sights from the comfort of your seat and take in all the city has to offer. 
  7. Explore London's incredible food scene: Take a guided tour of Borough Market, indulge at an afternoon tea or enjoy a meal with a view.
  8. Learn from the experts at a fun masterclass: From painting and pottery to cocktails and kayaking, you're truly spoilt for choice when it comes to learning a new skill.
  9. Venture to some of the city's more unusual museums: Go behind the scenes at The Household Cavalry Museum, or explore never-before-seen evidence at the Jack the Ripper Museum.
  10. Visit St Paul's Cathedral: Discover the stunning architecture and history from one of London's most historic locations. 
  11. Enjoy a walk around Kew Gardens: See thousands of exotic plants and much more at this revered location.
  12. Experience views of London from the air on the IFS Cloud Cable Car: Enjoy breathtaking scenery and unrivalled views of the city.
  13. Take a day trip from London: Hop on a bus tour and explore iconic locations such as Stonehenge, Bath and Oxford. 
  14. Enjoy a guided tour of the British Museum: See highlights from the museum's extensive collection.
  15. Check out London's top rain-safe attractions: Visit top destinations such as the SEA LIFE London Aquarium, Madame Tussauds and The London Dungeon.

Art exhibitions in London in January

Vogue newspaper graphic surrounded by flowers on walls at Lightroom.

  1. Discover the impressive collection of the National Gallery on a Highlights Tour: Explore the gallery's most iconic artworks with a Blue Badge Guide.
  2. See the latest exhibition at The King's Gallery at Buckingham Palace: Explore the intimate gallery's current exhibition that changes with the seasons.
  3. Visit the immersive art experience FRAMELESS: Watch as famous paintings come to life in this multisensory space.
  4. Experience the wonders of modern art at the Moco Museum: Become transfixed by iconic artworks and unique exhibitions.
  5. Catch a planetarium show at the Royal Observatory Greenwich: Explore our planets, solar system and beyond as it unfolds right before your eyes.
  6. Discover the works of Lee Miller at Tate Britain: A unique exhibition that showcases pieces from one of the most acclaimed photographers of the 20th century. Opens 2 Oct 2025
  7. Don't miss Nigerian Modernism at Tate Modern: Celebrate the achievements of Nigerian artists working before and after the decade of national independence from British colonial rule in 1960. Opens 8 Oct 2025
  8. Encounter the pivotal Turner and Constable exhibition at Tate Britain: See works of two of the most impactful British artists in the 250th year of their births. Opens 25 Nov 2025

Check back nearer the time for more exhibitions in January in London.

Concerts in London in January

ABBA Voyage performers on stage with red moon backdrop and live crowd with their arms up in the air at London's ABBA Arena.

  1. Celebrate British music and culture at the New Year's Day Proms: Kick off 2026 with fantastic performances from talented artists at the Barbican. 1 Jan
  2. See the incredible ABBA Voyage at the ABBA Arena: Watch as visual effects transport you back to the golden age of pop music.
  3. Book dinner and a gig at the Jazz Cafe in Camden: Soak up the sounds of jazz, soul and world music while you dine in the mezzanine restaurant.

Check back nearer the time for more concerts in January in London.

Free things to do in London in January

A pile of giant red bauble decorations stood in front of Battersea Power Station at blue hour as glowing lights and Christmas trees light up the area

  1. Cheer on runners at the Serpentine New Year's Day Races: Head to Hyde Park for the New Year's Day 10K Race or 3K Fun Run. 1 Jan
  2. Be captivated by dazzling installations at the Battersea Power Station: Winter evenings come to life with the station's epic Christmas takeover. TBC
  3. Explore London's National Army Museum and its exciting programme of events: From guided tours of its fascinating exhibits to moving talks with inspiring individuals.
  4. Check out London's many top free museums and art galleries: Whether you're looking to kill time or get out the house, London's free museums offer some of the best cheap days out!
  5. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around one of the city's parks: Take in some of the fresh winter air with beautiful surroundings to match.

For more things to do in January in London, take a look at the events calendar and guide to what's on in London, or catch the best of the London stage with this theatre guide.

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 can be perfect if you prefer to avoid the hustle and bustle of the Christmas 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 get cosy in one of London’s many traditional pubs.

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