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January is the quietest time of year to visit London (and possibly, the cheapest).
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The famous January sales are on across the capital.
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Top January events include the New Year’s Day Parade and activities for Burns Night.
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You can still enjoy some Christmas activities, including ice skating rinks, Hogwarts in the Snow and festive shows.
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 attractions. And, don't forget, many of London'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.
January events in London
Festive London activities
- Join the thousands of onlookers and cheer on the marching brass bands, colourful performers and elaborate floats in the New Year's Day Parade.
- Continue the festive fun with plenty more New Year's Day activities in London.
- Go ice skating on one of London's temporary outdoor ice rinks, many of which are still open at the start of the month.
- Explore the Harry Potter film studios transformed for winter at Hogwarts in the Snow.
- Discover the Winter festival at Southbank Centre and Christmas in Leicester Square before they close, usually in the first week of January.
- Catch one last Christmas show or pantomime.
January festivals and fairs
- Celebrate the first London Borough of Culture during a year-long series of events and activities celebrating Waltham Forest.
- Watch short film screenings and meet industry experts during the January London Short Film Festival.
- See Canary Wharf sparkle with interactive artworks and light installations during the Winter Lights festival.
- Browse and buy contemporary British art at the London Art Fair, with work on display from more than 100 galleries.
- Enjoy Burns Night in London with haggis and tatties, bagpipes, dancing and plenty of whisky, to mark the birthday of the Scottish poet.
- London's huge Chinese New Year celebrations take place each year in January or February.
London sport events
- Cheer on the New York Knicks and Washington Wizards during the NBA London Game 2019.
For more things to do in January in London, take a look at our events calendar and guide to what's on in London, or download the January London Planner. And catch the best of the London stage with our theatre guide.
WEATHER: For average seasonal temperatures and rainfall, see our London weather page.
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