The most unusual things to do in London at Christmas 2026

The capital shines bright with festive displays at Christmas, and if you’re keen to soak up the magic, we recommend a singalong Christmas lights tour of London. Not only are you guaranteed spectacular views, but you’ll also enjoy a joyful festive soundtrack alongside an array of traditional snacks.

From the world-famous lights on Regent Street to the towering Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square, you’ll get a front-row seat to the city’s most dazzling sights – all while singing along to classic festive tunes. While on board, you can tuck into treats including shortbread biscuits, mince pies and mulled wine. 

Best for: Feel-good fun
Good to know: Check out the Christmas Lights London by Night bus tour for an alternative family-friendly experience.

The Barbican Centre offers a jam-packed programme every year, but our highlight is the Raymond Gubbay Christmas Season. This year, it includes choir performances, classical concerts, and an evening dedicated to film music.

If you’re in the mood for something particularly festive, however, there are two events that you won’t want to miss – a Christmas carol singalong on 19 December, and candlelit carols on 22 December.

Best for: Classical music and traditional tunes
Good to know: You can find timings and booking information on the Barbican website.

Harry Potter fans will know that Hogwarts in the Snow is a must-visit during the Christmas season. Every year, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour becomes a festive wonderland, allowing visitors to view the famous Harry Potter sets in a new light. 

Christmas 2026 promises to be particularly magical, with a brand new Wizard’s Chess scene to explore in the Great Hall – and a chance to witness gigantic Christmas puddings bursting into flames. More excitement awaits at the Backlot Stage, which will play host to a festive foley demonstration revealing how the sounds of winter at Hogwarts were brought to life. You can also learn the Yule Ball waltz, or retreat to the Bubbles in the Backlot area to enjoy a warm drink. 

Best for: An immersive Harry Potter experience
Good to know: Hogwarts in the Snow will be open from 14 November 2026 until 17 January 2027.

Christmas at Kew is widely regarded as one of London’s best light festivals, and for good reason – it’s the perfect opportunity to walk the grounds of Kew Gardens after dark, marvelling at an array of light displays and breathtaking installations. 

Don’t miss the light show at the Palm House, which includes impressive water features, a series of colourful projections, and a set of giant illuminated lilies emerging from the pond. You can also enjoy a dazzling light tunnel, an interactive dancefloor, and a light show synchronised to festive tunes. 

Best for: Interactive festive displays
Good to know: Standard tickets include access to the evening trail only, while Garden Entry + Christmas at Kew tickets will give you discounted garden entry in the daytime.

Winter Palace at Hampton Court is a brand new event arriving this year, and it promises plenty of festive magic. Within the historic halls and sprawling courtyards of Hampton Court Palace, a spellbinding winter realm awaits. Dragons, panthers and unicorns will greet you at every corner as light displays, immersive projections and puppetry performances transport you to a glittering wonderland. 

Alongside the mythical creatures and jaw-dropping installations that form part of the Winter Palace experience, you can also enjoy classic festive activities at Hampton Court, including ice skating and the annual Festive Fayre. 

Best for: A festive adventure designed with children in mind
Good to know: Winter Palace is a self-guided experience designed to be enjoyed at your own pace, making it suitable for visitors of all ages. However, young children should be accompanied by an adult.

In our view, there’s nothing quirkier than a Christmas story with a circus twist – which is exactly why Scrooge: Cirque Extravaganza deserves a spot on any festive itinerary. The show will be back at ExCel London for a limited run in December, and it’s one of the best Christmas theatre and pantomime shows you can book in 2026. 

This is your chance to experience Charles Dickens’ famous novel, A Christmas Carol, like never before. Expect dizzying stunts, unbelievable acrobatics and magnificent circus tricks including tightrope walking and fire breathers. The two-part performance also features plenty of pantomime comedy that is sure to delight young audiences.

Best for: A one-of-a-kind family show
Good to know: Scrooge: Cirque Extravaganza will play for a strictly limited run consisting of only seven performances – from 23 to 28 December – so we recommend booking early to secure your seat.

For another playful twist on Dickens’ popular story, try A Christmas Carol Goes Wrong. Led by the much-loved Mischief Theatre Company, this brilliantly chaotic show is guaranteed to bring you some Christmas cheer. 

Having recently celebrated the 10-year anniversary of The Play That Goes Wrong on London’s West End, Mischief Theatre is back with a festive performance like no other. Prepare for technical disasters, missing props and plenty more hilarious mishaps in this slapstick retelling of a Christmas classic. 

Best for: Laugh-out-loud entertainment
Good to know: A Christmas Carol Goes Wrong will be showing on the West End from 18 December 2026 to 23 January 2027.

If you’re feeling tempted by the adrenaline-fuelled excitement of Up at the O2, add a dash of Christmas spirit and book your spot on a Snow Globe Climb at the O2. 

This unique experience involves a 52-metre climb that will reward you with both jaw-dropping skyline views and an immersive festive experience. After making your way across the famous domed roof of the O2 Arena, you’ll reach the summit and enter a gigantic snow globe complete with glittering snow and freshly baked gingerbread.  

This fairytale-inspired setting is the perfect backdrop for those all-important city views; on a clear winter day, you’ll see the historic landmarks of Greenwich, the soaring towers of Canary Wharf, and the leafy expanse of the Olympic Park with stunning clarity. Make sure to snap plenty of photos before your expert guide leads you back down to Base Camp. 

Best for: An electrifying festive adventure
Good to know: Take a look at our Up at the O2 review for tips on making the most of your climb.

There’s plenty to explore at the Southbank Centre throughout the year, and Christmas brings new delights including art installations, street food stalls, and craft workshops. 

The Southbank’s Winter Festival is a particular highlight, and while dates haven’t yet been confirmed for the upcoming Christmas period, you can expect the beloved Winter Market to make a comeback. You’ll be able to sample hearty meals and festive desserts, pick up souvenirs and Christmas decorations, and enjoy marvellous live performances on the riverside. 

Best for: Art, food and family fun
Good to know: Check the Southbank Centre website to find out more about the Winter Festival.

While you’ll never need an excuse to enjoy afternoon tea in London, The Snowman afternoon tea bus tour gives this classic British experience a festive spin. The adventure begins as you step aboard a bus kitted out with decorations inspired by the beloved animated film, and from the comfort of your seat, you’ll enjoy picture-perfect view of London’s most famous landmarks.  

With music from The Snowman providing a cheerful soundtrack, you’ll glide through the capital while tucking into a themed menu featuring sweet and savoury treats including mini sausage rolls, smoked salmon sandwiches, mince pies and scones. You can even look forward to unlimited tea, coffee and hot chocolate. 

Best for: A themed adventure
Good to know: You'll find more insider tips in our Snowman afternoon tea bus tour review.

Foodies can't miss the chance to explore London’s best Christmas markets, and Borough Market is a real highlight. This bustling spot might be filled with food stalls all year round, but it bursts into life during the festive season.  

You can expect live carol performances and a programme of themed events (including the beloved Evening of Cheese). Plus, of course, there’s a tantalising selection of artisanal treats on offer; you can even book a Borough Market Food Tour, which will allow you to sample dishes from multiple different stalls. 

Best for: An indulgent culinary experience
Good to know: The Borough Market Food Tour is led by an expert guide, and the ticket covers dishes from six different market stalls.

Combining a magnificent light trail with outdoor games, art installations, and even a Christmas market, the Chelsea Winter Village is a hidden gem in the heart of London.  

The Village itself is nestled within the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea; step inside and you’ll see this historic site illuminated by twinkling lights. Once you’ve made your way through the immersive trail, you can explore festive market stalls, enjoy live music, or try your hand at crafting in a hands-on workshop. 

Best for: Festive fun in a historic location
Good to know: Pricing varies according to the time you want to enter the Village – you can book on off-peak slot at a reduced cost.

With so much going on in the capital, it can be easy to forget that many of London’s churches and cathedrals offer free services throughout the festive season. If you’re looking to slow down during the Christmas rush – and you fancy taking a peek inside London landmarks – booking a church service is a brilliant idea. 

Whether you opt for an advent service at St Paul’s Cathedral, a choral performance at Westminster Abbey, or a concert at St Martin-in-the-Fields, you’ll be guaranteed a memorable experience in a truly beautiful location. Just make sure to check each church’s website to confirm the timings of their festive events.

Best for: A contemplative Christmas
Good to know: Browse our list of the best Christmas carol services and concerts in London to find more inspiration.