Not sure what to do in London between Christmas and New Year? Make the most of Twixmas in the city, when festive cheer is still in full swing and many of London's top attractions, Christmas light displays, seasonal experiences and West End shows remain open.
Whether you're planning family days out, looking for festive things to do with friends or simply searching for what's open in London after Christmas, discover plenty of ways to keep the celebrations going before ringing in the New Year.
Need more festive inspiration? Explore our guides to things to do during Christmas in London, Christmas lights in London and unforgettable New Year's Eve cruises to help plan the perfect festive break in the capital.
Unmissable things to do in London at Twixmas
- ✨ Christmas lights bus tour – Best for after dark festive sparkle
- ❄️ Hogwarts in the Snow – Best for festive movie magic
- 🎭 Cirque Alice – Best for a festive twist on a classic tale
- ⛄ Snowman afternoon tea bus tour – Best for festive sightseeing and afternoon tea on-the-go
- 🎡 Chelsea Winter Village & Illuminations – Best for Christmas light trail, markets and entertainment
How we chose the best Twixmas experiences in London
To create this Twixmas guide, we selected top attractions, festive events, mesmerising shows and popular experiences, alongside gathering sale insights and first-hand experience from our London-based editors, to curate the ultimate guide on what to do between Christmas Day and New Year's Eve.
Opening hours and schedules can change during Twixmas, so come back to this guide for the most up-to-date information before travelling.
Twixmas in London 2026
What is Twixmas and when is it?
You know that awkward time between Christmas and New Year where no one really knows what day it is but they aren't quite ready to take down the decorations and hang up their Santa hats? Well, that's Twixmas!
Often known as the period between Christmas and New Year's Day, it's typically from 26 December to 31 December, although some define it more narrowly as 27 December to 31 December.
Whether you’re looking to continue the festivities, take a last-minute Twixmas break or just need something to stop you twiddling your thumbs before New Year's Eve, this list of the top things to do in London at Twixmas has you covered.
What's open in London during Twixmas?
From world-famous landmarks and museums to sparkling Christmas lights, ice skating and West End shows, London remains packed with things to do during Twixmas.
Whether you're seeking family-friendly days out, festive walks or iconic attractions, discover what's open between Christmas and New Year in the city with Visit London's ultimate Twixmas guide.
The best things to do during Twixmas in London
1. Christmas lights bus tour – Best for festive sightseeing after dark
Take in London's most dazzling festive light displays from the comfort of a Christmas lights bus tour.
As you travel through the city after dark, admire sparkling streets, beautifully decorated landmarks and festive hotspots illuminated for the season.
Sit back and enjoy panoramic views of London's famous Christmas lights, from Regent Street and Piccadilly Circus to Covent Garden and Trafalgar Square, while learning more about the city's festive traditions from your live guide.
Best for: Visitors looking for a hassle-free way to see London's Christmas lights, as well as families and festive group outings.
Good to know: The tour follows a set route and remains seated throughout. For the best views and photos, choose the open-top deck and wrap up warm on colder evenings.
2. Chelsea Winter Village & Illuminations – Best for an enchanting festive experience in a historic setting
Discover a magical festive escape at Chelsea Winter Village & Illuminations at the Royal Hospital Chelsea, where vibrant festive lights, family-friendly entertainment and Christmas treats bring extra sparkle to the historic grounds. Stroll beneath illuminated displays and festive decorations as the venue is transformed into a cosy winter destination.
Explore the atmospheric surroundings, admire colourful light installations and soak up the festive ambience before browsing market stalls packed with seasonal gifts and artisan goodies.
Along the way, enjoy warming winter drinks, tasty treats and live entertainment that adds to the celebratory atmosphere.
Best for: Festive family outings, couples seeking a festive date idea and anyone looking for a magical winter experience in London.
Good to know: Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak periods and at weekends.
3. Cirque Alice – Best for a festive twist on a classic tale
Step into the extraordinary world of Cirque Alice at the Royal Festival Hall, where the classic tale of Alice in Wonderland is reimagined as a thrilling circus spectacular.
Follow Alice's journey through a fantastical Wonderland filled with jaw-dropping aerial performances, impressive acrobatics and larger-than-life characters.
Blending circus arts, striking visuals and contemporary twists on familiar stories, it's a magical way to keep the festive fun going between Christmas and New Year.
Best for: Families, theatre lovers and anyone searching for an alternative festive day out in London.
Good to know: Selected performances offer premium seating close to the action, providing an even better view of the show's spectacular stunts and aerial displays.
4. Stonehenge day tour – Best for a Twixmas day trip from the city
Make the most of the quieter days between Christmas and New Year with a memorable day trip from London to Stonehenge, one of Britain's most iconic landmarks.
Escape the city on a half day or full day tour and discover the mystery of the world-famous stone circle, set against the dramatic landscapes of Wiltshire.
Many Christmas tours also combine Stonehenge with destinations such as Bath, Windsor or Salisbury, making it easy to pack even more sightseeing into your festive break.
Best for: History buffs, first-time visitors to the UK and anyone looking to explore beyond London during Twixmas.
Good to know: Tour availability can vary during the festive period and some departure dates may be limited. Book ahead and check Christmas and New Year schedules before travelling.
5. The Snowman afternoon tea bus tour – Best for festive afternoon tea on the move
Add a touch of festive magic to Twixmas with The Snowman afternoon tea bus tour, a unique sightseeing experience inspired by Raymond Briggs' beloved winter tale, The Snowman.
Settle into a vintage Routemaster bus and journey past some of London's most famous landmarks while enjoying a themed afternoon tea complete with seasonal sweet and savoury treats.
As the city sparkles between Christmas and New Year, it's a cosy way to combine tasty treats, sightseeing and festive fun in one memorable experience.
Best for: Families, afternoon tea lovers and anyone looking for a festive London experience with a unique twist.
Good to know: The experience is especially popular during the Christmas period, so advance booking is recommended. Be sure to arrive early, as the bus departs promptly and follows a fixed sightseeing route.
6. Winter Palace at Hampton Court Palace – Best for a royal winter fairytale experience
Swap the city streets for centuries of royal history at Winter Palace at Hampton Court Palace.
During Twixmas, explore the magnificent Tudor residence as it's transformed for the festive season, with immersive performances, seasonal decorations and fascinating stories from Christmas past.
Wander through the historic palace apartments, discover festive traditions once enjoyed by Tudor courtiers and soak up the atmospheric surroundings of one of London's most spectacular royal landmarks. More festive experiences await, including ice skating and the annual Festive Fayre.
Best for: History lovers, families and anyone seeking a festive day trip beyond central London.
Good to know: Hampton Court Palace is located in southwest London and can be reached easily by train from Waterloo. Book tickets in advance during the festive period, as popular dates can sell out.
Twixmas in London FAQs
What is open in London during Twixmas?
Many of London's top attractions such as Winter Wonderland and Christmas at Kew, museums, galleries, West End shows, restaurants and festive experiences remain open during Twixmas, the period between Christmas and New Year.
Opening hours may vary, particularly around Boxing Day and New Year's Eve, but visitors can still enjoy plenty of sightseeing, shopping, seasonal events and family-friendly activities across the city.
Are attractions open between Christmas and New Year?
Yes, many of London's most popular attractions stay open between Christmas and New Year, making Twixmas an ideal time to explore the city.
While some venues close on Christmas Day and operate reduced hours on certain dates, famous landmarks, cultural attractions and entertainment venues often welcome visitors throughout the festive period.
Is Twixmas a good time to visit London?
Twixmas is a fantastic time to visit London, when the city still sparkles with festive decorations and seasonal activities.
With Christmas lights still shining bright and many attractions open, it's a great opportunity to experience the city's festive atmosphere before the New Year's Eve celebrations begin.
Are London's Christmas lights still on during Twixmas?
Yes, many of London's famous Christmas light displays remain illuminated throughout Twixmas and often continue into early January.
From Oxford Street and Regent Street to Covent Garden and Carnaby Street, visitors can enjoy some of the capital's most iconic festive displays while soaking up the seasonal atmosphere after Christmas Day.
Do I need to book attractions during Twixmas?
Booking ahead is recommended during Twixmas, especially for popular attractions, West End shows, festive experiences and restaurants.
Although Christmas Day has passed, London remains busy with visitors enjoying the festive period. Reserving tickets in advance can help secure your preferred dates and times and avoid disappointment.
