London’s streets feel quietly magical on 25 December – lights twinkle, the bustling crowds retreat, and there’s plenty of wonder to be found. From sightseeing tours to seasonal attractions, there are endless ways to enjoy the capital on Christmas Day. You can head to one of London’s annual festive events, or enjoy a meal at a cosy neighbourhood pub.
As London's official destination guide, Visit London helps millions of visitors and Londoners plan an array of memorable experiences. Our local experts regularly update our recommendations to help you make the most of the festive season, whether you're spending Christmas Day with family and friends, or visiting the city for the first time. Read on to find out exactly what’s on in the capital, plus how to get around on the day.
- 💂Best for iconic London views: Christmas Day hop-on hop-off bus tour
- 🎄Best for festive magic: Christmas Lights London by Night bus tour
- 🚌 Best for out-of-town adventures: Oxford, Cotswolds and Stratford-upon-Avon tour
- 🏊🏼Best for sports fans: Peter Pan Cup in Hyde Park
- ⛪Best for Christmas cheer: Westminster Abbey church service
How we chose the best things to do on Christmas Day in London
We curate our guide to Christmas Day in London using search data and real visitor behaviour. We also draw on the insights collected by the Visit London team, ensuring that we take a balanced approach which includes:
- Local knowledge and first-hand observations
- Visitor popularity and reviews of experiences and attractions
- Page performance on the Visit London site
- Cultural significance
Things to do on Christmas Day in London 2026
What's open in London on Christmas Day?
Since Christmas Day is a public holiday in the UK, it’s worth noting that many attractions, restaurants and shops will be closed.
Churches such as St. Paul’s Cathedral and Westminster Abbey are open for free services, and a handful of pubs and eateries serve up traditional Christmas food and drinks. Plus, plenty of tour operators will be offering incredible sightseeing experiences, from Christmas Day hop-on hop-off bus tours to day trips such as the Oxford, Cotswolds and Stratford-upon-Avon tour with Christmas lunch.
Christmas Day tours in London
Christmas lights bus tour – Best for a magical sightseeing adventure
London never fails to put on a show during the festive season, and there’s no better way to soak up the atmosphere than by securing your spot on a Christmas lights bus tour.
As night falls, you’ll get a front-row seat to some of the most dazzling views in the capital, from the world-famous lights on Regent Street to the magnificent London Eye. Meanwhile, your expert guide will share facts about London’s history and the evolution of its incredible Christmas displays.
Providing plenty of photo opportunities and a wonderfully cheerful atmosphere on board, we think that this bus tour is one of the best ways to explore London at Christmas. If you’re keen to find out more, you can read our Christmas lights bus tour review.
Best for: A dazzling evening activity
Good to know: Sit in the open-top upper deck to get the best view.
Christmas Day hop-on hop-off bus tour – Best for iconic London views
While London feels remarkably quiet on 25 December, it’s the perfect opportunity to see the capital from a different perspective – especially if you book a Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour on Christmas Day. This guarantees a full day’s itinerary, giving you the chance to explore the city’s most famous attractions at your leisure – and you can even indulge in an optional Christmas lunch.
Enjoy magical views from the comfort of your seat as the bus embarks on a route covering more than 60 stops. Marvel at attractions including Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge and Westminster Abbey before you stop at Brown’s in Covent Garden for a three-course Christmas meal.
Then, simply hop back on the bus and watch in awe as evening draws in and London’s lights come to life.
Best for: A Christmas Day sightseeing adventure
Good to know: While you can hop on and off the bus at any stop, your ticket does not include entry to any London attractions.
Afternoon tea bus tour – Best for a memorable day out in London
If you’re looking for a Christmas Day activity that isn’t Christmas-themed, you can always treat yourself to afternoon tea – and we’d say there’s no better way to indulge than on an afternoon tea bus with a panoramic tour of London.
While you tuck into sandwiches, scones and cakes, you’ll get the chance to admire some of London’s most famous landmarks. Take in views of Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Houses of Parliament and the Tower of London, and snap plenty of photos as you journey through the city.
Best for: Sweet treats and sightseeing
Good to know: The afternoon tea menu also includes a welcome glass of Prosecco (or a soft drink).
Christmas Day Sights and Sounds of London tour – Best for an immersive adventure
Experience Christmas Day like never before on the Sights and Sounds of London tour. Take your seat on a luxury coach and enjoy panoramic views of the capital’s most famous landmarks, all while an expert guide shares facts about London’s architecture and its fascinating history.
The morning Sights and Sounds of London Christmas Day tour includes entry to Westminster Abbey for the Sung Eucharist. This hour-long service encompasses Christmas carols, music from the choir, a sermon, and Holy Communion, all from inside the walls of one of London’s most beloved buildings.
If you want to devote more time to sightseeing, however, we recommend booking the Christmas Day Sights and Sounds afternoon tour, which does not include a Westminster Abbey service and instead covers a longer bus route.
Best for: Panoramic city views
Good to know: This tour often sells out, so it’s best to book your tickets early.
Singalong Christmas lights tour – Best for a fabulous family outing
Festive spirit is guaranteed onboard the singalong Christmas lights tour of London, which offers both picture-perfect views and an accompanying soundtrack packed with feel-good tunes.
Grab your friends and family and get ready to marvel at London’s world-famous Christmas displays, from the glittering angels towering above Regent Street to the dazzling lights at Piccadilly Circus.
While you admire the sights and sing along to festive songs, you’ll be treated to a selection of delicious snacks including mince pies, shortbread biscuits, and mulled wine (or hot chocolate).
Best for: Family-friendly fun
Good to know: Festive snacks and drinks are included with your ticket.
Christmas Day cruise and guided city tour – Best for festive sightseeing
See London’s most iconic sights in style on a Christmas Day Thames cruise with a guided tour. This two-part experience includes a coach tour and a river Thames cruise, plus a three-course Christmas lunch.
Kicking off by coach, you'll be driven around the capital while an expert guide shares facts about some of London’s biggest landmarks. Expect plenty of festive cheer, and spectacular views of Buckingham Palace, St. Paul’s Cathedral and many other famous attractions.
Once your coach tour finishes, it’s time to step onboard a boat decked out with Christmas decorations. Alongside those all-important city views, you’ll enjoy a decadent three-course meal, with roast turkey, mulled wine and Christmas pudding on the menu.
Best for: Sightseeing with a twist
Good to know: The dress code is smart casual, and no jeans or trainers are permitted.
Iconic attractions and experiences
Peter Pan Cup – Best for festive sport
If you’re keen to get out and about on Christmas Day, head to Hyde Park to watch the Peter Pan Cup – a swimming race that has been held annually since 1864.
Kicking off at 9am sharp, the event sees members of the Serpentine Swimming Club race to the end of a 100-yard stretch of the Serpentine Lido. It makes for a nail-biting spectacle, and it’s a real highlight of London’s festive calendar.
Best for: Outdoor fun
Good to know: If you’re an early riser, volunteers can arrive from 7.45am to help set up for the race.
Oxford, Cotswolds and Stratford upon Avon Tour with Christmas Lunch – Best for a historic day trip from London
If you fancy spending Christmas Day exploring some of the most famous areas of the UK, the Oxford, Cotswolds and Stratford-upon-Avon Christmas lunch tour is ideal. Setting off from Victoria, it will transport you to the historic streets of Oxford, the charming villages of the Cotswolds, and the leafy enclaves of Stratford-upon-Avon.
Your first stop will be the picture-perfect city of Oxford, where you can see landmarks such as the Radcliffe Camera and the Bodleian Library. You’ll then swap Oxford’s cobblestones for the Cotswolds, driving through the market towns that this beloved region has to offer.
Finally, you’ll visit Stratford-upon-Avon – the birthplace of William Shakespeare – and enjoy a traditional Christmas lunch before your coach ride home.
Best for: British heritage and scenic views
Good to know: The tour includes guided walking tours of Oxford and Stratford-upon-Avon, a scenic drive through the Cotswolds, and a three-course Christmas meal.
Christmas Day trip from London to Canterbury, Dover and Greenwich – Best for out-of-town adventures
On this Christmas Day trip from London to Canterbury, Dover & Greenwich, you’ll get the chance to explore some of the UK’s most popular towns, and attend the Christmas Sung Eucharist service at Canterbury Cathedral.
Setting off from the capital, you’ll be driven through the picturesque Kent countryside to Canterbury Cathedral. Take your time admiring this world-famous landmark before you step inside to experience a traditional Christmas service.
Afterwards, it’s time for lunch – and since it’s Christmas Day, you can expect a traditional three-course feast, with alcohol or a soft drink included.
Next on the agenda is a trip to the White Cliffs of Dover, where you’ll be able to snap a photo or two, and see Dover Castle. Finally, you’ll head back to London via Greenwich, enjoying views of the Pier and the breathtaking Royal Naval College.
Best for: UK landmarks and picture-perfect views
Good to know: Dover Castle has featured in a variety of hit TV shows, including My Lady Jane and The Other Boleyn Girl.
Windsor, Oxford and Avebury's Stone Circle tour with a traditional Christmas lunch – best for architecture and history
Spend Christmas Day at no fewer than three iconic locations during this tour of Windsor, Oxford and Avebury’s Stone Circle, which includes a traditional Christmas lunch. In our view, it offers the perfect blend of British history and festive fun.
Setting off from London, you’ll start by paying a visit to the royal town of Windsor to walk the cobbled streets and take in the stunning architecture.
Then, you’ll head to the historic city of Oxford, where you’ll get the chance to admire landmarks including the Radcliffe Camera and the Bodleian Library. You’ll also enjoy Christmas lunch at a traditional English pub.
Before returning to the capital, you’ll make a pitstop at the World Heritage Site of Avebury – a mysterious circle of standing stones which is the largest of its kind in the world.
Best for: Breathtaking British history
Good to know: The tour departs from Victoria and ends at Gloucester Road Underground Station.
JW3 Ice Rink – Best for a family-friendly festive activity
While most of London’s major attractions are closed to the public on Christmas Day, one will always welcome visitors: JW3 Ice Rink.
This outdoor rink is located in West Hampstead’s Jewish community centre, tucked away under a canopy in the Dorfman Piazza. It’s a wonderful place to visit if you’re seeking a festive fix. You can book 45-minute skating slots, and handy skate aids (including gliding penguins) are available for children to use. Discover more of the best ice skating rinks in London.
Best for: Outdoor family fun
Good to know: JW3 is the only ice rink open in London on Christmas Day.
Christmas Day church services
St. Paul’s Cathedral – Best for incredible architecture
St. Paul’s Cathedral might form an iconic part of London’s skyline, but it’s even more spectacular up close. During a special Christmas church service, you’ll get the chance to admire the architecture of the building while soaking up its festive magic.
You can choose to attend the Christmas Day Choral Eucharist service in the morning, or the Choral Evensong service in the afternoon. Both services are free and don’t require you to book a ticket.
Best for: Peaceful Christmas plans
Good to know: You can check the St. Paul’s Cathedral service schedule for up-to-date timings.
Westminster Abbey – Best for Christmas carols
Westminster Abbey curates a packed programme of concerts and events during the festive season, and there are two services to look forward to on Christmas Day: the Sung Eucharist and the Evensong.
Both services allow you to step into the magnificent abbey and admire its historic architecture, while experiencing a traditional sermon and Holy Communion, plus songs from the Abbey Choir and a selection of Christmas carols.
Best for: A meaningful Christmas Day experience
Good to know: Tickets are released in November and often sell out quickly, so make sure to book ahead.
Restaurants open on Christmas Day in London
Chinatown – Best for a unique Christmas feast
If you’re looking for a hearty meal but you don’t fancy a classic Christmas lunch, Chinatown is a great option.
This vibrant area of London is a reliable choice for anyone in search of Chinese cuisine at Christmas, offering a unique twist on traditional festivities. It’s especially worth a visit on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, when many other restaurants close their doors. You can find more inspiration in our guide to where to eat on Christmas Day in London.
Best for: Non-traditional festivities
Good to know: While many Chinatown eateries are open on Christmas Day, we recommend checking in advance to confirm opening times.
The Ritz – Best for a luxurious treat
If you want to indulge this Christmas, there’s nowhere better than The Ritz.
Renowned for elegance, glamour and distinctly London luxury, The Ritz Restaurant offers three different dining options on Christmas Day: festive afternoon tea, Christmas lunch, and classic Christmas dinner. It's the perfect festive treat for those looking to celebrate in style.
Best for: A one-of-a-kind Christmas meal
Good to know: The Ritz Restaurant has a formal dress code which includes a jacket and tie for gentlemen, and jeans are not permitted for any guests.
The Mad Hatter Hotel, Southwark – Best for a cosy Christmas
For anyone in search of a more laid-back atmosphere, a handful of London pubs remain open on Christmas Day, providing the perfect opportunity for a delicious meal and a mug of mulled wine. We love the Mad Hatter Hotel in Southwark, which serves up a traditional Christmas Dinner with all the trimmings. Vegetarian and vegan menus are available, plus canapés and delicious desserts.
Best for: Classic Christmas food
Good to know: The pub is just ten minutes away from London’s South Bank, which is an ideal spot for a scenic stroll.
Christmas Day transport in London
The capital may be a magical place to explore on 25 December, but it’s important to note that public transport does not operate in London on Christmas Day. This includes buses and trams alongside both London Underground and London Overground trains.
Metered or pay-and-display parking is usually free on public holidays, including Christmas Day, but it’s worth checking for roadside parking signs and machines before you park. If you’re looking for other ways to get around, you can take a London taxi or make use of London’s cycle hire scheme.
However you choose to travel, we advise planning your journey carefully beforehand. You can check out our Christmas in London essential information page for more guidance.
What to do on Boxing Day in London
The London Eye – Best for incredible views of London’s skyline
It may not be open for business on Christmas Day, but if you’re in need of Boxing Day plans, the London Eye is a fantastic place to start. Enjoy 360-degree views as you soar above the skyline, catching sight of iconic landmarks including Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, and St. Paul’s Cathedral.
Step into a futuristic glass pod and you’ll begin a 30-minute rotation allowing you to take in those all-important views. Book your slot in the morning to kick off a day of sightseeing, or wait until evening and watch the city lights sparkle.
Best for: A classic London experience
Good to know: Buying a fast-track ticket will allow you to skip the queues.
Boxing Day tour of Warwick, Cotswolds, Stratford and Oxford from London – Best for eager explorers
Boxing Day is the perfect time for an adventure, and our top pick is the Boxing Day tour of Warwick, Cotswolds, Stratford and Oxford from London.
Visiting four cities in one day is no easy task, but this coach tour will introduce you to centuries of British history in a matter of hours. You’ll start by walking the halls of Warwick Castle; you'll explore the magnificent State Rooms and learn about the area’s fascinating medieval past.
Next is a drive through the picturesque Cotswolds countryside, offering plenty of magical winter views. You’ll end up in the market town of Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare, where you’ll enjoy a scenic walk led by an expert guide.
The final stop is the spectacular city of Oxford. You can expect another guided walking tour through cobbled lanes and plenty of famous locations – many of which were featured in the Harry Potter films. You’ll see Oxford’s beloved landmarks up close, including the Radcliffe Camera and the Bodleian Library, before being driven back to London.
Best for: An action-packed day out
Good to know: The tour departs from Victoria and ends at Gloucester Road Underground Station.
Theatre in London’s West End – Best for family fun
If you’re seeking out some family fun on Boxing Day, head to the theatre. There’s a thrilling variety of shows to choose from – we’ve curated a list of the best kids theatre shows in London to help you choose, and you can check out our guide to things to do in London during Twixmas for even more ideas.
For a West End classic, treat the whole family to a performance of The Lion King at the Lyceum Theatre, or try Matilda the Musical. For a festive experience, however, we recommend Cinderella at Lyric Hammersmith Theatre.
Best for: Kid-friendly entertainment
Good to know: Festive shows and pantomimes often sell out months in advance, so it's best to book your tickets as early as possible.
