44 festive things to do on Christmas Eve in London 2024

Experience the best London has to offer right up to Christmas Eve with these exciting events:

1. Head to Hogwarts in the Snow to follow in the footsteps of your favourite wizard this Christmas Eve at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter.
2. From thrilling roller coasters and exciting circus acts to live music, celebrate Christmas Eve at Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park.
3. Enter the enchanting illuminations of Christmas at Kew Gardens, where the botanical wonder is transformed into a Christmas spectacular. 
4. Enjoy a Christmas takeover at the London Zoo (included in standard entry). Last year, visitors could follow the Christmas Sleigh Trail and even meet Santa.

1. See one of the best musicals in London or find special festive shows or pantomimes from London's theatres the day before Christmas.

2. Experience the heartwarming story of a father's journey to reconnect with his family by disguising himself as a nanny in Mrs Doubtfire the musical.

3. Join Stick Man on a feel-good family adventure as he makes the journey back home to his tree for Christmas. Until Jan 5

4. Follow Clara and her magical Nutcracker doll as they head out on a Christmas Eve adventure to battle the Rat King in The Nutcracker. Until Jan 12

5. Step into the magical world of Slava's SnowShow! A revival in the art of clowning, this performance is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. Until Jan 12

6. Head to Sherwood and join the band of Merry Men in Robin Hood and the Christmas Heist. Until Jan 5

7. Enjoy a laugh out loud evening at the Potted Panto! This award-winning pantomime is ideal for a family day out. Until Jan 4

Check out more Christmas shows to book for Christmas Eve 2024.

Experience all the festive feels during a Christmas Eve tour of London.

1. Explore the capital while it's dressed in its finest during a London Christmas lights tour on an open-top bus.
2. Or, for an extra festive experience, combine a London Christmas lights tour with dinner and Midnight Mass at St Martin-in-the-Fields.
3. See famous landmarks sparkle as night falls across the city with the Illuminations of London on Christmas Eve tour.
4. Enjoy a half day panoramic tour of London by bus and boat, taking in some of London's most famous monuments including St Paul's Cathedral, Tower of London and the Shard.
5. Visit the likes of Windsor Castle, Oxford and Stonehenge this Christmas Eve on a day trip from London.

Check out the tours available to book for Christmas Eve 2024.

Soak up the seasonal atmosphere before the big day, from twinkling lights and dazzling trees to Christmas markets in London: 

1. Tick off some of the top London attractions from your Christmas wish list – make sure to check individual opening times and book tickets in advance.
2. Stroll around the city in search of the best London Christmas lights, while waiting for Father Christmas to visit.
3. Or head to one of London's scenic parks such as Richmond Park and Regent's Park for a beautiful wintry walk.  
4. Fill your Instagram with some of the coolest Christmas trees in the capital.
5. Explore the illuminating light trail and festive markets at Christmas in Chelsea, new for 2024. 
6. Enjoy picturesque views over the city with a special Christmas Eve London Eye Champagne experience.

Make the most of your London Christmas break with a carol concert or a traditional service:

1. Catch a Christmas Eve carol service at St Paul’s Cathedral or Westminster Abbey. Dec
2. Sing along to carols at the Royal Albert Hall. Dec
3. Enjoy carols by candlelight at Picadilly St James or St Mary Le Strand Church. Dec
4. Discover an array of carols and singalongs at the Barbican this festive period. Dec

Check back nearer the time for confirmation on more Christmas Eve concerts and services.

Don't panic! Head to some of the best places for Christmas shopping in London to pick up any last-minute gifts.  

1. Take a trip to Bicester Village to grab designer gifts at a discounted price from one of the many luxury brand outlets.
2. Admire seasonal window displays and hunt for presents at London department stores.
3. Shop till you drop in the ultimate Christmas shopping hotspots, including Oxford Street, Regent Street, Carnaby and Bond Street.
4. Find handmade gifts, foodie treats and one-of-a-kind items at one of the London Christmas markets.

Go for a twirl on one of London’s top ice skating rinks this Christmas Eve: 

1. Get in the festive spirit and soak up views of a Tudor palace while twirling around the beautiful Hampton Court Palace ice rink. Nov-Jan
2. Show off your skills on the Winter Wonderland ice rink – book ahead to secure your spot at this popular seasonal festival. Nov-Jan
3. Skate in the shadow of skyscrapers at the iconic ice rink in Canary Wharf. 21 Oct-24 Feb
4. Enjoy Glide, Battersea Power Station's three interconnected ice rinks. 8 Nov-5 Jan
5. Take to the ice after your shopping spree at Westfield London, Shepherd's Bush. 15 Nov-5 Jan 

Toast to the festive season in a lively bar or enjoy a pre-Christmas dinner out in London:

1. Dine out in style and see the sights on a London dinner cruise on Christmas Eve.
2. Get Christmas off to a cracking start with a Christmas Eve meal at one of London's top restaurants.
3. Treat yourself to sumptuous food from a Michelin-starred restaurant or a feast created by a celebrity chef.
4. Celebrate the holidays with some bubbly at swanky champagne bars.
5. Continue the festivities with a drink and stunning view at one of London's rooftop bars, many of which have heated terraces and themed winter pop-ups.

Discover London's romantic side as you celebrate the festive season with a special someone:

1. Treat your partner to dinner at one of London's most romantic restaurants.
2. Take in stunning views this Christmas Eve with an exclusive ride in a private capsule on the London Eye.
3. Snuggle up in front of an open fire in one of the capital's cosiest pubs.
4. Or find a creative and quirky spot for your date at one of the many cocktail bars across the city.

There are usually changes to some public transport services on Christmas Eve, so make sure to check your route before travelling. 

On the Tube, some services are reduced during the afternoon and evening. For buses, there is usually no night service.

Travel on the London Overground, DLR, Thames Clippers, National Rail, Gatwick Express, trams and coaches is also affected during Christmas in London. 

Find more information about transport over the festive season or visit the Transport for London website.