London comes alive during the holiday season with sparkling lights, cosy markets, festive bars, and winter activities that make it one of the best cities to experience Christmas magic. Whether you're looking to admire stunning light displays, glide across picturesque ice rinks, or cosy up in atmospheric pubs, this guide has it all. Read on for a comprehensive look at the best of Christmas in London, including lights, ice skating, restaurants, markets, activities, and top hotels for a festive stay.
Best Christmas Light Locations in London
London’s Christmas lights are dazzling, transforming the city into a twinkling wonderland. Here’s where to find the best displays:
Regent Street: Famous for its sweeping “The Spirit of Christmas” angels, Regent Street has one of London’s largest Christmas light displays. Perfect for an iconic photo under the sparkling lights! The Lights are on from the 7th of November 2024.
Oxford Street: A top destination for festive lights and shopping. The entire street glows with thousands of LED lights, creating a magical holiday atmosphere. The Lights are on from the 5th of November 2024.
Bond Street: Known for its luxury shops, Bond Street decorates with festive, high-end lights that match the glamour of the area. The Lights are on from the 14th of November 2024.
Carnaby Street: This street is known for creative, themed light displays each year, often supporting social causes, making it one of the most unique Christmas light spots. The Lights are on from the 7th of November 2024.
Kew Gardens: (Ticketed) - This enchanting garden transforms into a magical Christmas light trail with illuminated sculptures, a tunnel of lights, and mesmerizing installations. The Lights are on from the 13th of November 2024.
Covent Garden: Covent Garden is famed for its giant Christmas tree, sparkling mistletoe chandeliers, and festive decor that turn this area into a holiday paradise. The Lights are on from the 12th of November 2024.
Piccadilly & Leicester Square: Both Piccadilly Circus and nearby Leicester Square have beautiful displays and holiday decor to light up your evening. The Lights are on from the 7th of November 2024.
Harrods: Known for its grand light display, Harrods’ façade shines brightly during the festive season, making it a must-visit for luxury shopping and holiday decor.
Leadenhall Market: This historic market is decked out with classic decorations and traditional lights, creating a cosy, vintage feel. The Lights are on from the 14th of November 2024.
Top Ice Skating Rinks in London
Nothing says winter like gliding across an ice rink! Here are some of London’s best ice skating spots, with pricing and opening dates:
Somerset House: A historic setting with a grand, neoclassical backdrop. Tickets start around £16; open from 13 November 2024 - 12 January 2025. Book here.
Hampton Court Palace: Skate by a Tudor palace! Tickets start at £20.65; open from 22 November 2024 - 5 January 2025. Book here.
Battersea Power Station: New for the holidays, this rink offers fantastic views of the iconic Battersea building. Prices from £16; open from 8 November 2024 - 5 January 2025. Book here.
Winter Wonderland (Hyde Park): Known for its extensive Christmas fair and enormous ice rink, tickets are around £11.50; open from 21 November 2024 - 5 January 2025. Book here.
Canary Wharf: With a roof of twinkling lights and sheltered by trees, this rink is one of London’s most atmospheric. Tickets start at £13.95; open from 26 October 2024 - 23 February 2025. Book here.
Brent Cross: A family-friendly spot in North London with affordable pricing. Tickets start at £15; open from 1 November 2024 - 5 January 2025. Book here.
Westfield White City: Located inside the bustling shopping center, this rink offers skating from late November with tickets starting at £16.65. Open from 15 November 2024 - 5 January 2025. Book here.
The prices mentioned above are for adults and varies depending on the date and time of your session.
The Most Festive Restaurants in London for Christmas
London is a dream destination during Christmas, with a range of festive restaurants that go all out to spread holiday cheer. From extravagant decorations to winter-themed menus, these spots offer the ideal setting for a cosy Christmas meal, a festive afternoon tea, or holiday cocktails with friends. Here’s a guide to the most festive restaurants in London for Christmas 2023, featuring iconic decor, delicious menus, and seasonal magic.
Daphne’s
Location: South Kensington
Why Go: Daphne’s, a sophisticated Italian restaurant tucked in South Kensington, transforms into a holiday haven each year. With its charming interior and winter-themed floral installations, Daphne’s brings the warmth and elegance of Italian holiday dining to London. The setting feels intimate, and the holiday decor, which often includes seasonal wreaths, fairy lights, and festive greenery, makes it the perfect spot for a cozy Christmas meal.
Must-Try: Their seasonal menu includes Italian classics with a festive twist, such as truffle pasta, warming risottos, and the must-have Tiramisu.
Dalloway Terrace
Location: Fitzrovia
Why Go: Dalloway Terrace is known for its seasonal decor and transformation during the winter months. Each year, this heated terrace is transformed into a wintery wonderland with enchanting holiday displays, including snow-dusted trees, twinkling fairy lights, and cozy blankets. It’s an Instagram-worthy spot and perfect for an intimate holiday dining experience or festive afternoon tea. The terrace is beautifully decorated to embrace the festive season, making it a go-to destination for holiday dining.
Must-Try: Indulge in their famous winter afternoon tea, which includes holiday-inspired pastries, scones, and a variety of festive teas.
34 Mayfair
Location: Mayfair
Why Go: 34 Mayfair is a stunning restaurant that truly embraces the holiday spirit with extravagant decor and a glamorous ambience. Each Christmas, the space is transformed with themed holiday installations that include sparkling lights, baubles, and elegant seasonal displays. Known for its upscale vibe, 34 Mayfair’s holiday ambience is both cosy and luxurious, making it an ideal choice for those looking to celebrate Christmas in style.
Must-Try: Their festive cocktail menu, featuring holiday-inspired drinks like the spiced cranberry martini, complements a seasonal menu that includes dishes like truffle-topped roasts and decadent desserts.
Sketch
Location: Mayfair
Why Go: Sketch is famous for its quirky, art-inspired interior, and it adds a whimsical holiday touch to its decor every Christmas season. From the cozy pink Gallery Room to the enchanted forest-like Lecture Room, Sketch’s spaces are decorated with unique holiday installations, making it one of the most visually striking places to dine. With its stunning setting and a festive twist on their already famous afternoon tea, Sketch offers a one-of-a-kind Christmas dining experience in the heart of London.
Must-Try: Don’t miss their festive afternoon tea, which features holiday-themed pastries and an array of speciality teas in a truly unique setting.
Clos Maggiore
Location: Covent Garden
Why Go: Often considered one of London’s most romantic restaurants, Clos Maggiore is an idyllic spot for a cozy Christmas meal. With fairy lights, seasonal floral displays, and a fireplace that creates an inviting atmosphere, this French-inspired restaurant is the ultimate winter retreat. Known for its conservatory-style setting, complete with a glass ceiling and holiday decorations, Clos Maggiore is perfect for an intimate holiday dining experience.
Must-Try: Try their holiday prix fixe menu, which includes luxurious, festive dishes like truffle-topped risotto and rich, seasonal desserts.
Coppa Club - Winter Igloos
Location: Tower Bridge
Why Go: The iconic igloos at Coppa Club are a must-visit for anyone looking to experience a festive winter wonderland. These cozy, heated igloos offer panoramic views of the Thames and Tower Bridge, with each igloo decorated with holiday lights, pine garlands, and comfortable furnishings to keep you warm and cozy. Coppa Club’s winter igloos have become one of the most popular places for a unique holiday dining experience in London.
Must-Try: Enjoy seasonal sharing platters and festive cocktails while taking in the sparkling views of the city. Book early as the igloos are in high demand during the holiday season!
The Ivy Chelsea Garden
Location: Chelsea
Why Go: The Ivy Chelsea Garden is a beloved spot that becomes especially enchanting during Christmas. The restaurant goes all out with lavish, themed holiday decor that includes twinkling lights, festive wreaths, and a beautifully decorated entrance that sets the tone for a magical dining experience. The Ivy’s holiday menu offers a variety of seasonal British dishes in a luxurious yet cozy atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for festive gatherings.
Must-Try: Their Christmas pudding and mulled wine are a must-try, along with their holiday-inspired cocktails like the Winter Berry Fizz.
Albert’s Schloss
Location: Soho
Why Go: Albert’s Schloss brings a Bavarian-style Christmas to London with its festive decor, cozy wooden interiors, and live entertainment. It’s a vibrant space filled with holiday cheer, perfect for enjoying hearty, festive meals and warming drinks. With Bavarian-themed decor, seasonal cocktails, and live music, Albert’s Schloss provides an immersive holiday experience that’s as festive as it is fun. This is the ideal place to celebrate with a group of friends or family looking for a lively holiday evening.
Must-Try: Try the Glühwein (mulled wine) and classic schnitzel, perfect for warming up in the winter chill.
Mercer Roof Terrace
Location: The City
Why Go: For stunning views of the city’s skyline and a chic holiday setting, Mercer Roof Terrace is a top pick. Located atop Vintry & Mercer, this rooftop terrace offers a cozy, festive ambiance with twinkling lights, soft blankets, and seasonal decor that make it an inviting winter retreat. The terrace also offers a selection of festive dishes and warming cocktails, ideal for a holiday evening above the city lights.
Must-Try: Go for the holiday-inspired sharing platters and winter cocktails while soaking in the incredible views of London.
Best Christmas Markets in London
From classic stalls to unique gifts, these Christmas markets are must-visits for food, crafts, and festive shopping.
Southbank Centre Winter Market: A scenic riverside location with chalet-style stalls offering mulled wine, street food, and holiday treats. Open November 1, 2024 to December 26, 2024.
Leicester Square Christmas Market: Right in the heart of the city, this market offers festive shows, gifts, and treats. Open November 6, 2024 to January 5, 2025.
Covent Garden: Known for its stunning decorations, you’ll find everything from high-end gifts to local crafts. Open November 12th, 2024 to January 1st, 2025.
Greenwich Market: A unique spot for crafts and artisan goods with holiday charm. Open from early November.
Winter Wonderland (Hyde Park): The largest Christmas market in London, with hundreds of stalls and rides. Open November 12th, 2024 to January 1st, 2025.
Spitalfields Market: A historic market with stalls selling unique Christmas gifts and food.
The Most Fun Christmas Bars in London
If you're looking to enjoy the Christmas spirit with festive cocktails, cosy decor, and a vibrant holiday atmosphere, London has an amazing lineup of bars that bring extra cheer to the season. From whimsical pop-ups to cosy ski lodges, these Christmas bars offer the perfect place to celebrate with friends and family over mulled wine, holiday cocktails, and much more. Here are the most fun Christmas bars in London to visit.
Miracle at Henrietta Hotel
Location: Covent Garden
Why Go: Miracle is a renowned holiday pop-up that combines kitschy, over-the-top Christmas decor with a warm and inviting atmosphere. Think tinsel, colorful lights, and Christmas-themed everything! Miracle at Henrietta Hotel embraces the holiday spirit wholeheartedly with cocktails that have festive names, served in holiday-themed glassware. It’s a nostalgic, fun experience, and the playful decor makes it a perfect spot to snap some holiday photos.
Must-Try: “Yippee Ki Yay Mother F****r!” – a playful holiday twist on classic eggnog with brandy, sherry, and holiday spices.
Montague Ski Lodge
Location: Bloomsbury
Why Go: Montague on the Gardens transforms its outdoor terrace into a Swiss-inspired ski lodge every winter, complete with faux snow, pine trees, cosy blankets, and even ski racks. It’s an immersive winter wonderland where you can sip mulled wine or spiked hot chocolate by a “fireplace” under twinkling lights. With its charming alpine decor and holiday music, Montague Ski Lodge is a Christmas escape right in the heart of London.
Must-Try: Their spiced mulled wine and “snowball” cocktails add a warming touch to the festive vibe.
Limin Winter Lodge
Location: South Bank
Why Go: For a unique twist on Christmas celebrations, Limin Winter Lodge on the South Bank combines holiday vibes with a tropical flair. Inspired by the Caribbean, this pop-up bar brings the spirit of island life to London with beach-style seating, fire pits, and festive decor. With vibrant holiday lights and tropical-inspired cocktails, it’s a refreshing, lively experience that’s different from traditional winter lodges.
Must-Try: Their signature rum punch with seasonal spices is a must, as well as festive Caribbean food offerings like jerk chicken.
Humbug
Location: Soho
Why Go: Humbug in Soho is a moody, atmospheric bar that turns Christmas on its head with a tongue-in-cheek approach. This is the place to go if you want to experience a darker, slightly mischievous side of Christmas, with décor that’s sophisticated yet full of holiday spirit. The drinks menu features unique, seasonal cocktails with a twist, perfect for anyone looking for a cool and edgy Christmas experience in Soho.
Must-Try: Their “Ebenezer” cocktail is a must-try, featuring spiced rum, dark chocolate, and a dash of winter spices.
Pergola Brixton - Winter Edition
Location: Brixton
Why Go: Pergola Brixton goes all out during the winter season, transforming its venue into a Christmas-themed wonderland with seasonal decor, twinkling lights, and heated seating. It’s a fantastic spot for groups, with multiple bars and street food stalls serving up delicious holiday treats and festive cocktails. The vibrant atmosphere, holiday music, and abundance of cozy spaces make Pergola Brixton a fun, lively place to celebrate with friends.
Must-Try: Try their spiked mulled cider or warm winter cocktails alongside street food from the market stalls.
Pergola Paddington - Winter Forest
Location: Paddington
Why Go: Pergola Paddington is another fantastic winter spot from the Pergola family, this time with a winter forest theme. Decked out with twinkling lights, snow-covered pine trees, and holiday decor, Pergola Paddington offers a magical setting with an indoor-outdoor feel. The festive setup, combined with warming winter drinks and cozy blankets, makes it perfect for embracing the season with friends or family.
Must-Try: Their mulled wine and hot toddies are fan favorites, perfect for keeping warm while enjoying the wintery vibes.
The Champagne Chalet at Covent Garden
Location: Covent Garden
Why Go: Nestled in Covent Garden’s iconic piazza, The Champagne Chalet brings a luxurious touch to Christmas celebrations. This elegant winter pop-up is styled as a cozy alpine lodge, complete with rustic wooden interiors, twinkling lights, and festive greenery. As the name suggests, this bar specializes in champagne, offering a curated selection of bubbles alongside warming seasonal drinks. It’s an upscale choice, ideal for a festive date night or a classy Christmas gathering.
Must-Try: Treat yourself to a glass of premium champagne or a holiday twist on classic cocktails, like the champagne mulled wine.
Churchill Arms
Location: Kensington
Why Go: Churchill Arms is famous for its extravagant floral displays year-round, but during Christmas, it’s a sight to behold. Adorned with hundreds of Christmas trees, lights, and ornaments, the pub transforms into a festive masterpiece that could rival even the biggest holiday displays in the city. With its cozy, old-world charm and lively holiday atmosphere, Churchill Arms is a true Christmas institution in London.
Must-Try: Grab a pint of ale or a glass of mulled wine and soak in the holiday atmosphere while surrounded by festive cheer.
Best Christmas Activities to Do in London
Make your Christmas in London even more special with these activities that capture the holiday spirit:
Admire the Light Trail at Christmas at Kew: Kew Gardens’ Christmas lights are a mesmerizing experience, with a beautiful trail of festive illuminations. (Ticketed)
Join The Great Christmas Feast: Step into a Dickensian world with immersive dining and storytelling.
Dedicate a Rose in The Ever After Garden: Located at Grosvenor Square, this touching garden is a peaceful, illuminated tribute, allowing you to dedicate a rose for charity.
Take a Thrill Ride at Winter Wonderland: Besides the Christmas market, Winter Wonderland offers rides, games, and festive food stalls.
Watch The Nutcracker at the Coliseum: This holiday classic is a beloved tradition. Book tickets in advance!
Sip Mulled Wine at Covent Garden: Soak in the decorations with a warm drink as you stroll through Covent Garden’s festive atmosphere.
Best Hotels to Stay in London During Christmas
With so much to see and do, Christmas in London is truly unforgettable. Enjoy the twinkling lights, winter activities, cosy market stalls, and luxurious hotel stays. There’s something magical around every corner, making this one of the best times to visit London.