London, a city that sparkles all year round, transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season. With its iconic landmarks, festive markets, and enchanting activities, it’s the perfect destination for a family Christmas getaway. This guide will help you plan the most magical Christmas in London with your kids, from exploring festive markets and ice skating rinks to meeting Santa and enjoying delicious seasonal treats.
Experience the magic of Christmas in London with your little ones! There’s nothing quite like the festive atmosphere of the capital during the holiday season. London offers a wide range of activities to create unforgettable memories with your family.
Plan magical days out with this guide to the best things to do at Christmas in London with kids.
Explore the Christmas City Lights
- Oxford Street: One of the most famous shopping streets in the world, adorned with thousands of twinkling lights.
- Regent Street: A stunning display of lights, with a focus on luxury brands and designer stores.
- Carnaby Street: A colorful and vibrant street with unique and creative light displays.
- Convent Garden: It will be snowing every hour at Covent Garden.
- Trafalgar Square: A stunning Christmas tree.
Explore the London’s stunning Christmas lights for affordable budget.
Just hop on one of these bus routes: N12, 88, 453, 94, or 159. Grab a seat on the top deck for the best views!
Tips for enjoying your bus ride:
- Check the bus schedule: Make sure you know the departure times and frequency of the bus routes you plan to take.
- Dress warmly: It can get cold, especially at night, so make sure you have warm clothing for your kids.
- Be prepared to stand: During peak times, there may not be many seats available, so be prepared to stand.
- Take photos and videos: Don’t forget to capture the magical Christmas lights with your camera in photos or videos.
Taking a bus to see the Christmas lights is a fun and convenient way to experience the festive atmosphere.
Regent Street Christmas Lights are a beloved annual tradition in London, the street is filled with the sounds of Christmas carols and the aroma of festive treats. There’s a joyous and festive atmosphere that’s perfect for getting into the holiday spirit.
Explore London’s Christmas Markets
- A Shopping Adventure: Discover unique gifts, crafts, and delicious food at London’s Christmas markets.
- Must-Visit Markets: Don’t miss the Winter Village at Covent Garden, the Southbank Centre Winter Market, Leicester Square, Trafalgar Square Kings Cross and Christmas by the river.
- Seasonal Delights: Sample traditional Christmas treats like mince pies, mulled wine, and roasted chestnuts.
Ice skating rinks
- Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park: The largest outdoor ice rink in London, offering a magical experience with festive lights and decorations. 21 Nov-5 Jan
- Somerset House: A historic building with a beautiful ice rink surrounded by stunning architecture.
- Natural History Museum: A unique setting for ice skating, with the museum’s stunning exhibits as a backdrop.
- Ice Rink Canary Wharf: Enjoy a magical ice skating experience under sparkling lights. 26 Oct-23 Feb
- Battersea Power Station Glide Ice Rink: A magnificent open-air rink, with a spectacular 30-foot high Christmas tree as the centrepiece for an extra festive touch. 8 Nov-5 Jan
- Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink: The palace’s stunning Tudor exterior is bathed in a kaleidoscope of colors as the sun sets, creating a breathtaking scene. 22 Nov-5 Jan
Explore London’s Christmas Window Displays
- A Visual Feast: Admire the stunning Christmas window displays at London’s department stores.
- Popular Stores: Harrods, Selfridges, and Liberty London are known for their impressive displays.
- Family-Friendly Activity: Exploring the Christmas window displays is a free and fun activity for the whole family.
- Hamleys: Let the kids explore seven floors of incredible toys and games.
Explore Free Museums
- British Museum: One of the world’s greatest museums, offering a vast collection of artifacts from around the globe.
- National Gallery: A showcase of Western European art, featuring works by famous artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Rembrandt.
- Tate Modern: Dedicated to modern and contemporary art, with a focus on international artists.
- Victoria and Albert Museum: A museum of decorative arts and design, with a wide range of exhibits from around the world.
- Science Museum: Discover the wonders of science and technology through interactive exhibits.
- Natural History Museum: Marvel at dinosaur skeletons, explore the wonders of the natural world, and learn about evolution.
Explore Free Places
- Buckingham Palace: Admire the Queen’s official residence, with its beautiful gardens and grand architecture.
- St. Paul’s Cathedral: A magnificent cathedral with stunning architecture and a rich history.
- Westminster Abbey: A historic church with a beautiful interior and a long association with the British royal family.
- Tower of London: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with a fascinating history and impressive towers.
- Greenwich Park: A beautiful park with stunning views of the River Thames and the Royal Observatory.
- Regent’s Park: A large park with beautiful gardens, a boating lake, and a zoo.
- Hyde Park: A popular park with a lake, a rose garden, and plenty of open space for picnics and walks.
- Sky Garden: Enjoy stunning panoramic views of London from the 43rd floor of the Walkie-Talkie building. The Sky Garden is free to enter, but you need to book a time slot in advance.
- Horizon 22: Breathtaking panoramic views of the city from its elevated position on the 58th floor of 22 Bishopsgate. It’s a fantastic spot to admire iconic landmarks like the Gherkin, the Shard, and St. Paul’s Cathedral.
- M&M’s World: Explore a world of colorful chocolate fun for the whole family.
Where to Meet Santa in London
Department Stores
- Harrods: Known for its luxurious Christmas displays, Harrods offers a magical Santa’s Grotto.
- Selfridges: Another iconic department store with a festive atmosphere and a charming Santa’s Grotto.
- Hamleys: The world’s largest toy store, Hamleys features a delightful Santa’s Grotto experience.
- John Lewis: With multiple locations across London, John Lewis offers Santa’s Grottos with various activities and treat.
Christmas Markets
- Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park: A huge festive market with a Santa’s Grotto and plenty of other attractions.
- Southbank Centre Winter Market: A smaller but charming market with a cozy Santa’s Grotto.
- Covent Garden Christmas Market: A picturesque market featuring a traditional Santa’s Grotto.
Other Venues
- Alexandra Palace: Offers a Santa’s Grotto with a festive atmosphere and other activities.
- London Museum Docklands: Features a Victorian-themed Santa’s Grotto with traditional decorations and carols.
- Shrek’s Adventure: A fun and interactive experience with a Santa’s Grotto themed around the Shrek franchise.
- London Zoo: Offers a unique opportunity to meet Santa in a festive setting surrounded by animals.
Remember to check the specific dates and times for Santa’s Grottos as they may vary.
Additional Tips
- Plan ahead: Book tickets for popular attractions in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Dress warmly: London can get cold in winter, so make sure to pack warm clothes.
- Take advantage of free activities: There are many free things to do in London, so make the most of them.
- Enjoy the festive atmosphere: Soak up the Christmas spirit and enjoy the magic of London during the holiday season.
Conclusion
With this guide, you’re well-equipped to plan the perfect Christmas getaway. So, make this holiday season extra special and experience the magic of Christmas in London!
If you are looking for a fun-filled day out for the whole family, be sure to check out this article on Paultons Park and Peppa Pig World price, rides and tips for parents. With its thrilling rides, adorable characters, and magical atmosphere, it’s the perfect destination for a memorable adventure.